Town Beach, Broome: Where Tides Tell the Story of the Kimberley Coast
A small shore with big tides: watching Broome reveal itself from sand, sea and sky
The afternoon sun has a way of turning everything at Town Beach amber. Walk toward the jetty and the light pools across the bay, skimming over streaks of exposed mudflat and a scatter of black-winged stilts picking at the receding water. The air smells faintly of salt and sun-baked earth; beyond the rim of the town, red cliffs stand like a slow drumbeat along the shoreline. Here, at Broome’s Town Beach, the landscape feels alive—tidal movements sculpt the coast daily, pelicans hunt the shallows like patient fishermen, and the horizon alternates between small, domestic moments and dramatic, wide-open panoramas.
Trail Wisdom
Check tide charts before you go
Roebuck Bay experiences very large tidal swings that change the landscape markedly; plan visits for the viewing you want—exposed mudflats or open water.
Sun and heat protection
Bring high-SPF, reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brim hat and plenty of water—shade is limited along the foreshore during midday.
Book aerial experiences early
Helicopter seats sell out, especially for sunset slots; reserve in advance and check weight limits and baggage rules.
Respect wildlife and closures
Stay on marked paths and keep distance from shorebirds and pearl farm areas to avoid disturbing wildlife and private operations.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the jetty at low tide for birdlife and overlooked vantage points
- •Local Pearl Luggers museum and nearby Japanese Cemetery for cultural history
Wildlife
mangrove shorebirds (e.g., red-necked stints), estuarine crocodile sightings are rare but possible in creeks
Conservation Note
Roebuck Bay is a Ramsar wetland—visitors are asked to minimize disturbance to shorebirds and avoid walking on exposed mudflats during sensitive periods.
Broome’s identity was shaped by pearling from the late 19th century onward, attracting a multicultural workforce that gave the town its enduring, global character.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: migratory birdwatching, pleasant beach walks, fewer crowds than peak season
Challenges: variable weather, occasional onshore winds
Spring offers comfortable temperatures and active birdlife on Roebuck Bay; days warm up, but mornings can still be crisp.
summer
Best for: tropical vegetation at its peak, off-season hotel deals, shorter lines for tours
Challenges: high heat and humidity, cyclone season risk, mosquitoes at dusk
Summer is hot and humid—expect intense sunlight and the possibility of wet weather; plan indoor backup activities.
fall
Best for: clear coastal flights, sunset photography, drying tidal flats
Challenges: increasingly busy as dry season approaches
Autumn transitions into the dry season with clearer skies—an excellent time for aerial tours and long evening walks.
winter
Best for: dry-season clarity, Staircase to the Moon displays, comfortable daytime temperatures
Challenges: higher visitor numbers, advance bookings required
Winter (the Kimberley dry season) is peak season: brilliant skies, lower humidity and prime conditions for flights and beach sunsets.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Wide-brim sun hatEssential
Shields you from strong tropical sun during beach strolls and while waiting for tours.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and local marine life when swimming or exploring tidal pools.
Sturdy water shoes or sandalsEssential
Provides traction on wet rocks and the occasional slippery foreshore.
Light windbreaker
Useful for cooler evenings and breeze-exposed helicopter landings or lookout points.
Common Questions
Can I swim at Town Beach?
Yes—there are shallow, walkable areas, but swim between daylight hours, be aware of tides and always follow local signage; some nearby beaches are better for safe swimming.
Are saltwater crocodiles a concern?
Saltwater crocodiles inhabit Kimberley creeks and estuaries; they are uncommon on Broome’s town beaches but follow local warnings, avoid swimming at dusk and stay away from mangrove fringes.
How do I get to Town Beach from Broome town center?
Town Beach is a short drive or walk from central Broome; there is public parking nearby and it’s frequently included on local town tours and shuttle routes.
When is the Staircase to the Moon visible from Town Beach?
The phenomenon happens around full moons between March and October when tidal conditions expose reflective mudflats—check local event calendars and tide charts for exact dates.
Can I book helicopter flights that include Town Beach views?
Yes—several scenic helicopter tours depart from Broome and include Town Beach, Cable Beach and Gantheaume Point in their route; book sunrise or late-afternoon slots for the best light.
Is Town Beach accessible for families and older visitors?
Yes—level pathways, picnic areas and short distances make Town Beach family-friendly and suitable for most mobility levels, though some rocky sections can be uneven.
What to Pack
Wide-brim hat, reef-safe sunscreen, reusable water bottle, sturdy water sandals — for sun protection, environmental care, hydration, and stable footing.
Did You Know
Roebuck Bay is a Ramsar-listed wetland and supports tens of thousands of migratory shorebirds annually, making it globally significant for bird conservation.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Check tide tables to time visits; 2) Book helicopter flights and tours in advance during dry season; 3) Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life; 4) Bring cash for small local vendors and markets.
Local Flavor
Broome’s food and culture reflect its pearling past and Asian links—try local seafood, camel burgers and browse pearl boutiques; engage local Yawuru-guided experiences to deepen cultural perspective.
Logistics Snapshot
Location: Town Beach, Broome • Access: short drive/walk from town center • Best time: sunrise/sunset and dry season • Must-know: check tides and book aerial/town tours ahead.
Sustainability Note
Keep to designated paths, avoid disturbing shorebirds on mudflats, use reef-safe products and support local Indigenous-guided tours that prioritize cultural and ecological stewardship.