The Kimberley
Kimberley – the inspiration for ‘Australia’ the movie.
The seaside town of Broome forms the southern gateway to this spectacular region and offers up breathtaking Cable Beach – 22kms (13.5 miles) stretch of soft white sand and warm turquoise waters. Cable Beach takes its name from the telegraph cable that was laid between Broome and Java in 1889.
Cable Beach with 22 kilometers (13.6 miles) of white sand, kissed by warm, crystal waters, is justifiably world famous and the ideal place to watch the sunset on a balmy, tropical night. From fiery red ochre cliffs contrasting with bright turquoise waters to pearl diving sagas and dinosaur footprints – the history of Broome is as captivating as the scenery. Situated in the State’s far north, a two and a half hour flight from Perth it’s an oasis of color, culture and eclectic characters. The chilled out vibe, colorful lifestyle and vibrant landscape have made Broome a mecca for artists, writers and musicians.
Broome WA is an exotic pearling town and offers some deliciously indulgent eco-resorts, dotted across its spectacular landscape. The town’s multicultural mix was shaped by a romantic pearling history when Japanese, Filipino and Malay pearl divers arrived in droves seeking their fortune. Today, thanks to Broome’s unpolluted waters, South Sea pearls are among the most coveted in the world. Witness first-hand how Broome pearls are cultured at a local pearl farm. Pearl showrooms line the streets of Chinatown – splash out on a pearl as the ultimate memento of your trip. This is also where you’ll find art galleries, shops and cafes – the perfect place for some retail therapy.
One of Broome’s natural treasures is the Staircase to the Moon. For three days after the full moon from March to October, reflections stretch out across shiny mudflats creating the beautiful illusion of a long silver staircase. Another interesting natural attraction is Gantheaume Point where you can see dinosaur footprints believed to be more than 130 million years old.
Broome may be famous for Cable Beach hailed as one of most beautiful beaches on earth – but this town will also send your tastebuds soaring.
Food lovers will be spoilt for choice, with plenty of world-class epicurean delights on offer. There’s also a host of bars and clubs to boogie the night away. For indigenous delicacies such as pearl meat and barramundi, visit the swanky Club Restaurant at Cable Beach Resort Here, you can feast on prime Harvey grain-fed beef and fresh local seafood with a tropical twist. The sophisticated interior is dotted with original paintings by artists such as Sir Sydney Nolan and Elizabeth Durack.
At Cable Beach Resort you’ll also find Sunset Bar and Café, where you can kick back and enjoy a casual cocktail over a fiery Broome sunset. Noodlefish restaurant is a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike. The ever-changing menu of Asian-inspired dishes is revered for its inspirational array of innovative, fresh flavors. The Mediterranean meets tropical Broome at Café Carlotta. Here, you can devour a wood-fired pizza or authentic pasta under the stars. The Aarli Bar is a popular niche restaurant located in the heart of Broome. Patrons can munch on everything from tasty tapas to fresh whole fish – the restaurant’s specialty. Matso’s Café and Brewery is renowned for having the best view in town.
The eatery is housed in a classic Broome abode with a wraparound verandah, where you can marvel at the views over Roebuck Bay. You can also enjoy a locally-brewed ale here. The Mangrove Resort hotel is home to a bustling beer garden, complete with an outdoor bar and icy cold beer. If you want to kick on after the sun goes down, Broome’s top pub is the Roebuck Bay Hotel. Here, you’ll find happy hour and live entertainment, including garage bands. To dance the night away, head to Chinatown – home to nightclubs The Nippon Inn and Tokyo Joes.
For a really unique experience you can join the sunset camel rides that operate daily along the beach.
