Broome, located in the northern region of Western Australia on the Kimberley coast, is the perfect base to explore an abundance of natural attractions. With stunning coastal scenery and beautiful national parks, it is a colourful, cultural and vibrant city and ideal base for your car hire adventure.

With such a warm climate most of the year, this is a unique destination. There are two main seasons, the ‘wet’ and the ‘dry. The wet season is November to April bringing short downfalls with hot nights and pleasant days. The dry season is May to October and one of the more popular times to visit. The nights are cool, the skies clear and it’s the perfect time to camp under the stars and enjoy the outdoors.

One of the most well known attractions here is Gantheaume Point, which features ancient dinosaur footprints easily seen at low tide. Anastasia Pool is also near by, which is a round, hand made rock pool and a popular spot to enjoy the views of the point.

Cable Beach is one of Broome’s most prominent attractions, with shimmering, blue waters and kilometres of pure white sand giving the appearance that you are the first person to visit. The swimming beaches are safe with plenty of water sports available, but caution is required between November and March during stinger season. It is the ideal location to watch the sunset, and often referred to as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. There are even sunset camel rides giving you a once in a lifetime experience.

Another treasure is the local pearls grown in many of the pearl farms around Broome. The waters are so pure here that the pearls are larger than in most other regions, and are available in many of the shops in Chinatown. They are perfect for a gift or keepsake to remember your stay in Broome.

For those who visit the region with fishing in mind, there are a large number of well known spots to catch some coveted barramundi, one of the best being the Dampier Archipelago located just off the Pilbara Coast. It is just as easy to throw out a line anywhere along the Broome coast and enjoy the chance to relax surrounded by incredible scenery. Where else would you want to be?

If you have arrived between March to October, you will experience the fascinating ‘Staircase to the Moon’, which is an illusion of a silver staircase reaching to the moon over the mudflats. Ask any local and they will show you the best place to enjoy this phenomenon. Make sure you bring your camera.

The Bungle Bungle Range is located in the Kimberley in Purnululu National Park, and features unusual black and orange striped domes that dominate the landscape. Either take a tour or check which tracks are suitable as 4WD tracks are most common here.

It is worth the journey to discover the rock pools, gorges and fan palms hidden beneath the range. Truly an oasis in the desert. There are limited camping facilities available at Walardi or Kurrajong Campsites.

South from Broome is the picture perfect Pilbara region, known for its red earth and rocky landscapes dominating the Karijini National Park. Being the second largest park in Western Australia, this is worth the visit to see the gorges, waterfalls and enjoy the walking trails. There are plenty of picnic areas and campsites, with the Karijiji Visitor Centre popular with tourists to learn more about the area.

The Rudall River National Park is also one of Western Australia’s most attractive assets, and is worth the journey to experience this jewel of the west. You can either journey for a day from Broome or venture out on a camping expedition to experience more of the park. The hiking is incredible, with waterfalls, waterholes and breathtaking camping under the stars, combined with rugged landscapes untouched by civilisation.

The deep gorges and spectacular scenery in this region is what so many people travel thousands of kilometres to find. You won’t get much closer to the heart and soul of Australia as the Pilbara. If you are staying for a few nights, Crossing Pool and Deep Pool are two of the most popular camping spots popular to locals and tourists.

Broome is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. Its remoteness adds to its beauty, with its long, white beaches and vast national parks giving it an international appeal. The long journey along the coastal road from Perth is just as enjoyable as the destination, but however you get there, you will never forget your experience.

Jenny Brewer 2007