Breathtaking Broome, Australia for the World’s Best Sunset Beaches

by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac
Broome Australia sunset

Experiencing sunsets on Broome beaches is one of the most magical moments of my life. The vibrant colors and exhilarating sea air on Australia’s serene Kimberly Coast is pure bliss. Overall, there are many ways to celebrate the sunsets, such as, camel rides, a stroll, 4WD area or restaurant deck. Most noteworthy Broome sunsets are renowned for its optical illusion, “Staircase to the Moon.” at certain times of the year. Read on to discover how and when to experience the Broome Australia sunset beaches. 

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Cable Beach

Broome Background

Breathtaking Broome is located in the tropical north of Western Australia’s Kimberly Coast.  On the Indian Ocean, it’s on the Broome peninsula.  Broome and it’s Town Beach are on the eastern side of the peninsula along Roebuck Bay.  Moreover, this is where the famous optical illusion of the sunset’s “Staircase to the Moon” happens on full moons from March to October. On the western coast of the peninsula is the Cable Beach and Gantheaume Point. Cable beach backs on to sand dunes, and also bluffs of deep red sandstone Broome’s beaches are popular for swimming in the winter season. However, the stinger season is from December to April. Therefore, it’s recommended to wear lycra swimming suits and check with lifeguards during this time.

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Red Sandstone

Besides tourism, Broome is historically known for its pearling industry.  Starting with the harvests for mother-of-pearl in the 1880’s, it currently farms for cultured pearls. Broome’s Japanese Cemetery with 919 graves is a testament to the lives lost diving for pearls.  Shopping for pearls is all part of the Broome experience these days. You can be rest assured lives are not lost harvesting them anymore. 

Roebuck Bay is also known for its birding.  Migrating shorebirds stop here on the East Asian-Australasian Flyway from their breeding grounds in northern Asia.  The feed on the intertidal mudflats and roost at high tide on the red sand beaches of Roebuck Bay. 

Best Ways to Experience the Broome Australia Sunset Beaches

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Town Beach’s “Staircase to the Moon”

Timing is everything for this phenomenon.   From March – October, this optical illusion happens when the full moon rises over the tidal flats of Roebuck Bay.   The first 2 days of the “Staircase to the Moon” also celebrates local markets at Town Beach.  Additionally, a popular viewing spot is at the Mangrove Hotel, with live entertainment.

Camel Sunset Ride on the Beach

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This is the iconic thing to do in Broome to celebrate the sunset.  I opted for the shorter 30-minute version which was just enough for me.  It was a chance to bond with both the camels and sunset amidst a collective caravan of awe.  It’s nice to be in motion observing the sunset from infinite angles.  Also, for photographers, this is a fun place to take photos of the camel train on the beach.

Cable Beach 4WD

Shared with the camels, there’s also a section of Cable Beach for 4WD’s.  This gives more flexibility to bring what you need for the sunset.  For example, bring your picnic and swimming or fishing gear and enjoy!

Cable Beach Sunset Bar and Grill

Here’s a way to enjoy in good company with food, drinks and music.  This sunset bar is part of the Cable Beach Club Resort and Spa.  Even more, 50 guests can enjoy a most memorable dinner at the Cable Beach Sunset Bar and Grill.  And, of course, reservations are essential.  

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Sunset at Gantheaume Point

South of Cable Beach, this point is a red rock cliff face, overlooking a white sandy beach. Furthermore, it’s a promontory with about 6 km (3.7 mi) from Broome.  Besides being a gorgeous viewing point for sunsets, it’s also a great place for photographers and a dose of paleontology. Sandstone deposited in shallow water about 130 million years ago. Even more, footprints from dinosaurs and plant fossils became preserved in the sandstone. So, at very low tide dinosaur footprints show.

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Overall, Broome Australia Sunset Beaches

Seeing the Broome Australia sunset beaches is a life-changing experience. Its spectacular beauty goes beyond the red, orange and golden neon horizon. There’s something more, like a vibe where all can share the extraordinary moments and just be deeply connected in the here and now.


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