Broome

I have been excited to visit Broome since we first began planning this trip. I have seen so many photos of spectacular beaches and nearly everyone who visits raves about the great vibe. As we got closer I began wondering whether it could live up to the paradise of my dreams. The short answer is absolutely,  yes!

After settling in at our caravan park 5km inland,  we drove to Gantheaume Point lighthouse and were able to drive down on to the beach. Our first glimpse of the sea evoked an involuntary gasp from both Mats and I.  “Wow,  look at the colour of the ocean!” It was the dark turquoise green colour which you usually see in pictures of Pacific Islands.  Combined with the white sand beaches and dark red cliffs,  it was a spectacular introduction to the beauty of Broome.

From there, we drove to Chinatown,  the historic heart of the pearling industry in Broome. We had the opportunity to inspect a restored pearling lugger ship and the kids tried on an old diving helmet and learned about the incredibly dangerous work of harvesting pearls in the past.

We also learned about the modern pearl farming practices of breeding and seeding oysters to ensure consistent size and quality of pearls.  

A visit to Matso’s Brewery was obligatory and very much enjoyed. The beer garden consisted of a courtyard under the mango trees with incredibly beautiful views of the Indian Ocean. Together with great food,  funky music and a variety of fantastic beers,  what more could you ask for?!

Cable Beach is probably the most well known of Broome’s beaches,  and for good reason. The super fine white sand and turquoise waters fringed by palm trees and grassy dunes are spectacular in themselves,  but when you add fine dining restaurants,  take away cafe,  bar and a playground,  there's something for everyone.

We took full advantage of all Cable Beach had to offer,  starting with a picnic lunch alongside the playground (while keeping an eye for falling coconuts!) After that we enjoyed a camel ride along the beach. Luka and Mats shared one camel,  Freya,  Stella and I rode on another.  There was a caravan of 18 camels all hitched together and we made quite a sight ambling along the waterfront.

From there, Mats and I enjoyed a cocktail then took fish and chips down on to the beach to watch the sunset. Such a magical day!

The lesser known, but just as beautiful, Town Beach was our destination the following day. Once again, white sandy beaches, palm fringed grassy dunes,  a cafe and a fantastic playground featured.  We spent a fair bit of time in the playground,  which included a water play area -  a welcome addition with the temperature in the high thirties and very high humidity.

We were lucky enough to visit when the Parks and Wildlife service were running a school holiday program introducing the children to the creatures of the mud flats. A Ranger accompanied us out on the mudflats at low tide to collect specimens which would then be examined by scientists and identified.  We found starfish,  hermit crabs,  sea snails,  a shrimp and more. The scientist explained about each animal to the children, showed them under a magnifying glass. There was also an artist who tutored the kids on sketching their findings.  Luka responded really well to her tuition and did a fantastic sketch of a crab.

Our last day in Broome coincided with the Courthouse markets. We had a great time wandering around browsing the handcrafts,  clothing and listening to the live music. We chatted with an elderly aboriginal man who was playing a didgeridoo and clap sticks which he had carved himself.

Broome now has a special place in my heart and I hope to be able to visit again someday.