No matter your plans, remember to leave no trace. Be considerate of the flora, the fauna and future generations of visitors and residents, which will come to view the beauty of the Kimberley region as you have.

Weather
The climate of the Kimberley region is ruthless to the unprepared. So, be it a day trip in town or a week in the bush, be sure you know where you are going, ask people about what to expect and what you should take. Check the forecast!

More often than not in Broome, the sun shines brightly. Plan accordingly. Water, a hat, sunscreen and suitable clothing are a must. During the wet season the rain can be sudden and drenching.

Tides
Did you check the tide chart? Many a time has an unwary visitor (and yes, occasionally the unwary local!) found him or herself returning from a leisurely walk on the beach or a fishing outing only to find their beloved car submerged by the massive Kimberley tides. Kimberley tides, which are among the largest in the world, can exceed 8 meters.  The speed at which the tides move should not be underestimated. A trip to the coast on a spring tide (at new or full moon, when the tides are at their highest and lowest) is worth it just to enjoy watching Mother Nature at work.

Wet season
After months of warm weather and clear blue skies, clouds will begin to dot the skies from around about October.  The humidity will begin to rise as will the night and daytime temperatures. This marks the beginning of the wet season. But don’t be fooled, the ‘build-up’ to the first rains, can take up to 3 months in Broome. Broome typically stays dry until late December which is when the monsoonal lows bring heavy rains and the occasional cyclone. Further north, the wait for rain isn’t as long – so if the ‘build-up’ is getting to you, a trip to further north may save your sanity!

Road Conditions
Whilst the major roads in the region are all sealed, many others remain dirt or gravel. Conditions on dirt roads vary widely from well-formed graded roads to heavily corrugated, pot-holed tracks. It is always best to check with someone in the know before you head off. Throughout the Kimberley 4WD vehicles are frequently recommended for travelling on unsealed roads.

During the wet season authorities close many dirt roads for safety reasons and also to protect the road from being damaged. However, even roads that remain open should be treated with caution, as they are typically, slippery, boggy and infrequently travelled. Road Condition Reports are available from Main Roads by phoning (24 hours) 138 138 or via their online condition report.

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Fuel
Need we say it again: ‘be prepared’. The next fuel stop may be 300km away, only sell diesel and be closed until tomorrow. Ask first! And don’t forget that if you have 4WD engaged, your car will consume considerably more fuel than under normal driving conditions.

Bush Fires
The natural environment of Broome and the Kimberely Region is under increasing pressure from bush fires. Although bush fires are historically common, in the recent past, the frequency and scale at which they occur and the time of year in which they occur (which is relative to the intensity of the fire) is of increasing concern. Much of the region’s flora and fauna are not adapted to cope with current bushfire trends. Fires can occur naturally due to lightening strikes, or may be lit to assist with stock management or indigenous hunting. Fires also occur accidentally as campfires get out of hand or as cigarette butts are carelessly discarded. Please take care. Only light a camp fire in designated areas and, even then, only when the fire hazard is low. For more information about bushfires in Northern Australia and what to do if you come across one, please view the ‘Bush Fires in North of Australia’ pamphlet or speak to a local Department of Environment and Conservation Officer. 

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Local Wild Life
As all places, Broome has it’s fair share of interesting wildlife. There’s plenty to see, but only a few to be wary of. These include: 

Crocodiles
The salt and the fresh water crocodile both occur in the Kimberley Region. The salt- water crocodile is of greatest threat to humans, however, this is not to suggest that caution should not be taken with freshwater crocodiles also. As truly wild animals, they deserve our full respect and, most of all, distance.
During the wet season, saltwater crocodiles, although not prevalent in Broome, are seen in the local creeks and off the coast. Occasionally, one can even be found sunning itself on the white sands of Cable Beach.  Further north crocodiles can be found in creeks, rivers and coastal waterways year – round. Please view the ‘living with crocodiles’  brochure for more information.

Stingers/irrikanji jelly fish
Irrikanji jelly fish are most commonly found in the warm waters off Broome during the months of October to April. Although tiny, (less than 2cm across), irrikanji inflict a severe sting which requires immediate hospital treatment. Initially the sting will cause only minor discomfort. Following 20-40 minutes symptoms including, severe pain, vomiting and sweating will develop. The best initial course of action is to douse the sting area liberally with vinegar – rubbing it will worsen the intensity of the sting. The best prevention measure is to wear a full length ‘stinger body suit’ when in the water (available in Broome) or to avoid the water during these months.

Mossies and midges
Mosquitoes and midges are a part of life, but it is possible to plan around them to some degree. Midges in particular are much more prevalent during spring tides (when the moon is new or full). Wet season conditions also increase their numbers, particularly in still conditions. Long sleeves, or a dab of insect repellent will sort them out!

Wildlife in your windscreen
Whether driving around Broome or into more remote areas, all drivers should be aware of other ‘road users’. Wallabies, kangaroos, goannas, cattle, pheasant coucals, snakes and many other creatures also cross the roads that intersect their range. Drive with caution, especially at night, for your sake and the animals’.

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Bush Camping is a must in the Kimberley to be able to truly appreciate the wide expanses and the fresh air. Don’t forget access may be limited to many locations during, and for some time after the wet season, due to hazardous road conditions.

The Dampier Peninsular has several campsite locations. Most are not powered and with limited or no camping facilities -  only an option for the self-sufficient camper. Alternatives to ‘bush camps’ can also be found on the Peninsular, from a basic cabin to the ultimate in luxury camping. There is something for everyone. As a large proportion of the Peninsular is Aboriginal land you may need a permit to enter some areas. No matter where you go, treat all places as though they were your home and the home of your ancestors.

The infamous Gibb River Road, which is between Derby and the Wyndham turn off, is 640km of mostly unsealed roads and stunning scenery. Now less of a track, the road, during peak season is more of a highway for 4WD enthusiasts. Camping is only permitted at designated locations, found mostly at the National and Conservation Parks located near the track.  Please obey the rules of the bush, take your rubbish with you, tread lightly, use gas cookers, toilet appropriately and, respect, for what its worth, a truly iconic wilderness adventure.

Several of the Kimberley National Parks and Conservation Parks accommodate campers. These include; Windjana Gorge National Park, King Leopold Range Conservation Park, Purnululu National Park, Wolf Creek Crater and Mitchel River National Park. Access and camping facilities vary, so contact the closest Department of Environment and Conservation office for more information.

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Birds are abundant in the region from the scavenging raptors to stunning Gouldian Finches and elegant shore birds.

For somewhere to start in the West Kimberley visit the folk at the Broome Bird Observatory (near Broome) who know just about everything there is to know about birds, especially shorebirds.

Roebuck Bay, an embayment located at the base of the Dampier Peninsular, plays host to 100,000’s of migratory shorebirds who rest and feed here after flying extraordinary distances; some up to 8000km without landing. Combine the soft sediments, huge tides and shallow coastline and you have the perfect recipe for vast and bountiful intertidal mudflats. The mudflats are jam-packed with invertebrate species, which sustain many local and migratory bird species. If numbers and details interest you, visit Benthics & Birds, WA.

If you are heading east, be sure to visit Parry Lagoons Nature Reserve. A bird hide/information hut, lets you take in the activity on the Lagoon in peaceful and beautiful surroundings. Be sure to keep to the walkways as both fresh and saltwater crocodiles inhabit the area.

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Cable Beach is the mecca for many; 22km of pristine white sands, perfect conditions day in, day out. You’d be forgiven for thinking this was Broome; camels, wide white beaches and awesome sunsets. But there’s plenty more to see:

Town Beach is ideal for the kids. Opening into the Bay, its waters rarely even ripple. With a park and café nearby, you’re set for the day.During the dry season for about three days every month the moon rises over Roebuck Bay leaving a serene reflection on the mudflat sheen. This is known locally as ‘Staircase to the Moon’ (Staircase timetable). The moon rises over Roebuck Bay leaving a serene reflection on the mudflat sheen. This is known locally as ‘Staircase to the Moon’. Locals and tourists don’t ever seem to tire of this image which is something special. Most Staircase evening’s markets are held at Town Beach selling food and local products.

Around 360km south of Broome, Eighty Mile Beach is another ‘wow’ factor; more pristine white sands, perfect conditions and pleasantly remote.

But postcard beaches aren’t everything. Head up the Peninsular or to Entrance Point or Gantheume Point  and enjoy a different coastal experience. Many of these beaches provide great rock hopping and awesome contrasts of white sands and red cliffs along side vivid blue waters. Meander about the rock pools and peer under the rock ledges. They are teeming with life. The colours and the critters will entertain you for hours. Tread with caution; and look, don’t poke. Many of these animals have some form of defence and you don’t want them to test it on you.

Authentic dinosaur footprints can also be seen at Gantheume Point and near Crab Creek on a low tide. Millions of years old, they are a gentle reminder of our short time on this earth.

Don’t forget, from October to April, irrikanji jellyfish are more common, in particular, in the Bay. It must be stressed, that jelly fish are not limited to these months, but records suggest they are more prevalent during these times.

Whether you are launching a boat, setting up a picnic or going rock hopping, check the tide chart first! Don’t be caught unawares.

Dogs are allowed on Cable Beach south of the Surf Club only. Dogs must be kept on lead until approximately 200m south of the stairs (look for the sign). Dog-poo bags are usually provided, if in doubt, bring your own. Use them! “The tide will take it away” is an irresponsible and unacceptable excuse.

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Though not renown for its surf, Broome’s beaches can be epic on their day. During the wet season an offshore cyclone will generate fantastic swell. The offshore wind and large (up to 3m) clean waves will motivate even the most lethargic of surfers. Cyclone surf can last from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the speed and direction at which the cyclone is moving.

The summer months aren’t without their fun. From May to August classic surf is generated by winter storms in distant southern oceans. These days will have blue skies, perfect temperatures and clean waves up to 2 meters.

The best location is Cable Beach just north of the Surf Club (south of the rocks), but if it gets too crowded (unlikely!) waves can also be found elsewhere along the 20 or so kilometers of Cable Beach. Cable Beach surf makes for interesting times as the massive 9 meter tides constantly change the banks. As conditions can change so rapidly, keep an eye on our web cam for current conditions.

Obey the surf rules and you’ll find Broome surfer’s very accepting, unlike other locations where localism is rife. Don’t forget, particularly during the months of October to April, to protect yourself from irrikanji stingers.

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Long distance tracks with or without camping facilities are not provided for around Broome. The town is surrounded either by water or pastoral stations, which foil such an undertaking. Moreover, the availability of drinking water, limited access, the extreme climate and the remoteness of the area are not conducive to the set up of walk trails such as we see in the east and south of Australia.

However, Broome does have ‘Minyirr Park’, which remains somewhat a hidden treasure. Tucked away behind the sand dunes in a unique vine thicket ecosystem (declared as a threatened ecological community in 2001), created largely by specific drainage and topography conditions, you will find a cool, lush and vibrant ecosystem. The Park has numerous walk trails throughout the dunes and bushland.  Minyirr, meaning ‘birthplace’, is of great cultural significance to the local Aboriginal people who believe the Park site is where Aboriginals were created.

Many short and longer walks are available in the region’s National and Conservation Parks. Enquire at closest Department of Environment and Conservation office for more information.

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Whales, dolphins, turtles, dugongs, fish, islands, reefs… and on and on. If its within your means to get out amongst this raw and pristine beauty – do it! The Kimberley marine environment will leave you speechless. There is little else like it.

Plenty of charter boats, from comfy to absolute luxury can take you to places otherwise unseen by most terrestrial travellers. Up remote mangrove lined rivers, to dot in the ocean islands and to reefs that some say are unparalleled else where in the world. 

The  Humpback Whale season  is approximately between July and September. These majestic creatures can be seen from boat tours or occasionally even from the shoreline.

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It’s not just stinky mud! The intertidal mud flats of Roebuck Bay are a haven for innumerable weird and wonderful invertebrate species. On the lowest of tides, approximately 150 square kilometres of intertidal mud flats are exposed.

If you don’t mind a bit of mud, a walk (wear shoes) out on the mud flats at low tide is a surreal experience. Go slow, take your time, and every step you will see a new creature. Whether it’s a pink sea cucumber, a blue and orange nudibranch, a purple or green sea slug or one of the myriad of colourful sea anemones or feather stars. Crabs, molluscs, sea squirts, star fish, sea slugs, brittle stars, sea urchins and so much more await you.

During around about September to February, seagrass will often emerge to carpet much of the Bay in a stunning green. Although it will make the critters a little harder to see, stay happy in the knowledge that this seagrass is supporting two local threatened species, the Green Turtle and the Dugong. Both rely almost entirely on the species of seagrass found in the Bay to sustain them.

Despite being a bit smelly and a mosquito haven, mangroves are a valuable asset to any coastline. They help to protect our shoreline from the erosive impacts of violent storms and provide a fantastic habitat for many invertebrate organisms, birds, crabs, bats and fish. A number of fish species use the protection of the mangrove environment as a nursery, raising young and vulnerable fish in its protective and nutrient rich ecosystem. Saltwater crocodiles are also quite fond of resting in the shade of mangroves. So, before you venture in for a look, ask someone about the area first.

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