The Kimberley
Best for: Otherworldly landscapes, ancient stories, star-gazing and aquatic adventures.
The Kimberley is a dream for any adventurer bitten by the wanderlust bug. A place so remote there are fewer people per square kilometre than almost any other place on Earth. With scenery that will capture your heart, this is one place you will never forget. After weathering recent unprecedented rainfall, the region is back on its feet and raring to share its wonder with fresh eyes. Head here throughout the dry season from May to October, and make Broome (Rubibi) or Kununurra (Goonoonoorrang) your gateway for visiting thundering waterfalls, freshwater swimming holes and spectacular gorges. Spanning hundreds of thousands of kilometres, you can bear witness to some of the world’s best beaches, untouched coral reefs and rugged islands teeming with marine life. This ancient region is full of culture with an adventure around every corner.
Read on for all the best places to play, eat and stay in the Kimberley, according to the passionate West Australian locals who’ve done it all before.
The
Essentials
How To Get There
and Get Around
The quickest way to get your Kimberley adventure underway is to fly from Perth (Boorloo) to Broome—the Kimberley’s western gateway— or from Perth to Kununurra—the Kimberley’s eastern gateway. In just under three hours you’ll find yourself stepping out of the airport into the Kimberley. You can also catch a seasonal flight directly to Broome from Melbourne and Sydney. Once you have arrived, hire a 4WD for the freedom of exploration throughout the Kimberley.
If you have time to spare and are experienced at long-distance road trips, take the scenic route and jump in a 4WD to explore more than 2,500km of coastal highways from Perth all the way up the Kimberley. If you’re coming from the Northern Territory, make the trip across to Kununurra to kick off your Kimberley adventure.
Check Out Flights
Hire A Car
When To Visit
Long sun-kissed days and balmy star-spangled nights make the Kimberley a glorious destination during the winter dry season (May to October). With maximum daytime temperatures of around 29°C, this time of year offers boundless opportunities to uncover breathtaking beaches and epic landscapes. The green season or ‘wet season’ (October to April) brings high humidity and temperatures in the high 30s, but also dials the region’s wild beauty up to eleven, with exhilarating rainstorms, spine-tingling lightning displays and—with fewer crowds—peaceful solitude. It’s also the best time to visit the Kimberley’s many waterfalls.
Moontide Distillery
Matso’s
A brew at Matso’s has to be on the list. Sipping a ginger beer whilst looking out over Roebuck Bay is about as Broome as it gets. The Japanese-inspired food is also pretty damn tasty and there’s a heap of cool beers you can try.
The Aarli
The Asian-inspired menu calls for sharing and on a balmy Broome night, we recommend going for fresh options like Kingfish sashimi, Vietnamese chicken slaw and the whole roasted barra. If The Aarli’s menu has you experiencing choice paralysis, go all out with the chef’s menu.
Cichetti Club
This Italian restaurant located within the Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa has some serious street cred in the world of Italian food. Dinner is a set-course menu with two and three-course options. To nab your spot, we definitely recommend booking ahead. The menu changes each season and we guarantee it will be divine.
Little Local and Artigiana
First up is Little Local, our fave coffee spot in Broome where you can grab a cuppa and homemade treat and sit in the outdoor area surrounded by a garden paradise. This spot is also home to Artigiana, a ridiculously good bakery serving bread, croissants and deli produce on Fridays and Saturdays. Weekend brekky sorted.
The world’s best barra burger and BYO. Need we say more about the General Store? You can also play mini golf and say hello to Jinx, the store’s resident Kelpie. The brekkies here are hearty and delicious too.
Cable Beach General Store and Cafe
Where To Stay
From truly remote luxury stays to immersive camping experiences, there’s something for all speeds in the Kimberley when it comes to finding a place to rest your head and relax.
Read on for the top stays our West Australian audience shared for an unforgettable vacay.
After a day of exploring the 350-million-year-old landscape of Purnululu National Park, there is no better place to stay than the Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge. The lodge features just 28 architecturally designed cabins set within a breathtakingly beautiful bush setting. After a long day of exploring the Bungle Bungle Range and the natural amphitheatre of Cathedral Gorge, you can wind down with a leisurely bush walk along the river bed or sit back and enjoy the pool before heading to the on-site restaurant. In the evening, you’ll be able to enjoy a well-earned home-cooked meal by the campfire before settling in for the night and falling asleep to the sounds of nature.
Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge
BOOK HERE
For an unforgettable stay, you can’t go past Berkeley River Lodge. Accessible only by air, this is one of the last true wilderness areas on Earth. Situated between Timor Sea sunrises and Berkeley River sunsets, unwind in an ocean-view villa floating atop a 65-metre coastal dune. River cruises through the Berkeley River to Casuarina Falls and an abundance of freshwater swimming holes are sure to amplify an already present sense of wonder in this amazing country and landscape. There’s something for every holiday setting, from fishing for the mighty barramundi to relaxing by the 20-metre lap pool with a book from the extensive library and indulging in degustation dinner menus and wines selected by the lodge’s resident sommelier.
Berkeley River Lodge
BOOK HERE
Rowley Shoals Marine Park is a world-class snorkelling and diving destination made up of three protected coral atolls (ring-shaped coral reefs surrounded by lagoon waters). Accessible by extended boat tours and cruises from Broome, the lagoons within the reef provide sheltered waters and are home to the most incredible array of marine life. In this stunning sanctuary, you can look out for manta rays, sea turtles and dolphins as well as brightly coloured coral gardens and an abundance of fish. The deep waters surrounding Rowley Shoals are known for some pretty great fishing, so we recommend jumping on a tour if you feel like trying your hand at catching dinner.
Rowley Shoals Marine Park
Towering 300 metres above the rugged plains that surround them, the orange and black sandstone domes that make up the Bungle Bungle Range are one of the most distinct geographic landscapes in the world. The Bungle Bungle Range is located within the World Heritage site, Purnululu National Park, approximately 250km west of Kununurra. The best way to see this awe-inspiring landscape is from the air on a scenic flight, where you’ll be able to take in the park’s surroundings and marvel at the sheer size and uniqueness of the Bungles. You’ll land near Cathedral Gorge—a wonder of its own, where you can explore the deep gorges that form a natural amphitheatre.
Plan a seven-day Kimberley adventure over here.
Purnululu National Park
More than 18 times the size of Sydney Harbour and surrounded by more than 70 islands, Lake Argyle is one of the largest man-made lakes in the southern hemisphere. To get to Lake Argyle, you can take a scenic 40-minute drive from Kununurra through the Carr Boyd Ranges to Lake Argyle's shores, or better yet, jump on a scenic flight to get an aerial view of the lake and the spectacular colours of the Kimberley. If boating is more your style, cruise along the famous Lake Argyle at sunset and watch the lake transform from day to dusk. There’s plenty to do around the lake for water sports and wildlife enthusiasts and you can even purchase a day pass to experience the holiday park’s infinity pool overlooking Argyle’s stunning waters.
Build your five-day Kununurra and Lake Argyle plan here.
Lake Argyle
Mimbi Caves
Rowley Shoals
Lake Argyle
Faraway Bay
Horizontal Falls
Purnululu National Park
There’s no denying it. We are obsessed with this little distillery. The crew behind Moontide make a fine gin, using none other than the Kimberley’s monsoonal rainwater. Native knowledge and botanicals add the most incredible flavour and we know you’ll want to stock up and bring a couple of bottles home.
BROOME
BROOME
BROOME
BROOME
BROOME
BROOME
Purnululu National Park
KIMBERLEY COAST
And The Golden Outback
PLAY
STAY
EAT
Wherever you turn in the Kimberley there’s an abundance of natural wonder and this extends to stunning local ingredients. From craft beer made with monsoonal rainwater to Kimberley Coast seafood, all served with stunning views, there are plenty of culinary indulgences to go around in this otherworldly region.
Where
To Eat
Where
To Play
260km from Broome
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250km from Kununurra
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70km from Kununurra
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“Make sure you get to the phenomenal Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park. This awe-inspiring natural formation offers one incredible experience that no other place in the world can.” — Sophia, WA local
PLAY
STAY
EAT
Home
The best places to base yourself are Coral Bay or Exmouth/Warnangoora where you can choose to sit back and enjoy white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, or ignite your adventurous spirit with four-wheel driving, wildlife swims and stunning scenic flights. This is one of the most beautiful places in the world—it's no wonder why people can’t get enough of Ningaloo Reef and the Coral Coast.
Read on for all the best places to play, eat and stay on the Coral Coast, according to the passionate locals who call it home.
“When it comes to incredible experiences, one absolute must-do destination in Western Australia is the Kimberley region. The region is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country, including the Bungle Bungle Range, the Horizontal Waterfalls and the Mitchell Falls. This region is a true wilderness and offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience.” — Surender, WA local
Faraway Bay
Nestled on a rocky hilltop overlooking the azure waters of the Timor Sea sits Faraway Bay, a piece of paradise that epitomises the Kimberley experience. This unique wilderness retreat is only accessible by air and provides unparalleled access to some of the Kimberley’s most spectacular sights including the mighty King George Falls, Aboriginal Bradshaw rock paintings, secret swimming holes and thundering waterfalls. You can spend your days full of adventure or opt for a day by the cliff’s edge swimming pool overlooking the bay as you marvel at the idyllic sunset. The remote retreat is inclusive of freshly prepared gourmet meals and beverages, each night ending with a long-table-style dinner where you can share stories of the magnificent memories you’ve made that day.
260km from Kununurra
$$$
315km from Kununurra
Kimberley Coastal Camp is nestled on the pristine shores of the Admiralty Gulf, around 300km away from Kununurra in the heart of the Kimberley. This spectacular beachfront campsite offers a truly unique chance to get away and connect with nature. In fact, it’s so remote you’ll need to get there by plane or chopper. Limited to just 16 guests, this is isolation and luxury at its finest. You can spend your days lying on a sun lounger soaking in the wilderness, discovering ancient Aboriginal caves and rock art, or fishing for world-famous barramundi. Host, Jules, is known for cooking up some of the best food in the region. We recommend packing the goods for a picnic and enjoying it in the stunning natural surrounds. There is nothing more iconic.
330km from Kununurra
$$$
Kimberley Coastal Camp
ADMIRALTY GULF
BOOK HERE
$$$
Described by Sir David Attenborough as “one of the greatest natural wonders of the world,” the Horizontal Falls are a force of nature not to be missed. Your 24-hour adventure starts in Derby where you’ll jump on board a scenic helicopter flight on your way to Talbot Bay, home to the Falls. An aerial view of this part of the world is something you will never forget—rugged red landscapes and vibrant turquoise waters are something so spectacular it’s worth the trip alone. Your newly refurbished houseboat for the night, the Jetwave Pearl is what luxury stays are all about. Housing just 20 guests, you’ll be taken on an exhilarating boat ride through the falls where you’ll get to feel the sheer force of this natural wonder. A guided fishing tour, a relaxing boat cruise through the ancient rock formations of Cyclone Creek and swimming with sharks in the marine viewing pool are just some of the activities you can expect. Welcoming the evening with a cocktail in hand and dining on the catch of the day as you look up to the stars are absolute bucket-list experiences.
Horizontal Falls Jetwave Pearl Houseboat
TALBOT BAY
“Hiking, swimming, wildlife—El Questro has it all!”
— Laura, WA local
BOOK HERE
$$$—$$$
Staying at El Questro Station is the key to an exclusive oasis in Western Australia's rugged Kimberley landscape. The property is surrounded by ancient boab trees, rugged landscapes and an array of wildlife, all of which can be experienced by staying in one of the on-site family rooms with river and garden views. Book a table for two on a private clifftop, take a gourmet picnic to a pristine rock pool or share a bottle of champagne by a cascading waterfall—the unforgettable options are endless.
El Questro
DURACK
BOOK HERE
$$$
215km north of the iconic Western Australian town of Broome, on the tip of the Dampier Peninsula is where you’ll find Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm. This working pearl farm is an absolute must-do on your Kimberley itinerary and staying here is what dreams are made of. There’s an array of accommodation options available to fit your budget and style, including glamping in safari-style tents or pitching a swag to sleep under the stars. Whatever your style, you’ll have access to the glorious infinity pool and homestead restaurant where you can try Broome’s famous pearl meat. From the pearl farm, you can take part in cultural tours, witness a live pearl harvest or venture out to destinations like the spiritual site of Cape Leveque and the tiny islands of the Buccaneer Archipelago. If you happen to be in this area for Staircase to the Moon, there is quite literally no better spot to watch this natural phenomenon.
Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm
DAMPIER PENINSULA
BOOK HERE
250km from Broome
Aboriginal Guided Tours
The Kimberley is a majestic ancient region full of rich Aboriginal history and culture to explore. To truly experience the wealth of indigenous history and knowledge and experience the stunning landscapes of the Kimberley, lock in a multi-day cultural drive itinerary. From Broome, you can join Yawuru born and bred Bart Pigram on a storytelling journey as you make your way through mangroves and discover natural bush tucker.
As you head east through the heartland of the Kimberley, the Mimbi Caves are a significant geological sight not to be missed. From the cave entrance, the Gooniyandi people will guide you by torchlight, revealing the speleothems, stalagmites, shawls, flowstones and sparkling calcite crystals, rock art and ancient stories of this extraordinary subterranean world. The region is so incredibly diverse and there is no shortage of cultural experiences and tours you can join. Dive in, soak up the sights and immerse yourself in the beautiful stories that make up this unique and expansive part of the world.
10-50km from Margaret River
$$$
Horizontal Falls
"My bucket-list experience in Broome was flying to Talbot Bay and witnessing the Horizontal Falls (Garaanngaddim). Flying over Cable Beach in Broome, across the most pristine turquoise waters I’ve ever seen in stark contrast to the red, rugged landscape was breathtaking. The bird’s eye view over Cape Leveque, a site of such cultural significance and the thousands of islands that speckle the blue water to make up the Buccaneer Archipelago was an absolute highlight. Racing through the Horizontal Falls on a speedboat and coming up close to the beautiful tawny sharks was so much fun. If I could recommend one activity to do while you’re in Broome, it has to be this one." — Kate, WA local
250km from Broome
$$$
Catch An Open-Air Flick
The world’s oldest operating open-air theatre lives in Broome’s Chinatown and it’s something you need to get around. Sit back on deck chairs under the stars and watch some of your fave Hollywood flicks. Be prepared to hear the planes overhead—the cinema is right under the flight path. It’s all part of the fun.
10-50km from Margaret River
$$$
190km from Kununurra
100km from Kununurra
215km from Broome
“Absolutely love the Margaret River Region for the beautiful coast at Gnarabup. Go for a dip and grab a coffee at White Elephant. Spend an afternoon in a cave and have a picnic in the evening at the Cape Mentelle outdoor cinema.” — Laetitia
$$$
Zanders
BROOME
With a prime view of the dreamy Cable Beach (Walmanyjun) sunset, it would be rude not to go to Zanders and experience the magic with a mango daiquiri in hand. It’s a holiday in a glass and a view you’ll never forget.
$$$
Papa Fuego
BROOME
This South American restaurant and bar serves flame-grilled meat and seafood along with street food like empanadas, Shark Bay scallops and baked cheese. Mouth-watering, right? Pair it with a cold beer or tropical-inspired cocktail and it’s the ultimate night out in Broome.
$$$
Hoochery Distillery
KUNUNURRA
Wind your way through a scenic drive in the Ord River Valley and you’ll stumble upon Hoochery Distillery, an absolute gem that you must add to your food and drinks hit list. The family-run distillery specialises in its famous handmade rum using Australian sugarcane and monsoon rainwater. You can also find the prettiest bottles of gin and a cellar door to discover the secrets behind this establishment. When you’re done with your tastings, a visit to the café is necessary. Order the freshly cooked barramundi and finish with the Ord River Rum Cake with lashings of cream and a cup of tea.
$$$
Pump House
KUNUNURRA
Once the main pump station for Lake Kununurra, this historic landmark has been converted into a restaurant and bar showcasing fresh local flavours the Kimberley is renowned for. Ahead of a big day of adventures, fuel up with the blueberry waffles complete with house-made strawberry gelato. Heading there to catch the sunset? Tuck into crumbed scallops with pea hummus and a hearty chicken kiev to kick-start your evening.
“In the winter, head up north to see the stunning Kimberley. The contrast of bright red dirt and crystal blue waters will make it seem like a dream.” — Annika, WA local
Gantheaume Point
Located about 10 minutes from the town centre of Broome, this destination boasts the Kimberley’s quintessential duality, with contrasting colours of the deep pindan red cliffs and the shimmering turquoise of the ocean. It’s also a reminder of the depth of history the Kimberley holds. At the Gantheaume Point (Minyirr) cliffs and lighthouse, journey the well-worn track to inspect recreations of dinosaur footprints—the real dinosaur footprints, over 130 million years old and preserved in reef rock, can be seen at very low tide at the bottom of the cliff. To ensure you have the best chance of spotting these ancient footprints, join a guided tour with Broome Dinosaur Tours.
8km from Broome
$$$
"Hike Gantheaume Point, at high tide to picnic and lounge in natural pools. Make your way down to the beach at low tide for a sunset kayak, and to spot wildlife and dinosaur footprints." — Kiara, WA local
Kununurra And The Greater Kimberley Region
"Kununurra is probably the destination that blew me away the most. Completely surprising—the colours, textures and contrasts are mindblowing. El Questro, Bungle Bungle Range, Lake Argyle, it's all like being on another planet!" — Cory, WA local
Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa
BROOME
$$$—$$$
With overwhelming numbers of recommendations from the locals we asked, it’s fair to say that Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa is where people come to live it up in Broome. Four insanely good restaurants, an adults-only ocean pool and a spa by L’Occitane are just some of what you can expect here. Take advantage of its proximity to Cable Beach (Walmanyjun) to explore 22km of white sand, and frolick in turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. This place books out months in advance, so if you’re looking to relax in the pool with a cocktail in hand—be sure to get organised pronto.
315km from Kununurra
BOOK HERE
$$$
The views over Roebuck Bay (Yawuru Nagulagun) are nothing short of inspiring. Red sand, and some of the most turquoise water we’ve ever laid eyes on means you really need to splurge on an Ocean View Suite at Mangrove Hotel.
Mangrove Hotel
BROOME
190km from Kununurra
BOOK HERE
$$$—$$$
CABLE BEACH
The Pearle
A little bit fancy and a whole lot fabulous. This South-East Asian-inspired resort will make you feel a million miles away from home. Walk through The Pearle’s landscaped gardens to get to your own private pool villa before making yourself a cocktail in your own designer kitchen.
330km from Kununurra
BOOK HERE
Live
The
Dream
D
r
e
a
m
In
Western
Australia
Gantheaume Point
Broome And The Dampier Peninsula
215km from Broome
DAMPIER PENINSULA
$$$
“Cable Beach Resort is the best place to stay, the views of the ocean are so blue and so vast and the rooms are so comfy you’ll never want to leave. When the sun sets, the sky turns an incredible orange and pink!” — Nicole, WA local
Urban List acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work, live, and play. We pay our respects to Elders past and present, and acknowledge this always was and always will be Aboriginal land.
Broome
Kununurra
Dampier Peninsula
Mitchell Falls
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