If you’ve ever dreamt of experiencing the timeless magic of Broome, the Kimberley and the Pilbara, or you’ve been before but still want more (yeah, we know that feeling!), then now is the time to start planning. To help, we've brought together 23 unforgettable experiences to put on your list!
1. Experience Broome, the Pearl of the North
There's nowhere quite like Broome. From the moment you touch down at Broome International Airport, the town's vibrant character and tropical charm begin to work their magic.
Explore the rich pearling history, multicultural heritage and laid-back lifestyle that make Broome a must on any north West itinerary. Find out what makes the town tick on a tour with Broome and Around, while Broome Explorer Bus will take you from Chinatown, to Town Beach to Cable Beach and everywhere in between.
Stay close to the action wiht accommodation options like Blue Seas Resort, Habitat Resort and more.
2. Witness a total solar eclipse in the Kimberley
On 22 July 2028, a total solar eclipse will sweep across northern Australia — and the Kimberley will be one of the best places to experience it. With nearly four minutes of totality and some of the clearest, driest skies in the country, this region offers front-row seats to a rare celestial spectacle.
Whether you’re viewing from a remote station, aboard an expedition cruise off the Kimberley coast, or a scenic flight high above the landscape, the eclipse will be unforgettable.
Can’t wait until 2028? In the meantime, explore the Pilbara Star Way, a dark sky drive through some of the best stargazing locations in the North West.
3. Festivals & Events
Planning your trip to the North West to coincide with one of the many festivals or major events is a great way to ensure the excitement levels are kept high.
The Karijini Experience, Ord Valley Muster, Shinju Matsuri, Broome Mardi Gras, Broome Fringe Festival, and CinefestOZ Broome all combine culture with a whole lot of fun.
For those who want a more physical challenge, The Gibb Challenge is a team mountain bike adventure along one of Australia’s great outback routes, the Gibb River Road, all to raise money for charity.
4. 'Shower' under a waterfall
One of the joys of visiting the Kimberley early in the season is the chance to take a shower under one of the seasonal waterfalls that cascade from the cliffs and ranges.
And of course, if you're on a Kimberley cruise such as Kimberley Quest, Coral Expeditions, Ocean Dream Charters or True North Adventure Cruises all you'll need to do is move to the bow of the vessel; if you're travelling by 4WD you'll no doubt need to do a slightly longer walk, but the waterfall at the end will be just as refreshing. Find out more about the Kimberley waterfall season here.
5. Camp with Custodians
Make your next holiday more than just a getaway – take the opportunity to expand your horizons by connecting with the Traditional Custodians of the North West. There’s a network of campgrounds across the Kimberley and Pilbara on Aboriginal lands, owned and operated by local communities, that invite you to pitch with purpose. These campgrounds are more than just a place to stay for the night -each campground allows campers to interact with community members and gain insight into local culture. Whether sitting in a yarning circle listening to the impassioned stories from a local elder under a starry sky or learning to make damper on the campfire, these unique camping experiences will enrich your connection to country.
6. Pools with a view
With views this good it’s worth the adventure to spend time by the pool at the remote station stays and lodges in the Kimberley! Eco Beach Wilderness Retreat, just south of Broome has a glorious Indian Ocean view from its small but perfectly formed infinity pool. Travel north east to the remote Berkeley River Lodge where the 20m lap pool overlooks the Timor Sea, Reveley Island and the mouth of the mighty Berkley River. Inland, plan a special stay at El Questro Homestead with its pool overlooking the Chamberlain River, or head to the insta-famous (for good reason) infinity pool overlooking the expansive waters at Discovery Resorts - Lake Argyle.
8. The Eighth Natural Wonder of the World
Have you heard of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World? Well, there’s a couple of wonders in the Kimberley deserving of being named at number eight. If you’ve always dreamed about visiting the Horizontal Falls in Talbot Bay near Derby, or the Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park, then this is your sign to do it! Try Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures and Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge to make it happen.
12. A natural wonder in the lap of luxury
The Jetwave Pearl is truly a special stay. Offering an exclusive base for up to 16 guests, its luxurious fittings complemented by the stunning scenery of the Kimberley Coast outside. You can experience it on the Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures 24-hour tour, where you'll experience helicopter flights, power boat rides, a guided fishing charter and a relaxing cruise through the crystal blue waters of Talbot Bay and the ancient rock formations of Cyclone Creek.
13. A pearler of a time
It’s the gem that put Broome on the map, and there’s much more to it than you might expect. Pearls and pearling are a bit part of Broome and there are plenty of ways to discover the romance and mystique.
There are plenty of ways to explore it, from glamping at a working pearl farm at Cygnet Bay on the Dampier Peninsula, to witnessing the pearling process just out of town at Willie Creek Pearl Farm, or taking in the sunset off Cable Beach aboard an authentic pearling lugger, the Willie.
17. The world’s oldest art galleries
From the rock petroglyphs of Murujuga National Park, to the Gwion Gwion (Bradshaws) and Wandjina of the remote Kimberley, Australia’s North West is home to some of the world’s most spectacular examples of Aboriginal artwork.
Viewing these works that date back millenia is a mystical experience that connects you with an ancient culture
Murujuga National Park is just a short drive from the bustling Pilbara hub of Karratha on the Burrup Peninsula and can be experienced from the new viewing points or with an Aboriginal tour guide such as Clinton from Ngurrangga Tours.
The Kimberley’s artwork can be found at various points along the Gibb River Road and Mitchell Plateau (where you can experience them with an Aboriginal guide), or on a coastal cruise with operators such as True North or Coral Expeditions.
20. Take a trip back in time
From the beautifully restored bluestone buildings of Cossack, to the eerie ruins of Old Onslow, Australia's North West provides a fantastic insight into early life.
Cossack was the original port of pearls before Broome came onto the scene, as well as a hub for prospectors and pastoralists.
Nearby Roebourne also has remarkable historic buildings, including the haunting old gaol.
In Onslow, the remains of the original townsite lie at the mouth of the Ashburton River including a gaol, courthouse and police station, and served as a port for 40 years until the town was relocated to its current location.
Heritage and history is on show throughout the region in towns from Halls Creek, to Derby and Broome where there are still prominent traces of times past.
21. Station Stays
The North West is cattle country, and there are plenty of opportunities to stay on authentic cattle stations through the Kimberley and Pilbara.
Cheela Plains and Pardoo in the Pilbara, to Birdwood Downs out of Derby, and Mt Hart Wilderness Lodge, Mt Elizabeth, El Questro, Ellenbrae and Drysdale River Stations off the iconic Gibb River Road all offer accommodation from camping to eco tents and luxury homesteads.
There are opportunities to explore hidden waterholes and waterfalls, ride on horseback, birdwatching and more.
