Beyond the Boabs - Derby 3 day itinerary

Derby is a relaxed Kimberley base that provides access to some of the region’s most remarkable experiences, including the Buccaneer Archipelago and the iconic Horizontal Falls.

This 3-day itinerary uses Derby as a gateway to the western Kimberley, combining scenic flights, boat journeys through dramatic tidal waterways, and self-drive adventures along the Gibb River Road.

It also allows time to experience Derby’s quieter character, from its tidal rhythms to its surrounding boab landscapes and river systems.

Accommodation:

Kimberley Entrance Caravan Park
Dumbara Buru Caravan Park
Spinifex Hotel

Activities/Tours:

Aerial view of the tide flowing through Garaan-ngaddim Horizontal Falls in Dambimangari country on the Kimberley Coast — Aerial view of the tidal flow at Garaan-ngaddim Horizontal Falls

Day 1

With 12-metre tides, a visit to Derby is defined by the extraordinary tidal movements visible at the Derby Jetty. If timing allows, try to see both high and low tide for a true sense of scale.

Take to the skies for an unforgettable aerial perspective of the Kimberley. Scenic flights and helicopter tours reveal the vast maze of islands that form the Buccaneer Archipelago, shaped by some of the largest tides in the world. A highlight is the iconic Horizontal Falls in Talbot Bay, where scenic flights connect with boat transfers to view the falls up close. For a more immersive experience, overnight stays are available, allowing you to witness the changing tides and remote wilderness after day visitors depart.

Helicopter tours also open up broader coastal perspectives, with the option to extend over tidal reef systems including Montgomery Reef, where vast tidal movements reveal cascading channels and marine life at low tide.

An aerial view of Windjana Gorge, showing the scale of the cliff faces with water visible in the base of the gorge. — Bandilngan (Windjana Gorge) in the Kimberley.

Day 2

Head out early along the iconic Gibb River Road for a full-day self-drive adventure into the western Kimberley. A high-clearance 4WD is recommended, particularly early in the season.

Explore Bandilngan Windjana Gorge National Park, part of an ancient Devonian reef system where towering limestone walls rise above the Lennard River and freshwater crocodiles are often seen along the banks.

Continue to Dimalurru Tunnel Creek National Park, where you can wade through a natural cave system carved through the Napier Range. A torch and appropriate footwear are essential, and the site holds deep cultural significance connected to Jandamarra.

On the return journey, stop at the historic Boab Prison Tree, or detour to Myall's Bore, home to a remarkable 120-metre cattle trough once used to water large herds travelling through the region.

Aerial view of Derby Jetty, showing its unique horseshoe shape.

Day 3

Spend your final day exploring the waterways and heritage of the region at a slower pace. The Fitzroy River system offers excellent seasonal fishing opportunities, with locations such as Langi Crossing, Telegraph Pool and Willare Bridge known for barramundi, threadfin salmon, mud crabs and more, depending on conditions. See more about Derby Fishing here.

Alternatively, explore more of Derby’s cultural and historical sites, including the Old Derby Gaol, the Royal Flying Doctor Service base, and the local art and interpretive displays around town. For something more relaxed, the Joonjoo Botanical Trail offers an easy walk showcasing native Kimberley flora, or visit the Derby Boabs Golf Course for a relaxed 18-holes on a grassed course dotted with boab trees.

Extended Kimberley Experiences

For those looking to go further, extended small-group cruising experiences are available with One Tide Charters, offering a more immersive way to explore the Kimberley coast beyond Derby. These itineraries focus on slow travel through tidal waterways, remote anchorages, and wildlife-rich environments, complementing the aerial and inland experiences of Derby with a deeper coastal perspective.