Best time to go to Broome
Broome is a stunning pearling town on the edge of the Kimberley region where the red desert dirt meets the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Famous for the sweeping white sands of Cable Beach and the world-class sunsets enjoyed from the back of a camel, Broome offers a tropical escape like no other. However, because it is located in Australia’s far north, the town doesn't follow the typical four-season calendar. Instead, it is defined by a distinct "wet" and "dry" season. Whether you are chasing the spectacular lightning shows of the monsoon or the clear, breezy days of the winter peak, timing your trip correctly is the secret to a perfect Kimberley adventure.
TL;DR
When is the best time to visit Broome?
The best time to visit Broome is during the dry season (May to October). You will be rewarded with clear blue skies, balmy temperatures, and the best conditions for outdoor tours and beach activities.
Weather in Broome
For those after the classic Broome holiday, the dry season (May to October) offers near-perfect conditions. During this time, the days are sunny and dry with temperatures usually sitting between 25°C and 30°C, and the humidity is pleasantly low. Most importantly, this is "stinger-free" season, making it the safest time to swim at Cable Beach. In contrast, the wet season (November to April) brings sweltering heat, high humidity, and monsoonal rains. While the torrential downpours are often short and occur in the afternoon, they can lead to road closures and make outdoor exploration more challenging.
Prices in
Broome
If you are looking to save, the wet season (specifically January to March) is the cheapest time to visit. As tourism slows down due to the humidity and rain, many luxury resorts offer significant discounts, and flight prices from Perth often drop. However, be aware that some tour operators close for maintenance during these months. For a better balance of price and weather, consider the "shoulder" months of April or November. You may find lower rates than the winter peak, though you should be prepared for rising heat and the possibility of early or late monsoonal activity.
Crowds in Broome
Broome is at its busiest from June to August. During this time, the population can triple as "grey nomads" and families from the southern states head north to escape the cold. You will need to book accommodation and popular tours—like the horizontal falls flights—months in advance. For those who prefer a quieter experience, the shoulder months of May and September are excellent. You still get the benefits of the dry season weather, but the town feels much more relaxed, and you won't have to fight for a prime sunset spot on the beach.
Events and festivals in Broome
Broome has a vibrant culture that is celebrated through unique festivals, many of which are timed to coincide with the best weather or specific natural phenomena.
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When is it? February-March
A colourful and inclusive celebration of pride in the Kimberley.
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When is it? (March to November)
A natural phenomenon where the full moon reflects off the exposed tidal flats of Roebuck Bay.
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When is it? (August-September)
The "Festival of the Pearl" celebrates Broome's multicultural heritage and pearling history.
Travelling to Broome in each season
Broome may only have two official seasons, but the transition between them offers very different experiences for travellers.
Spring
When is it? September to November
Spring (September to November) marks the "build-up" to the wet season. You can expect rising temperatures and humidity, but it is also a fantastic time for photography as massive cumulonimbus clouds begin to form, creating some of the most dramatic and colourful sunsets you will ever see.
Summer
When is it? December to February
Summer (December to February) is the height of the wet season, bringing monsoonal rains and spectacular lightning storms. While it is hot and humid, the landscape becomes incredibly lush and green, and you can enjoy the town’s attractions with almost no other tourists around.
Autumn
When is it? March to May
Autumn (March to May) is a time of transition as the rains ease and the humidity begins to drop. By April, most tours have reopened, and the surrounding Kimberley landscape is still vibrant and full of water, making it a beautiful time for scenic flights over the falls.
Winter
When is it? June to August
Winter (June to August) is the absolute peak of the dry season and the most popular time for a reason. You are guaranteed cloudless blue skies and mild nights, making it the perfect time for camping, horizontal falls tours, and camel rides along Cable Beach.
Overall, when is the best value time to visit Broome?
For the best value, we recommend visiting in May or October. These shoulder months allow you to enjoy the legendary "Broome weather"—clear skies and manageable heat—without the peak-season price tags and the heavy crowds of the July school holidays.
In May, the town is just waking up for the season; everything is fresh, the falls are still flowing strongly from the recent rains, and you can often find better availability for popular tours. In October, the tourist numbers drop off quickly as the heat begins to rise, providing a more intimate experience at the local markets and restaurants. If you can handle a little extra warmth, these months offer the perfect compromise, ensuring you experience the magic of the Kimberley while keeping your travel budget in check.
15k+
people in Broome
Town
in Western Australia
