Things to Do in Broome in Summer

What can you expect if you visit Broome in summer? 

Summer in Broome coincides with the wet season that stretches from November until April. In addition to intense heat, these months are marked by high humidity and heavy rain showers. During the wet season, Kimberley landscapes truly come to life, with spectacular waterfalls, vibrant greenery, and blooming frangipani and poinciana trees, making this a great time to visit. 

Summer is the best season to travel to Broome if you want to: 

• Witness spectacular sunsets
• Watch breathtaking lightning displays
• Observe native wildlife 
• Visit local museums and markets
• Indulge in local produce

Summer is the low season in Broome, which also means there are fewer tourists and accommodations and activities are more affordable.

Cyclones in Broome

The coastline between Broome and Exmouth on the tip of the North West Cape is the most cyclone-prone coastal region on the continent. The cyclone season typically runs from November until the end of April. For more information about the current wind conditions and the ways to protect yourself if the region is under a cyclone warning, consult the Broome Cyclone Dashboard.

Swimming in Broome in summer

Swimming on Broome’s beaches in summer is not recommended due to a combination of strong currents and the presence of Irukandji and Box jellyfish, known as the most dangerous stingers in the world. If you do want to swim, you will need to wear a stinger suit. Don’t forget to check with the local authorities and lifeguards about the current swimming conditions.

Average daytime temperature: 33.6 °C (92.5 °F) 

Average rainfall: 463.7 mm (18.2 in) 

Our comprehensive monthly weather guides provide more details on what to expect during each summer month in Broome:

• Broome Weather in November
• Broome Weather in December
• Broome Weather in January
• Broome Weather in February
• Broome Weather in March
• Broome Weather in April

Australia boasts many different climates, from tropical to Mediterranean. We cover the best time of the year to visit every region in our Guide on the Best Time to Visit Australia.

Common questions about summer in Broome

Want to know more about summer in Broome? Below, we answer the most common questions to help you plan your holidays.

When is summer in Broome? 

Summer in Broome starts in November and lasts until April. The weather is hot and humid, and you can expect plenty of rain. 

How hot does it get? 

Broome has one of the highest annual average temperatures in Australia. The wet season is extremely hot, with temperatures often soaring above 35 °C (95 °F). 

Average summer high temperatures are around 33.6°C (92.5°F), while at night the mercury drops to around 25 °C (77 °F). March is typically the hottest month of the year, with an average maximum temperature of 34 °C (93.2 °F).

Does it rain all the time during the wet season? 

Broome receives most of its annual rainfall between December and March. But contrary to what you might expect, it doesn’t rain constantly. Instead, heavy, short downpours of rain mostly occur in the afternoons or late evenings. February is the wettest month of the year, with 197 mm (7.7 in) of rainfall.

Is it easy to get around? 

Heavy rain can make some of the roads in the Kimberley region inaccessible. Others, like the road to Cape Leveque, are permanently sealed and you can easily get around also during the wet season. 

If you're on one of First Light Travel's self-drive holidays, our local backup is available for you 24/7. Simply give us a call if you encounter any weather-related issues while you're on the road.

For more inspiration on road trips in Western Australia, check out our Self Drive Itineraries and Western Australia Group Tours.

Things to do in Broome in Summer

Despite the extreme weather, summer is a great time to visit Broome, when the rivers and waterfalls are at their most impressive and the wildlife becomes more active. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there's no shortage of things to do and see. Read on for our top picks.

Purnululu National Park flyover

The Purnululu National Park, affectionately known among locals as the Bungle Bungles, is a geological marvel that has earned its place on the World Heritage list. Air Kimberly offers a flyover of the park during the wet season, allowing you to truly appreciate its grandeur. For an immersive experience, you can land at the park and embark on a guided 4WD or walking tour.

Tropical storms

Magnificent tropical storms in the Kimberley region are among the top reasons to visit Broome during summer. Head over to Gantheaume Beach at Gantheaume Point, where you'll be treated to incredible lightning shows against the backdrop of pristine beaches, followed by spectacular sunsets.

Horizontal Falls

The Horizontal Falls, located in Talbot Bay, are one of the many fascinating natural phenomena you can witness in the Kimberley region during summer. The massive tides that squeeze through narrow cliff passages of the McLarty Range create an illusion of a waterfall that flows horizontally. The best way to fully appreciate the magnificence of the Horizontal Falls is on a scenic helicopter or seaplane flight from Broome. 

Broome Bird Observatory 

Broome Bird Observatory, nestled along the shores of Roebuck Bay, attracts thousands of migratory birds from the northern hemisphere, including majestic shorebirds such as curlew sandpipers, red knots, and bar-tailed godwits. The observatory provides a wonderful opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat and gain a deeper understanding of the ecology of the region.

Hatching sea turtles 

Between October and February, flatback turtles make their return to Broome for nesting season. Head towards the northern section of Cable Beach to catch a glimpse of these adorable creatures. If you want to increase your chances to see them, plan your visit early in the morning or during a full moon.

Barramundi fishing

High tides in Broome during the wet season create the perfect conditions for barramundi fishing. Join a fishing charter to discover the best fishing spots and benefit from the expertise of experienced guides. Or why not embark on a heli-fishing expedition, where you'll soar above the picturesque coastline and cast your line in remote and untouched locations. 

Broome Historical Museum

Broome Historical Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and heritage of the region. The permanent collection encompasses everything from the Aboriginal history of the area and the pearling industry in Western Australia to the air raid attack on Broome dur­ing World War II. 

Sun Pictures

Step back in time at Sun Pictures, the world's oldest open-air cinema, which has continuously screened films since 1916. The cinema is situated right beneath the flight path of Broome Airport, where each passing plane becomes part of the show, eliciting enthusiastic applause from the audience.

Broome markets

If you're a food lover, there’s no better time to try Broome's fresh local produce than the summer season. This is when local markets come alive with colourful fruits and vegetables, from juicy mangoes to tangy bush tomatoes, flavourful Kakadu plums, and aromatic herbs like lemon myrtle and wattleseed. 

Interested in local markets in Broome? Read our article on the Best Markets to Visit in Broome.

Broome Mango Festival

Broome's highly anticipated annual celebration of all things mango is held on the last weekend in November. Here you can test your knowledge at the mango quiz night and marvel at the creativity and flavours at the mango jams, cakes, and chutneys competition. The highlight of the event is the Great Chefs of Broome contest, where local chefs showcase their culinary talent using this beloved tropical fruit.

The ideal Broome summer itinerary

FLT’s Broome itineraries, such as Australia West Coast Honeymoon Package - Perth to Broome and Perth to Broome “Coastal Bliss”, offer plenty of must-do activities in Western Australia, including visiting national parks and whale watching. 

Ready to start planning your trip to Broome? Explore your options with our planning service and get in touch with our Australia Travel Specialists to have a trip tailor-made to your specifications.