Broome experiences a tropical climate with distinct dry and wet seasons, each extending to roughly half the year. During the wet season that stretches from November to April, the region comes alive with lush greens, flowing rivers, and breathtakingly beautiful frangipani and poinciana trees. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Broome in March.
The wet season in Broome is marked by intense heat and humidity, accompanied by heavy rain showers and spectacular thunderstorms. March is typically the hottest month of the year, with temperatures reaching 34 °C (93.2 °F).
If you would like to know what the weather in March is like in other parts of the country, read our comprehensive guide to the Best Time to Visit Australia.
With scorching March temperatures, there’s no need to pack any winter clothing for your trip. Shorts, t-shirts, and beachwear are essential, but be sure to check whether the hotel or resort you’re staying in has any specific dress code.
Don't forget to bring a waterproof poncho to protect you from rain. Due to the high risk of thunderstorms, you should avoid carrying an umbrella.
Broome has one of the highest annual average temperatures in Australia. In March, the highs hover around 33.9 °C (93 °F) in the middle of the day and early afternoon, while the lows can drop to 25.5 °C (77.9 °F) at night.
The seawater around Broome is warm throughout the year. The Indian Ocean can reach 31.6 °C (88.8 °F) during March and the average water temperature this month is 30.1 °C (86.2 °F).
During the wet season, swimming in Broome is not always possible due to the presence of dangerous Irukandji (marine stingers) and box jellyfish. To reduce the risk of being stung by jellyfish, swim only in designated safe areas, wear protective clothing such as a wetsuit or stinger suit, and follow the advice given by local authorities.
Broome sees around 20 days with bright sunshine in March and 8.7 hours of sunshine per day. The sun rises between 5:49 am and 5:57 am and sets between 6:16 pm and 5:53 pm on the last day of the month, which means that there are on average 12.2 daylight hours every day.
The typical daily maximum UV index in Broome in March is 8, indicating a very high health hazard from unprotected exposure to the sun. It is essential to protect yourself from sunburn by using SPF 30+ sunscreen, readily available at all local supermarkets and pharmacies, and wearing sun-protective clothing, including a hat and sunglasses.
The local Broome weather forecast is the best place to check the UV index as well as the times of the day when sun protection is recommended.
You can expect plenty of rain in Broome this month—there’s on average 463.7 mm (18.2 in) of precipitation—but with scorching daytime temperatures, afternoon rain showers are often more than welcome.
Spectacular tropical lightning storms are one of the main draws for visiting the Kimberly region during the wet season. For the best vantage point, head to either Gantheaume Beach at Gantheaume Point, Town Beach just next to Chinatown, or drive 7 km (4.3 mi) to Entrance Point to marvel as the Broome Port and red rock formations lit up with the storm. These memorable thunderstorms are commonly followed by intense sunsets.
While some visitors avoid travelling to Broome during the wet season, others prefer to take full advantage of off-season perks, including fewer crowds, cheaper sightseeing and accommodation, as well as unique wildlife and activities that are only accessible at this time of year. Below, we list the best things to see and do in Broome in March.
This thought-provoking festival celebrates the beauty of all things ocean through a unique collection of short films by Australian and international independent filmmakers. Besides Broome, the festival tours other parts of Australia, New Zealand, and several other countries.
At the beginning of March every year, the extravagant Mardi Gras celebration features a huge lineup of events including cabaret, drag bingo, workshops, drag queen story time, and street dance parties.
The Kimberley region is the only place in the world where you can spot Australian snubfin (bottlenose) dolphins and joining a cruise to watch these rare creatures is among the most unique experiences in Broome in March.
Broome Whale Watching offers a three-hour cruise through Roebuck Bay, south of Broome. Depending on the season, you might also get the chance to catch a glimpse of coastal manta rays, elusive dugongs, turtles, sharks, and other marine life cruising by.
A scenic waterfall flyover is a must-do adventure for any nature lover visiting Broome. Air Kimberly offers a wet-season flyover of Dampier Peninsula landmarks including King Cascade Falls, Mitchell Falls, Cape Leveque, and Montgomery Reef. You’ll get a unique view of these incredible natural landmarks, culminating in a captivating afternoon lightning show.
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