Broome’s tropical climate really shapes everything here, from the crazy colors of the sky at sunset to what you can actually do on land and water. The town has two seasons: dry and wet. If you want comfortable weather, outdoor fun, and clear skies, aim for the dry season from May to October.
During these months, you’ll get warm days, cooler nights, and barely any rain. That makes it so much easier to wander Cable Beach, hop on scenic flights over the Kimberley, or catch natural events like the Staircase to the Moon.
Whale watching is at its best in this period too, so don’t miss that.
The wet season, which runs from November to April, brings sticky humidity, tropical storms, and sometimes road closures. Sure, it’s got its challenges, but the landscape goes all lush and green, and you’ll find fewer crowds and better prices. If you know what to expect, you can plan your trip with more confidence and squeeze the most out of your time in Broome.
Broome’s Weather Overview
Broome has a hot tropical climate, and you’ll notice the clear shift between seasons. Expect long, dry months with lots of sun and cool nights, then a wet stretch with high humidity, heavy rain, and the occasional storm.
Understanding Broome’s Tropical Climate
Broome sits in Western Australia’s Kimberley region, so it gets a tropical savanna climate. Basically, you’ll see two main seasons: a dry season with almost no rain, and a wet season that brings heavy downpours.
It stays warm all year. Daytime highs usually fall between 29°C and 35°C (84°F to 95°F), and in the dry season, nights can drop to about 17°C (63°F).
Humidity makes a big difference in how the weather feels. You’ll notice it’s more comfortable during the dry months, but the wet season? It gets sticky and feels hotter than the numbers say.
The sun is always strong here. UV levels stay high, so you really need to think about sun protection whenever you’re outside.
Dry Season vs Wet Season
The dry season (May to October) is when most people visit. You get clear skies, hardly any rain, and daytime temps between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Outdoor activities are way more enjoyable, and tours run at full speed.
The wet season (November to April) feels totally different. Rain picks up, especially from January to March, and you might see monsoonal storms or even cyclones. Highs stick in the low to mid-30s Celsius (90s Fahrenheit), and humidity can shoot past 80%.
But there’s an upside. Everything turns green, sunsets pop with color, and the town quiets down. Some tours or attractions might close if it floods or storms, so keep that in mind.
Monthly Weather Patterns
Broome’s weather changes in a pretty set pattern each month:
- May–August: Dry, pleasant, cool nights, and tourists everywhere.
- September–October: It starts heating up, but it’s still mostly dry.
- November–December: Humidity rises, storms start rolling in.
- January–March: The wettest stretch, with heavy rain, storms, and possible cyclones.
- April: Rain tapers off, things start shifting back to dry.
Most of Broome’s rain falls between January and March—over 75% of the yearly total. June through August? Almost bone dry.
Sunshine hours change too. The dry season gives you 10–11 hours of sun a day. In the wet season, days get cloudier and shorter.
You can use these patterns to plan around your favorite kind of weather.
Best Time to Visit Broome for Ideal Weather
Broome’s tropical climate splits the year into two main seasons: dry (May to October) and wet (November to April). Temperatures, rain, and humidity shift a lot, so when you visit really affects how much you’ll enjoy the outdoors.
Optimal Months for Outdoor Activities
The dry season (May–October) gives you the best shot at great weather for outdoor fun. Days are warm but not muggy, with highs in the mid-20s to low-30s °C. Hardly any rain falls, so you can hit the beaches, take boat tours, or wander national parks without getting rained out.
This is the busiest time for tourists, though. Prices go up, and crowds get bigger. If you want fewer people but still want good weather, try May or September. Those months usually mean nice conditions and less hassle than July or August, which are packed.
During the wet season (November–April), rain and road closures can limit what you do outside. Still, if you’re into dramatic lightning shows, lush scenery, and cheaper stays, this time has its own vibe.
Weather Highlights by Season
The dry season brings clear skies, low humidity, and cool nights. Daytime temps run from 27–32°C, and nights can drop to 13–18°C in June and July. You’ll have an easier time exploring Cable Beach, Gantheaume Point, or the Kimberley outback.
The wet season gets hotter and more humid, with highs around 33–35°C. Rain usually comes in quick, heavy bursts, often later in the day. January through March gets the most rain, and sometimes roads flood. Still, sunsets and storms over Roebuck Bay look incredible.
Local Indigenous people recognize six smaller seasons here, with shifts in tides, winds, and plants. These changes shape the landscape all year.
Temperature and Rainfall Trends
Broome’s weather really swings between the two seasons.
Average Conditions:
| Month | Max Temp (°C) | Min Temp (°C) | Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 33.3 | 26.3 | 175.1 |
| May | 31.5 | 18.2 | 27.1 |
| Jul | 28.8 | 13.6 | 5.9 |
| Oct | 32.8 | 22.3 | 1.3 |
Rain stays low during the dry season—often under 30 mm a month—so it’s the safest bet for travel. The wet season can dump more than 170 mm in just one month, especially January and February.
Humidity really ramps up from November to March, making it feel hotter. May to August usually brings cooler, drier air—way more comfortable for long days outside.
Dry Season in Broome: May to October
Broome really comes alive in the dry season, with warm days, low humidity, and clear skies that make being outside a pleasure. Visitors flock here, drawn by events and natural sights from all over Australia and beyond.
Peak Tourist Months
May to October brings Broome’s most stable, pleasant weather. Daytime temps stick between 20°C and 30°C (68°F–86°F), and rain is rare. You can really get out and explore the Kimberley region, relax at Cable Beach, or just enjoy the outdoors without sweating buckets.
June, July, and August are the busiest. People from colder places come up to escape winter. Hotels and tours fill up fast, so booking ahead helps. The town feels lively, with markets, tours, and restaurants in full swing.
If you want things quieter, try May or September. These months still have great weather, but you’ll have better luck finding a place to stay or a tour spot at a decent price.
Events and Festivals During the Dry Season
The dry season lines up with Broome’s biggest cultural events. The Shinju Matsuri Festival in late winter celebrates Broome’s pearling history and diverse roots. You’ll find art, live music, and community gatherings that show off the town’s spirit.
Another big draw is the Staircase to the Moon. On certain nights between March and October, the full moon rises over tidal mudflats, creating what looks like a glowing staircase. Evening markets pop up for this, with local food and crafts.
Whale-watching is also at its peak, especially from July to September. Tours take you out to see humpback whales cruising past the coast in calm, clear water. Add in those epic Cable Beach sunsets, and the dry season feels pretty special.
Wet Season in Broome: November to April
The wet season hits Broome and the Kimberley with hotter days, thick humidity, and sudden downpours. It can mean flooding and cut-off roads, but it also brings wild natural scenes and a much quieter vibe.
Weather Characteristics and Challenges
From November to April, days often reach the low to mid-30s °C (about 86–95°F). Nights stay warm, usually in the mid-20s °C (mid-70s °F). Humidity jumps, especially after December.
Rain usually arrives in short, heavy bursts, mostly in the afternoon or evening. The biggest downpours hit between January and March, sometimes causing floods or blocking roads.
Monsoonal activity ramps up, with thunderstorms and the occasional cyclone. These can mess with travel plans, especially if you’re thinking of driving into remote Kimberley spots.
The rain cools things off for a bit, but the heat and humidity together can get uncomfortable if you’re not used to it. Pack light, breathable clothes and drink plenty of water.
Unique Experiences in the Wet Season
There’s a different kind of beauty in the wet season. Afternoon storms put on wild lightning shows over Roebuck Bay, and sunsets can look unreal.
The whole landscape changes. Rivers swell, waterfalls roar, and everything goes green. Wildlife comes out, and the scenery feels more alive.
You’ll see way fewer tourists, so beaches get quiet and hotels are cheaper. Some tours still run, but you might not get into remote gorges or parks if the roads are out.
If you love photography, the mix of storm clouds, tropical light, and bold colors is pretty hard to beat.
Seasonal Attractions and Natural Phenomena
Broome’s changing seasons decide when you’ll catch its coolest natural events and enjoy the best outdoor adventures. Weather shapes when and how you can experience these, so it pays to plan around them.
Staircase to the Moon Viewing
The Staircase to the Moon is probably Broome’s most famous sight. When the full moon rises over the tidal flats of Roebuck Bay, it creates the effect of a glowing staircase stretching across the water.
You’ll see this on three nights each month between March and November, as long as tides are low and skies are clear. The best spots are Town Beach and the market area, where you can grab food and check out local crafts.
Since the event depends on both the lunar cycle and the tides, check a local calendar before you book your trip. If you come in the dry season, you’ll have a better chance of clear skies for the full effect.
Wildlife and Outdoor Adventures
Broome’s weather also guides when you can see wildlife or get outdoors. Between July and September, you can jump on tours to spot migrating humpback whales. Dolphins and sea turtles show up often too, and sometimes you’ll catch turtle hatchings on Cable Beach during the warmer months.
If you’re more of a land explorer, the dry season is perfect for tackling the Gibb River Road and nearby gorges. Trails are open, river crossings are safe, and the air feels much less sticky.
Wet season rains bring out the green and make wildlife more active. Crocodiles become easier to spot, and thunderstorms create wild skies. Some tours might close, but the upside is fewer people and a slower, more relaxed pace. That gives you more space to soak up Broome’s natural beauty.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
Broome’s tropical climate swings between dry, sunny months and hot, humid stretches with heavy rain. If you bring the right gear and know how to handle these conditions, you’ll have a much better time in the Kimberley region.
What to Pack for Broome’s Climate
You really need to match your packing list to the season. In the dry season (May–October), grab some lightweight clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and don’t forget sunscreen.
Nights sometimes get cooler, so tossing in a light jacket or a long-sleeved shirt is a good idea.
When the wet season (November–April) hits, the humidity climbs and storms show up often. You’ll want breathable fabrics, waterproof shoes, and a small rain jacket.
Mosquito repellent becomes pretty much essential after rain, since the insects love to come out then.
Planning to try outdoor activities, like camel rides at Cable Beach or hiking in the Kimberley? Bring sturdy sandals or closed walking shoes.
A reusable water bottle is super important all year, since the heat and sun can dehydrate you fast.
If you’re thinking about swimming or joining a boat tour, remember your swimwear, a rash guard, and a dry bag for your electronics.
Sunglasses with UV protection are a must under Broome’s intense sun.
Safety and Health Considerations
Heat and humidity can get pretty intense, especially during the wet season. Remember to drink water often. Take breaks in the shade, and honestly, try not to overdo it during those blazing midday hours.
Cyclones sometimes hit the Kimberley coast between January and March. Check the local forecast, and if the authorities say to take precautions, just go with it. I’d really recommend travel insurance that covers weather disruptions, just in case.
Swimming at Cable Beach usually feels safe, but jellyfish sometimes show up when the water’s warmer. Look at the local signs before you head in.
After it rains, insects seem to come out in full force. Use repellent, and maybe throw on some light, long-sleeved clothes in the evening. If you’re heading into more remote spots, carry a basic first aid kit. Also, let someone know where you’re going—just feels smarter that way.