Most nationalities require a visa or ETA to enter Australia. Apply online before travel.

What is the currency?

Australian Dollar (AUD). Cards widely accepted, but carry some cash for market stalls.

Yes, between the flags at patrolled areas. Be aware of stinger season (Nov-May) and croc warnings after heavy rain.

Can I see crocodiles?

Saltwater crocs are rare on Cable Beach but present in nearby estuaries. Never swim in rivers or during wet season.

Sharks are present in the ocean. Swim on patrolled beaches and follow lifeguard advice.

What is the time zone?

Australian Western Standard Time (AWST, UTC+8). No daylight saving.

Is there public transport?

Limited bus service between Broome town and Cable Beach. Car rental is recommended.

Can I camp on the beach?

Camping is not allowed on Cable Beach. Nearby caravan parks and campgrounds are available.

What is the best way to see the sunset?

Join the sunset camel rides or simply sit on the beach. The sunset is famous from March to October.

Yes, in Broome town and at the Cable Beach shopping centre.

Not for main roads, but some tracks (e.g., to James Price Point) require 4WD. Hire one if exploring beyond town.

Is there mobile reception?

Good coverage on the beach and in Broome. Falls off in remote areas towards the Dampier Peninsula.

Cable Beach

SuburbPerth, Western Australia

Cable Beach is a SUB AREA in Perth, Western Australia.

Cable Beach is a dazzling 22-kilometre stretch of white sand and turquoise water on the edge of Broome, Western Australia. Famous for its spectacular sunsets, camel rides, and crystal-clear Indian Ocean waters, this beach is the heart of Broome's laid-back tropical lifestyle. During the dry season (April to October), the weather is near-perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the rugged red cliffs at the northern end. The tide reveals vast sand flats where you can walk for miles or try your hand at fishing for threadfin salmon. Cable Beach is also a cultural meeting place; the traditional lands of the Yawuru people remind visitors of deep Aboriginal heritage. The vibrant sunset each evening draws crowds to the beachfront, where you can sip champagne or enjoy fresh seafood at the nearby Sunset Bar & Grill. Beyond the beach, Broome offers pearl history, dinosaur footprints, and a quirky frontier-town atmosphere. Whether you're watching a camel train silhouette against the sunset or snorkelling over coral reefs at the nearby Rowley Shoals, Cable Beach delivers an unforgettable Australian beach experience.

Best time to visit Cable Beach

The best time to visit Cable Beach is during the dry season from April to October. Days are warm (28-35°C) with low humidity, clear skies, and almost no rain – perfect for swimming, sunsets, and outdoor adventures. June to August are peak tourist months with the famous Broome Sunset Markets. For fewer crowds, consider May or September. The wet season (November to March) brings humidity, thunderstorms, and stingers, but also lower prices and a dramatic landscape.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Hot 24-35°C; dry

Travel notes

Crowds: Moderate
Prices: Moderate

End of dry season; still lovely

Know before you go

Getting there

BME

Broome International Airport

International

6 km away

DRW

Darwin International Airport

International

1800 km away

PER

Perth Airport

International

2100 km away

Getting around

"The most flexible way to explore Cable Beach and Broome is by renting a car – major agencies are at Broome Airport and in town. Local buses (Broome Transit) run limited routes; the No.1 service connects the town centre to Cable Beach daily. Taxis and rideshares (Uber not available; local taxis are reliable). Cycling is popular on flat terrain – hire a bike to reach the beach from town (approx. 6 km). For sunset camel rides or tours, book through operators. Walking along the beach is easy, but the 22 km length means you'll need transport for longer distances."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

20 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in most hotels and cafes

Local SIM

Telstra and Optus SIMs at Broome Airport or town, from $10

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Wildlife on roads at dawn/dusk. Stinger risk in summer.

Night safety

7/10

Wildlife on roads at dawn/dusk. Stinger risk in summer.

Transport

8/10

Scam risk

5/10

"Cable Beach is generally safe, but exercise caution: swim between the red-and-yellow flags during patrol hours. Rip currents can occur. During the wet season (Nov-Mar), avoid swimming after heavy rain due to possible crocodile sightings (though rare). Lock valuables out of sight in vehicles. Watch for vehicles on the beach – stick to designated walking areas. The sun sets quickly; bring a torch if staying after dark. No lifeguards at all sections – stay within patrolled zones. Scams are unlikely, but always agree taxi fares in advance. Night safety is good near lighted areas, but avoid isolated stretches after dark."

Police

000

Ambulance

000

Fire

000

International emergency (mobile)

112

Entry and health

Health information

"Cable Beach is remote; the nearest major hospital is Broome Regional Hospital (approx. 6 km). Travellers should have adequate travel insurance covering medical evacuation. Stinger (jellyfish) season runs November to May; swim at patrolled areas and wear stinger suits. Sun protection is critical – high SPF, hats, and long sleeves. Dehydration and heat exhaustion are risks in summer. Carry water, especially if driving on dirt roads. Pharmacies in Broome offer basic supplies, but specialist medications may need bringing from home."

Culture

Local customs

"Broome has a relaxed, multicultural vibe. Dress is casual – beachwear is fine on the sand, but cover up when entering shops or restaurants (shirt and shoes required). Respect Aboriginal culture: avoid climbing sacred sites like Gantheaume Point without permission. Greetings are friendly but informal. Tipping is not expected, though appreciated for excellent service. Staring at sunsets is a local ritual – do join the crowd at the beach for the evening ceremony of the sun. Keep noise down after 9pm in residential areas. Smoking is banned on patrolled beaches and within 10m of playgrounds."

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