The Iconic Camel Rides In Broome Guide

Broome and camel rides go hand-in-hand, here’s what to expect.

There are many tourist traps around the world, and one can’t help but be a little sceptical when everyone is talking about an experience like Broome camel rides. The thing is, I actually loved it.

The camels are (mostly) chill, the tour leaders are very friendly and the views are incredible. For me, it was 40 minutes of rhythmic heaven that made me feel like I’d really experienced Broome – besides which the history of camels in Broome is so fascinating that becoming part of it is truly a bucket list item.

Where can you ride camels in Broome?

Cable Beach is the one and only place to take a camel ride in Broome, and frankly, you couldn’t hope for a more peaceful backdrop. All tour operators will meet guests on the beach, close to Cable Beach Resort & Spa.

Best time of day to ride camels

While a sunset tour is obviously the iconic imagery you’ve seen (as it should be, the oranges, pinks and purples of Cable Beach sunsets are honestly out of this world) and are always booked out weeks in advance, you really shouldn’t discount a morning tour.

On a sunset tour, you’ll get the incredible colours of a WA sunset, and get to watch the beach come to life as others flock to it. Your photos will be incredible, and you will most definitely have social media bragging rights.

However, on a morning tour, you’ll avoid the heat and the crowds. If you’re booking at the last minute, there will most likely still be a spot open, unlike at sunset. Overall, it’s a far more peaceful experience and the vistas are still ‘gram-worthy with 22 kilometres of unusually straight beach stretching out before you. It’ll also be cheaper.

a group riding a camel at sunset, Cable Beach, Broome

Capture the golden hour on the golden sands of Cable Beach. (Image: CJ Maddock)

What to expect on a camel ride

Camels have a reputation for being on the grumpy side, but these ones are (mostly) very well-trained, and seemingly unbothered by carting around random tourists. Having said that, operators may include a less-trained camel in the string to help get them used to it.

This is exactly what happened on my tour and the woman behind me had a minor freakout when her camel broke ranks – an understandable reaction but to be fair it wasn’t really a big deal and he was tied back up in no time. Camels are tied in a line and the group will always have a tour operator leading the sting, walking alongside and bringing up the rear, so they’re ready for mishaps.

The camels are usually pretty good at following the leader. (Image: Kassia Byrnes)

On that note, tour operators will ask for your weight beforehand to make sure none of the camels are given more to carry than they can safely handle, and there are weight limits.

Getting on and off the camels has become almost luxurious now as well, with mounting platforms on the back of operator trucks so you can swing a leg over your camel without the poor thing having to sit down and perform the famously awkward standing back up with you on it.

top view of Cable Beach when riding on a camel

The view from atop a camel is a sight to behold. (Image: Kassia Byrnes)

Top tours to book a camel ride

Traditionally, camel tour operators in Broome have a frosty coexistence. The long-running “camel wars" reached a truce in February 2011 after years of feuding over camel licenses involving public acrimony, slashed tyres, nude photos and even the throwing of camel dung.

After one court ruling allowed all operators the right to conduct business, and another convicted a former cameleer of theft and burglary with a sizeable fine to boot, peace seems to have been restored.

This means that these days you’re welcome to choose from the three current operators without issue.

This rhythmic ride is truly an unforgettable experience. (Image: Kassia Byrnes)

1. Red Sun Camels

Red Sun Camels are easy to spot on the beach thanks to their bright red saddle blankets. They operate a morning, sunset and shorter 30-minute pre-sunset tour nearly every day.

For the safety of their camels, they do have a 95-kilo weight limit per person, and a 170-kilo limit power camel (all saddles have two seats).

Staff are bubbly, friendly and really seem to love what they do – even the brand-new staff member from Germany on my tour who never really planned to be working there but now doesn’t want to leave.

The staff will also gladly help you take photos during the tour, going to lengths to get the good angles for you.

a group of tourists riding a camel on Cable Beach, Broome

Experience an enchanting ride with Red Sun Camels. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Cost: From $40
Duration: 30 minutes to one hour, depending on the tour.
Contact: 08 9193 7423 / bookings@redsuncamels.com.au

2. Broome Camel Safaris

Operating from Monday to Saturday Broome Camel Safaris, claim to have Broome’s friendliest camels, under the tutelage of Broome’s original camel lady, Alison Bird. While she’s not the only one claiming this title, she did trek through the Australian Outback alone with her camels for more than seven years, so it’s safe to say she knows what she’s doing.

They’re currently not doing morning tours but are running afternoon and sunset tours. They’re also a great option if you’d like to organise a bespoke tour for your own group.

Included in the price of a tour is a free pair of freshwater pearl sterling-silver earrings from local Broome designer, Dahlia Designs for ladies.

a group riding camels on Cable Beach, Broome

Soak up the beauty of Cable Beach with Broome Camel Safaris. (Image: CJ Maddock)

Cost: From $45
Duration: 30 minutes to one hour, depending on the tour.
Contact: 0419 916 101 / via website contact form.

It’s no secret that Broome is one of the most beautiful places in Australia. Think ancient Indigenous culture, azure waters and award-winning restaurants, all surrounded by rugged Kimberley landscapes. Bliss. Broome hotels and resorts are no different.

Being one of Western Australia’s prettiest towns, hotels here are blessed with good views, tropical vibes and a hearty dose of history. From the timeless wonder of Pinctada McAlpine House to the Mangrove Hotel’s bayside escape, we’ve picked the best hotels and resorts.

1. The Billi Resort

Address: 97 Oryx Road (Lullfitz Drive)
Price: $$

Stay in a luxe safari tent or chic villa. (Image: Taryn Yeates)

Glamping is a wonderful way to experience Broome’s natural beauty and salty ocean air. The Billi Resort has a handful of luxe safari tents with timber floors, private bathrooms and a kitchenette.

Situated within walking distance of Cable Beach, this retreat also boasts chic villas, ranging from one bedroom to three. Relax at the central pool area or hire an electric bike and explore the shoreline.

2. The Pearle of Cable Beach

Address: 14 Millington Road
Price: $$ – $$$

Swim right up to The Pearle of Cable Beach. (Image: Taryn Yeates Photography)

If you adore swimming, this resort is for you. Stroll from Cable Beach to your one-, two- or three-bedroom villa at The Pearle of Cable Beach and cool off in your very own private pool. Whip up a cocktail in the designer kitchen then sip it on the deck while dipping your toes into the plunge pool.

This Southeast Asian-inspired resort has a cafe serving a continental breakfast buffet overlooking the communal pool, which is heated for comfort during the cooler dry season.

Just be aware, the villas have some semi-detached bedrooms (under the same roof line). This might not suit families with young children.

3. Beaches of Broome

Address: 4 Sanctuary Road
Price: $ – $$

guest room in beaches of broome hotel and backpackers

Relax in a private room between swims. (Image: Facebook/Beaches of Broome)

This hostel is the perfect base for exploring the abundance of adventures on offer at Cable Beach. Located just metres from the ocean, Beaches of Broome offers both dormitory accommodation and private rooms.

The piece de resistance, however, is the sparkling pool – the ideal locale for a cool drink with new or old friends.

4. Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa

Address: Cable Beach Road
Price: $$$$

Cable Beach Club Resort and Spa is the epitome.

If you know anything about Broome, chances are you’ve heard of the grand dame of hospitality, the Cable Beach Resort & Spa. You can really live it up at this iconic resort where the vibe is unmistakably zen.

Find four restaurants, two large pools (one adults-only), a spa and salon, a gym to get stuck into and a cocktail menu that’s as long as your arm. The eight-hectare property also offers a refresher room so you can use the resort facilities if you arrive or depart outside of check-in and out times.

When you’re not pool-hopping or playing tennis, you can take a boat tour, scenic flight, fishing charter or camel ride on Cable Beach.

5. Pinctada McAlpine House

Address: 55 Herbert St (Corner Louis St)
Price: $$$

Enjoy the heritage style of Pinctada McAlpine House. (Image: Facebook/Pinctada McAlpine House)

For fans of places with a past, Pinctada McAlpine House was constructed during the heyday of Broome’s pearl shelling industry. Located within walking distance of the town centre, the property now delivers the same historic charm in a more elegant setting.

Guests can choose from a variety of suite styles, from the Garden Suite, with its peaceful atmosphere, to the exclusive McAlpine Suite with its four-poster bed and claw foot bath.

6. Eco Beach Resort Broome

Address: Lot 323 Great Northern Highway
Price: $$$ – $$$$

woman swims in the infinity pool at Eco Beach Resort Broome

Swim the day away. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Gaze the afternoon away with unrivalled views across the Indian Ocean at the secluded Eco Beach Resort in your solar-panel-charged eco villa, glamping tent, or two-bedroom house.

When you can peel yourself away from your lodging, there is an onsite spa, complimentary daily yoga sessions, paddle boards and kayaks, shaded hammocks on the beach, an alluring infinity pool with comfy sun lounges and an incredible restaurant dishing out local produce.

To totally unwind don’t miss Eco Beach’s signature activity ‘Mud & Bubbles’ where you paint yourself with mangrove mud and sip bubbles while waiting for the mud to dry, before rinsing off in the Indian Ocean.

Eco Beach Resort is a 130km self-drive or shuttle bus south from Broome, or opt for a 25-minute helicopter transfer over some of the most spectacular coastline in the world.

7. Bali Hai Resort & Spa

Address: 6 Murray Road
Price: $$$ – $$$$

Step foot into Bali without leaving Broome. (Image: Facebook/ Bali Hai Resort & Spa)

Like being in the Bali of a bygone era, the relaxed Bali Hai Resort & Spa has a centre-piece swimming pool, lush grounds and spa treatments using traditional Balinese recipes. It’s impossible not to unwind here.

Set a couple of blocks back from Cable Beach Resort and adjacent to Kimberley Sands Resort, you have four self-contained villas to choose from, all with private courtyards and outdoor bathrooms. The restaurant (dinner only) has a great selection of dishes featuring Western Australian produce, such as prawns, beef eye fillet and pork belly. Dine inside or opt for a table on the deck that has been built around a shiny boab tree.

8. Mangrove Hotel

Address: 47 Carnarvon Street
Price: $$$ – $$$$

an outdoor pool with palm trees and sun loungers at Mangrove Hotel, Broome

Plunge straight into the pool at Mangrove Hotel.

Home to arguably Broome’s best view, Mangrove Hotel is polished down to the last detail. Along with two pools, the breezy hotel has a lively bar and restaurant that seamlessly flows from an indoor setting to an outdoor oasis.

Rooms are white and contemporary, with pops of turquoise fabrics that match the dreamy waters of Roebuck Bay.

9. Oaks Broome Hotel

Address: 99 Robinson Street
Price: $$$

Stay in central Broome at Oaks Broome Hotel.

Broome is home to two Oaks properties – one close to Cable Beach and the other a short walk from Chinatown. An advantage of staying in a chain hotel is that you mostly know what to expect before you even check-in.

Near Broome’s retail centre, Oaks Broome Hotel has around 100 hotel rooms, studios, and one- or two-bedroom self-contained apartments. Guests get access to the umbrella-lined pool and a restaurant that offers alfresco and air-conditioned dining.

10. Oaks Cable Beach Resort

Address: 11 Oryx Road
Price: $$ – $$$

interior suite at Oaks Cable Beach Resort

Opt for Oaks Cable Beach Resort for an amazing pool and beach access.

If you love swimming, sunbathing and a bit of luxury, you must plan your vacation around an amazing pool. Oaks Cable Beach Resort boasts five swimming pools including an impressive lagoon-style pool and a children’s wading pool where parents can take up position on a sun lounger. Here you have a choice of modern studio rooms and apartments ranging from one bedroom to three.

11. Moonlight Bay Suites

Address: 51 Carnarvon Street
Price: $$$ – $$$$

Soak in views of Roebuck Bay. (Image: Facebook/Moonlight Bay Suites)

You won’t be far from Matso’s famous Brewery if you check into the Moonlight Bay Suites or the Bayside Holiday Apartments, both owned by the Kimberley Accommodation Group.

Overlooking Roebuck Bay, Moonlight Bay Suites has a huge swimming pool, manicured gardens and 50 one- and two-bedroom suites, 18 of which boast bay views.

On the corner of Hamersley Street, over the road from Matso’s, Bayside Holiday Apartments offers basic apartments and a pool.

12. Roebuck Bay Hotel

Address: 33 Carnarvon Street
Price: $$ – $$$$

Party on at The Roey. (Image: Facebook/Roebuck Bay Hotel)

In the heart of Chinatown, The Roey (as it’s affectionately known) is Broome’s longest-standing hospitality establishment, dating back to 1890. If drag bingo, wet t-shirt competitions and nightclubbing until 3am is your type of holiday, then make a beeline for the Roey Backpackers and Party Bar.

Take a dip in the pool, prep a snack in the communal kitchen and make yourself comfy in one of the many, many bunk beds. If you’re after a room of your own, Roebuck Bay Hotel, as the name suggests, also has standard hotel rooms.

13. Mantra Frangipani Broome

Address: 15 Millington Road
Price: $$$ – $$$$

a pond where water lilies grow, Mantra Frangipani Broome

There’s a pond where water lilies grow at Mantra Frangipani Broome. (Image: Roderick Eime)

Mantra Frangipani Broome has apartments ranging from one bedroom to three, which feature a beachside vibe with tiled floors and bright artwork. Cool off in your private outdoor shower or grab a sun lounge next to one of the two pools.

It’s an easy walk from this Accor-owned hotel to the Cable Beach restaurants, or you can catch a bus to town directly outside the resort.

14. Mercedes Cove Exclusive Coastal Retreat

Address: Dampier Peninsula
Price: $$ – $$$

an aerial view of the beach at Mercedes Cove Exclusive Coastal Retreat

A tropical getaway awaits at Mercedes Cove Exclusive Coastal Retreat.

Overlooking the white sand of Pender Bay on the Dampier Peninsula about 190 kilometres north of Broome, sits the idyllic Mercedes Cove Exclusive Coastal Retreat glamping spot. Cue endless stargazing by night and whale watching by day.

You can choose from two eco-tents, a cabin with a real bathroom or our favourite – Open Deck, where you’ll sleep in a double bed under a mosquito net on the verandah.

a beachfront dining setup at Mercedes Cove Exclusive Coastal Retreat

Dine by the beach at Mercedes Cove Exclusive Coastal Retreat.

15. Jetwave Pearl

Address: Horizontal Falls
Price: $$$$$

the living room interior of Horizontal Falls Accommodation at Jet Wave Pearl

The Jet Wave Pearl can fit up to 20 guests. (Image: Taryn Yeates)

If you love the Horizontal Falls and want to stay longer than just a day, there’s an overnight experience on offer aboard Jetwave Pearl.

Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures 24-hour tour includes seaplane transfers from Broome, powerboat rides, a sunset cruise, swimming in a marine enclosure and an overnight stay on the two-level, 10-room Jetwave Pearl. It is one of our top picks for Broome tours for a reason.

a bed facing windows with waterfront views in Horizontal Falls Accommodation at Jet Wave Pearl

Wake up to uninterrupted waterfront views. (Image: Taryn Yeates)

Find more insider travel tips in our Broome travel guide.

Your guide to the iconic camel rides in Broome