Squeaky clean white sand, turquoise waters, epic sunsets and balmy nights—if you haven’t been to Broome yet you’re really missing out.
This beach-side town Western Australia’s Kimberley region boasts all of that and more, and August and September are the best times to go. The weather is just right, you can swim in the ocean without fear of a jellyfish attack AND the Shinju Matsuri is on!
Japanese for Festival of the Pearl, the Shinju Matsuri is a week-long festival which celebrates Broome’s rich and vibrant history of the community and pearling. During the festival, which runs from 25 August to 2 September, the town lights up with colourful events and experiences for you to enjoy on Broome Time.
Here’s what not to miss!
Floating Lantern Matsuri
Friday 31 August, 4:30pm, Gantheaume Point
This one will take your breath away, and perhaps see you shedding a tear (you’ve been warned). Join your fellow Shinju comrades at Gantheaume Point, jot down a wish, prayer or message to a lost loved one and send it out to sea, aglow with a floating lantern. There'll be a licenced bar on the beach dishing out food and bevs, and wear your togs as you’ll definitely get wet.
Sunset Long Table Dinner
Saturday 1 September, 5pm, Cable Beach
We’d go as far to say that Cable Beach is Australia’s best beach, but we don’t want to start a riot, so for the sake of all that’s peaceful in the world we’ll settle for one of Australia’s best beaches. But, you can decide for yourself at the Sunset Long Table Dinner! You’ll need to get in quick to secure tickets for this sell-out event which includes authentic, local eats, cocktails on arrival and a spectacular sunset. Who needs Michelin stars when you’ve got an entire galaxy serving as your roof?
Pearl Harvest Yum Cha
Thursday 30 August, 6pm, Dampier Terrace
Join everyone’s favourite Masterchef contestant Adam Liaw at this inaugural Shinju event. A casual, open-air style party dedicated to dumplings, walk the main street in broom devouring morsel after morsel, and don’t forget to grab yourself a drink at the bar. Once you’re significantly stuffed, why not head to the iconic Sun Pictures to catch a flick under the stars?
Be sure to catch the Float Parade and Festival Finale, and while you’re there check out the best that Broome has to offer thanks to our handy guide. Tickets on sale now!
Editor’s note: This article is proudly sponsored by Shinju Matsuri and endorsed by The Urban List. Thank you for supporting the sponsors who make The Urban List possible. Click here for more information on our editorial policy.
Image credit: Supplied