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Getting Around Broome

Getting Around Broome

Broome Western Australia, Australia Travel Guide

Public Transportation

Broome's main public transport option offers a reliable way to access locations with no the need for a private vehicle. The Broome Explorer Bus serves as the main public transit system. It offers a way to travel between major points of interest within Broome. The bus service is a privately operated system designed to cater to both locals and tourists, bringing a practical alternative to taxis or rental transport for numerous tourists.

The Broome Explorer Bus runs regular services connecting major points of interest: Broome Town Centre (Chinatown), Cable Beach, Gantheaume Point, Port of Broome, and Broome International Airport. Routes generally operate on a loop, making it easy to hop on and off at various attractions. Route maps are available at the Broome Visitor Centre, most accommodations, and on board the buses. The Broome Visitor Centre and the main stops within Chinatown and Cable Beach serve as important hubs for connections and information.

Bus Details

  • Ticketing: Cash fares paid to driver (approx. AUD 4.60). Multi-trip passes (24-hour, 7-day) are a better deal and are available from the driver.
  • Hours & Frequency: Daily operation. Frequency varies by season; every 30-60 mins in Dry Season, less prevalent in Wet Season. Check current timetable.
  • Accessibility: Buses are generally accessible with ramps/kneeling capabilities. Confirm specific features if particular requirements.
  • Tips: Purchase a multi-day pass for frequent use. Pick up a current timetable from the Broome Visitor Centre. The Broome Explorer Bus has a budget-friendly way to see Broome'the key attractions. Combine it with going on foot for an economical approach.

Extensive Route

Connects landmarks like Chinatown, Cable Beach, and the Airport.

Cost-Effective

Multi-day passes provide good value for money for frequent travel around town.

Seasonal Timetable

Frequency varies by season, more often during peak dry season.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Services
  • Licensed taxis are metered and clearly identifiable.
  • Hailing on street, at ranks (airport, major hotels, Chinatown), or over the phone booking.
  • Metered pricing for rides. Cash and major credit card payments are accepted.
Ride-Sharing & Safety
  • Uber operates in Broome; the app functions as elsewhere for ride requests.
  • Both licensed taxis and Uber are generally safe.
  • For Uber, confirm vehicle make, model, license plate, and driver's name match app details.

Airport/Station Taxi Arrangements

Airport Taxis

Readily available at a designated rank outside the Broome International Airport terminal, especially after flight arrivals.

Bus Station

For the bus station (a stop on a long-distance route), you may need to call a taxi.

Pre-booking

For early morning flights or late-night arrivals, pre-book a taxi ride or arrange airport transfer through your accommodation.

Rental Options

You can access various rental options for self-guided discovery, including cars and bicycles.

Car Rental

  • Large global companies (Avis, Budget, Hertz, Thrifty, Europcar) operate in Broome.
  • Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during dry season.
  • Valid driver'a driver's license and credit card for deposit are necessary.
  • Clarify insurance coverage for unsealed roads; standard policies may not cover them.

Bicycle Rentals

  • Broome lacks a formal bicycle sharing program.
  • Bike hire is available from various retail outlets around Cable Beach and Chinatown.
  • Excellent for exploring the shared path connecting Town Beach to Cable Beach.
  • Cyclists must wear helmets (compulsory in WA) and stick to road rules.

Walking & Cycling

  • Pedestrian-friendly areas include Chinatown and Town Beach foreshore.
  • A paved shared path connects Broome Town Beach to Cable Beach.
  • Self-guided walking tours of Chinatown's historical pearling sites are popular (maps from Visitor Centre).
  • Shared paths exist along some main roads.
  • Exercise caution when cycling on busy roads with limited shoulders.
  • Avoid walking or cycling in remote, unlit areas at night. Keep to populated-trafficked and lit pathways.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

The Broome Explorer Bus functions as a hop-on-hop-off service. Many tour operators offer bus-based day tours to local attractions and the Kimberley region.

Water Transport

Not for general transport within Broome. Mainly for specific tours (sunset cruises, whale watching, Horizontal Falls) where boat transfers occur.

Accessibility Services

Broome aims for accessibility, but infrastructure can pose challenges. A lot of tour operators strive to offer accessible options. Inquire directly upon booking.

Driving Conditions & Road Safety

Driving in Broome and the more extensive Kimberley region possesses distinct considerations.

Main Roads & Highways

  • Main streets inside Broome are sealed and generally in good condition.
  • Be aware of "road trains" (long multi-trailer trucks) common in regional WA. Allow ample space.
  • Wildlife like kangaroos and cattle can wander onto roads, especially at dawn/dusk/night. Drive cautiously.
  • Fuel stops can be incommon in remote areas. Plan your stops plus have extra fuel if venturing away from the main routes.

Unsealed Roads & Wet Season

  • If you plan to venture to more secluded areas, like the Dampier Peninsula (Cape Leveque Road) or inland, you will encounter unsealed roads.
  • A 4WD vehicle is often recommended or needed for these routes.
  • During the wet season (November-April), unsealed roads, and sometimes even sealed sections, may become impassable due to flooding from heavy rains.
  • Always check the state of the roads with Main Roads WA (Www.mainroads.wa.gov.au) before setting out, especially during the wet season.

Remote Travel & Safety Tips

Carry Supplies

If exploring remote areas, carry sufficient water, food, and a spare tire.

Water, Food, Spare Tire

Share Itinerary

Tell someone your travel plans when venturing into remote locations.

Inform a Contact

Limited Reception

Mobile phone reception can be limited outside populated zones.

Plan for Offline

Walking & Cycling Details

Pedestrian Areas
  • Chinatown, with its heritage structures and shops, is highly walkable.
  • The foreshore regions near Town Beach are also pleasant for pedestrians.
  • A paved shared path connects Broome Town Beach to Cable Beach, offering a scenic path for both walking and cycling.
Cycling Infrastructure
  • While dedicated cycling paths are limited, shared paths exist along some main roads.
  • Cyclists must wear helmets (mandatory under the law in The west of Australia) and stick to all road rules.
  • Exercise care when cycling on busy roads with limited shoulders.

No-Go Areas & Safety

  • Be careful when cycling on busy roads with limited shoulders, especially outside the main settlement areas.
  • Avoid walking or cycling in remote, unlit areas at night.
  • Stick to well-trafficked and lit pathways for safety.
  • When it's hotter, drier months, specifically towards the end of the dry season, bushfires can occur. Stay informed about local fire warnings.
  • Marine stingers (box jellyfish and Irukandji jellyfish) are present in coastal waters during wet season (November-May).
  • Swimming outside of stinger nets or designated safe swimming areas (resort pools) is generally unadvised at this very time of year.
  • Saltwater and freshwater crocodiles inhabit waterways, estuaries, and sometimes coastal areas near rivers. Heed all warning signs; do not swim in unmarked waters.

Final Transportation Thought

Broome's transport options cater to various travel styles and budgets. Whether you prefer the independence of a rental car, the convenience of a bus, or the active exploration of walking and cycling, you will find suitable ways to experience this captivating Western Australian town.

Combine it with bipedal movement for an economical approach.