Glenn Moore – Destination Broome
For those with a sense of adventure and an appreciation for unspoiled natural beauty, the Cape Leveque Road offers a journey into the heart of Western Australia’s rugged Dampier Peninsula. Once a challenging off-road route, this 205-kilometre road is now fully sealed, providing a smoother and quieter ride to explore this remote region. However, the true allure lies in the pindan dirt tracks that branch off along the way, leading to unspoiled secluded bays, pristine beaches, and cultural communities and treasures.
The striking colours of the Dampier Peninsula’s stunning landscapes and vibrant heritage make it one of Broome’s best-kept secrets. Let’s take the road less travelled and discover the hidden gems waiting at the end of those red dirt tracks.
Preparing for the Adventure… Before setting off on this epic experience, there are a few essential rules to keep in mind. A 4WD vehicle is highly recommended, as many of the dirt tracks are unsuitable for standard cars. Travel is only permitted on designated roads, and free camping is prohibited, so be sure to book accommodation or campsites in advance. Take photos, leave footprints, and capture memories.
From Broome, head out along the Broome Highway, turning left at the large roundabout onto Cape Leveque Road. The first left turn leads to Coconut Wells, a tranquil spot for fishing and birdwatching. Further along is the Manari Road, which offers access to beautiful Kimberley coastline and free camping areas. Detailed maps and information about these areas are available on www.destinationbroome.com.au.
Wildlife and Scenery Along the Road
The first hour of the drive is an uninterrupted stretch of bitumen, where the vibrant red pindan dirt contrasts strikingly with the native flora. Be vigilant for roaming cattle and donkeys, as well as wildlife like wallabies, dingoes, goannas, and lizards. Bird enthusiasts will delight in spotting brolgas, hawks, osprey, eagles, and another 300+ species of birds.
Offshore, the peninsula’s waters teem with marine life. Keep an eye out for whales (Jul-Oct), dolphins, dugong, crabs, and turtles. The Cape Leveque Road isn’t just a path to your destination—it’s a wildlife corridor offering glimpses of Australia’s extraordinary biodiversity.
Must-Visit Stops and Day Trip Options… If you’re planning a day trip, you’re spoiled for choice. Several destinations along the Cape Leveque Road are open to visitors, including Middle Lagoon, Beagle Bay, Lombadina, Cygnet Bay, and Ardyaloon. Entry fees may apply, and it’s essential to register at community offices upon arrival. These offices also provide valuable local information and updates on restrictions.
For those planning an extended stay, the peninsula offers a variety of accommodation options, from eco-retreats to campgrounds. Here’s a guide to some of the best spots:
Banana Well Getaway… Located just over halfway up the road, this off-grid ecofriendly bush campground offers shaded, grassed sites and air-conditioned cabins. Perfect for fishing, crabbing, and bushwalking, Banana Well is dog-friendly and open year-round. Cool off in the artesian springwater dip pool before continuing your journey. Just one hour from Broome.
www.bananawellgetaway.com.au
Beagle Bay and the Sacred Heart Church… Famous for its mother-of-pearl-encrusted altar, the Sacred Heart Church is a must-see cultural and historical site. Open from March to October, it’s a serene stop steeped in heritage. Robbie Dann at Kimberley Cultural Adventures offers a guided Aboriginal Cultural Tour from Broome to Beagle Bay return.
www.kimberleyculturaladventures.com.au.
Pender Bay and the Adventure Highway… One of the most exciting tracks off Cape Leveque Road is the track to Pender Bay. It’s my “Adventure Highway,” this dirt track takes you through varying terrain, from corrugations to soft sand. Deflate your tyres, take it slow, and prepare for breathtaking views at the end where you can expect;
Middle Lagoon (Nature’s Hideaway)… A highlight for campers, Middle Lagoon boasts large camping areas with both powered and unpowered sites overlooking the turquoise waters of White Beach Bay. Day visitors are welcome, though registration and an entry fee are required.
www.middlelagoon.com.au
Gnylmarung Retreat… For those seeking peace and solitude of a secluded cove on Beagle Bay, this retreat offers unpowered sites with ocean views. The limited visitor numbers ensure a tranquil escape, complete with a boat ramp and fish cleaning facilities.
www.gnylmarung.org.au
Mercedes Cove Exclusive Eco Retreat… A secluded paradise, Mercedes Cove features eco-tents, cabins, and a two-bedroom chalet with uninterrupted ocean views. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. Bookings are essential.
www.mercedescove.com.au
At Pender Bay Escape… You will find some of the best shore-based whale watching in the region from July to October. With powered and unpowered sites available, this is a fantastic spot to connect with nature. No pets. No drones. 0429845707
Smithy’s Seaside Adventures offers beachfront camping with over 200 meters of pristine coastline to explore.
www.smithysseasideretreat.com.au
Goombaragin by the Bay provides an intimate, boutique experience with just a few eco-tents and campsites nestled in a secluded bay. This hidden gem is perfect for couples or small groups seeking an exclusive retreat.
www.goombaraginbythebay.com.au
Back to the bitumen to the Northern Tip: Cultural and Coastal Treasures… Continuing north, you’ll reach the Djarindjin Roadhouse and Campgrounds, a convenient base for larger caravans and RVs. With modern amenities, fuel, and a general store, it’s an excellent spot to rest and refuel. Djarindjin is also the departure point for cultural tours like Brian Lee Tagalong Tours, Bundy’s Cultural Tours, and Trevor’s Traditional Tours, which offer authentic insights into the region’s Aboriginal heritage.
www.djarindjin.com.au Tour Bookings 0447513123
Next, the coastal community of Lombadina welcomes visitors with its old Mission Church, comfortable accommodations, and stunning beaches. While boat launching is not permitted, the serene atmosphere makes it a worthwhile stop.
www.lombadina.com
Finally, at the northern tip of the peninsula lies Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm, a hub for both luxury and adventure. Indulge in pearl appreciation tours or embark on thrilling water experiences, including the Giant Tides, Waterfall Reef & Island explorer tours. Don’t miss cultural experiences like Terry Hunter’s Coast to Creek Tours or Rosanna Angus’ Oolin Sunday Island Tours and Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures departing direct from Cygnet Bay
www.cygnetbaypearlfarm.com.au
For a truly awe-inspiring view, continue to Ardyaloon (One Arm Point), where the Buccaneer Archipelago stretches across the horizon. The Ardi’Ol Art and Cultural Tour www.ardiol.org provides a deeper understanding of the region’s stories, and the Ardyaloon Hatchery and Aquaculture Centre showcases the area’s marine life and conservation efforts.
The Return Journey… As your journey comes full circle, you’ll have the opportunity to revisit any missed stops, revisit favourites or simply reflect on the experiences of the trip. The Dampier Peninsula offers something for everyone—whether it’s fishing, camping, nature experiences, cultural exploration, or simply soaking in the unspoiled beauty of the coast.
Why the Dampier Peninsula Is Broome’s Best Kept Secret… While the Cape Leveque Road has been made more accessible with its bitumen surface, the pindan dirt tracks and their hidden destinations maintain the spirit of adventure that defines this region. From serene eco-retreats to vibrant cultural experiences, from secluded beaches to towering cliffs, the Dampier Peninsula offers an unparalleled escape into Australian nature and heritage.
And for those not wishing to take the journey themselves, Australian Pinnacle Tours can take you there on a full day tour
www.australianpinnacletours.com.au. Think $290pp 12 Hrs.
Saving the best for last, the ultimate experience is to enjoy an Air Kimberley scenic flight, getting a birds eye view of Dampier Peninsula, King Sound ,Horizontal Falls and Buccaneer Archipelago to Ardyaloon. Visit Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm, Ardyaloon Hatchery before flying back to Broome along the western coastline of the Dampier Peninsula, to a setting sun.
www.airkimberley.com.au. Think $800pp 6.5Hrs.
For now, it remains one of Broome’s best-kept secrets—but with its spectacular coastline, rich biodiversity, and welcoming communities, it won’t stay a secret for long. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a deeper connection to the land, the Dampier Peninsula is a destination you’ll never forget.