View of the exterior of the Mt Barnett Roadhouse and fuel bowsers on the Gibb River Road

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Dampier Peninsula

Just north of Broome, the Dampier Peninsula is a remote coastal journey of red cliffs, turquoise waters, Aboriginal communities and iconic Kimberley coastal landscapes.

The journey begins as you follow Cape Leveque Road north, leaving Broome behind and entering Country shaped by tide, time and tradition. The local Bardi and Nyul Nyul people invite you to discover their traditions and explore their Country along the way.

The Dampier Peninsula is one of the few places along the Kimberley coast where travellers can explore this landscape by road.

Note: Kooljaman at Cape Leveque is currently closed.

A connected coastal journey

The Dampier Peninsula is best experienced as a series of communities, camps and remote beaches linked by Cape Leveque Road and a network of 4WD tracks. Rather than rushing between highlights, allow time to move between places, stay in remote locations and experience how the landscape changes along the way.

Along the journey, you’ll find:

  • Remote beaches and dramatic coastal landscapes
  • Living Aboriginal culture on Country
  • Working pearl farms and maritime heritage
  • Fishing, crabbing and coastal wildlife encounters
  • Whale watching (June–September)
  • Slow, off-grid travel experiences

Community-led cultural experiences

Across the Peninsula, local guides and operators share stories, traditions and practical knowledge shaped by generations living on this coastline. Join cultural tours, learn traditional fishing methods, hear local history and experience Country through the eyes of those who know it best.

Image taken from above, of a group of 4 tour guests alongside their guide, Bundy. The group is walking through crystal clear blue waters, carrying fishing spears. Tourism Western Australia

Historic Communities & Heritage

The Dampier Peninsula is home to communities with rich and layered histories shaped by Aboriginal culture, mission settlements, pearling and coastal trade. Highlights include Beagle Bay’s Sacred Heart Church, famous for its pearl shell altar and remarkable craftsmanship, and Lombadina Community's historic bush timber church. 

Pearl shell decorated altar at the Sacred Heart Church in Beagle Bay

Remote camping and coastal stays

Choose from bush camps, beachside campgrounds, cabins and safari tents surrounded by nature. Whether you prefer simple camping under the stars or a more comfortable coastal retreat, the Peninsula offers stays that place you close to sea, sky and wide open space.

Pender Bay

Fishing, boating and coastal adventure

Cast a line from the beach, launch a boat, hunt for mud crabs or explore tidal creeks and sheltered bays. The Peninsula is a favourite for travellers who enjoy getting out on the water and making the most of the Kimberley coast.

A man catching a fish from a charter boat at Lombadina Community on the Dampier Peninsula; another man is ready to pull the fish on board.

Pearl Farms & maritime stories

Discover the region’s pearling heritage at Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm on the Dampier Peninsula, and Willie Creek Pearl Farm near Broome. Join tours to learn how pearls are cultivated and uncover the maritime stories that helped shape the Kimberley coast.

A tour guide harvests a large pearl from an open Pinctada Maxima oyster shell using his hands.

Wildlife & whale season

From June to September, humpback whales migrate along the Kimberley coast and can often be seen from beaches and coastal lookouts. Birdlife, marine life and changing tidal environments add to the Peninsula’s appeal for nature lovers.

A Humpback Whale  mother and calf photographed from above on the Kimberley Coast, Western Australia Tourism Western Australia

Getting There

The Dampier Peninsula is accessed via the Cape Leveque Road, with the turnoff located approximately 20 kilometres north of Broome.

The main route is now sealed for most of the journey, however many side roads, beach access tracks and more remote locations remain unsealed. A high-clearance 4WD is recommended when travelling beyond the main route or exploring further north.

Travellers without their own vehicle can also visit on guided day tours, scenic flights or transfer services from Broome.

Vehicle and Campervan Hire

Self-drive is the most common way to explore the Peninsula. Vehicle hire is available in Broome, including 4WD and camper options suited to remote travel conditions. Fuel may be purchased at One Arm Point and Djarindjin Roadhouse. 

Where to stay on the Dampier Peninsula

You'll find a range of accommodation to suit most travellers, from simple bush camps and beach shelters to basic cabins and luxury self-contained safari tents. Bookings are essential at all accommodation sites.

Tours on the Dampier Peninsula

A range of tours operate across the Dampier Peninsula, offering different ways to experience Country, culture and coastline. Some are based within local communities, while others explore the region as part of a wider Kimberley journey from Broome.

Cultural and local experiences on Country

These tours are led by Traditional Owners and local operators who live and work on the Dampier Peninsula, offering an authentic way to connect with culture, coastal landscapes and traditional practices. These experiences focus on fishing, hunting, storytelling, pearl industry heritage and deep cultural connection to land and sea.

Scenic flights and guided day tours from Broome

Fly or drive from Broome on a half- or full-day tour to experience the Dampier Peninsula’s coastline, communities and Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm from above or on the ground with expert local guides.

These tours are ideal for travellers short on time or those wanting a different perspective of the Kimberley coast.

Multi-day Kimberley tours including the Dampier Peninsula

Some extended Kimberley itineraries include the Dampier Peninsula as part of a longer journey between Broome and the wider region.

Coast & Culture

Plan your Dampier Peninsula trip

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More to Know

Shell

Permits & Fuel

Permits are not required to travel on Cape Leveque Road. However, a small access fee applies to the communities of Beagle Bay, Lombadina and One Arm Point, payable at the community offices. 

Fuel may be purchased at One Arm Point and Djarindjin Roadhouse. We recommend that travellers check with Broome Visitor Centre for up to date information on community and campground openings prior to travelling. 

Fun in the water

When to Visit

The best time to experience the Dampier Peninsula is during the Dry Season (May-October). Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm and Banana Well Getaway are open year round. 

During the Wet Season (Nov-Apr) the Cape Leveque Road may experience closures due to weather conditions, and facilities on the Peninsula are also limited. Prior to travelling, check road conditions and closures with the Broome Visitor Centre.

Cygnet Bay

Restaurants & Shopping

Cygnet Bay has a restaurant on-site; opening times may vary seasonally. Djarindjin Roadhouse also offers takeaway food, ice, bait and groceries. At Ardyaloon and Beagle Bay you'll find well-stocked stores. 

Locally made crafts and souvenirs may be purchased at Lombadina and the Ardyaloon Hatchery, and Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm where you'll also find elegant jewellery featuring locally grown pearls. 

MORE IDEAS FOR YOUR DAMPIER PENINSULA JOURNEY

Broome
4 unique day trips from Broome CJ Maddock Mar 31

4 unique day trips from Broome

Get to know the Dampier Peninsula by the people who live and breathe it by joining an indigenous tour. Tap into your adventurous and curious side by joining an indigenous tour exploring the Dampier…