What is the Staircase to the Moon in Broome?
It’s a natural optical illusion where the full moon reflects off the exposed mudflats of Roebuck Bay | Yawuru Nagulagun at low tide, creating the appearance of a shimmering staircase ascending to the sky.
When can you see the Staircase to the Moon in Broome?
It occurs 2–3 nights each month, usually between March and October, typically during full moons when low tides coincide with moonrise.
What dates does Staircase to the Moon occur?
View the dates and times for Staircase to the Moon, Broome online or pop us an email to [email protected] and we can send you a handy yearly pdf.
Is it free to see?
Yes! Viewing is completely free to view from public spaces such as Town Beach in Broome and selected east-facing venues in town. You can bring a chair or picnic to Guwarri | Town Beach if you wish. View a the google map location for Town Beach.
Can you see Staircase to the Moon from Cable Beach?
No, the Staircase to the Moon isn’t visible from Cable Beach. It occurs on the opposite side of Broome at Town Beach, east facing over the bay, with the moon rising over the mudflats of Roebuck Bay. You can also view further north at Cygnet Bay from an east facing location.
What should I wear and bring?
Dress warmly, even tropical nights can feel chilly once the sun sets. To make your evening enjoyable, bring along a camp chair or picnic rug, water bottle, insect repellent, light jacket or jumper, camera and any photography gear and a torch. BYO snacks or takeaway on the nights when the market is not on. Bring extra cash to purchase from local food vans on market dates. Market nights are usually busier, so come along early to grab a spot!
How should I get to Staircase to the Moon and how early?
Learn about local bus services here. You can book a taxi or hire a car locally. Arrive early (at least an hour before moonrise) to secure a good viewing spot at Guwarri | Town Beach. If viewing from Roebuck Bay facing venues, you may need to secure a reservation.
Are there any events or markets during Staircase to the Moon?
Yes. The Staircase to the Moon Night Markets run at Guwarri Town Beach precinct on Hamersley Street, from 4pm to 8pm on selected dates during Staircase to the Moon and feature local food, handmade goods, music and entertainment. View Staircase Night Market dates here. View a Google map of the location.
Can I photograph the Staircase to the Moon easily?
Yes, but use a tripod, manual settings and a telephoto lens for best results. It can be quite tricky capturing this phenomenon on camera. A good camera can capture the moon’s details and the reflection on the mudflats. Many visitors capture fantastic images from their phone camera too! We love to share our visitor's Staircase to the Moon photos and reels. The “perfect” staircase depends on tide timing + moonrise alignment. Even the best location won’t deliver if the tide isn’t low enough, so always check the dates/times before choosing your spot.
What are the social media tags for Visit Broome?
Please tag @visitbroome or #visitbroome in your social media posts and reels, for your chance to appear on our Visit Broome Facebook or Instagram channels. We love sharing your captures!
What is Fusion Moonrise?
The Fusion Moonrise occurs twice per year and is natural-artistic spectacle when the full moon aligns perfectly above the Fusion – "Interwoven Cultures" sculpture at the roundabout of Napier Terrace and Carnarvon Street in Chinatown, Broome. The Shire of Broome usually close off the road ahead of time, to allow visitors to see the alignment of the moon above the sculpture. Bring a picnic, your camera, or simply enjoy the atmosphere.
When is the next Fusion Moonrise event?
Dates are promoted on the Shire of Broome website or the visitbroome.com.au calendar of events. The event is a free, family-friendly celebration in Broome’s vibrant Chinatown precinct under the stars. No bookings are required. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot and to walk, cycle or use public transport where possible due to temporary road closures.
Is it affected by weather or cloud cover?
Yes. Clouds or rain can obscure the moon or ruin reflections, so clear nights are essential for visibility. Ideal viewing conditions require a clear or mostly clear sky. Dust, smoke, or humidity in the air can distort or dim the reflection. Check the current weather forecast here.
Why are the Roebuck Bay tides important?
Roebuck Bay experiences a macro‑tidal regime, being a coastal area where the tidal range (the difference in height between high and low tide) is relatively large, with an average tidal range of 5.7 m, ranging from around 1 m during neap tides up to 10.5 m at the highest spring tides. The extreme tidal range underpins the famous Staircase to the Moon when a low spring tide aligns with moonrise. Learn more abut Broome’s tides.
What else is happening in Broome around this time?
For more things to do in Broome around Staircase to the Moon dates between March and October, view our online event calendar.
Are other experiences and local tours available in Broome around this time?
Yes, you can search by your preferred date for tours and experiences bookable online here. Or reach out to us for some suggestions.
Where should I stay?
Most accommodation in Broome is a reasonable driving or walking distance from Town Beach. For advice and personalised suggestions, get in touch with the Broome Visitor Centre by phone 08 9195 2200 or email [email protected]. Our website is also one of the largest Broome travel guides online.
You can also book your Broome accommodation and stays online.
Call the Broome Visitor Centre for personalised booking assistance for tours, accommodation, car hire and more!
Phone 08 9195 2200 or email [email protected] or book online below. Our website chat feature is a quick way to ask any questions too!
