Horizontal Falls

If you’re looking for a must-see sight in Broome, you can’t do much better than the Horizontal Falls. Get a view of the rushing tides and gaze in awe at the serene power of nature. It’s a peaceful yet mesmerising encounter with one of Australia’s most stunning coastal features.

What are the Horizontal Falls

The Horizontal Falls are a natural phenomenon in the Kimberley region of WA made of tidal currents that move between two narrow gorges. They get their name because the water flows very quickly, almost as if they were waterfalls that were turned on their side. This ocean phenomenon is the result of one of the world’s highest tidal shifts compressing through two narrow breaks in the Kimberley coastline. Millions of litres of ocean suck through a narrow sea gorge, the water brawling and churning as it goes. They’re an incredibly popular tourist attraction in the area.

Where are the Horizontal Falls?

The Horizontal Falls are located in Talbot Bay, a remote scenic inlet in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. Talbot Bay is part of the Buccaneer Archipelago, which occupies a southern area of the Kimberley. It’s only a few hours drive from Broome, making it fairly easy to reach for a day trip. This zone of the Kimberley is a protected area called the Lalang-garram/Horizontal Falls Marine Park.

How can you get there?

While you can drive to the general area of Horizontal Falls and Talbot Bay, you’re not actually able to access them with a vehicle. If you want to view them, you need to do so by either sea or sky. There are various scenic flights available from Broome with either planes or helicopters. Alternatively, you can go by boat or sea plane to go through the falls directly.

What’s the best time to visit the Horizontal Falls?

If you’re planning to visit the Horizontal Falls, the best option is between May and October in the dry season. This time of year has milder weather and minimal rainfall, allowing you to enjoy the falls comfortably. You can also expect a lot less cloud cover, letting you get a clear view of the Falls and a lot of the surrounding scenery.

Horizontal Falls tours

If you want to get a proper look at the Horizontal Falls, you will need to book a tour. There are various options available, depending on how you want to experience this exciting natural phenomenon.

Boat tours and cruises

Boat tours and cruises are the best way to get up close and personal with the Horizontal Falls. You can drive directly through them and get a unique view of the falls and their surroundings.

Helicopter tours

Helicopter tours give you the opportunity to get a scenic aerial view of the Horizontal falls and the rest of Talbot Bay. The helicopters fly low to the water, giving you access to every nook and cranny around the Falls.

Seaplane tours

If you want the best of both worlds, a Seaplane offers you an aerial view as well as the ability to experience the Horizontal Falls from the water.

What’s the best accommodation near the Horizontal Falls?

There are various places to stay in the general area of the Horizontal Falls, but you don’t need to stay overnight to enjoy this attraction. Broome is only a few hours away by car, so you can easily make a day trip to the Falls while staying there. The Continental Hotel offers a range of first class amenities, making it a fantastic option while you’re enjoying Broome. Check out some of our accommodation packages and book your stay with us.