Chinatown Tours and Activities

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Chinatown
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Learn about Broome’s fascinating pearling history and browse the dazzling goods on show at jewellery showrooms in this multicultural quarter.  

Broome’s fascinating Chinatown district makes for an ideal cultural diversion between bouts of lounging on the magnificent Cable Beach. Experience the region’s multicultural character, find out about its time as a thriving pearling center and shop for pearl and mother-of-pearl souvenirs.

Though Broome had long been a magnet for pearl hunters, it was really the discovery of the pinctada maxima, a large species of pearl oyster, in the 1870s that served as a catalyst for its growth. By the turn of the 20th century, this small Australian outpost had become a pearling boomtown, with laborers arriving from all over Asia to work on the pearl luggers. Wander the streets of Broome’s Chinatown today and look for remnants from its early frontier days.

Sign up for a guided tour and follow a local through Chinatown’s shop-packed lanes while listening to tales from the town’s past. Among the most representative streets in the neighborhood is Johnny Chi Lane, a pedestrian-only open-air mall filled with shops selling clothes and jewelry. While ambling down the lane, read the notices on the outside of the shops, which detail the history of the area. On Sunday mornings, Johnny Chi Lane hosts a market.

Seek out some of the district’s oldest buildings, which bear Asian architectural influences. The Short Street Gallery, for instance, occupies a well-preserved original Chinatown building, as does Matso’s Broome Brewery.

For even more information about Broome’s pearling past, stroll down to Streeters Jetty on Dampier Terrace. This was the original jetty used by Broome’s pearlers back in the 1880s. Not far from here is the Pearl Luggers Museum. Take a 1-hour guided tour of this museum to hear captivating accounts of pearl dives. Examine memorabilia relating to the pearl industry, view archival footage of deep sea divers at work and inspect two well-restored pearl luggers, which are displayed in a replica jetty.

Broome’s Chinatown district encompasses the area between Carnarvon and Short streets. As several lanes here are pedestrianized, it is best explored on foot.

Plan a trip to see Chinatown

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Top Chinatown Hotel & Accommodation Deals

The Continental Hotel Broome

The Continental Hotel Broome

4 out of 5
Weld Street, Broome, WA
The Continental Hotel Broome
Oaks Broome Hotel

Oaks Broome Hotel

4.5 out of 5
99 Robinson Street, Broome, WA
Oaks Broome Hotel
Roebuck Bay Hotel

Roebuck Bay Hotel

3 out of 5
Carnarvon Street, Broome, WA
Roebuck Bay Hotel
Mangrove Hotel

Mangrove Hotel

4 out of 5
47 Carnarvon Street, Broome, WA
Mangrove Hotel
Moonlight Bay Suites

Moonlight Bay Suites

3.5 out of 5
51 Canarvon Street, Broome, WA
Moonlight Bay Suites
Broome Time Resort

Broome Time Resort

3.5 out of 5
1 Cable Beach Road East, Cable Beach, WA
Broome Time Resort
Oaks Cable Beach Resort

Oaks Cable Beach Resort

4.5 out of 5
11 Oryx Road, Cable Beach, WA
Oaks Cable Beach Resort
Discovery Parks - Broome

Discovery Parks - Broome

3 out of 5
91 Walcott St, Broome, WA
Discovery Parks - Broome
Kimberley Travellers Lodge - Hostel

Kimberley Travellers Lodge - Hostel

2 out of 5
9 Bagot Street, Djugun, WA
Kimberley Travellers Lodge - Hostel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Chinatown

Chinatown in Broome offers a variety of exciting activities, including safari adventures, diving, and kayaking. Visitors can enjoy a scenic stroll through the vibrant streets and explore the unique beach glass along the coastline. This lively area is perfect for immersing yourself in local culture while enjoying the stunning natural beauty of the region.

Shopping

In Chinatown, visit the Courthouse Markets, only 161m away, offering a vibrant atmosphere with local crafts and fresh produce. If you're up for a drive, consider heading to Willie Creek Pearl Farm, situated 22.5km away, where you can find exquisite pearl jewellery and unique souvenirs.

Recreation

At Broome Golf Club, enjoy a round of golf surrounded by stunning landscapes just 4.8km from Chinatown, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. For ultimate relaxation, visit the Buddha Sanctuary, where you can indulge in rejuvenating body treatments that promote wellness and serenity, also located 4.8km away.

Adventure

Explore the historical sites of Chinatown, Broome, where you can immerse yourself in vibrant culture and enjoy unique shops. Visit the Broome Historical Museum for insights into the region's past, or take a guided walking tour to discover local stories and heritage.

Nightlife

In Chinatown, Broome, Sun Pictures offers a unique cinema experience just 322m away, blending family-friendly films with a romantic vibe. The atmosphere is vibrant, perfect for a relaxed evening out, allowing you to enjoy entertainment under the stars in a charming setting.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Chinatown

Chinatown in Broome offers a vibrant mix of museums, urban parks, and historic sites, perfect for those seeking cultural experiences and family-friendly activities. Explore the lively Chinatown area, where outdoor adventures and rich history await. It's an ideal destination for travellers looking to immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying the beauty of Western Australia.

  • Pearl Luggers Museum: Immerse yourself in the rich maritime history of Broome at the Pearl Luggers Museum. Located a mere 322m from Chinatown, this museum showcases the fascinating world of pearling and the iconic luggers that once sailed these waters, offering a cultural experience that highlights the region's unique heritage.
  • Bedford Memorial Park: Spread across 805m from Chinatown, Bedford Memorial Park is a tranquil urban space perfect for families. Enjoy lush greenery, picnic spots, and recreational facilities that make it an ideal outdoor escape for both relaxation and play.
  • SSJG Heritage Centre Broome: Just 483m from Chinatown, the SSJG Heritage Centre is a historic site that delves into the cultural narratives of the local community. Explore exhibits that reflect the deep spiritual and social connections of the area.

Best time to go to Chinatown

The best time to visit Chinatown is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. December and March are its hottest month on average. At the time of March, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is sunny with no rain (dry).

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January85.5°F (29.7°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
February85.5°F (29.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
March86.4°F (30.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
April85.5°F (29.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
May79.7°F (26.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June75.2°F (24.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
July73.9°F (23.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August75.6°F (24.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
September79.3°F (26.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighAverage
October82.9°F (28.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
November85.5°F (29.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December86.4°F (30.2°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Chinatown

For a budget-friendly trip to Chinatown, Broome, consider visiting between February to March or in November for lower accommodation prices. Book your hotel about a month in advance, or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Fridays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Tuesdays are the priciest. Use Expedia’s search tool to compare prices, refine your options, and find eco-friendly accommodations. Additionally, look for package deals that combine your hotel, flights, and activities to save even more. Don’t forget to explore free local attractions and enjoy bargain shopping in the area!

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Chinatown are February to March and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Chinatown is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Chinatown is Friday. The most expensive day to stay around Chinatown is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type—for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Chinatown hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.