Broome's mythic 'Staircase to the Moon' — a full-moon optical illusion over Roebuck Bay's mudflats — frames a day that also takes you deep into the world's most storied pearling industry at Willie Creek Pearl Farm, arriving by private seaplane over the Kimberley coast.
What to expect
A twin-engine seaplane lifts off from Broome's waterfront and banks low over Cable Beach's 22 km of ivory sand before tracing the mangrove-fringed coast to Willie Creek lagoon. The farm manager leads you through the full arc of pearl culture: the oyster nursery, the seeding theatre, and finally the harvest room where lustrous 12–15 mm South Sea pearls are graded. A champagne tasting of selected pearls — and the chance to purchase directly from the growers — concludes the tour. Evenings offer the Staircase to the Moon (March–October full-moon dates only).
Good to know
Check tide tables — the Staircase phenomenon occurs only around the full moon, March to October. Broome is a tender port; allow 45 minutes each way. Book the seaplane directly with Broome Aviation (www.broomeaviation.com) and the farm tour with Willie Creek. Weight limits apply for seaplane; confirm at booking.