Staircase to the Moon, Broome, WA - 2023 dates

The Staircase to the Moon is a natural phenomenon that can be seen in Broome, Western Australia. In 2023, the Staircase to the Moon happens between March and late October when a full moon rises over the exposed tidal flats of Roebuck Bay.

What exactly is the staircase to the moon? Well, imagine that the low tide has retreated, and there are puddles of water on the tidal flats. A full moon rises across the bay, and as it does, the pools reflect its light and a staircase effect is created. It’s so clear it seems like you could walk up it.

Similar effects can be seen on other water bodies around the northwest, but the Kimberley’s huge tides and dark nights A shimmering staircase reflected from a rising full moon make this natural phenomenon especially spectacular.

The best viewing spots are the Mangrove Hotel and Town Beach (Guwarri), where popular Staircase night markets are held when the full moon rises from April to October. So bring your picnic rug, grab some tucker from the food vans and enjoy one of nature’s true wonders.

Where Else Can I see the Staircase To The Moon?

Similar Staircases also happen in other Western Australian towns of Onslow, Cossack, Hearson’s Cove in Karratha, Port Headland, Point Samson and Cape Kerudren Nature reserve, all part of the Pilbara, which you can read about in the guide, 100 Things To See On Australia’s Coral Coast. If you are exploring the Kimberley or Pilbara regions, there’s few things better than setting up a picnic to watch the show unfold.

Staircase Markets - In 2023, one night of each Staircase to the Moon there is a great night market held at Town Beach. Here you can buy food and hand made products. Another great spot to watch the Stairway to the Moon is The Mangrove Hotel Resort, which has stunning views over Roebuck Bay and also offers live entertainment every Staircase night.

MARCH 2023
Wednesday 8th @ 6.50pm
Thursday 9th @ 7.23pm
Friday 10th @ 7.57pm

APRIL 2023
Friday 7th @ 6.34pm
Saturday 8th @ 7.13pm
Sunday 9th @ 7.58pm

MAY 2023
Saturday 6th @ 5.53pm
Sunday 7th @ 6.42pm
Monday 8th @ 7.37pm

JUNE 2023
Monday 5th @ 6.26pm
Tuesday 6th @ 7.31pm
Wednesday 7th @ 8.38pm

JULY 2022
Tuesday 4th @ 6.20pm
Wednesday 5th @ 7.29pm
Thursday 6th @ 8.35pm

AUGUST 2023
Wednesday 2nd @ 6.15pm
Thursday 3rd @ 7.21pm
Friday 4th @ 8.23pm

Thursday 31st @ 6.03pm

SEPTEMBER 2023
Friday 1st @ 7.05pm
Saturday 2nd at 8.05pm

Saturday 30th @ 6.45pm

OCTOBER 2023
Sunday 1st @ 7.45pm
Monday 2nd @ 8.45pm

Sunday 29th @ 6.26pm
Monday 30th @ 7.28pm
Tuesday 31st @ 8.29pm

Thanks to Greg Quicke, from Astro Tours for providing these dates to Broome Visitor Centre.
Visibility may vary depending on the local weather, tides, sunset and moonrise.

Are you planning a trip to the Kimberley?
100 Things To See In The Kimberley is the best-selling guide to the region, written by a bloke who’s lived and breathed the region since his school days. If you want to find the best waterholes, the most epic campsites, or even where to get the best coffee, Scotty Connell’s completely updated guide to his backyard has everything you need to know. Order your copy today, and explore the Kimberley like a local.