inside the berkeley river lodge looking out onto balcony with ocean views

Where to Stay in the Kimberley: Best Areas, Lodges & Accommodation Options

Choosing where to stay in the Kimberley is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning your trip.

The Kimberley is vast, remote, and highly seasonal. Accommodation options are limited, spread far apart, and book out quickly during the dry season. Where you stay will affect how much you see, how much driving you do, and how relaxed your trip feels.

This guide breaks down the best places to stay in the Kimberley, including the main bases, wilderness lodges, station stays, and whether accommodation is included if you take a tour.

πŸ‘‰ New to the region? Start with my Kimberley Travel Guide

This post may contain affiliate links (of companies I book through). This means I may receive a small commission if you book through them. You can read the disclaimer for more information.


🏨 Find the Best Places to Stay in the Kimberley

Accommodation in the Kimberley is limited and highly seasonal. Comparing options early gives you the best chance of securing availability β€” especially in Broome and Kununurra.

πŸ‘‰ Compare Kimberley Accommodation
πŸ‘‰ Check Availability for Your Dates


Quick Answer: Where Is the Best Place to Stay in the Kimberley?

The best places to stay in the Kimberley depend on your travel style:

  • Broome – Best gateway town & easiest base
  • Kununurra – Best for the eastern Kimberley & Lake Argyle
  • Gibb River Road lodges – Best for immersive outback stays
  • Guided tours – Best for first-time visitors (accommodation included)

Most first-time visitors stay in Broome or choose a guided tour with accommodation included.


Best Places to Stay in the Kimberley (By Area)

πŸ–οΈ Broome β€” Best Base for First-Time Visitors

Broome is the most popular place to stay in the Kimberley and the easiest starting point.

Why stay in Broome:

  • Major airport with regular flights
  • Largest range of accommodation
  • Easy access to Kimberley tours
  • Restaurants, shops, and services

Broome is ideal if you:

  • Are visiting the Kimberley for the first time
  • Want comfort before or after a tour
  • Don’t want to self-drive

Accommodation types in Broome:

  • Resorts and hotels
  • Apartments
  • Budget motels

πŸ‘‰ Compare Hotels & Resorts in Broome
πŸ‘‰ Check Broome Accommodation Availability


πŸŒ„ Kununurra β€” Best for the Eastern Kimberley

Kununurra is the main base for exploring the eastern Kimberley.

Why stay in Kununurra:

  • Gateway to Lake Argyle
  • Access to eastern Kimberley tours
  • Quieter and smaller than Broome

Kununurra works well if:

  • You’re flying into or out of the east
  • You’re doing a Broome β†’ Kununurra itinerary

Accommodation types:

  • Hotels and motels
  • Apartments
  • Holiday parks

πŸ‘‰ Find the Best Places to Stay in Kununurra


πŸš™ Gibb River Road β€” Best for an Immersive Kimberley Experience

Staying along the Gibb River Road is for travellers who want to fully immerse themselves in the Kimberley.

What to expect:

  • Remote wilderness lodges
  • Limited facilities
  • Incredible access to gorges and hikes

Best for:

  • Self-driving 4WD travellers
  • Those comfortable with remote conditions

⚠️ Many lodges are seasonal and only open during the dry season.

πŸ‘‰ See Gibb River Road Lodges & Station Stays


🏨 Kimberley Accommodation Comparison

AreaBest ForAccommodation TypeAvailability
BroomeFirst-time visitorsHotels, resortsLimited (peak season)
KununurraEastern KimberleyHotels, motelsLimited
Gibb River RoadAdventure travellersLodges, stationsVery limited
Guided toursStress-free travelIncluded staysHigh

πŸ‘‰ Compare Kimberley Accommodation Options


Should You Book Accommodation or Take a Tour?

For many travellers, a guided tour is the simplest and most stress-free option.

Choose a Tour If:

  • You don’t want to drive
  • You want accommodation included
  • You want access to remote areas

πŸ‘‰ See Kimberley Tours with Accommodation Included

Book Accommodation Yourself If:

  • You’re self-driving a 4WD
  • You want flexibility
  • You’re experienced with remote travel

⚠️ Important Booking Advice

The Kimberley has a short dry season and very limited accommodation. Many hotels and lodges sell out months in advance β€” especially July and August.

πŸ‘‰ Check Kimberley Hotel Availability Now


Kimberley Accommodation Costs (What to Expect)

Due to remoteness, prices are generally higher than in other parts of Australia.

  • Broome & Kununurra hotels: Mid to high range
  • Wilderness lodges: Premium pricing
  • Guided tours: Often better value (accommodation + transport included)

πŸ‘‰ See Kimberley Tours That Include Accommodation


Which Kimberley Accommodation Is Right for You?

  • First time visiting? β†’ Stay in Broome
  • Flying into the east? β†’ Stay in Kununurra
  • Want zero logistics? β†’ Book a tour with accommodation included
  • Driving a 4WD? β†’ Consider Gibb River Road lodges

πŸ‘‰ Find the Best Place to Stay in the Kimberley


Best Time to Book Kimberley Accommodation

  • July–August: Book 6–12 months ahead
  • May & September: Book early
  • Wet season: Many places close

πŸ‘‰ For seasonal details, see: Best Time to Visit the Kimberley


πŸ”’ Ready to Book Your Kimberley Accommodation?

The Kimberley rewards travellers who plan ahead. Checking availability early gives you the best chance of staying in the right place β€” at the right time β€” without stress.

πŸ‘‰ Compare the Best Places to Stay in the Kimberley