Mangroves of Broome

One of my favourite places in Western Australia is Broome. The sunsets, red cliffs, and long stretches of white sand are some of the most beautiful things I've ever seen. But tucked between the tides and mudflats, I came across something I wasn't expecting to remember: the mangroves.

In this post, I want to share what I learned about Broome's mangroves and why they're one of the most important (and underrated) ecosystems in Western Australia.

Small red crabs during low tide

At first glance, mangroves don't look like much, just gnarled trees growing out of salty mud. But Broome's coastline, especially near Roebuck Bay, is full of them. These tangled forests might seem quiet, but they're alive with movement. Tiny fish, crustaceans, mudskippers, and countless bird species use the mangroves as a safe space to live, breed, and grow. I even spotted a few red crabs in the mud at low tide.

Beyond the wildlife, what really struck out to me was how important mangroves are to the land itself. Their dense root systems hold the soil together, reducing erosion, and it protects Broome's coastline from storms and tidal surges. In a place where the tides rise and fall dramatically, mangroves act as a natural buffer zone, absorbing the impact of waves and keeping the coastline stable.

In addition, the mangroves also work as a filter. The water moves through the mangrove forest, as pollutants and sediments are trapped in the roots, helping to keep

the ocean and nearby reefs clean. And like all trees, mangroves store carbon, which makes them even more important in the fight against climate change.

Mangroves during high tide at Town Beach Jetty

Before my trip to Broome, I didn't think much about mangroves. But walking through them at low tide made me realise just how incredible they are. They're not flashy or famous like Cable Beach or the Staircase to the Moon, but they're just as important. They keep Broome's coast alive, healthy, and strong. Habitats like these might not always grab attention, but they’re vital. It's up to us to protect them so they can keep protecting our marine life and shores.

If you ever find yourself in Broome, make sure to explore Roebuck Bay or the mangrove walkways near Town Beach. Look closely at the roots, the mud, and the life crawling through it all. You might leave with a new appreciation for these muddy, magical trees.