Staircase to the Moon

Staircase to the Moon is a natural optical phenomenon at Roebuck Bay in Broome, Western Australia, where the rising full moon reflects across the exposed tidal mudflats at low tide, creating the illusion of a staircase leading to the moon. Best viewed from Town Beach, it occurs for two to three nights each month between March and October and is a major seasonal attraction for visitors to Broome.

Visitors gather at Town Beach Reserve overlooking Roebuck Bay in the evening to watch the moon rise over the extensive intertidal mudflats. At low tide, the moonlight reflects in rippled pools creating a striking staircase-like illusion. The foreshore viewing area includes open lawn, beach, and jetty outlook. On Staircase nights, the Town Beach night markets operate with food stalls, live music and local crafts, and nearby venues such as the Mangrove Hotel offer elevated viewing with dining.