Cheers to Saving: Discovering Broome’s Affordable Watering Holes
Ah, Broome. The pearling capital of Australia, a place where the red earth meets the turquoise Indian Ocean, and where the sunsets are legendary. It’s a town that conjures images of Cable Beach camels, shimmering pearls, and a laid-back tropical vibe. But let’s be honest, while the natural beauty is priceless, enjoying a cold drink after a day of exploring can sometimes feel like it’s not. Fear not, budget-conscious travelers and savvy locals! Broome, despite its reputation as a high-end destination, has its fair share of spots where you can wet your whistle without emptying your wallet. As a local who’s spent more than a few evenings sampling the town’s offerings, I’m here to guide you to the best cheap bars in Broome.
Understanding Broome’s Bar Scene on a Budget
Before we dive into specific recommendations, it’s important to understand Broome’s unique drinking landscape. Being a remote town with a strong tourism focus, prices can sometimes reflect that. However, the key to finding affordable gems lies in knowing where the locals go, understanding happy hour deals, and perhaps venturing slightly off the main tourist drag. It’s also worth noting that ‘cheap’ in Broome might be slightly different to what you’d find in a major city, but we’re aiming for the best value for your dollar.
The Local’s Haunt: Divers Tavern
If you’re looking for a true local experience, where the beer is cold, the food is hearty, and the prices are fair, then the Divers Tavern in Cable Beach is your first port of call. This isn’t a fancy cocktail lounge; it’s a classic pub that serves the community. Located a stone’s throw from Cable Beach, it’s a popular spot for post-beach sundowners, especially with its sprawling beer garden. They often have live music on weekends, adding to the relaxed atmosphere. While they have a full food menu, their focus is on classic pub grub, which is generally well-priced. Their drinks menu is extensive, but you’ll find all the standard beers, wines, and spirits at competitive prices, especially if you stick to the tap offerings. Keep an eye out for their daily specials, which can offer even greater value. It’s the kind of place where you can comfortably spend an afternoon without feeling the pinch.
A Taste of Chinatown: The Roebuck Bay Hotel (The Roey)
The Roebuck Bay Hotel, affectionately known as ‘The Roey’, is an iconic Broome institution. Situated right on the edge of Chinatown, it boasts incredible views over Roebuck Bay, especially at sunset. While it might look a bit weathered, that’s part of its charm. The Roey offers a genuine Broome experience with a rich history. They often have live bands playing, creating a lively and unpretentious atmosphere. For budget drinkers, the real draw here is their commitment to keeping drinks affordable. You can usually find a good range of tap beers and basic spirits at prices that are refreshingly reasonable for the location. They also serve pub-style meals, which are generally good value. It’s the perfect spot to soak in the Broome atmosphere, enjoy the stunning bay views, and have a few drinks without breaking the bank. Check their schedule for live music nights, which often draw a good crowd and have a fantastic vibe.
Sporting Cheers: Broome Sports Club
For those who enjoy a bit of sport with their sips, the Broome Sports Club offers a welcoming and affordable option. While primarily a venue for local sports enthusiasts, it’s open to the public and provides a relaxed environment to enjoy a drink. They have a good selection of tap beers, wines, and spirits, and importantly, they are known for their competitive pricing. It’s a no-frills establishment, focusing on providing a comfortable space to watch the game or just unwind. You’ll find a mix of locals and visitors here, all enjoying the laid-back atmosphere and reasonable prices. Their food offerings are usually simple but satisfying and won’t break the budget either. It’s a great place to experience a more local, less tourist-centric side of Broome’s social scene.
Happy Hour Hunter’s Guide: Timing is Everything
One of the best ways to keep costs down in Broome, as with anywhere, is to take advantage of happy hour. Many of the pubs and bars in town offer these deals, typically in the late afternoon. The Divers Tavern and The Roey are particularly known for their happy hour promotions. Look out for deals on schooners of tap beer, house wine, and basic spirits. Sometimes these deals extend to food as well, offering discounted appetizers or pub meals. My tip? Grab a local paper or check the venue’s social media pages for their advertised happy hour times. Planning your drinking around these windows can significantly reduce your overall spend, allowing you to enjoy more of what Broome has to offer.
Beyond the Pub: Alternative Budget-Friendly Options
Picnics and Self-Catering
For the ultimate budget experience, consider embracing the Broome lifestyle with a picnic. Many of the bottle shops in Broome offer a decent selection of beers, wines, and pre-mixed spirits. You can then head to one of the stunning public spaces like Cable Beach, Roebuck Bay, or the various lookouts around town to enjoy your drinks as the sun goes down. Remember to check local regulations regarding alcohol consumption in public spaces and always drink responsibly, cleaning up after yourself. This is where the spirit of Broome truly shines – enjoying its natural beauty with your own provisions. For those interested in a curated selection of craft beers or unique local brews to take away, exploring options at a well-stocked liquor store is key. While not a bar, this is arguably the cheapest way to enjoy a drink with a view.
Exploring Broome’s Culinary Scene (and finding value)
While this post is about bars, it’s worth noting that many of Broome’s more casual eateries and cafes also offer a selection of alcoholic beverages. Sometimes, you can find a good deal on a bottle of wine to share with a meal at a more affordable restaurant, or a reasonably priced schooner at a cafe that serves alcohol. The key is to look beyond the dedicated bars and explore the broader hospitality scene. Restaurants in areas slightly away from the absolute beachfront or main tourist hubs might offer better value. Websites and apps that aggregate local deals can also be a great resource.
Insider Tips for Saving Money on Drinks in Broome
- Embrace Tap Beer: While craft beers and imported options are great, your wallet will thank you for sticking to local tap beers. They are consistently the most affordable option.
- Look for Local Specials: Don’t be afraid to ask bar staff about daily specials or promotions. Many venues have them but don’t always advertise them widely.
- Drink Water: Staying hydrated is crucial in the tropical climate, and it also means you’ll be drinking less alcohol, saving you money.
- Consider Mid-Week: Sometimes, prices can be slightly lower during the week compared to weekends, especially for live music venues.
- Join a Club: If you’re staying for an extended period, consider if any of the local clubs offer reciprocal memberships or have guest policies that might offer better drink prices.
- Check out Dropt.beer: For those interested in the wider world of beer, including craft options and news, it’s always worth checking out resources like dropt.beer. While not specific to Broome’s cheap bars, it can keep you informed about the industry and perhaps even inspire you to try something new. They also have a shop and insights section worth exploring: dropt.beer/shop/ and dropt.beer/insights-news-blog/.
A Note on Responsible Drinking
Broome is a beautiful, relaxed town, and enjoying its nightlife responsibly is part of the experience. Always be aware of your alcohol consumption, stay hydrated, and plan your transport. Taxis are available, and walking can be an option for many venues if you’re staying centrally, but always prioritize safety.
Conclusion: Affordable Cheers in the Kimberley
While Broome might be known for its stunning scenery and luxurious pearls, it doesn’t have to break the bank when it comes to enjoying a drink. By knowing where to look – the local pubs, happy hour deals, and even the option of a scenic picnic – you can savor the Broome experience without the hefty price tag. So, grab your mates, head out to one of these local favorites, and enjoy a cold one under the vast Kimberley sky. Skål!
