The fossil wonders of Quondong Beach

Quondong Beach, just north of Broome on Western Australia’s Dampier Peninsula, is home to something truly ancient—dinosaur footprints pressed into the Broome Sandstone over 130 million years ago.

When the tide drops away, a window into the Cretaceous period opens up, and what’s revealed is jaw-dropping: perfectly preserved sauropod and theropod tracks meandering across the reef platform.

Practical Information

  • Location: Quondong Beach, Dampier Peninsula, WA (approx. 30 km north of Broome)
  • Access: 4WD required. Roads may be sandy or corrugated.
  • Best time to visit: During low tide (check tide charts before visiting). Dry season (May–October) is ideal.
  • Safety: Reef platforms can be slippery. Wear proper footwear and avoid visiting alone.

This stretch of coastline isn’t just another remote beach. Quondong Beach is part of what’s known as the “Dinosaur Coast”, and its fossil footprints are some of the best examples in the world. Unlike many sites that have just a handful of prints, this one has multiple trackways from different species, laid down when dinosaurs once roamed what was then a vast river plain.

The fossilised dinosaur footprints are embedded in the Broome Sandstone—a sedimentary rock formation that extends along the coastline. During low tide, visitors can spot sauropod tracks, with their broad, round impressions, and the three-toed prints of theropods, the meat-eaters of the time. Seeing these footprints in situ, surrounded by coastal rock pools and mangroves, is a surreal experience.

Timing your visit is crucial. These tracks are only visible during low tide, and even then, not all of them are accessible. Some require a bit of clambering over slippery reef platforms. A guided tour, such as one offered by the Dinosaur Coast Management Group or local Indigenous guides, is well worth it for safety and context.

Equally important is recognising the cultural significance of this area. These fossil sites are not just scientific treasures—they hold deep meaning for the Traditional Owners. Stories of the ancient beings who walked this land have been passed down through generations. The intertwining of palaeontology with Indigenous heritage gives Quondong Beach a rare dual importance.

My verdict

This isn’t some roped-off museum exhibit or a glassed-in display—these are raw, untouched dinosaur footprints on a remote Western Australian beach. They’re hard to reach and only briefly revealed, but that’s what makes them special. If you’re up for the adventure and time it right, Quondong Beach offers one of the most unique prehistoric experiences in the country. Just watch where you step—someone else got there 130 million years before you did.