Horizontal Falls, Tidal phenomenon in Kimberley region, Australia

Horizontal Falls is a tidal phenomenon in Talbot Bay where narrow rock passages create water level differences during tidal movements. These differences produce strong sideways water flows that move through the natural rock chambers.

British explorer Philip Parker King first recorded this tidal formation in 1820 while mapping the northwestern Australian coastline. His work was part of larger surveying efforts conducted for the British Admiralty.

The Dambimangari people call the falls Garaanngaddim, and their Worrorra word Lalang-garram names the surrounding marine park, meaning saltwater as a spiritual place and a place of natural abundance. The park is jointly managed by the Western Australian government and the Dambimangari traditional owners. From 2026 boat trips through the gaps cease, as the Dambimangari Aboriginal Corporation regards them as sacred.

Visitors reach the location by seaplane or boat tours departing from Broome or Derby, with trips available between May and October during the dry season. The strongest currents occur during specific tidal periods, which tour operators time carefully for the best experience.

The falls are known as Garaanngaddim to the Dambimangari people, whose native title covers the surrounding waters. The two gaps lie about 300 metres apart, the seaward one about 20 metres wide and the landward one about 10 metres. From 2026 boat trips through the gaps cease, but visitors can still travel to the entrance to watch the tidal flow.