Horizontal Waterfalls: A Spectacle of Tidal Forces of Talbot Bay

The horizontal waterfalls are located in Western Australia’s Kimberley region, a unique and stunning natural phenomenon.

The spectacular gorges and surrounding landscapes are created with ancient rock formations, adding to the dramatic beauty and geological interest of the region.

Talbot Bay is part of the Buccaneer Archipelago, which is recognized for its rough coastline, numerous islands, and diverse marine life, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Unlike regular vertical waterfalls, the horizontal waterfalls provide a rare and unique opportunity to observe the strength of tidal movements in a dramatic and picturesque setting.

This natural marvel consists of two holes (gorges), in the McLarty Range through which enormous amounts of water are forced by tidal waves. It is creating temporary waterfalls up to 5 meters high. And when the tide changes, so does the direction of the flow. The twin gaps are located on two ridges running parallel, approximately 300 meters apart.

The first and most seaward gap is about 20 meters wide, and the second is the most fantastic; the gap is about 10 meters wide. When the rising or falling tide occurs, the water builds up in front of the gaps faster than it can flow through them. This, in turn, creates an astonishing waterfall effect as the water rushes through and then down to the lower levels on the other side of the ridgelines.

The course of action is reversed and it is repeated again in the opposite direction. The tides in this vicinity have a 10-meter variation that occurs over 6 1/2 hours from low tide to high tide and vice versa. On a slack tide, it is likely to drive boats through the two gaps to the bay behind. The area surrounding Talbot Bay is rich in marine biodiversity, providing opportunities to witness a variety of fish, sharks, and other aquatic critters.

The gorgeous waterfall has been described by David Attenborough as “one of the greatest natural wonders of the world.”

Because of their isolated location, the Horizontal Waterfalls are usually accessible only by boat or seaplane from adjacent towns such as Derby or Broome. In summary, the Horizontal Waterfalls at Talbot Bay are an incredible natural wonder that showcases the immense force and beauty of nature while providing tourists with a unique and unforgettable experience.

Also Read: Elakala Falls, A Popular Waterfall in West Virginia