Kiama

Village charm and history

The rhythm of breaking waves and cries of sea birds will be the soundtrack to your visit to relaxed coastal town Kiama. Thought to be named after the Wodi Wodi word for ‘good fishing ground’, Kiama’s natural surrounds make a stunning backdrop for a seaside community that celebrates its rich heritage. A lovely example is the Historic Terrace Houses where you can shop crafts, collectables and clothing. Built in 1886, these National Trust homes have been transformed into cute stores and cafes while retaining their original architecture and charm.  

Learn more about Kiama’s history, from cedar gathering to quarrying, at the Pilot’s Cottage Museum, located near the Kiama Lighthouse. Visit the Old Fire Station, transformed into a community art gallery, for exhibitions showcasing local artists; see more local art on display at Sevenmarks Gallery or visit the HARS Aviation Museum (Historical Aircraft Restoration Society) in nearby Albion Park to see historic aircraft. Also in Albion Park, Gumaraa's Cultural Experience offers guided Aboriginal experiences where guests can encounter traditional customs and gain a deeper appreciation of ancient storylines. 

Kiama Blowhole Point, Kiama

Coastal sights and walks

Beneath the lighthouse, the Kiama Blowhole is a natural cavern in the fortress-like cliffs, blasting seawater 20 metres or more into the air. Thought to be the largest blowhole in the world, its geysers can reach heights of 30 metres when the swell is big. The Little Blowhole, just south of town, is spectacular even when the sea conditions are relatively calm. Both spots are part of the stunning Kiama Coast Walk, a 20km trail between Minnamurra and Werri Beach. Soak in the views of the sea and rolling green hills as you hike the mix of sealed paths, grass tracks and beaches down to Gerringong. During your walk, keep an eye out for the stunning sculptural forms of Cathedral Rocks and Bombo Headland. For a shorter walk, stroll around Kiama Harbour.  

Kiama Coast Walk, Kiama

Lookouts and aerial views

Just a 10-minute drive south-west of Kiama you'll find Saddleback Mountain Lookout where you can soak up panoramic views from Cronulla in the north to Milton in the south. Or, a half an hour inland is Jamberoo lookout where you’ll find more spectacular views overlooking Kiama from the coastal escarpment. At Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures, gain a bird’s-eye view of the rainforest as you race along Australia’s highest zipline or enjoy the sights from above on an elevated walkway through the tree canopy. 

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures, Knights Hill

Beaches, swimming and surfing

Kiama offers plenty of beautiful spots to set up your umbrella, with many beaches to choose from. A short walk from the main streets of town you'll find Surf Beach, Kiama – its park and children’s playground are popular with families, while surfers enjoy tackling its northern break nicknamed 'The Wedge'. To the south, Kendalls Beach has shallow water and gentle waves ideal for families. Bombo Beach stretches for more than a kilometre and is popular with surfers and dog walkers. Protected from the wind and swell, Easts Beach is a great spot for swimming. Or join Surf Camp Australia and Gerringong Surf School for a guided surfing adventure at Seven Mile Beach in nearby Gerroa.  

Kendalls Beach, Kiama

You can also splash about in Kiama's two beautiful ocean pools. Blowhole Point Ocean Pool is situated on the edge of the ocean with sweeping views and a natural rock floor. To swim laps, head to the Continental Ocean Pool on the north end of Black Beach Reserve. Also known as the Olympic Pool, it’s 50 metres long. 

Blowhole Point Ocean Pool, Kiama

Fishing and golf

To find the best local fishing spots, catch mulloway at night, or learn how to catch your own bait book in a fishing expedition with Fishing With a Local. For deep sea fishing opt for Kiama Charter Service.  

Looking to tee off? On the banks of the Minnamurra River, Kiama Golf Club is an 18-hole, 66-par course offering panoramic views of the escarpment and ocean from many of its challenging, tree-lined fairways. After a round, golfers and guests gather in the clubhouse’s Mystics Bistro for modern Australian meals overlooking the greens. 

Kiama Golf Club, Kiama

Wining and dining

For a view just as delicious as your meal try Penny Whistlers overlooking Black Beach – it’s particularly popular at sunset. The views continue at Diggies, set close to the lighthouse on Blowhole Point. Here, coastal vistas and a sea breeze mix with colourful smoothies and all-day brunch. For a modern Australian menu heroing locally sourced seafood head to Silica Restaurant and Bar at Surf Beach. 

Diggies Kiama, Kiama

For fresh, flavoursome salads; gourmet takeaway options; and expertly brewed coffee head to Otis. For Middle Eastern-inspired dishes and cocktails to remember, opt for meze bar Miss Arda. Both were established by Emily Herbert, former head chef at one of Yotam Ottolenghi's London restaurants. At Little Betty’s, find premium cocktails and an Italian- and Asian-inspired menu and, at Crooked River Estate, find up-market dishes with a focus on native ingredients. Feel like something sweet? Parfait Patisserie offers delicious, French-inspired cakes, pastries and bread. 

Feel like cooking for yourself? Buena Vista Farm has a range of workshops and classes spanning breadmaking, fermenting, cheesemaking and more.  

Buena Vista Farm, Gerringong

Markets and events

Every Wednesday, the leafy park at Kiama’s Surf Beach is transformed into the Kiama Farmers' Market. Pick up farm-fresh produce from local suppliers, before sitting down to a picnic on the grass with live entertainment. Meanwhile, on the third Sunday of each month, Black Beach Reserve becomes an open-air market with more than 100 stalls as makers and growers sell their wares at Kiama Seaside Market. Shop crafts, boutique fashion, art, jewellery, homewares and gourmet treats. Check out Kiama's busy events calendar for festivals, exhibitions and shows including the Kiama Jazz and Blues Festival, Crafted Kiama, Folk by the Sea, Changing Tides Festival and more. 

Kiama Farmer's Market, Kiama

Where to stay

There are many places to stay in Kiama including hotels, apartments, houses and beachfront holiday parks. Book a 170-year-old Cape Cod-style house complete with a cosy fireplace and expansive front verandah at Driftwood Beach House Kiama. For modern hotels within walking distance of Kiama's beaches and cafes, book into The Sebel Kiama or Nova Kiama. A short drive out of town, Greyleigh Kiama is a sprawling estate ideal for groups complete with a library, fireplace, bathtubs, a pool and outdoor entertaining areas. For something a little more intimate, Keeper of the Light Retreat has luxury-meets-the-sea vibes with its dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows and ocean views.  

The Sebel Kiama, Kiama - Credit: Damien Ford Photography

Getting there

Getting to Kiama is simple. The drive from Sydney takes about one hour and 45 minutes along the Grand Pacific Drive. You can also take a scenic train trip along the coast and the journey takes just over two hours. Vessels calling in at Kiama anchor in the harbour and guests are brought ashore by tender boats. The tenders dock at the marina, close in the centre of town, and a short walk to restaurants, shops, beaches and other attractions. There are also flights available from Brisbane and Melbourne to Shellharbour Airport, a 15-minute drive north from Kiama.