Kiama

Village charm & history

A relaxed coastal town, the rhythmic hum of the breaking waves and chirp of sea birds will be the soundtrack to your visit to Kiama. Named after the Wodi Wodi Indigenous word 'Kiaram-a' that many believe means 'where the sea makes a noise' — a reference to the famous Kiama Blowhole — this seaside community pairs nature with heritage. Head to the Historic Terrace Houses for shopping with a twist. Built in 1886, these National Trust homes retain their charm whilst housing cute stores and cafes. Shop crafts, collectables and clothing to find a special souvenir to remember your trip to Kiama. 

Learn more about Kiama’s history from cedar gathering to quarrying at the Pilot’s Cottage Museum located near the lighthouse. Visit the Old Fire Station, which has been transformed into a community art gallery with weekly exhibitions from painters, photographers, quilters, woodworkers and more. See more local art on display at Sevenmarks Gallery.

Town centre, Kiama - Credit: Dee Kramer Photography

Coastal sights, lookouts & walks

Sitting just beneath the lighthouse, the Kiama Blowhole is a natural cavity in the fortress-like cliffs that blasts seawater 20 metres or more into the air. Thought to be the largest blowhole in the world, its plumes 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 the Cathedral Rocks.

Kiama Coast Walk, Kiama

Just a 10-minute drive from Kiama’s Blowhole you'll find Saddleback Mountain Lookout. Soak in the panoramic views from Cronulla in the north to Milton in the south, before you venture to Kiama Harbour for a stroll around the foreshore. 

Kiama Harbour, Kiama

Beaches, swimming & surfing

With plenty of beaches to choose from, there is one to suit everyone in Kiama. A short walk from the main streets of town you'll find Surf Beach — its park and children’s playground is popular with families, whilst surfers enjoy tackling its northern break nicknamed 'The Wedge'. To the south, Kendalls Beach has shallow water and gentle waves that are ideal for families. Bombo Beach stretches for more than a kilometre and is popular with surfers and dog walkers. Easts Beach, which is situated in the southern part of Kiama’s beach coast protected from wind and swell, is perfect for swimming. Join Lands Edge Surf School for a guided surfing adventure at Seven Mile Beach. 

Kendalls Beach, Kiama

Splash about in Kiama's two beautiful ocean pools. Blowhole Point Ocean Pool is spectacularly 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 is 50-metres in length.

Blowhole Point Rock Pool, Kiama

Fishing & golf

Join a tour to find the best local fishing spots, catch mulloways 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. If you’re looking to fine tune your game, an on-site golf pro can provide a lesson before teeing off. After a round, golfers and guests gather in the clubhouse’s Mystics Bistro for modern-Australian meals overlooking the greens.

Gerringong Golf Club, Gerringong

Meals to remember

For a view that is just as delicious as your meal try Penny Whistlers. This legendary establishment overlooks Black Beach and is particularly popular at sunset. The views continue at Diggies, set close to the lighthouse on Blowhole Point. Here coastal views and a sea breeze mix with colourful smoothies and all-day brunch. For a modern Australian menu that heroes locally-sourced seafood head to Silica Restaurant and Bar at Surf Beach.

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 Yottam Ottolenghi's London restaurants. Feel like something sweet? Parfait Patisserie, samples delicious, high quality French inspired cakes, pastries, and bread created by their skilled pastry chefs and bakers.  

Diggies Kiama, Kiama

Markets & events

Every Wednesday, the leafy park at Kiama’s Surf Beach is transformed into a Farmers Market. Pick up farm-fresh produce from local suppliers (think cider, bread, cheese and gelato), before you sit down to a picnic on the grass while enjoying live entertainment. Meanwhile, on the third Sunday of each month, Black Beach Reserve becomes an open-air market with 150 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 events calendar for festivals, exhibitions and shows including the Kiama Jazz and Blues Festival which is held in March.

Kiama Farmer's Market, Kiama

Where to stay

There are many places to stay, including hotels, apartments, houses and beachfront holiday parks. Stay in a 170-year-old Cape Cod-style house complete with a cosy fireplace and expansive front verandah at Driftwood Beach House. For modern hotels within walking distance of Kiama's beaches and cafes book into The Sebel Kiama or Nova Kiama. 

The Sebel Kiama, Kiama - Credit: Damien Ford Photography

Getting there

Getting to Kiama is easy. The drive from Sydney takes about 1hr 45 mins along the spectacular Grand Pacific Drive. You can also take a scenic train trip along the coast and the journey takes just over two hours. Vessels calling at Kiama sit at anchorage 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, 19 km north from Kiama.