13 of the most unique stays in the Kiama region

Driftwood Beach House

A check-in to Driftwood Beach House in the heart of Kiama is what idyllic seaside holidays are made of. The structure is a 170-year-old Cape Cod-style house transformed into a boutique cottage accommodation. The decor is beachside luxe, right down to the courtyard with oversized sofas and barbecue facilities, high ceilings, white-washed timber floors, a cosy fireplace and expansive front verandah – which makes the perfect perch for enjoying the sea breeze with a glass of wine in hand. What’s more, you’re only a few minutes’ walk from the Kiama Blowhole, Kiama Lighthouse, The Pavilion and Surf Beach.

Driftwood Beach House, Kiama - Credit: Oscar Colman

The Sebel Kiama

Overlooking the beautiful Kiama Harbour and the shimmering Pacific Ocean beyond, The Sebel Kiama is all about location, location, location. The hotel is full of old-world charm and offers a selection of luxury apartments and hotel rooms thoughtfully designed to complement the iconic oceanside locale. Don’t miss dinner at the renowned onsite bar and bistro Yves.

The Sebel Kiama, Kiama - Credit: Damien Ford Photography

Saddleback Grove

Saddleback Grove offers the best of both worlds: a slice of rural life, minutes from the coast. Perched on a pretty hilltop with grazing cows for neighbours, the country-chic house boasts incredible views across the surrounding rolling fields, all the way to the ocean. Accessed via a dry-stone wall and hedgerow-lined lanes, standout features include an outdoor spa, games room with pool and ping pong tables, a warming log fire and fruit trees around the property, which guests can pick from when in season.

Saddleback Grove, Saddleback Mountain - Credit: David Venish

Jamberoo Valley Farm

Nearby is Jamberoo Valley Farm, a working permaculture farm with luxe cottages sporting views from valley to ocean – particularly breathtaking when enjoyed from the alfresco Swedish-style hot tub. Meet friendly cows, sheep and pigs; collect eggs; stroll to the dam to spot kangaroos and wombats; then learn about life on the land through its fruit and vegetable gardens.

Jamberoo Valley Farm Stay and Cottages, Jamberoo - Credit: John Benavente

Greyleigh

Covering 200 acres of rolling green hills, orchards and farmland, Greyleigh offers luxury farmhouse-style accommodation. The property dates back to the mid 1800s, so you’ll be sleeping in a piece of living history. There’s a gorgeous pool and cabana with views stretching out to the coast, plenty of cute farm animals to meet, plus luxe experiences like private chef dinners and yoga classes available.

Greyleigh, Kiama

Crooked River Estate

This charming, family-owned estate is a serene country escape, complete with views of lush grape views, rolling green hills and the sea beyond. Crooked River Estate has four two-bedroom villas, each with their own private decks and glistening plunge pools. Farm life may be far from the bustle of the city, but at Crooked River there’s no need to go far: dry off after a dip and sample award-winning wines at the cellar door (which often has live music) or make a booking at the restaurant.

Crooked River Estate. Gerringong - Credit: Crooked River Estate

Dovecote

Set on a 60-hectare farm, Dovecote’s two dramatic, architect-designed lodges (The Headland and The Range) offer fireplaces and outdoor cinemas, with multi-course meals and spa treatments available on site. Floor-to-ceiling windows reveal rolling fields stretching to the water.

Dovecote, Gerringong - Credit: Tom Blachford & Kate Ballis

Ocean Farm

Nearby, and also set on a working farm, Ocean Farm adds the unique design drama of notable Sydney architect Espie Dodds. Sea views abound from the guest rooms and the infinity pool. If you want to feel the sand between your toes, there’s a grassy path leads from your door down to Werri Beach.

Ocean Farm, Gerringong - Credit: Kiama Visitor Information Centre

Soul of Gerringong

In town you’ll find Soul of Gerringong, a Hamptons-inspired cottage with three separate residences, oak floors, cathedral ceilings and bespoke decor. The property's original 1800s-era whitewashed cottages are only a brisk stroll to beaches, restaurants and cafes of this charming town.

Soul of Gerringong, Gerringong - Credit: Soul of Gerringong

The Shed

With expansive views over Gerringong Golf Club and Seven Mile Beach, The Shed is the kind of place you’ll check in to and never want to leave. The architecturally stunning property comes with style to spare, from its industrial-chic aesthetic and soaring five-metre ceilings to the outdoor firepit, plunge pool and freestanding tubs.

The Shed, Gerroa - Credit: Tom Butterworth

Seven Mile Beach Holiday Park

Seven Mile Beach Holiday Park offers magnificent facilities and a range of luxury beachside accommodation, so take your pick depending on taste and budget. Think cabins with spas, surf shacks, ensuite sites, powered or unpowered sites, and even safari tents complete with river views and clawfoot baths. Close to the shops, the park is a water lover's paradise with canoeing, fishing and surfing all on your doorstep.

Seven Mile Beach Holiday Park, Gerroa - Credit: Seven Mile Beach Holiday Park

Cicada Luxury Camping

If a more comfortable camping experience is more your speed, Cicada Luxury Camping is your slice of paradise. The Jerrara property offers all the loveliness of nights under the stars, a morning breeze sweeping off the hills and private fire pits for romantic evenings, with every creature comfort catered for. The safari-style tents are kitted out with comfortable beds kitchenettes, ensuites and outdoor baths. If inspiration strikes to go for an outing, Kiama’s beautiful beaches and village are just a short drive away.

Cicada Luxury Camping, Jerrara - Credit: Cicada Luxury Camping

Keeper of Light Retreat

Wake to the sound of crashing waves and finish the day with the theatre of the sun setting over the sea at this stunning cliffside retreat. Located in the heart of Kiama, the Keeper of Light Retreat feels ages from anything. The experience is designed for two – curl up in the deep sofas in front of floor-to-ceiling windows, open a bottle of wine on the terrace, stoke the woodfire and watch the sea.

Keeper of Light Retreat, Kiama - Credit: Keeper of Light Retreat