A traveller's guide to Kiama

Situated at the top of the beguiling South Coast of NSW, Kiama is a popular beachside town renowned as much for its stunning geography as it is for the restaurants, cafes and historical buildings that give the town a truly unique feel. A great place to visit year-round, Kiama flourishes in spring and summer as the multitude of outdoor activities turn this sleepy settlement into the ideal destination for those looking for a sun soaked holiday.

The Natural World:

Killalea Regional Park: Just beyond the Northern boundary of Kiama beside the town of Minnamurra, you’ll find this stunning reserve spread over the emerald coastline. Rolling green hills give way to picture-perfect valleys where you’ll come across virtually untouched, quiet beaches that are ideal for surfing and swimming. Killalea Beach is a must-go, named Mystic Beach by the locals, this golden-sand crescent is backed by undulating dunes that provide a true sense of seclusion. Parking in the reserve is free during the day, a perfect spot to pull up that van and stretch out in peace.

Blowhole Point: One of Kiama’s most famous attractions, but still worthy of a visit each time you’re in the region, this headland off the centre of town is home to a dramatic stretch of volcanic coastline where local hero The Big Blowhole releases regular sprays of ocean water through it’s millenia-old carved rock. After ogling at the water spouts that can reach 25m high, take a dip in the Blowhole Point Rock Pool by the ocean's edge with stunning views across the Pacific. At sunset, bring some local fish and chips and sit by Kiama Lighthouse as you watch the sky turn a gorgeous fiery orange.

Kiama Coast Walk: The best way to see the beautiful coastline of the region is along this popular hiking trail that runs from Blowhole Point to the nearby town of Gerringong. The full hike runs for around 12 km and captures the best of the South Coast, winding along steep cliffs, around horseshoe inlets and past sheltered beaches as you meander towards Gerringong. The second half of the hike grows steeper with each kilometre, and with little shade you’ll need to bring plenty of sunscreen and water, but a rewarding dip at Werri Beach at the end of the trail makes it all worthwhile.

Eating and Drinking:

Little Betty’s: Tucked away off the main strip of Kiama, Little Betty’s is the best place in town to unwind of an evening. With a great menu of specialty and classic cocktails, plus elegant small plates featuring locally caught fish and charcuteries, you can please the fancier side of yourself without running up the kind of tab you’d find in the bigger cities.

Kiama Pie Shop: Anyone who’s travelled around Australia will know that the best delicacies are usually found within the local pie shop. Kiama’s offering is no different, with the pie shop boasting a wide selection of pastry delights ranging from classics to handmade wonders. The lasagne pie has to be tasted to be believed.

Scoops Ice Creamery: When night falls on a busy summer weekend in Kiama, it isn’t so much the bars and restaurants that begin to fill up, but the ice cream parlours lining the main road. Scoops is our pick, not just for the friendly service and wide range of flavours, but their ice cream is a cut above. Pick your favourites and wander down to the bay to watch the pelicans and sea eagles diving for fish at high tide.

Places to stay:

Surf Beach Holiday Park: Sitting above Kiama’s most popular beach, Surf Beach Holiday Park offers tranquil views across the expanse of ocean from its hillside promenade. Powered and unpowered sites are available for vans, while swimming pools, a games room, and a fully equipped kitchen provide all the necessities you’ll need.

BIG4 Easts Beach Holiday Park: Relax and unwind in this gorgeous holiday park right at the foot of the sands of Easts Beach. The park itself is nestled between two headlands with the languid waters of Easts only metres from your campsite. A true family-friendly park, you’ll find activities for the kids and plenty of space over the 35 acres to call home.

Kendalls Beach Holiday Park: You’re truly spoilt for choice when it comes to beachfront campsites in Kiama. Kendalls is spread around the gentle cove of the beach with the same name, providing full beach frontage with a distinctly private feel. Kiama town centre is only a short walk away, and you can also start the Coastal Walk from your doorstep.