11 picture-perfect Kiama Airbnbs for your next seaside escape

Find a homely base right by the ocean with the most exceptional Kiama Airbnbs.

The enigmatic natural beauty of laidback Kiama attracts all kinds of travellers, desperate to refill their cups via laidback coastal ease, nature-based activities and one heck of a thriving arts scene. Offering comfortable base camps to launch your escapades are the best Kiama Airbnbs, filled with creature comforts and luxuries not even the best local accommodation can offer. Presenting your most serene Airbnb options for family getaways, romantic weekends and all-too-sacred alone time.

1. Oceanview Kiama

a boho-themed room at Oceanview Kiama — A modern coastal room at Oceanview Kiama.

Best for: beach proximity and stylish photo backdrops

Oceanview Kiama looks as though it’s stepped straight off your Pinterest scroll with the bonus of landing right by soothing Bombo Beach. The self-contained Kiama Airbnb overlooks the waves, and while it’s small, a queen bedroom is joined by two single sofa beds to sleep up to four guests with ease.

Instantly calm via a white-on-timber colour palette as glimpses of that shimmering blue brighten every peer beyond the balcony, the spot attracts budding photographers for its exterior, too, sitting close to Bombo Quarry, Cathedral Rocks and a myriad of natural attractions. Plus, you’re only a stroll to Kiama’s best eateries and bars.

The train goes right by, making it a smart choice if you’re keen to tackle the Kiama Coastal Walk, particularly if you’d prefer to train it back to the start, rather than looping it. A full kitchen and separate dining space ensure there’s ample room for everybody to unwind.

2. Kiama Haven

alfresco dining at Kiama Haven Airbnb — Kiama Haven overlooks the stunning Easts Beach.

Best for: families with teens or two-family escapes

An awesome Kiama Airbnb treated to ocean views, private gardens, three spacious bedrooms, and covered upper and lower decks (alfresco dining is a non-negotiable here), Kiama Haven is only 100 metres by foot to Easts Beach.

Bring your groceries because a fully loaded kitchen with a dishwasher and Nespresso coffee machine means languid brunching with your loved ones is a cinch. Keeping you inside longer are the multiple televisions, free-flowing Wi-Fi, reverse-cycle air conditioning, two luxurious bathrooms with heat lamps, laundry and crucial baby gear including a travel cot and booster seat for meals.

That fabulous Kiama Coast Walk is right at your doorstep, so venturing out is also appealing. Plus, the owners throw in a trail bike, making two-wheeling it around town also very tempting.

3. Santa Barbara on Bombo Beach

views of Bombo Beach on the balcony of Santa Barbara villa, Kiama — The Santa Barbara villa comes with jaw-dropping views of Bombo Beach.

Best for: groups and fur parents

Prefer holidaying with your four-legged pal? Santa Barbara on Bombo Beach has your name on it. An awesome villa with jaw-dropping views of Bombo Beach, the Kiama Airbnb’s outdoor hot tub sets the scene for serious holiday fun. Pets are welcome upon request, and the southern end of Bombo Beach is an off-leash dog-friendly zone, so conditions are perfect for them.

Additionally, it’s right around the corner from the Historic Terrace Houses – an area with a bunch of quaint cafes and boutique shops. The stay’s three-bedroom, two-bathroom layout hosts up to eight guests and is only a five-minute walk to central Kiama.

4. Minnamurra Beach House

two sun loungers by the river with a wine bottle on the table at Minnamurra Beach House — Relax on the Minnamurra River with a glass of wine.

Best for: nature lovers and ocean frolicking

Located at the mouth of the Minnamurra River, Minnamurra Beach House is a sublime pick on the river banks with its own private boat ramp. If it’s high tide, grab a kayak (they’re provided) and paddle up to mangroves or around Rangoon Island. If it’s low tide, shallow wading waters are naturally created, making for pure idyllic splashy play.

The house itself (originally built in the 1950s and renovated a few years back) features three bedrooms (sleeping up to four guests comfortably), two bathrooms, a laundry and a fully equipped kitchen. There are also two dining spaces to take advantage of: one atop a boat shed and another away from the water’s edge.

A large, covered deck is accessed through the living area, creating a dreamlike environment that practically sways you with the tide. Yoga equipment is also available during your stay if you’re ready to dial up the Zen even further.

5. The Werri Shack

a living room with a fireplace at The Werri Shack, Kiama — Keep cosy by the fireplace at The Werri Shack.

Best for: families with pets

Don’t let the word “shack" deter you – The Werri Shack leans more stylish than claustrophobic. The standout Kiama Airbnb is located further back from the coastline, but its elevated vantage point offers water views so you know you’re still in gorgeous Kiama country.

Pets are welcome and the yard is fully fenced, plus there’s an off-leash zone at Werri Beach so your fur baby is sorted. Inside, generous living areas and hipster furnishings across this double-storey, three-bedroom, two-bathroom abode will sort humans out, too.

Bonus inclusions span the Sonos sound system, unlimited Wi-Fi, PlayStation and table tennis.

6. Dovecote

the exterior of Dovecote Kiama Airbnb — The architectural marvel is perched on 60 hectares of farmland facing the ocean.

Best for: architecture nuts and splashing out

Two phenomenal properties set on 150 acres create Dovecote in Gerringong. A one-of-a-kind Kiama homestay that took out the Housing Industry Association’s Australian House of the Year award in 2019, the property is an architectural marvel offering guests luxury digs while immersed in nature.

Sleeping up to eight people across four generously sized bedrooms, The Headland is one of this property’s two options, offering unsurpassed ocean and rural landscape views. On the other hand, there’s The Range, a more intimate two-bedroom design that’s suited to couples and small families seeking indoor fireplace cosiness overlooking green pastures.

Features across both include private pools and decks, while the larger option throws in a gym, games room and an enclosed courtyard and the smaller provides a freestanding bath sent straight from your weekend-away dreams. Both houses are just metres from the Kiama Coast Walk and Werri Beach.

7. Dales Run

scenic hill views from the Kiama Airbnb at Dales Run — Enjoy bucolic views.

Best for: living your ultimate farm life

A staggeringly beautiful Kiama Airbnb that sweeps up mountains and rolling green hills before setting your gaze across the ocean, Dales Run is an outstanding choice for special occasion escapes. Sleeping up to four guests across two bedrooms (but just one bathroom, it’s worth noting), the stay features an outdoor shower and infrared sauna, while wellness warriors will similarly delight in the yoga mats and virtual classes provided.

Other features include a fireplace, laundry facilities, air conditioning, a Bose sound system, books, board games, Wi-Fi, a work-from-anywhere nook, a fully equipped kitchen and drip coffee making facilities. Plus, you’re located in Jamberoo so controlling the action at Jamberoo Action Park is just a quick zip up the road.

8. Kiama Home

the Kiama Home Airbnb opening up to scenic views — The floor-to-ceiling glass doors open out to 180-degree ocean views.

Best for: Several families and elevated views

Targeting fun-chasing kids and those who remain forever young-at-heart, this Kiama home is filled with 1980s arcade games (PacMan, anybody?) and a pinball machine. The two-level, three-bedroom property is spacious enough to house eight guests while 180-degree views across the ocean never fail to take your breath away (just add floor-to-ceiling glass doors to really highlight that dazzling scene).

Downstairs, it’s all about relaxed open-plan living as a full kitchen, lounge and dining area means there are separate zones for everyone. Upstairs contains all the bedding, including a well-considered kids’ room with a queen bottom bunk and king single top bunk, plus a kids’ single trundle bed.

When it’s time to explore beyond your stay, strolling into the centre of town takes 15 minutes tops.

9. Onyx Loft

a look inside the Onyx Loft, Kiama Airbnb — Wake up to scenic hillside views at Onyx Loft.

Best for: couples searching for romance

Escape to a private Gerringong hideaway with incredible views that stretch all the way to the ocean. The two-person-friendly Onyx Loft is perched on the side of a hill within a 60-acre farm, so your neighbours are yonks away. Cosy inclusions span a private courtyard, fire pit and barbecue, while a kitchenette with a microwave and convention oven will fix any home-prepared meal gestures. A Nespresso coffee machine means your morning must is on hand without stepping foot outside, and a TV at the foot of the bed will drag you right back in there without a second thought.

10. La Terrasse

a modern room interior with scenic views from the balcony at La Terrasse, Kiama — Sit back and take in the views from the living area.

Best for: families and groups of friends

La Terrasse is a modern split-level home, centrally located within a quick dash to Surf Beach and the Manning Street shopping and cafe precinct. The three-bedroom Kiama Airbnb accommodates up to seven guests with three bedrooms, two ensuite bathrooms and a separate one, and two car parks. The stars of the show are its full-width balcony with ocean-facing views and large entertaining patio. It’s not a party pad since it’s located in a residential area, making it a good choice for travellers in need of serious downtime with a view.

11. Tiny Kiama

the interior of Tiny Kiama Airbnb — The cutest home in Kiama boasts an Instagrammable interior.

Best for: couples and anybody who’s keen to escape crowded scenes

Closer to the stunning Kiama bush more so than frothy waves, Tiny Kiama can’t be ignored due to its overwhelming cuteness. While remaining close to the centre of town (it’s about a five-minute drive to Terralong Street), this two-level Kiama Airbnb is tucked up a hill, boasting an itty-bitty veranda and outdoor table, a loft bedroom fitted with a queen bed, a projector to stream app-based programs, a full bathroom and a kitchenette. While two adults will squeeze beautifully into this gem, a sofa bed can also accommodate a child if young families are keen to embark on cherished togetherness.

Discover the best restaurants in Kiama

From serene natural beauty to vibrant nightlife, with plenty of arts and culture in between, the NSW Central Coast has been enjoying a serious glow up.

Just one hour from Sydney, the Central Coast has long been the perfect seaside getaway. And with its ECO Destination certification with a focus on sustainability, it’s a trip travellers can feel good about, too. Recently, new and exciting openings have turned the Central Coast into a place where incredible natural beauty is still on the table, but so is a vibrant and sophisticated arts, dining and nightlife scene.

Find out what’s new to discover on the Central Coast.

1. Gosford’s glow up

room at voco gosford — Book into voco and experience the best of Gosford.

Long-time Central Coast lovers will hardly recognise Gosford these days. While always boasting gorgeous water views, a range of revamps and new openings have turned it into a busy hub of arts and culture, with an increasingly diverse and vibrant nightlife.

Landmark lifestyle hotel voco Gosford is the perfect home base for a Central Coast getaway. At this IHG hotel overlooking sparkling Brisbane Water, guests can spend sunny days soaking in the rooftop pool (or just sipping a cocktail beside it). When it comes to meals, you can enjoy multiple venues serving up everything from modern Australian fare to fine-dining Japanese.

Venture out to lay eyes on the Central Coast’s first permanent Moving Image Gallery (MIG) . Opened this year inside the Gosford Regional Gallery , the immersive space is a showcase of screen-based and digital art. While at the gallery, wander around the Edogawa Commemorative Garden, a traditional Japanese strolling garden complete with teahouse, koi pond and an ornamental bridge.

Meanwhile, the revamped Gosford Regional Library has even more than books to discover. Now, it’s one of the best in the southern hemisphere – find exhibitions, historical archives and community initiatives for all ages at this perfect family-friendly escape.

2. Newcomers to the dining scene

table full of food at Amarilla restaurant terrigal — Treat yourself to sundowners and snacks at Amarilla.

The Central Coast has long been the perfect destination for gourmands, with everything from casual eats to fine dining elevating the local offerings. And three new destinations have been added to the map.

Amarilla at The Haven in Terrigal is the perfect seaside venue for sundowners, with blissed-out beats providing the soundtrack. Book in for golden hour and choose bites from a Spanish tapas menu made for sharing. Do as the locals do and wash it all down with sangria – the Sunday Sangria Sessions have become a local institution.

Also in Terrigal, Little Miss has brought a premium Mediterranean menu to the waterfront. Try the wagyu tartare with Greek caviar or butter-poached lobster and tomato bisque, paired with inventive cocktails and a handpicked selection of Lebanese wines.

Over in Ettalong, Bar Toto is perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks. This award-winning cocktail bar is known for its creative concoctions, along with craft beer, wine and antipasti platters to snack on. The interior sets the mood, with dim lighting and wooden furnishings.

3. New Central Coast experiences

winemaker at Firescreek Botanical Winery — Book an experience at Firescreek Botanical Winery.

It’s entirely possible (and recommended) to spend a Central Coast getaway relaxing on one of its many peaceful and pristine beaches. But for those who crave more, there’s a long list of options to keep you busy.

Pop into the iconic Australian Reptile Park to see the new Weigel Venom Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that’s home to over 200 of the country’s most venomous snakes.

Get out on the water with Sail Central Coast , which offers 20 years of expertise in yacht charters. Book the Sunset Sail & Dine yacht charter for a private afternoon cruising the waterways of Bouddi National Park and Brisbane Water, stopping at Anchor on Hardys for a two-course meal with a cocktail.

For something completely different, Firescreek Botanical Winery is now offering an Aboriginal Storytelling and Wine Tasting Experience. Learn about local cultures, stories and traditions from an Aboriginal Elder, then enjoy a botanical-inspired wine tasting led by a local winemaking expert.

4. Central Coast accommodation

view from a cottage at Noonaweena — Sleep in the hinterland at Noonaweena.

There’s simply too much to experience on the Central Coast to only stay for one day. Turn your trip into a relaxing getaway by the beach.

Allawah , a retreat on the banks of the Hawkesbury River, is accessible only by boat. This secluded two-bedroom cottage is the perfect place to unwind, allowing you to spend lazy days fishing, kayaking, paddling or unwinding with a book on your own private jetty.

In the Kulnura hinterland, Noonaweena features a range of accommodation styles, from a luxe glamping bell tent to cottages and a treetop suite. It’s a leader in green travel, with 10 years of certification from Eco Tourism Australia. Relax in the onsite wellness centre or get active on various courts and in the gym facilities.

To stay by the ocean at Toowoon Bay, book into Kim’s Beachside Resort . This adults-only property offers a luxury escape nestled within a sub-tropical rainforest. Along with 36 private timber bungalows, indulge in massages or reiki treatments at the dedicated spa, or stop by the cocktail bar and à la carte restaurant.

5. Shopping on the Central Coast

Umina’s Centred Ceramics central coast — Try your hand at Umina’s Centred Ceramics’ pottery courses.

For those after unique trinkets, handmade treasures and beautiful homewares, the Central Coast is a haven.

Markets on the Central Coast have a special flavour. Wander the Umina Beach Markets at twilight, where you’ll find small businesses from the local areas, and the Norah Head Ocean View Markets , where you can soak up good food, live music and artisan finds by the beach after sunset. ‘Tis the season for the Christmas twilight edition of the Avoca Beachside Markets, celebrating the season with pop-up bars, tasty treats and plenty of unique gift options from local artists and producers.

Galleria Ettalong has also added to the Central Coast’s recent makers and creators renaissance, wrapping cinemas, a dining precinct and over 40 boutique shops into one area.

Sign up for a pottery course at Umina’s Centred Ceramics , or peruse the shop for a range of one-of-a-kind pottery made on the premises for a special souvenir.

For more eclectic arts and homewares, pop into Blue Bird Collective Co . This marketplace supports over 35 small, local and handmade businesses, artists and creatives. Take the time to check out fashion, jewellery and homewares that won’t be found anywhere else.

Start planning your coastal getaway at lovecentralcoast.com .