15 of the best new and iconic things to do in Kiama

Carla GrossettiBy Carla Grossetti
hero media
Cocoon yourself in Kiama for a long weekend and you’ll discover there is a lot more to this seaside village than its beaches and blowholes.

Looking for unforgettable things to do in Kiama? This vibrant village on the NSW South Coast won Gold in NSW’s Top Tourism Town Awards in 2024 and 2025, underscoring its status as one of the best places to holiday in Sydney’s surrounds. From its bustling markets to Indigenous-led experiences that celebrate the region’s rich cultural heritage, Kiama is a mix of creativity and coastal charm. Its thriving food and wine scene, boutique breweries, stunning hinterland and coastal hideaways provide even more reasons to visit. The Illawarra region of the NSW South Coast extends inland to Jamberoo and along the Grand Pacific Drive to Gerringong, Bombo and Minnamurra.

Here are 15 of the best new and iconic things to do in Kiama, just 90 minutes from Sydney.

1. Have a blast at Kiama’s blowholes

two people watching the water plume from the Kiama Blowhole
Witness the iconic Little Blowhole erupt. (Image: Destination NSW)

Walk down the long pathway that curves down to the platform built over the sandstone to get your best view of the iconic Kiama Blowhole. The best time to see this natural phenomenon is when there’s a southerly swell running on a high tide. Get the timing right and you’ll be rewarded with the spectacle of water blasting into the sky amid rocks cemented into position by the elements. The sound of Kiama, on the lands of the Wodi Wodi, is the sound of water. Its name is derived from the Aboriginal word kiarama, which means ‘place where the sea makes a noise’. Don’t miss the Little Blowhole.

2. Swim at Kiama’s best beaches

the South Werri (Ourie) Ocean Pool as seen from above
The 33-metre tidal South Werri (Ourie) Ocean Pool. (Image: Destination NSW)

All up, there are nine beaches that necklace the Kiama coastline, which means you can pick your own path. Wriggle into your wetsuit at dawn to watch the sunrise from the surf where pro surfer Sally Fitzgibbons grew up practising her airs. You can also build sandcastles with the kids or wander along the cobbled coastline.  There are also four tidal ocean pools glittering like pieces of beach glass set into the rock shelf. Take your mask and snorkel as they are brimming with marine life. Werri Beach, Gerringong, Easts Beach, Kendalls Beach, Surf Beach and Boneyard Kiama are some of the best beaches in Kiama.

3. Learn about local Indigenous culture

Gumaraa Aboriginal Experiences
Celebrate the Gumaraa Aboriginal way of life on tour.

Gumaraa Aboriginal Experiences are conducted on the banks of the Minnamurra River. The tours celebrate the culture, traditions and history of the Dharawal and Yuin Nations. Gumaraa means ‘wise old man’ and founder Richard Campbell has taken on the role of sharing the knowledge that was passed down to him by his elders. Gumaraa offers spear-making and art workshops, didgeridoo programs, canoeing and fishing tours. Talks focus on everything from bush tucker to boomerang and Dreamtime stories. Kiama’s rich cultural landscape is very accessible due to the compact nature of the region.

4.  Visit new and noteworthy art galleries

crowds of people gathering up at Seven Marks Gallery
Seven Marks Gallery has a dedicated contemporary space for established and emerging artists.

There are a multitude of ways to get creative on the Kiama Coast. Start with a visit to Seven Marks Gallery on the outskirts of town to see the latest exhibitions featuring works by emerging and established local artists. The gallery shows the works of local artists such as Chick Butcher, Cobi Cockburn and Cesar and Nina Cueva. It also includes, Courtesy of the Artist at Seven Marks, the second offshoot of the Strand Arcade jewellery store in Sydney’s CBD.  Fern St Gallery also shows works that have been inspired by the craggy Illawarra escarpment.

5.   Better yourself with a creative workshop

Soul Clay Studio, Kiama art
Get creative (and messy) at Soul Clay Studio. (Image: Sol Flare Photography)

Want to tap into your creative side? The Kiama region is overflowing with artists hosting workshops aimed at those who want to swim a little away from the mainstream. Visitors to Soul Clay Studios in Gerringong are given the opportunity to try their hand at making pottery; find yourself fully immersed, elbow deep in clay, for the Friday night Clay Date or Saturday Soul Sessions. We know it’s tempting to stay put in your coastal-chic Kiama accommodation. But it’s worth wandering down to  Willowale Road to learn the art of candle making with workshops that include bubbles and grazing boxes. You can also sign up for a kiddie-friendly workshop, too.

6. Tap into the local beer scene

Stoic Brewing, Kiama
Discover craft brews during a guided tour of Stoic Brewing.

Gerringong has a lot of street cred. It’s where social media stars the Inspired Unemployed hail from and it forms the backdrop to a lot of their reels. A pop culture tour of the Kiama region should also include a tour of Stoic Brewing, where drinking beer and cider amid the towering vats is a vibe. Expect live music on the weekend and exciting flavour-forward brews. Continue motoring south from Kiama and you’ll find yourself in Wollongong, where the local pubs have a great range of local tap beers available.

7. Bounce between Kiama’s beachfront bars

the drinking scene at Little Bettys, Kiama
Find intimate nooks for a nightcap. (Image: Little Bettys)

Kiama might seem like a sleepy seaside village. And while there are a lot of great places to eat in Kiama with kids, the town really lights up after dark for a few bar bites and drinks on weekends. The small-bar scene in Kiama is very compact, which makes it easy to get from A to B and not be too far away from the babysitter.  Wait for the sky to turn velvet before stepping out for considered cocktails and some top drops at Cin Cin Wine Bar . Miss Arda , Finding Fillmores , Little Bettys are also bars worth bouncing between in Kiama.

8.  Immerse yourself in nature at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures

a woman riding a zipline through the canopy at Illawarra Fly Tree Top Adventures
Zipline through the canopy. (Image: Destination NSW)

You’ll feel like a bird on a wire while trekking through the trees at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures. It’s highly likely you’ll see and hear native wildlife while wandering along the shaded steel walkways above the rainforest canopy. That’s one of the reasons Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures is one of the top attractions on the NSW South Coast. Those feeling a little more adventurous can fly through the jungle on the highest zipline in Australia. It’s an immersion in nature that you can enjoy at your own pace.

9. Summit Mt Noorinan

Base yourself at The Lodge in Jamberoo, before heading off on a jaunt to the Saddleback Mountain Lookout . From here, you can follow the signs to the summit of Mt Noorinan, where you will hear bird-song symphonies from crimson rosellas, eastern bristlebirds and golden whistlers. You’ll enjoy great views from the summit that stretch from Cronulla on the outskirts of Sydney all the way to Milton in the south.

10. Cycle Jones Beach to Jamberoo

a scenic view of the Kiama blowhole
The iconic Kiama Lighthouse at Blowhole Point. (Image: Phil Winterton)

Hire a bike from Kiama Cycles along the shared path from Jones Beach to Jamberoo. It’s a 24-kilometre return ride. The 20-kilometre-long Kiama Coastal Walk is made up of a series of shared paths.  You can also power up your e-bike for a high-speed shopping expedition bouncing between Bombo Clothing, Sara Handmade Jewellery and 34 Degrees South Trading Company in Gerringong . The Collective, Gerringong is also a one-stop shop for up-and-coming designers and artists.

11. Check out the local cafe scene

Let brunch or lunch at a local cafe be your motivation to do a few laps in a sea pool to loosen your limbs and work up an appetite. Kiama has you covered when it comes to casual cafes such as the most excellent Becks Kiama. For a sophisticated date night, your best bet is the Blue Swimmer at Seahaven. Those seeking to spice it up will enjoy Mexican restaurant Frida’s Cantina . You could also grab a filthy-good burger from The Hungry Monkey , the hottest franchise on the NSW South Coast.

12. Plan your weekend to coincide with a local event

a couple buying fresh local produce at Kiama Farmers’ Market
Peruse the Kiama Farmers’ Market for fresh local produce.

Wait for the sky over Kiama to form a canopy of blue before visiting the weekly Kiama Farmers’ Market . The annual Kiama Winter Street Festival in July is another great way to celebrate the season with pop-up performances, food stalls and live entertainment. Kiama gets points for taking cues from the views to host the whimsical KISS Arts Festival overlooking scenic Blacks Beach. Expect international acts, circus troupes, hula hoopers, music and mayhem at the cabaret festival designed to KISS boring goodbye.

13. Go whale watching

an aerial view of Rangoon Island, Minnamurra
Dreamy views over Rangoon Island from the cliffs of the Minnamurra Headland. (Image: Destination NSW)

The Pacific Ocean can be theatrical and wild during a big swell. The Kiama Coastal Walk meanders along, intuitively laid out to hug the coast. An added bonus of a walk here during winter is the fact you are highly likely to spot whales while they are migrating past along the humpback highway. You don’t have to go on a cruise to enjoy an encounter with these majestic creatures. Simply climb up to the headland and try and spot the dolphins or whales from below.

14. Sip local wines beside the seaside

sun setting over Coolangatta Estate, Shoalhaven Heads
The rolling vineyards of Crooked River Wines. (Image: Destination NSW)

It’s worth taking a small detour inland from Kiama to explore the local wineries . Crooked River Wines is one of the most popular destinations for a day trip while on a long weekend away in Kiama. The family-run winery has been making carefully crafted wines for more than two decades and is tucked into the folds of a crayon-green valley overlooking the sea. You can also taste the terroir at Coolangatta Estate cellar door and wine garden.

15. Play a round of golf

two people playing at Kiama Golf Club
Play golf on the picturesque coast. (Image: Destination NSW)

The Kiama Golf Club sits on the banks of the Minnamurra River. While this gem of a golf club is a huge draw for golfers chasing birdies, the 18-hole par 66 golf course is also well suited to beginners. Relax. You’re not on the PGA Tour. Head to the clubhouse restaurant, Mystic’s Dining, to relive all your most terrible shots over a schnitzel and a schooner.

Carla Grossetti
Carla Grossetti avoided accruing a HECS debt by accepting a cadetship with News Corp. at the age of 18. After completing her cadetship at The Cairns Post Carla moved south to accept a position at The Canberra Times before heading off on a jaunt around Canada, the US, Mexico and Central America. During her career as a journalist, Carla has successfully combined her two loves – of writing and travel – and has more than two decades experience switch-footing between digital and print media. Carla’s CV also includes stints at delicious., The Sydney Morning Herald, and The Australian, where she specialises in food and travel. Carla also based herself in the UK where she worked at Conde Nast Traveller, and The Sunday Times’ Travel section before accepting a fulltime role as part of the pioneering digital team at The Guardian UK. Carla and has been freelancing for Australian Traveller for more than a decade, where she works as both a writer and a sub editor.
See all articles
a person holding a cup of coffee at The Hungry Monkey, Kiama cafe
Kiama

A coffee connoisseur’s guide to every unmissable Kiama cafe

Slip into holiday mode over a silky-smooth caffeine fix with our list of every outstanding Kiama cafe.

Read more
a breakfast feast at Diggies Kiama
Kiama

Discover the best restaurants in Kiama: A food lover’s guide

Kiama restaurants are a highlight on any NSW South Coast itinerary.

Read more
the Onyx Loft, Kiama Airbnb
Kiama

11 picture-perfect Kiama Airbnbs for your next seaside escape

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

Read more
coastal views from the Bunker House, Kiama accommodation
Kiama

The best Kiama accommodation for every holiday style

Read more
hero media

Why winter is the best time to be on the New South Wales coast

    Kate BettesBy Kate Bettes
    Continue
    NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

    Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

    Winter on the NSW South Coast

    Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

    Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

    two people standing in front of kiama blowhole
    See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

    Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

    Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

    Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast
    Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

    Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

    Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

    End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

    The Sebel Kiama exterior
    Sleep by the harbour.

    Winter on the Mid-North Coast

    A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

    First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

    Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast
    Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

    Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

    Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

    port macquarie koala hospital
    Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

    The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

    Back in town, Whalebone Wharf  serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

    At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

    bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie
    Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

    Winter on the Central Coast

    On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

    The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

    Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

    a humpback whale breaching on the central coast
    Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

    Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

    If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

    Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

    woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm
    Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

    As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

    Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

    restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast
    Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

    Winter in Wollongong

    Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

    If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

    Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

    monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple
    Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

    Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

    The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

    monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park
    Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

    As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

    Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

    Novotel Wollongong Northbeach
    Fall asleep listening to the waves.

    Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.