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

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 blowhole erupt. (Credit: 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

aerial of Blowhole Point Rock Pool in kiama — Dive into Blowhole Point Rock Pool. (Credit: Destination NSW)

All up, there are nine beaches and four tidal ocean pools 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. Take your mask and snorkel; this coastline is 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 way of life on tour kiama — 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 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 to stories of The Dreaming.

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 — Get creative (and messy) at Soul Clay Studio. (Credit: 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.

Kids can get hands-on with Australian Artist Catherine O’Leary as their instructor at Kiama Art Society, operating out of Coach House. There’s also a range of classes for adults, from life drawing to social painting groups.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

6. Tap into the local beer scene

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

From historic coastal pubs to vibrant craft beer bars and nearby independent family-owned breweries, the bar scene in Kiama is booming. Start with 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. Then try Fillmore’s, loved by locals for its rotating craft beers and tasty plant-based, artisanal pizzas. This hidden record bar and live music venue is tucked in a laneway off Manning Street.

Continue south from Kiama to find yourself in Wollongong, where the local pubs have a great range of local tap beers available.

7. Bounce between Kiama’s beachfront bars

Little Betty's Kiama CREDIT Grainger Films — Find good drinks and tasty meals at Little Betty’s. (Credit: Grainger Films)

Kiama might seem like a sleepy seaside village, but the town really lights up after dark on weekends. The small bar scene here is very compact, making a crawl easy. Wait for the sky to turn velvet before stepping out for considered cocktails and some top drops at Cin Cin Wine Bar. Miss Arda and Little Betty’s 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. (Credit: Destination NSW)

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. 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

Saddleback Mountain Lookout near kiama — Walk to Saddleback Mountain Lookout. (Credit: Destination NSW)

Base yourself at The Lodge 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 the outskirts of Sydney all the way to Milton in the south.

10. Cycle Jones Beach to Jamberoo

aerial shot of kiama blowhole point — Follow scenic cycling trails. (Credit: Destination NSW)

Hire a bike from Kiama Cycles, then pedal 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.  Want to go further? Power up your e-bike for a shopping expedition that bounces between Bombo Clothing and Sara Handmade Jewellery in Kiama, and 34 Degrees South Trading Company in Gerringong. Stop into The Collective Beat, a one-stop shop for up-and-coming designers and artists.

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11. Check out the local dining scene

Slow Dough kiama pastries — Enjoy Slow Dough’s beloved pastries.

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, like the incredible pastries at Slow Dough. 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

stall owner and guest at Kiama Farmers’ Market — Peruse the Kiama Farmers’ Market for fresh local produce. (Credit: Destination NSW)

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

humpback whale breaching — Keep an eye out for migrating humpback whales. (Credit: Todd Cravens)

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’re 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 to spot the dolphins or whales below.

14. Sip local wines beside the seaside

aerial of Crooked River Wines gerrinong — Sip wine amongst rolling vineyards. (Credit: Destination NSW)

It’s worth taking a small detour inland from Kiama to explore the local wineries. Crooked River Estate is one of the most popular destinations for a day trip from 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. (Credit: 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.

Discover the magic of a Sydney staycation in summer at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

Sydney City is magical in summer. Warm summer evenings beg to be spent sipping cool cocktails at one of many al fresco and rooftop bars. Ferries and buses are ready to transport travellers to the best nearby beaches for salty days on the sand. National parks and rainforests are waiting to be explored. And the city’s events calendar is packed, from live music to cultural attractions. All elements that call for a Sydney staycation.

Discover where to eat, stay and play for the perfect local getaway.

Where to stay

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

Amid the bustle of the perfect Sydney staycation, one needs a place to escape to and recharge. Enter, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney. The hotel is an icon in its own right – nestled inside the 151-year-old building that was originally Sydney’s General Post Office, its heritage-listed sandstone walls and Victorian renaissance grandeur have been carefully preserved – providing a rare chance to sleep within Sydney’s history.

Despite its fascinating history, the hotel isn’t short on modern, luxurious comforts. Rooms and suites are available in both the modern high-rise with gorgeous views over the clock tower and lively city below, or inside the historical post office building itself.

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney Heritage Long Suite bathroom — Heritage rooms maintain their old-world style.

Either way, guests can enjoy sophisticated touches, including a deluxe bed and pillow menu, Harman Kardon Bluetooth speakers, a digital concierge, a Vittoria coffee machine and amenities from the Balmain bathroom collection.

The team at this five-star hotel provides excellence and a quality experience for all their guests, while amenities like a gym help with a well-rounded stay. For a peaceful moment with sweeping city views, enter The Fullerton Club Lounge on level 28. This private haven for dining and relaxation is available to any guests staying on the hotel’s club floors and suites.

Add to this a central location in the CBD’s Martin Place, with easy access to Sydney’s top attractions, and convenience meets style.

Where to drink & dine

1. The Bar

the Fullerton Hotel afternoon tea at the bar — Indulge in the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Inside The Fullerton Hotel Sydney’s lobby, The Bar does more than sling a few delicious cocktails (although it certainly does that well). Its brown leather chairs and glass ceiling create the perfect, almost al fresco, setting for the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Served daily from 12 to 4 pm, the afternoon tea is a nod to the cherished social occasion it once was during the Victorian Renaissance era. People like to dress up for this afternoon tea, and if you’re lucky, a pianist often sits down at the on-site grand piano, just adding to the elegance.

The afternoon tea is served high tea style, offering reimagined British flavours of the Victorian Renaissance era with a unique blend of Australia’s culinary heritage. A sweet layer offers delights like a Malted Milk Envelope (a milk mousse layered between two biscuits), Bakewell Pudding (a super tasty egg-based pudding), and Apple Charlotte.

On the savoury layer, expect finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber, egg and smoked salmon. While classic pinwheels and stuffed eggs almost make the menu. And, of course, all finished off with traditional scones served with cream and mixed berry jam.

Can’t fit in a whole afternoon tea? Be sure to at least order a slice of the 32-layered chocolate cake, a decadent mix of dark chocolate crémeux, fresh whipped cream, and Valrhona Azélia chocolate sauce. ⁣

2. The Place

the Fullerton Hotel the place dining — Dine in the stunning GPO atrium.

On level one of The Fullerton Hotel Sydney lives The Place – the hotel’s restaurant, in an atrium overlooking the former GPO. Here, dine on Modern Australian cuisine – think fresh, local seafood and a Riverina steak sandwich – along with a touch of Singaporean signature dishes, like Thai-style green curry or chicken satay. All in the shadow of the GPO clock tower, enjoying the GPO atrium’s natural light.

3. Local gelato

Couple enjoying ice-creams at First Fleet Park, The Rocks — Enjoy ice cream in the sunshine. (Image: Destination NSW)

What is summer without ice cream and/or gelato? Luckily, there are plenty of options just a short walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, whether you’re craving a midday pick-me-up or an after-sun treat.

What to do/see

1. GPO Heritage Tour

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney lobby — Be awed by the building’s history.

Want to know more about the building you’re staying in? The Fullerton Hotel Sydney offers a complimentary 90-minute GPO Heritage Tour. Follow a knowledgeable tour guide to discover the stories, tales and legends of the former Sydney General Post Office building.

From the iconic clock tower (completed in 1891) to the black-and-white tiled staircase at 1 Martin Place, which was once the main entrance to the GPO and today serves as a prominent feature of the building to the 24 stone faces (mascarons) on the Martin Place side of the building. Part of the 1880s-era facade (designed by architect James Barnet), each represents different states, countries and continents.

2. Circular Quay

aerial of circular quay sydney — Catch a ferry from Circular Quay. (Image: Destination NSW)

An easy walk or light rail ride away from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, lies the bustling Circular Quay. Here, you can sit for a drink and nibbles at the Opera Bar, or head into the iconic house itself for a show. It’s also a major ferry port, becoming your gateway to Sydney’s beaches, Luna Park and even Sydney Zoo.

3. Royal Botanic Gardens

view of circular quay from Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden — Wander through Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Just beyond Circular Quay, discover Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. Wander through this 30-hectare, heritage-listed, botanical garden – exploring its differing sections, from Australian native botanicals to garden beds of vibrant flowers to towering groves of international trees.

It’s also the perfect place for a picnic, so pick up supplies before you come and enjoy a spot on the grassy meadow looking out into the harbour.

4. Theatre Royal

Just a one-minute walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, take in a show at Theatre Royal. Built in 1976, the theatre has been offering a broad range of entertainment since the 1990s. Expect a show roster that ranges from the classics (like Cats) to the modern) like Pretty Woman: The Musical).

Start planning a summer stay in Sydney worth remembering at fullertonhotels.com/fullerton-hotel-sydney.