Unmissable things to do with kids in Kiama

Carla GrossettiBy Carla Grossetti
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Keep everyone in the family happy with our guide to the best things to do with kids in Kiama.

The best things to do with your kids in Kiama revolve around making great memories. Parents who want to get their kids off screens will find plenty to do in the seaside village from wild coastal adventures to laid-back beach days and walks through the emerald-green rainforest. There are also adventure parks that parents are bound to enjoy as much as the kids.  Here’s the ultimate list of things to do as a family that will show off the seaside town, which won Gold in NSW’s Top Tourism Town Awards in 2024 and 2025.

1. Take a surf lesson

the aerial view of Seven Mile Beach, Gerroa
Hit the waves on the stunning 12-kilometre coastline of Seven Mile Beach in Gerroa. (Image: Destination NSW)

The hot ticket for families craving a seaside holiday is to sign up for a surf lesson. Create some magic moments with a private group lesson with Gerroa Surf School or Gerringong Surf School . The accredited instructors at both surf schools on the NSW South Coast will teach you how to paddle for a wave and pop to your feet. Surfing in Kiama is ideal for beginners thanks to its consistent, mellow waves and sandy-bottom beaches. Surfing is the perfect activity for beach-loving families who want to share the stoke.

2.  Slide into a good time at Jamberoo

a family enjoying in a wave pool at Jamberoo Action Park, Kiama
Get your adrenaline fix at the family-friendly Jamberoo water theme park. (Image: Destination NSW)

For theme park thrills, go to Jamberoo Action Park, NSW’s largest family-owned and operated water theme park. Located in the hinterland, between the mountains and the sea, the watery wonderland has slides and rivers to wow kids and adults of every age. Don’t miss the Taipan, a high-intensity waterslide that plunges you into darkness at high speed. Brace for steep thrills in The Stinger but wear a wedgie-proof wetsuit. Note: there are some rides that come with a 45kg requirement.

3. Browse Kiama’s best markets

Take the tension off the throttle and visit local markets such as: Kiama Farmers’ Market , held every Wednesday at Coronation Park from 3pm-6pm during daylight savings and 2pm-5pm thereafter; Gerringong Rotary Markets , on the third Saturday of every month from 8.30am to 1.30pm; Kiama Seaside Markets on the third Sunday of every month, from 9am to 3pm; and Jamberoo Village Markets held on the last Sunday of the month. BYO eco bags.

4. Have a blast at the Kiama Blowhole

water plume spouting from the Kiama blowhole
The Little Blowhole in Kiama is a sight to behold. (Image: Destination NSW)

A recipe for family holiday heaven is to take your kids somewhere that will grab their attention. Kiama Blowhole is that place. The name Kiama has long been translated as “where the sea makes a noise". Wait for the ‘whoosh’ as the blowhole blasts wide-eyed onlookers with salty sea spray. The attraction, formed from basalt lava some 260 million years ago, has grown in popularity over the years. Time your visit with a southeast swell when the spout can shoot up to 25 metres in the air. Little Blowhole is also worth a visit.

5. Get some bread cred in Kiama

Continue to stretch your legs and head north along the Kiama Coastal walk from the Blowhole to Minnamurra River. Those with little legs will have worked up an appetite to refuel on berry muffins at Minnamurra Cafe .  You could also start your day with a freshly lacquered croissant from Parfait Patisserie . Or join the fervour for a gourmet pie or sanga from Flour Water Salt . Embrace the NSW South Coast’s slow food movement by picking up a deliciously chewy artisan loaf from Slow Dough (only open Friday to Sunday). The Hungry Monkey is the locals’ choice for burgers.

6. Enjoy fish and chips beside the sea

a hand holding a prawn over a dish at Saltwater Kiama
Prawn, Salmon & Avocado Salad at Saltwater Kiama.

Cave in to that voice that whispers ‘you must have fish and chips beside the seaside’ and find your fix at Diggie’s. The bright, breezy eatery is one of the most family-friendly places to eat in Kiama. Order crumbed fish tacos for the little tackers. Penny Whistler’s is another popular local haunt for fish and chips with ocean views. And you can enjoy an altogether more leisurely seafood lunch at Saltwater Kiama where the signature dish of battered blue grenadier and chips is the go.

7. Enjoy a history lesson

Celebrate Kiama’s heritage with a visit to the Kiama Pilots Cottage Museum , built in 1880-1881. The Kiama Historical Society has done a stellar job of curating the collection on show at the Blowhole Point museum, which is near to Kiama Lighthouse. The museum starts by honouring the connection the Wodi Wodi people have to the land and sea in the Kiama area, with evidence of their presence dating back at least 12,000 years.  It also charts the region’s seafaring history, shares stories about shipwrecks and profiles local legends involved in everything from agriculture to tourism.

8. Get creative with a hands-on workshop

molding a pot using hands at South Coast Ceramics, Kiama
Sign up for a pottery class at South Coast Ceramics.

There are a lot of creative ways you can keep your kids entertained in Kiama, from Creative Beading to DIY Chocolate Rocky Road workshops. Check the Visit Kiama website to see the schedule of workshops for budding writers, potters, painters and candlemakers. The Bead Shack in Gerringong also has a regular roster of kiddie-friendly classes from bead-stringing to macramé. There are also beginner classes on offer at South Coast Ceramics in Gerringong.

9. Meet the makers

Get an insight into the creative scene in Kiama at The Collective Beat , which provides artists, makers, creators, designers, innovators and entrepreneurs the opportunity to sell direct to the public. The collective acts like a giant canvas, providing each artist with the opportunity to add their own colour. You will find everything from handmade toys and clothes to homewares and original artworks. Think of it as a treasure trove of items that celebrate Kiama’s vibrant community spirit.

10. Get lost in a good book

The Bookshop Kiama stocks a carefully curated selection of books that aims to please readers of all ages. It’s the kind of place you might wander into for five minutes and accidentally lose an afternoon. The kids’ section here is a cracker: stocked with beautifully illustrated picture books, junior fiction favourites and young adult fiction. Whether you are after a rainy-day read or a book to get a reluctant reader off the ropes, the charming shop has your next great read sorted.

11. Kiama Coast Walk

a couple enjoying the Kiama Coast Walk on the South Coast
Soak up seaside views while walking from Kiama to Gerringong. (Image: Destination NSW)

For the small effort of wandering along the Kiama Coast Walk, there are big rewards. The walk can be carved up into three sections: north, midway and south. The section that extends between the Continental Rock Pool and the Little Blowhole is one of the most kid-friendly walks in Kiama. And it’s great for families with prams or kids on scooters.

12. Journey to Cathedral Rocks

a night sky full of stars over Cathedral Rocks, Kiama
The volcanic rock formation glows under the dazzling night sky. (Image: Destination NSW)

The distinctive saw-toothed spires of Cathedral Rocks can be seen from a range of different vantage points along the Kiama Coast Walk. The northern section between Minnamurra River and Blowhole Point is where you will find Cathedral Rocks . Nature has been the architect here and the resulting volcanic rock formation is one of the most well-photographed on the NSW South Coast. Encourage your children to sit and watch the birds wheel overhead and pause to take it all in.

13. Find your hinterland happy place

scenic hinterland views above Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures, Knights Hill
Soak up the scenery from the elevated steel treetop walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

The Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk is also popular with families up for an adventurous hike and is one of the best things to do with kids near Kiama. Introduce the family to the practice of shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) as you wander along the walkway above a riot of sage green, jade and viridescent rainforest that shifts with the light. Those wanting to holiday closer to home can jump in the car and spend some time on the NSW South Coast.

14. See Kiama’s cultural side

The cultural calendar in Kiama has you covered year-round with reasons to return. Watch Kiama come alive for the return of this year’s Winter Street Festival , which includes street performances, interactive workshops and kids’ activities. The KISS Arts Fest will also appeal to the young and young at heart as the Kiama foreshore transforms with a jam-packed program that ranges from a hilarious raft race to a lantern parade in October. The Changing Tides Festival in December also has a gig aimed at 10–18-year-olds and includes acts such as Mallrat and Tones and I.

15. Spot whales from the headland

an aerial view of Rangoon Island north of Kiama
Catch occasional sightings of humpback whales from Rangoon Island. (Image: Destination NSW)

Kiama is not just a summer destination. Experience the very best of Kiama with kids over the winter months by heading to the whale watching platform at Minnamurra Headland. Have your binoculars at the ready to watch for migrating whales during the height of the season, from late May to July. The Kiama Blowhole and Gerringong Whale Watching Platform also provide great vantage points.

16. Go on a grand road trip

an aerial view of the Grand Pacific Drive road
The scenic route stretches along the dramatic cliffs of the NSW South Coast. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Kiama has joined forces with Destination Sydney Surrounds South for the Go Grand campaign . The idea behind the campaign is to promote the Grand Pacific Drive road trip as it bounces along the coast from Wollongong to Shellharbour, Kiama, the Shoalhaven and Southern Headlands. You can build your own itinerary or click on the carefully curated Family Getaway route, which loops in top spots such as Bangalay Luxury Villas and Cupitt’s Estate.

17. Go for a bushwalk

the scenic Minnamurra Falls in Jamberoo
Walk to the majestic Minnamurra Falls. (Image: Destination NSW)

Tick one bush walk off at a time while visiting the Sydney Surrounds South region of Kiama, Shellharbour, Shoalhaven, Wollongong and Wingecarribee (Southern Highlands).  The region includes spots such as Boneyard, Minnamurra Rainforest, Easts Beach and Blackhead Reserve. As well as inspiring your children to look out for various birds and identify native flora, little explorers will get to experience the joy of bushwalking in Australia.

18. Visit the Southern Highlands

Belmore Falls in Morton National Park in the Southern Highlands
Cool off in the idyllic Belmore Falls in Morton National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

Looking for a special experience other than sitting on a headland and watching the whales go past? Head inland from Kiama and into the Southern Highlands to ooh and aah at Carrington and Belmore waterfalls. Pick up some local cider and visit the region’s cool-climate wines, which will help you get a taste of the terroir. It’s one of the most charming regional getaways to plot an escape to.

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.
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The tastiest new players on Newcastle’s dining scene you need to try

    Carla GrossettiBy Carla Grossetti
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    Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

    When it comes to consuming the culture of a city, digesting it (in the literal sense) is an appropriate place to start. But it’s not just a world-class wining and dining scene that’s on the menu (not to mention all the new restaurants in Newcastle ). Newcastle – just two hours north of Sydney – offers the perfect blend of arts, culture and culinary experiences that make it a prime destination for an extended escape. The city’s creative future looks even brighter with the reopening of the highly anticipated Newcastle Art Gallery on the horizon.

    aerial of Nobbys beach in newcastle nsw
    Newcastle offers the perfect coastal setting for the arts and delicious eats. (Image: City of Newcastle)

    Given Newcastle’s compact size – many venues are within easy walking distance or a quick drive away – you can immerse yourself fully. From decadent patisseries to fine diners and casual coastal eats, here’s a fresh taste of Newcastle: where to eat, drink and soak up the coastal city’s good vibes.

    1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

    pastries next to a pastry box from crumb cafe in newcastle
    Lean into Newcastle’s pastry renaissance at Crumb. (Image: Jemma Donkin)

    Pastry is having a moment, with a quietly booming scene led by CRUMB,  the brand-new pastry cafe in Lambton led by legendary Gareth Williams (of Covered in Crumbs, EXP) and Ben Richardson (Autumn Rooms). Gareth describes his style of food as ‘creative chaos’. Enjoy that abstract artisanal approach over a savoury chorizo, bechamel, cheddar and poppy pastry, or a layered mortadella and pesto mayo croissant sandwich.

    Meanwhile, Leibe European Pastries, Pekárna, Union St Pastry and Praise Joe also have their own flair and loyal followings. While Liebe European Pastries is famed for layered German pastries such as Franzbrötchen, Pekárna’s signatures (like cardamom pastries) are tethered to Czech traditions.

    Head a few blocks west to Wickham, where Union St Pastry is the pinnacle for lovers of European-style viennoiseries, such as croissants and Danishes. A getaway to Newcastle also looks pretty fabulous with a mega brownie or chicken little toastie from Praise Joe .

    2. Destination dining

    Blanca resuarant in newcastle nsw
    Step inside Mediterranean-inspired eatery, Blanca. (Image: Destination NSW)

    Life looks pretty peachy from a table at the breezy Mediterranean-inspired eatery Blanca , which would not be out of place in Mykonos – when it swooped into the Honeysuckle Precinct a few years ago, it caused heads to swivel. Say yasou to mezedes of crudo di mare and sheftalia and grilled Abrolhos Islands’ octopus.

    One may also fantasise about being back in Europe – specifically the 10th arrondissement in Paris – at Frenchie , the oh-so-French bistro that offers Euro-chic elegance with an inventive Australian flair. Indulge in the Date Night set menu, available every Thursday.

    Peregrin is another stand-out. Listen to the sound of the ocean from the rooftop terrace, and order a Summertime Sour during aperitivo hour. Followed by the yellowfin tuna with pickled cucumber and market fish. And brand new on the scene is Papalote – a joint venture from the incredibly talented owners of Humbug and Flotilla serving up tasty Mexican classics.

    3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

    people swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths
    Follow Newcastle’s coastline for stunning views and tasty eats. (Image: David Diehm)

    What better way to soak in Newcastle’s legendary coastline and stunning beaches than by visiting its casual coastal eateries while on the Bathers Way?

    Enjoy hot chips and scallops on the sand at Swell Kiosk Bar Beach . Or a housemade sausage roll after a morning surf at Newcastle Beach, thanks to Southy Canteen , which is open from 6am.

    Bring your furry travel companion to Sunnyboy Kiosk for a piccolo and puppuccino with views out to Dixon Park Beach. Try light eats, like acai bowls, or more substantial meals like nasi goreng at Blue Door in Merewether. Do a few lazy laps at Merewether Ocean Baths (the largest in the southern hemisphere) before tucking into swordfish skewers and salad at Merewether Surfhouse .

    You can also watch the ocean compose a bit of magic from your perch at The Kiosk Newcastle Beach , where a matcha latte looks even better with the beach fresco.

    Pause between eats to take in the iconic Newcastle Ocean Baths and Bogey Hole – perfect for a digestive swim or scenic picnic spot.

    4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

    couple eating at Flotilla newcastle
    Flotilla serves up delicious meals. (Image: Destination NSW)

    In recent years, Newcastle’s restaurant scene has evolved to include venues that have elevated the city’s reputation for culinary excellence. In addition to its cafes and kiosks, there’s now an exciting wave of hatted favourites putting Newcastle on the map.

    Humbug is the epitome of Novocastrian dining; the mafaldine with brisket and beef cheek braised in Pedro Ximenez is emblematic of what the owners aim for here. Flotilla neatly knits the Newcastle wining and dining scene together, with young gun Josh Thurston showcasing the art of cooking proteins and produce over fire.

    Bistro Penny is another sophisticated, hatted dining destination in Newcastle. Order the barbecued king prawns swimming in a saffron broth and the oxheart tomato salad.

    5. Newcastle nightlife

    Bartholomew's small bar in newcastle nsw
    Stop by Bartholomew’s for a drink. (Image: Destination NSW)

    As the sun dips in the west, so the city of Newcastle’s nightlife springs to life. Maru Hi-Fi is the next-gen small bar that’s redefining a night out in Newy – the sleek space serves great cocktails and embraces Newcastle’s alt attitude. Next door, Jams Karaoke & Bar is also bringing the vibes.

    If a small bar in a grand old building is more your style, check out Roxanne , Bar Mellow and Bartholomew’s .

    Start planning your Newcastle culinary coastal getaway this summer at visitnewcastle.com.au.