From where to eat, what to do and when to go, here’s everything you need to know about taking a trip to Kiama on the NSW South Coast.
Best time to go
Keen surfers won’t let the cooler weather turn them off but the water can get very cold during winter. Beachy getaways to the South Coast will be most enjoyable between October-April. This is also when the weekend markets and events start to take place.
The South Coast is fantastic for whale watching. Visiting between June-July and September-November will give you the best chance to see these beautiful creatures on their migration path.
Nature-loving families will enjoy getting outdoors during the cooler months. Super hot days can make hiking pretty unpleasant, so the mild weather during Spring, Autumn and early/late winter is a great time to take on those long coastal and rainforest walks.
Must-see sights
On land and sea, Kiama has tonnes of exciting things to see. Here are a few must-sees and do’s:
- Get sprayed by the Kiama Blowhole, and check out its smaller siblings, Little Blowhole.
- Wander around Cathedral Rocks at low-tide or snap a sunset pic from the headland.
- Wander along Seven Mile Beach.
- Graze the yummy local produce at Kiama Farmers Market.
- Take on part of the Kiama Coast Walk.
Free things to do
The South Coast is famous for its natural marvels so most of the top sights in Kiama are free. Spend a morning wandering through Kiama Boat Harbour checking out the flashy yachts and fishing spots.
Take a dip in one of Kiama’s rock pools. Blowhole Rock Point Pool is a great spot to search for sea urchins while the larger Olympic rock pool provides a dramatic backdrop for lap swimmers as the waves crash over the sea wall. The rock pools can get quite deep during high tide so keep an eye on less confident swimmers.
If you have a car, set off on a scenic drive around the South Coast peninsula. Tourist drive #9 will take you to Minnamurra Rainforest, Barren Grounds Nature Reserve and Carrington Falls. You can reach Seven Mile National Park on route #6 and the wineries along tourist drive #5. Head up to Saddleback Mountain or Mount Pleasant Lookout to soak up the stunning South Coast scenery.
Places to eat
Grazing as you wander through the Kiama Farmers Market is a good way to fill hungry tummies and sample the local produce.
The Hungry Monkey is a local favourite, known for their delicious burgers and great coffee. Kids have plenty of options with their own dedicated menu but the Cheeky Monkey Burger is a no-brainer.
For a quick bite, Flour Water Salt. You may have trouble choosing between flaky pastries, delicious pies and loads of sweets, so you better get one of each. Tucked away near the harbour, just off Main Street, it’s an affordable, filling lunch option.
For an easy evening meal, Sails Bistro at Kiama Leagues Club serves classic pub-style dishes with a view of the ocean. Parents can relax while the kids hang out in the play areas.
Events
Kiama Farmers’ Market runs every Wednesday afternoon. Stock up on fresh fruit & veg, jams & preserves, cakes & pastries and more.
The Kiama Fun Run promises a family great day out in July with an awesome community atmosphere. Whether you walk, jog or run, the Kiama Coastal Walk provides a breathtaking backdrop to your journey.
Take a peek into Kiama’s vibrant art scene on the Kiama Arts Trail. On the first weekend of every month from 10am-4pm, local artists open their studios to showcase their latest work and inspire the next generation of creative kids.
The Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival will be taking place on the second weekend of March. Get your boogie on to Swing, Honky Tonk, Jazz and Blues hits from the best local acts. The Gerringong Surf Music festival is the place to be in May for a chilled out coastal experience.
Folk by the Sea is a free three-day festival in September, featuring the sounds of folk, world, roots, bluegrass and gypsy music.
READ MORE
Why you need to take a trip to Kiama
Things to do with kids in Kiama (by age)
Kids view: Top 5 things to do in Kiama
I was blessed with parents who really saw the value in travel. After our first family trip abroad to Thailand, I became obsessed. I was hungry for anything new and different. I yearned to be in the middle of a city on the other side of the world with a suitcase in one hand and google maps in the other, stumbling around trying to figure out where I was going; literally and spiritually.