Kiama

Kiama, a coastal gem on the New South Wales South Coast, is famous for its dramatic blowholes, rolling green hills, and a laid-back surf-town vibe that makes it an irresistible detour on any Sydney-to-Melbourne road trip. The town’s name means “where the sea makes a noise” in the local Aboriginal language – and you’ll hear that roar the moment you step onto the headland.

Highlights & What to See

• Kiama Blowhole – The town’s star attraction, this natural rock formation shoots seawater up to 25 metres into the air. For a more dramatic show, visit on a rough sea day.
• Little Blowhole – A quieter, less crowded alternative south of town; equally impressive when conditions are right.
• Kiama Harbour – Watch fishing boats come and go, grab fish and chips, and stroll the boardwalk. The historic lighthouse adds a postcard-perfect backdrop.
• Bombo Headland & Quarry – A surreal landscape of hexagonal basalt columns, used as a filming location for movies like Mad Max: Fury Road. Great for photography and geology buffs.
• Kiama Coastal Walk – A stunning 22-kilometre path linking Kiama to Gerringong, passing beaches, cliffs, and rainforest remnants. Even a short 2–3 km section rewards with ocean views.
• Kiama Farmers Market – Held every Wednesday and Saturday, it’s a feast of local produce, artisan cheeses, and freshly shucked oysters.

Suggested Time to Spend

Kiama works beautifully as a day trip from Sydney (1.5 hours drive), but an overnight stay lets you soak up the coastal walks and sunset over the harbour. If you’re self-driving the Grand Pacific Drive, allow at least 3–4 hours to hit the blowholes, explore Bombo Headland, and grab a meal at the harbour. For a more relaxed pace, a weekend gives you time to walk sections of the coastal path and explore the hinterland villages.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Jamberoo – A charming village in the lush hinterland, home to the Jamberoo Action Park and scenic rainforest walks.
• Gerringong – A quieter coastal town with excellent surf beaches and the Gerringong to Kiama coastal walk.
• Berry – A historic town known for its boutique shops, cafés, and the famous Berry Donut Van. Perfect for a pit stop.
• Kangaroo Valley – A stunning valley with the historic Hampden Bridge, canoeing on the river, and bushwalking through rainforest.
• Shoalhaven Coast – Continue south to the white sands of Hyams Beach (Jervis Bay) or the wine region around Shoalhaven Heads.

Please check official sources for current details.