Kiama Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Kiama, Australia? This comprehensive travel guide offers insights into the best things to do, places to stay, and local customs to help you make the most of your trip.


Introduction to Kiama

Nestled in Illawarra, New South Wales, Kiama draws visitors from afar for its stunning coastal scenery, natural parks, and beaches. It’s a beautiful escape that caters to everyone from solo travelers and couples to families with children. Whether you’re keen on outdoor adventures, or simply looking to relax by the beach, Kiama offers the perfect blend of fun, relaxation, and adventure.

List of Places to Visit in Kiama

No matter what your travel interests are, Kiama has plenty to offer. Here are some of the best places to visit in Kiama:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Kiama’s rich history is reflected in the numerous museums and historical sites dotted across the town. We recommend visiting:

  • The Kiama Lighthouse
  • The Pilots Cottage Museum
  • The Kiama Blowhole
  • Jamberoo Abbey

Natural Attractions of Kiama: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kiama is blessed with some of the most beautiful natural parks and beaches in New South Wales. Here are some of the must-visit natural attractions while in Kiama:

  • Seven Mile Beach National Park
  • Kiama Coastal Walk
  • Killalea State Park
  • Minnamurra Rainforest

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kiama

Kiama is a perfect base for hiking and biking enthusiasts who are keen on exploring the surrounding natural beauty. Here are some of the best hiking/biking routes in Kiama:

  • The Minnamurra Rainforest Walk
  • Kiama Coastal Walk
  • The Budderoo National Park
  • Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area

Best Things to Do in Kiama: Activities and Tours

Kiama has no shortage of exciting activities that cater to everyone from thrill-seekers to those who prefer a leisurely pace. Here are some of the best things to do in Kiama:

  • Surfing and beach activities
  • Whale watching tours
  • Kayaking
  • Stand-up paddleboarding

Week-Long Itinerary for Kiama

If you’re planning to spend a week in Kiama, here’s a comprehensive itinerary to help you make the best of your time while engaging in different activities:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival and Beach-time
Day 2 Explore the local culture and history
Day 3 Adventure Day - hiking, biking, or kayaking
Day 4 Visiting nearby town of Jamberoo
Day 5 Whale watching tour
Day 6 Relaxation day - beach, spa treatments
Day 7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Kiama

Kiama’s food and drink scene is also worth exploring, with plenty of local delicacies and drinks on offer, reflecting the rich local culture.

Must-Try Dishes

Some of the must-try dishes while in Kiama include:

  • Fish and chips
  • Oysters
  • Burger with beetroot

Local Beverages

Here are some of the local beverages you should try:

  • Kiama-based coffee roasters, Little Blowhole Coffee
  • Boutique beer from The Pines Kiama
  • Wines from the Silos Estate vineyard

Where to Stay in Kiama: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kiama has no shortage of accommodations, catering to a wide range of budgets and preferences. Some of the best options include:

  • The Sebel Kiama Harbourside
  • Kendalls on the Beach Holiday Park
  • Nova Kiama

What to Buy in Kiama: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you want to bring home some souvenirs and local products as a memory of your trip, here are some worth considering:

  • Local handicrafts and art items
  • Kiama’s Little Blowhole souvenirs
  • Regional wines from the wine tasting tours

Local Culture and Customs of Kiama

Kiama is a friendly community that treasures its customs and traditions. Here are some things to keep in mind while here:

  • Respect the local culture and sensitive areas like burial grounds and heritage sites.
  • Dress appropriately and respect local norms
  • Kiama is iconic for its friendly locals- say hello!

Best Time to Visit Kiama

Kiama has something to offer year-round, but the best time to visit is from autumn to early spring (March to May) when the crowds have thinned out, and the weather is cooler but still enjoyable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kiama

Here are some things to keep in mind while visiting Kiama:

Do:

  • Carry sunscreen and drinking water at all times.
  • Take back your litter.
  • Surf mid-peeling tides.

Don’t:

  • For the safety of your family, swim in any of the town’s unsupervised beaches.
  • Disobey “No Go Zones” during high tide, the crashing waves can push people off platforms and rocks.
  • Forget to sample the local beer.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kiama

Overall, Kiama is a safe and tranquil location to visit. However, be mindful of beach safety and observe local Beach Safety flags, indicating surf and current conditions, to avoid dangerous rip currents.

Health in Kiama

Kiama has a clinic, a pharmacy, and a hospital and visitors can easily seek medical attention if needed. Kiama is also home to yoga studios, spas, and wellness retreats for visitors interested in holistic treatments.

Getting to Kiama: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kiama

The closest airport to Kiama is the Sydney Airport. From the airport, you can catch a shuttle, bus, or train to Kiama.

Bus Stations Near Kiama

Kiama has a central bus terminal with regular buses to nearby cities like Wollongong and Sydney.

Other Options

Another excellent way to get into Kiama is via a pleasant and scenic drive through the Illawarra highway. This option allows you to enjoy the beautiful landscape along the coastline.

How to Get Around in Kiama

Kiama is a pedestrian-friendly location, and it’s easy to navigate on foot. Alternatively, you can also use buses, trains, and taxis to get around the town.

Where to Go Next from Kiama: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of the surrounding areas while in Kiama, here are some nearby destinations and excursions worth considering:

  • The Royal National Park
  • Wollongong
  • Jervis Bay

Conclusion

Kiama is a perfect destination for tourists looking to escape from their busy schedules and enjoy the natural beauty of Australia. It’s a serene and tranquil location offering visitors plenty of outdoor activities, scenic views, and delicious local meals. A week-long trip is ideal to explore the best that Kiama and the surrounding areas have to offer.

The Little Blowhole The Little Blowhole