Kiama Town
Even though Kiama is the largest town in the region, it still resembles the late 19th century charm of the historic seaside harbour town it once was. Kiama perfectly combines the appeal of country hospitality with the laidback lifestyle of a coastal town. The spectacular coastline, surfing beaches and national parks in the near proximity make it the perfect holiday escape. The beautiful beaches, friendly locals, great cafes, yummy restaurants and the abundance of shops will keep you entertained for days. Getting there is easy; the drive from Sydney takes about 1h45min along the Grand Pacific Drive. Alternatively, the town is also easily accessible from Sydney by train, simply change at Wollongong onto the suburban network. Nova Kiama has affordable luxury accommodation that is located within close walking distance to the station.
Kiama Coast Walk
We can proudly state that the Kiama Coast Walk is one of the best walking trails in New South Wales, if not the whole of Australia. The walk stretching 22 kilometers has it all; spectacular ocean views, ancient rock formations, beautiful unspoilt beaches and captivating heritage. The Kiama Coast Walk is divided into three sections and you can choose to do one, two or all three. The first section begins at the mouth of the Minnamurra River to Kiama Blowhole and takes roughly 3 hours, the second section from Kiama Blowhole to Loves Bay takes around 1,5 hours and the final section from Loves Bay to Gerringong’s Werri Beach takes approximately 2 hours. You can complete the full track in 6-7 hours, depending on your fitness level and the number of stops you decide to take.
Kiama Markets
If you’re into your markets, Kiama is the place to be! Every month, there are different markets for you to browse, bag bargains or pick up supplies for dinner! Kiama Seaside Markets take place on Black Beach, 9am-3pm, 3rd Sunday of each month (plus a few extra dates). With over 100 stalls, these markets are the biggest in the region. You can find everything from handcrafted arts & crafts, locally designed clothing and food. The Kiama Makers & Growers Markets are also at Black Beach, every 4th Saturday, 9-2pm (10-3pm during winter). This smaller market features items grown or made by stallholders such as gourmet food and produce. A lovely way to spend a Saturday morning.
Kiama Blowhole
The name ‘Kiama’ derives from the Aboriginal word ‘kiarama’ which means ‘place where the sea makes noise’. And this completely makes sense when you visit Kiama’s most famous natural attraction; Kiama Blowhole. The blowhole located next to Kiama lighthouse was formed from basalt lava flows 260 million years ago and has been attracting people to town since the late 19th century. In a south easterly swell, the sea powerfully sprays from the blowhole high up in the air. Another blowhole ‘Little Blowhole’ is located about 2km south of town, and is most active in a north easterly swell. Both blowholes are located on the Kiama Coast Walk so make sure to have your camera ready. Nova Kiama Hotel is located near Kiama Blowhole; either a 10 minute walk or a 4 minute drive. The choice is yours.
Whale Watching
Every year from May to July, about 20,000 humpback and right whales make the journey from the cold waters of Antarctica to the tropical waters of the Queensland, where they breed and have their babies. They can then be seen again a few months after from September to November when they migrate back down with their calves. There are a number of vantage points within the region with great whale watching potential. These include Blowhole Point, Bombo Headland, Marsden Headland (just past the Little Blowhole), the whale watching platform in Gerringong (located near the cemetery on Belinda Street) and the headland further south, as well as Black Head Reserve at Gerroa.
Surfing
With an abundance of excellent surf beaches in the close vicinity, Kiama is the perfect base for a surfing trip away. In the recent years, Kiama has also become home to a variety of high profile surfing events, putting the area on the international surfing map. Just to name a few of our favourite surf spots: Mystics Beach (amazing surf when conditions align), Jones Beach (right in between Minnamurra Headland and Cathedral Rocks), Boneyard (pristine bay perfect for swimming, and a right-hand reef break for surfing), North Bombo Beach (sheltered from northeast winds), Surf Beach (main surfing beach in Kiama), Kendalls Beach (great for swimming and protected from the southerly breeze) and Seven Mile Beach (flat beach perfect for swimming and surfing – all levels and all ages).
Jamberoo Action Park
Jamberoo Action Park is located a 15 minute drive from Nova Kiama. NSW’s largest family owned and operated water theme park features world class rides and attractions; great for a family day out in the Kiama region. Jamberoo Action Park is set in a beautiful area with great scenery of rolling green hills all around. Admission into the park covers all rides and attractions and parking is free, so you can experience all that Jamberoo Action Park has to offer all day long without extra charge. There are a variety of places to eat but with barbecues provided, you can also bring your own food. There are plenty of great shaded areas with chairs and tables provided, perfect for hot summer days. Planning a family weekend away? Have a look at our Nova Kiama family rooms and book your stay easily online.