There’s no denying that Kiama on the NSW South Coast is a fabulous family holiday destination — but winter reveals a whole other captivating side.
There are so many fun activities and experiences for families – even during the cooler months – you’ll find yourself wanting to extend your NSW winter getaway to enjoy everything the area has to offer.
Experience the best of the kid-friendly Kiama region with these fantastic winter activities.
11 best things to do in Kiama in winter
1. Experience the free Kiama Winter Street Festival fun
If you plan to visit during the middle weekend of the July school holidays (Saturday July 12 in 2025), Kiama Winter Street Festival should be on your list! This free all ages event will feature stage shows, roaming artists, musical gardens, and eco-friendly beat workshops.
The kids can get hands-on with artmaking, immerse themselves in a laser light show and witness live art activations. This year’s festival runs from 12 pm to 8 pm in Terralong Street, Kiama.
2. See the spectacular Kiama Blowholes in action
With water spouting as high as 30 metres, the famous Kiama Blowhole is sure to evoke a few “oohs” and “ahhs” from the littlies. The natural wonder is the largest of its kind in the world.
Want to know a secret? The lesser-visited Little Kiama Blowhole is more consistent, and has an echoing “whoosh” sound. While it can be a little hard to find, we can assure you it is well worth the effort; it’s located just off Tingira Crescent, three kilometres south of town. From there, you can walk south around the headland to Easts Beach.
3. Go whale-watching along the Kiama Coast Walk
This walkway connecting the Minnamurra River with Werri Beach is a fantastic place to spot humpback and southern right whales as they make their way along the coast during their annual migration. The best time to see them is generally from May to November.
The Kiama Coast Walk stretches for around 20 kilometres alongside the Pacific Ocean, with several platforms and lookouts along the way to maximise your chances. Other highlights include the photogenic Cathedral Rocks and the striking basalt columns of Bombo Headland.
It’s possible to complete the walk in a day (around six to seven hours), but if that’s a bit too ambitious with kids you can embark on one of three shorter sections. The southern section is our favourite!
4. Sample winter produce at Kiama Farmers’ Market
Try to time your visit so you’re in town on a Wednesday to experience Kiama Farmers’ Market. Showcasing an abundance of locally-grown produce, freshly caught seafood and a variety of street treats, plus lawn games and live music. The kids will love the atmosphere and you will too. Think acai bowls, ice-cream, slinky apples (yes, that’s a thing!), donuts and even chocolate-filled fruit cups! There’s also a playground for kids to run around after their sugar fix.
The Market overlooks Kiama Surf Beach and is held from 2pm to 5pm (or 3pm to 6pm during daylight saving time). Aim to get there early to listen to the bell ringing to signal the start of trade, then grab a bite to eat and relax on the grass with an early dinner.
5. Explore the canopy at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures
Boasting the highest zipline in Australia, Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures is just a short drive inland from Kiama. Fly high above the forest floor through a magnificent tract of rainforest or take a walk through the treetops on the 500-metre-long steel bridge.
You can also soak up the spectacular views from the spiralled Knights Tower or perch on the springboard cantilevers overlooking the escarpment. Keep an eye out for miniature fairy homes in the gardens!
6. Learn about Aboriginal history on a Cultural Canoeing Tour
It’s always good to incorporate an educational element into a family holiday, so consider booking a tour with Gumaraa Aboriginal Experiences to explore Minnamurra River by canoe or on foot, with guides offering insights into the history and customs of the region’s Traditional Owners, the Dharawal and Yuin Nation, bush tucker and artefacts. The tour is suitable for kids aged five and up.
7. Enjoy food, wine and live music at Crooked River Winery
Sip a glass of your favourite drop as you nibble on a cheese platter or grazing board while watching the kids play in front of the vineyards at family-friendly Crooked River Estate at nearby Gerringong. There are lots of fun events over the cooler months, including Christmas in July and lots of live music.
As well as visiting the cellar door, where you can taste their premium reds and whites, the on-site restaurant serves up delicious meals, drawing on local produce, while the grounds provide ample space for the kids to run around or meet some of the resident farm animals. The view of rolling green hills down to the ocean is something to behold!
8. Go for a family bike ride around Kiama (and beyond!)
Pop into Kiama Cycles and hire e-bikes and helmets to go exploring the many cycleways the area has to offer. Pick up a copy of the Kiama Rides Guide to find the most family-friendly routes. There are plenty of designated bike paths, shared paths and on and off-road options.
Mountain bikers can test out Minnamurra Bike Skills Track, while if you prefer something a bit more laid back, cruise along the coastal shared paths taking in the views, perhaps stopping for a picnic lunch along the way.
9. Discover the South Coast's stunning waterfalls
If chasing waterfalls is on the agenda, you’re in luck! There are some real beauties in Budderoo National Park, which is less than an hour’s drive inland. Head to Minnamurra Rainforest Centre and take the kid-friendly walk to Minnamurra Falls, starting along the Rainforest Loop Walk ,then taking the slightly more challenging 2.6-kilometre Falls Walk.
A little further up the hill, Carrington Falls is also an impressive sight. The water drops some 50 metres into the Kangaroo River ravine, and there’s a range of rockpools, cascades and pools. Pack an esky to make the most of the picnic tables and barbecue facilities.
10. Play footgolf at Jamberoo Golf Club
While Jamberoo Action Park is closed over winter, it’s still worth heading a bit inland to the historic village, where the whole family is sure to get a kick out of playing footgolf (get it?) at Jamberoo Golf Club.
The Club was the site of the inaugural FootGolf Australian Open in 2016. The super fun game combines the sports of golf and football, with the aim of kicking a ball into a cup in as few shots as possible. Games can start on the golf course from 2pm daily.
11. Get exploring with the Kiama Passport for Kids
Kids can learn about the wildlife and nature around Kiama in a fun way with the help of The Kiama Passport for Kids. Created by local graphic designer and illustrator Melissa Mylchreest, from Rewilding Life, the 80-page activity book suggests several itineraries, including Easts Beach, Minnamurra Rainforest and Kiama Harbour.
Activities include the chance for kids to colour-in and write about their adventures as they go, a guide to the area’s flora and fauna, animal stickers, and a place for keepsakes. You can purchase a copy on Melissa’s website Rewilding Life or at the Kiama Visitor Information Centre.
Where to eat with kids
Kid-friendly eateries abound in this part of the world. Kiama Leagues Club has a games room and outdoor playground, while Kiama Golf Club also has a kids’ corner. Jamberoo Pub and Gerringong Bowling Club are also worth checking out. Or you can grab take-away fish and chips from Jaws Seafood or Saltwater Kiama and enjoy them by Kiama Harbour.
For breakfast, Diggies has a grassed area for children to play plus a ‘Little Ones’ menu, while the Quarry Café in the Burnetts Garden Centre is also a winner.
If you have a sweet tooth, there are also loads of tempting offerings. Head to The Original Ice Creamery Kiama or Cafe Kiama & Scoops Ice Creamery for an icy treat or Moist ‘n’ Glazed for delicious donuts (make sure you check out the disco button in the toilets!).
Winter accommodation in Kiama
With a beautiful beach right at its doorstep, a huge pool, epic water park and an awesome kids’ club, BIG4 Easts Beach Holiday Park Kiama is the ideal place for a fun-filled family holiday.
Surrounded by parklands, the dog-friendly Surf Beach Holiday Park also has a great pool overlooking the beach, a splash pad, games room and a playground.
Animal lovers should consider Jamberoo Valley Farm, where children can feed the alpacas and collect freshly laid eggs from the chickens.
For those kids who just want to be in the water no matter the temperature, The Lodge Jamberoo, Mercure Gerringong and Terralong Terrace Apartments all have pools.
Plan your Kiama winter getaway
Discover the best Winter deals in Kiama! Head to Destination Kiama and explore exclusive offers on accommodations, dining, and activities. Don’t miss out — plan your perfect winter getaway today.
In partnership with Destination Kiama
Opening image: A family at Surf Beach in Kiama. © Peter Izzard Photography
