Blessed with beautiful beaches and home to the world’s largest blowhole, the pretty town of Kiama has long been a NSW family holiday favourite.
Just 90 minutes from Sydney on the NSW South Coast, this seaside paradise is a place to unwind, unplug and connect. With some of the best beaches, national parks and outdoor attractions in New South Wales, visiting Kiama with kids is a great way to escape the daily grind.
During the day, wander through Kiama’s bustling main street lined with cafes and shops. A quick drive away, you’ll find award-winning wineries, sustainable farms and thrilling outdoor adventure parks.
At night, don’t forget to step outside and look up to enjoy amazing star-gazing opportunities, away from city lights.
Read on to discover Kiama’s best family attractions and activities.
21 family-friendly things to do in Kiama, NSW
If you’re planning a Kiama getaway with the kids, here are some of the top fun things to do:
1. Kiama Kids' Scavenger Hunt
Before you get started, why not make your little explorers feel like they are on a mini-expedition? Just download the free Kiama Checklist for Clever Kids from Destination Kiama.
Each of the 22 challenges is designed to keep young visitors curious and excited throughout their South Coast holiday. Work together as a team or let siblings compete to find a stick that looks like the letter Y, hunt for a shell with a spiral shape on it, and spot three different playgrounds with slides (then slide down them all!)
The PDF checklist can be saved to a tablet, phone, or printed off for a technology free-escape. Feel free to add some of your own scavenger hunt items as well – if you’re visiting Kiama in winter, who will be the first to spot a whale?
2. Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures
Boasting the highest zipline in Australia, Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures is just a short drive inland from Kiama. There’s plenty to explore in this lush rainforest setting – whether you want to keep your feet on the ground or not.
An easy 1500 metre walk through the rainforest along the Illawarra Escarpment is suitable for all age groups. Littlies can also solve puzzles on a scavenger hunt to discover magical fairy and elf houses positioned throughout the rainforest.
Older kids can fly high above the forest floor through a magnificent tract of rainforest or take a walk through the treetops on the 500m-long steel bridge, soak up the spectacular views from the spiralled Knights Tower or perch on the springboard cantilevers overlooking the escarpment.
3. Kiama Blowholes
A must-visit on the South Coast is Blowhole Point, home of the famous Kiama Blowhole and a good vantage point from which to get your bearings with 360 degree views. It’s worth grabbing a car park nearby to wait and witness the Blowhole, formed from volcanic lava flows about 260 million years ago, and best viewed in south east winds.
When the right-sized swell rolls in, the blowhole can ‘spout’ up to 25 metres of water, drawing thrills and laughter from onlookers of all ages. A five-minute drive away is the Little Blowhole in Tingira Crescent where more spurting water shoots skyward, best viewed when there’s a northeast wind.
4. Explore historic Kiama and Gerringong
The streets of Kiama have maintained their coastal and regional charm, with a number of original heritage buildings and structures including the Memorial Arch, first unveiled on Anzac Day in 1925; the Post Office of 1878 and Kiama Court House of 1860. A number of historic terrace houses run along Collins Street, first built as modest housing for local quarry workers in 1886.
The Kiama Lighthouse, built in 1887, stands proud on the headland at Blowhole Point. A stroll around nearby Gerringong also reveals more character-filled heritage buildings and lifestyle shops as well as chic eateries.
5. Visit the Kiama region's best beaches
For diverse beachcombing-scapes to explore as a family, the Kiama area exceeds expectations. Want white sandy beaches and space to roam? Head to Kendall’s Beach in Kiama, Werri Beach in Gerringong or Seven Mile Beach in Gerroa – just to name a few. Surfing lessons for the young and young at heart await. For a tucked-away Hawaiian-esque pebble beach with grassy picnicking areas? Head to Boneyard.
No need to head overseas if you are looking for stunning turquoise water where the river meets the ocean. Instead, head to Mystics Beach. While you’re there, find a path in the bush behind you, and 20 steps later you’re on a sandy beach lining the Minnamurra River – with an entirely new view!
6. Winter whale watching
If you’re keen to see whales, visit Kiama between May and November when the annual humpback migration north from Antarctica occurs. The best vantage points on land can be found along Kiama Coast Walk: Blowhole Point, Bombo Headland, Marsden Headland, Minnamurra Whale-Watching Platform and Black Head Reserve.
Prefer to be on the water? Don’t be fooled by the name of local company Dolphin Watch Cruises – they meet with many larger mammals when out and about.
7. Minnamurra Rainforest Centre
For some inner calm, head to the Minnamurra Rainforest Centre, where the only sounds come from the lyrebirds and whipbirds and occasional flowing streams. Meander along the easy-grade 1.6-kilometre loop walk (it’s pram and wheelchair accessible) past trees covered in ancient vines and giant boulders in creek beds crossed via Indiana-Jones style netted bridges.
There is a longer and steeper walk option, the Falls Walk, which is a continuation of the Loop Walk along the canyon cliff edge to the Minnamurra Falls. After taking in the spectacular views over the rainforest canopy and stunning waterfall, visitors can recharge at the Rainforest Centre’s café.
8. Jamberoo Action Park
Jamberoo Action Park is the largest family-owned and operated water park in NSW, with a giant wave pool, waterslides and play areas to suit all ages. Older kids can brave the Taipan and the Funnel Web while younger ones will love the giant water bucket and gentle slides of Banjo’s Billabong. If you prefer to stay dry, you can soak up the South Coast views from the chairlift or enjoy a game of mini-golf, with the Jamberoo Express train making it easy to get around the park. The park is open from October to April.
9. Kiama Coast Walk
Stretching approximately 20km alongside the Pacific Ocean, the Kiama Coast Walk connects the Minnamurra River with Werri Beach. It combines sealed paths with grassy tracks and beach strolls, and there are public toilets, drinking fountains and barbecues dotting the route. It’s possible to complete the entire walk in a single day (around 6 to 7 hours) or you can embark on one of three shorter sections.
Highlights include the famous Kiama Blowhole and photogenic Cathedral Rocks, as well as the striking basalt columns of Bombo Headland, and not to mention the rolling green cliff top walking track that gets you on to Gerringong.
10. Kiama Farmers' Market
Every Wednesday, the Kiama Farmers’ Market takes place in Coronation Park overlooking the sands of Kiama Surf Beach. It’s held from 3-6pm during daylight saving and 2-5pm the rest of the year, with locally grown produce, freshly caught seafood and a variety of street food for sale. 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. There’s even a playground for kids!
11. Buena Vista Farm
For a hands-on farm-to-table experience, head to Buena Vista Farm, a sustainably run property to the south of Gerringong. You can learn how to make everything from sourdough bread to natural yoghurt, jams and pickles, followed by a long-table lunch in the sunshine. Their Bean to Barista workshop delves into the art of making coffee and there are dedicated cheesemaking and fermenting courses on offer. Kids will particularly love the farm tours, which include encounters with the resident hens, ducks and dairy goats.
12. The Collective Beat indoor market
The Collective Beat is an eclectic indoor marketplace showcasing products from over 90 local businesses. Handmade goods abound in this shopping spot, including homewares, jewellery, wall art and textiles. Bask in the feel-good factor of supporting local creators while you shop for gifts or pick up some travel mementos that are uniquely Kiama.
13. Learn to surf
The South Coast has nurtured professional surfers including Ali Day and Sally Fitzgibbons, with reliable waves both north and south of Kiama. But if you’re just starting out, it’s also a great place to learn, with several surf schools offering tuition with experienced professionals.
The kids can ride their first waves with former pro surfer Rusty Moran at the Gerringong Surf School, or book a lesson with Surf Camp Australia at Seven Mile Beach. Surfing not your thing? Why not join Land’s Edge Foundation’s Coastal Explorer, and try your hand at kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding or snorkelling in Kiama Harbour?
14. The Bead Shack workshops
Kids can learn to make jewellery, sun catchers, key charms, bookmarks and more during a one-hour workshop at The Bead Shack in Gerringong. Participants choose from a bowl of glitzy or wooden beads and put together their own creation, with guidance from the team of teachers. Family and group workshops are also offered.
15. Crooked River Wines Gerringong
With stunning views over vineyards and on to the ocean, Gerringong’s Crooked River Wines is a family-owned winery that’s won multiple awards. Aside from visiting the cellar door, where you can taste their premium reds and whites, the onsite 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.
If you time your visit right, you can participate in the Stomping of the Grapes in February, the annual Winter Wine Festival, or celebrate the start of spring with a memorable day spent sipping wine and listening to live music.
16. Cafe Kiama & Scoops Ice Creamery
Whether you’re after a much-needed afternoon coffee or ice cream fix, Cafe Kiama (in the heart of town) ticks all the right boxes. The staff are super friendly and fun, as demonstrated by the pink flamingo uniforms they wear. The menu also features creamy milkshakes and healthy smoothies, hotdogs, waffles and pancakes, all just a stone’s throw from the playground and Kiama Harbour.
17. Kayak, SUP, fish or snorkel
Surfing not your thing? Try your hand at kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding or snorkelling in Kiama Harbour. Toddlers will love wading in the shallows and fossicking for shells at Werri Lagoon, framed on one side by surf and on the other, more sloping green fields.
The Minnamurra River is another great spot to get out on the water. Enjoy an afternoon of paddling and fishing, sprawl out on the sandy beach, play games and tuck into a fabulous picnic.
18. Soul Clay Studios kids' classes
Kids and teens can take a ceramics workshop at Soul Clay Studios in Gerringong, owned by local artist and former high school teacher Zeynep Testoni. The colourful and lively Zeynep typically runs adult pottery classes, but has expanded into kids’ activities during the school holidays. The warehouse space also allows local ceramics artists to display and sell their work, so be sure to allocate some browsing time.
19. Gardens, walks and nature reserves
Barren Grounds Nature Reserve is also a must-see for wildflowers (in season during spring), coastline views and the 2.6 kilometre Illawarra Lookout Walk.
Bonaira Native Gardens offers a peaceful atmosphere with native plants, while the short drive to the Spring Creek Wetlands and Bird Hide is worth it to watch waterbirds, cormorants, chicks, moorhens, coots and swans in their natural environment. For animal encounters, take a trip to the Kiama Harbour to see pelicans trying to get a free feed out of the fisherman.
20. Jamberoo Pub and Johnny Warren Museum
The Jamberoo Pub and Johnny Warren Museum is a short 25-minute drive from the heart of Kiama. The family-owned and operated traditional Aussie pub has been the watering hole for locals since 1857. Soccer fans should check out the unique collection of memorabilia celebrating former Socceroo and SBS commentator Johnny Warren. The pub is co-owned by his nephew, Jamie Warren, who’s taken up the mantle of keeping this venue’s character alive. Catch live music in the beer garden on Sundays between 2 and 5pm.
21. KISS Arts Fest
For those who love to create, you’ll be glad to hear the Kiama area has a vibrant art community. The annual KISS Arts Fest is the highlight, featuring international acts, local talent, unique experiences and pure entertainment. Expect lanterns, lampposts, laughter, art, music, circus troupes, hula-hoops and more at this iconic family-friendly festival.
Visiting at another time of year? Don’t worry, there’s always a class, hands on workshop, exhibition or event to check out. From painting to pottery to animation and so much more, check out Kiama’s upcoming art events for the chance to mingle with friendly (and creative) locals.
Where to stay in Kiama with kids
Discover some of Kiama’s most popular family accomodation picks:
BIG4 Easts Beach Holiday Park
BIG4 Easts Beach Holiday Park is an excellent base for a South Coast holiday, offering oodles of fun things for kids to do. As well as the Krazy Kidz Club running on weekends and NSW school holidays, there’s also an amazing water park and an indoor playground for kids (including Little Monkeys Play Corner for littlies and a games room to keep tweens and teens satisfied).
Mercure Gerringong Resort
Mercure Gerringong Resort is an award-winning boutique hotel 10 minutes from Kiama’s beaches and attractions. Leisure facilities include two swimming pools, a tennis court, day spa and Bella Char Restaurant and Wine Bar. Spacious balcony king rooms feature a partial kitchenette (including kettle and microwave), plus a flat-screen TV with free in-room movies. Interconnecting rooms are available to accommodate large families and groups.
More information
Main image: Family fun at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures. © Ben Holgate
Content contributors: Elisa Elwin, Katrina Holden, Dan Campbell
