Illawarra

Kiama, Gerringong and Gerroa

Only an hour and a half south of Sydney brings you to an area of lush green pastures, spectacular cliffs along the seaside and almost a dozen fabulous beaches.

Kiama itself is a vibrant historic town with many landmark buildings. A great spot to wander for the day or to catch a bite to eat.

Top 5 things to do and see

Minnamurra Rainforest

The Minnamurra Rainforest is near Jamberoo, around 15 minutes drive from Kiama. There is a 1.6km boardwalk which takes you through the subtropical landscape where you can see huge ancient fig trees, massive ferns and native lyrebirds. A part of this walk is wheelchair friendly, and it’s suitable for kids through to seniors if you just take it slowly as it’s lovely and shady. There is a longer, steeper walk for the more energetic, which takes you to the falls 2.6km.

Kiama Blowhole

An icon of Kiama, you need to visit when the tide and winds are just right (seas running from the south-east) to see the spectacular blowhole in action. Visiting the blowhole is a ‘must do’ activity for any first-time visitor and is particularly fun when you have kids with you. It’s a short walk from the town centre and there is a wheelchair accessible viewing platform.

Kiama Coast Walk

Runs from Kiama down to Werri Beach at Gerringong. You can start at either end (or in the middle) and just do a little of the walk, or walk the whole way and catch the train back to where you started. The walk takes past the Cathedral Rocks at Kiama Downs, the Kiama Blowhole and Bombo Beach, along rocky headlands and waterfront reserves and finally along the clifftops through the dairy pastures to the south of Kiama. Scenery at it’s best.

Surfing at Seven Mile Beach

Gerroa is famous for Seven Mile Beach which runs all the way down to Shoalhaven heads. There are a range of surfing schools, including weekend camps, operating in the area, ready to get you up and on your board. Great for adults or kids. You may need a wetsuit though if you wanted to surf outside of the peak summer season.

Golfing at Gerringong

There are 3 golf courses in the area (at Jamberoo, Gerringong and Kiama), but if you’ve ever driven along this stretch of coastline, it’s hard to miss the views from the top of Gerringong Golf course. Play a round whilst soaking up the coastal and mountain views. You may even spot a passing whale.

Holiday options

Kiama is an easy weekend getaway for Sydneysiders, but there is plenty to do if you have longer to stay and explore. Lots of nature-based activities, and plenty to keep the kids busy, especially if you add in a trip to the Jamberoo Action Park.

When to go?

Summer is a great time to hit the surf, however for other outdoor activities, spring and autumn may be best. Given the proximity to Sydney though, you’ll need to book ahead for weekends.

How to get there?

90 minutes south of Sydney on the Princes Highway

Just over 2 hours from Canberra, taking the Illawarra Highway to the coast.

Trains also depart from Sydney Minnamurra, Bombo, Kiama and Gerringong.

How long to go for?

At least a weekend, but to take part in our top 5 activities you’ll probably need at least a week.

Tourist Information

An annual visitors guide is published on the area, the website at www.kiama.com.au or visitor information centres at Kiama, Jamberoo and Gerringong.