There’s something especially charming about travelling by train when the journey is just as much a part of the experience as the destination. That’s certainly the case on one of the state’s most picturesque heritage rail trips, which swaps Sydney’s everyday commuter routes for wild national parks, turquoise coastline and sweeping ocean views. The popular Kiama Picnic Train is returning this October, bringing its vintage steam locomotive and heritage carriages back to the tracks for a limited run of spring journeys down the South Coast. Along the way, passengers can watch the scenery shift from Sydney suburbia to dense bushland and sparkling stretches of the Pacific before arriving in the seaside town of Kiama. Here’s everything you need to know before climbing aboard.
On board the Kiama Picnic Train
Pairing a steam locomotive with restored heritage carriages and offering several different ways to travel, the train is part of the experience itself. Depending on the ticket, passengers can book everything from private compartments and traditional booth seating to lounge and dining cars, with tables available in most sections. You can bring your own picnic and drinks for the journey, while a buffet car serves coffee, snacks and other refreshments on board. There are also more elaborate dining options available on selected services, including a High Tea experience.
The route becomes increasingly scenic as it leaves Sydney with the railway winding through the Royal National Park and continuing south towards the Illawarra. One of the most memorable stretches comes as the line emerges near the coast, with stunning views across the Pacific, forested escarpment and seaside communities below. Unlike driving the Grand Pacific Drive, passengers can simply settle in and watch the landscape unfold from the window as the train makes its way through Wollongong and the coastal towns of the Illawarra before reaching Kiama.
Passengers then have several hours to spend in Kiama before the return trip. The station puts you within walking distance of the town centre, waterfront and the world-famous Blowhole, while beaches, coastal trails, cafes and shops are clustered nearby. You’ll have enough time to grab lunch, walk down to the harbour or explore some of the town before heading back to the station for the journey to Sydney.
Key details
- Dates: October 24–25, 2026
- Departure: Tempe at 8.45am, with pickups at Sutherland and Wollongong
- Arrival in Kiama: Around 12.35pm
- Return journey: Departs Kiama at 4.20pm, arriving back in Sydney/Tempe around 7.30pm
- Tickets: From $260 for two; four-seat booths from $360 and private compartments from $550
- On board: Buffet car with snacks and drinks; passengers are encouraged to bring their own picnic hampers
- Bookings: Available through The Picnic Train website
Find more information on the Kiama Picnic Train website.
