Summer is the best time to plan a trip, and what’s not to love about a little getaway right in your backyard? Kiama is a sun-soaked coastal town brimming with emerald beaches, some of the best coastal walks in NSW, vibrant seaside markets, and breezy cafes by the sea. Rich in natural wonders and volcanic landscapes, Kiama is at its best in summer, punctuated with picture-perfect views and plenty of outdoor adventure for nature lovers, plus eateries and historic buildings peppered along its charming main street. Best of all, it’s a hop, skip, and jump from Sydney and easily accessible by public transport. Here’s how to spend the perfect summer day in Kiama.
Things to do in Kiama this summer
A perennial South Coast favourite and a repeat entry on Australia’s top tourism towns, Kiama is a playground for summer lovers, with a stacked variety of things to do. No trip here is complete without seeing the famous Kiama Blowhole, the largest of its kind in the world. Watch as waves crash against the rocks, sending a dramatic spray of seawater into the air. For more natural wonders in the area, make sure to check out the Little Blowhole, past the lighthouse just down the road, or head to Cathedral Rocks, and see towering rock formations rising out of the ocean. Bombo Headland is another geological marvel, a series of hexagonal basalt columns formed millions of years ago by volcanic activity.
Kiama is fittingly home to some of the best beaches in the region, with a spot to suit every beachgoer’s tastes. Kendall’s Beach is perfect for families with calm, clear waters, while Surf Beach offers excellent waves for those looking to catch a few. If you’re after something more secluded, Easts Beach is a beautiful hidden gem with soft, golden sands and sparkling turquoise waters, ideal for a leisurely swim or simply unwinding in the sun. The famous Kiama Coastal Walk deserves to be high up on your itinerary. Spanning 20km, the trail is touted as one of the best hikes in NSW, winding past lush cliffs, postcard-perfect beaches, gentle rolling hills, and ocean views nearly the whole way through.
For a deeper dive into Kiama’s past, head to the Pilot’s Cottage Museum, where you’ll find fascinating exhibits on the town’s maritime history and its early days as a bustling port, or pop into Sevenmarks Gallery for an array of stunning contemporary art pieces.
Other ways to enjoy the town
If all that adventure isn’t your idea of a relaxing time away, Kiama also has a vibrant cafe scene with a bevy of waterside eateries, laidback bars, and quality restaurants, plus boutiques, galleries, and beautiful vintage architecture along its main street.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Terralong Street, Kiama’s lively main strip lined with cafes and restaurants just a short walk from the water. Grab breakfast and delicious coffee at Saltwater Cafe, or stop by The Hungry Monkey for kitchy decor, handcrafted burgers, and a buzzy street atmosphere. For honey-coloured sea views, make your way to Penny Whistlers and dig into locally sourced fresh foods, or stop by The Farmer’s Table for aromatic baked treats and a cuppa.
You have a selection of fine dining options to choose from. Overlooking Kiama’s Surf Beach, Silica serves up some of the region’s freshest seafood with a side of glittering water views, while Miss Arda is the spot to go for tasty cocktails and Middle Eastern-inspired cuisine. Little Betty’s is another local favourite for wine, music, and a moody vibe perfect for date night.
For a local shopping experience, time your visit on the third Sunday of the month for the Kiama Seaside Markets and shop from over 150 stalls selling everything from fashion and handmade jewellery to art, homewares, and hot food, the perfect way to spend a sunny weekend by the water. Read more about Kiama and find accomodation options here.
Getting there
Travelling to Kiama is easier and breezier than a lot of stellar spots along the NSW coast, like Yamba and Brunswick Heads. Just a 90-minute drive from Sydney along the stunning Grand Pacific Drive, the town is also easily accessible by public transport with regular train services from Central Station to Kiama, taking just around 2 hours. Once you’re there, most of its best attractions are within walking distance or a quick drive away, and parking around the beaches and town centre is generally easy to find. It’s also an excellent base for exploring nearby and relatively under-the-radar hidden gems like Gerringong and Gerroa if you want to get more out of your trip. Plan your summer trip on Transport for NSW.