A 2024 Top Tourism Town Awards Winner
For a while, Kiama was the Illawarra’s best-kept secret, but now the word is out Australia-wide. It’s an amazing place, and we’re fortunate to have it right here on our doorstep.
With breathtaking beaches, scenic nature walks, excellent dining, drinking, and shopping options, as well as plenty of fun activities, it’s difficult not to fall in love with Kiama.
Here’s The Fold’s guide to this gem of a town in the Illawarra.
Great Outdoors
Probably one of the most iconic [and awesome things] to do in Kiama is visit the famous Kiama Blowhole. It’s actually the largest blowhole in the world and has had water recorded at over 30 metres in height… woah! Your best bet is to time your visit for a windy-ish day and see it really put on a show. In Kiama, you’ll also find the ‘little blowhole’. This one’s a bit trickier to find, between Kendalls Beach and Easts Beach and although it’s not as well-known as the big one, it still puts on a pretty good show.
Continuing with the famous theme, the Kiama Coast Walk is also very well known around these parts and is probably considered a rite of passage for many. Spanning all the way from the Minnamurra River down to the centre of town, check out the guide here.
If you’re a keen photographer then you’ll love Cathedral Rocks in Kiama Downs for some gorgeous snaps as well as Bombo Headland which is only a 20-minute walk or short drive from there.
And of course, we can’t forget all of Kiama’s awesome beaches, it’s a surfer’s delight. Jones Beach is worth stopping for a paddle as well as Boneyard, which despite the name is actually a great spot for picnicking, snorkelling and even getting the SUP out.
Retail Therapy
Kiama is a shoppers’ paradise with streets lined with loads of lovely boutique and specialty shops.
Grab some fresh new threads as well as some cool bits and bobs at Deer Willow on Manning Street or lock your eyes on something irresistible at Bombo Clothing Co in Collins St. For the kiddies a stop in at Toyworld Kiama is a must and for the keen surfers Zink Surf is the place to go.
For a bit of everything [and more] we absolutely love The Collective Beat which is basically an indoor marketplace filled with local and small businesses selling a huge range of wonderful things. From pets to pampering and everything in between.
For the bibliophiles among us [guilty as charged], you’ve got to drop by The Bookshop Kiama. Established in 1992, it’s filled with interesting and unique reads. Or if you want to combine books with another one of our great loves [coffee, of course], we adore visiting Bouquiniste, a café and bookstore in one.
Kiama is also home to fab markets including the Seaside Markets which run every 3rd Sunday of the month and the Farmers Markets which are held every Wednesday from 3pm – 6pm.
And for even more retail inspo [trust us, there’s heaps] check out our Kiama shopping directory here.
Wining & Dining
We highly doubt anyone leaves Kiama without a full and happy tummy, thanks to the many spots around town to enjoy delicious food and drinks.
Mornings [and afternoons] are always a vibe at Diggies where you can get some mighty fine coffee and food every day of the week. Speaking of top-notch coffee and eats, we also recommend Penny Whistlers Cafe—their stunning views over Kiama Harbour are a treat on their own.
And you can’t think of Kiama without thinking of fish and chippies. Fish Vibes Jones Beach is an excellent spot to get your lips around some crunchy battered goodness AND they even offer gluten-free versions of all their faves, oh yeah!
We’re also fans of Saltwater Kiama for their fresh fish and chips as well as burgers, schnitties, salads and more. Ooh and speaking of burgers, a visit to Stacks Eatery in Kiama Downs is also a must, we can’t go past their Classic Burger but they’ve also got a great menu filled with all the cafe faves.
If you happen to find yourself in Kiama on a weekend morning then stop into Slow Dough on Bong Bong St for a tasty pastry, a cuppa and a lovely fresh loaf for later.
And for us evening folk, Kiama has a great selection of bars with tasty tipple and delish bites like El Corazon, Little Betty’s, Miss Arda and Yves at The Sebel. We also love a visit to Kiama Leagues Club for a classic night out.
For even more drool-worthy Kiama dining options, check out our directory here.
Arts & Culture
Creativity thrives in Kiama, and we love soaking it up every time we visit. The Old Fire Station Community Arts Centre in the heart of town hosts a new exhibition every week. One of our favourite things is checking out the latest look of Daisy the cow out front. She’s basically a Kiama legend.
Kiama Art Gallery is a friendly home-based gallery in Kiama Downs and the Kiama Art Society runs regular workshops and events all throughout the year.
Kiama Leagues Club have live music every Saturday night and Sunday arvos and film buffs should head to Kiama Library for their monthly free film screenings held on a Friday afternoon.
Step Back In Time
Kiama has a rich history and many of it can be seen in the gorgeous historical buildings that are dotted around town. The famous Terrace Houses on Collins Street are one example and The Pilot’s Cottage Museum, which is run by the Kiama Historical Society is another.
Next time you’re taking a drive around Kiama look out for some of those classic Dry Stone Walls, they’re actually listed as heritage items and there are nearly 400 of them in town!
And if you’d like to know more about the history of Kiama and maybe even the history of your own fam-bam then check out The Kiama Family History Centre.
For more historical info Kiama Library is a great source and even has an app you can download with four free self-guided walking tours for learning more whilst you’re making your way around town.
Just For Kids
Right off the main street of Kiama is Hindmarsh Park, a choice spot for little ones to let loose on the playground whilst big ones stretch out on the grass around it. [FYI the playground is currently under renos with some exciting new developments coming soon]!
Kiama offers plenty of places for a sweet treat guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face [not just the kids]. Kiama Sweet Company is a paradise for lolly lovers, while ice cream enthusiasts can take their pick from The Original Ice Creamery Kiama and Cafe Kiama & Scoops Ice Creamery—both absolutely spot-on!
Special Events
From January to December and everywhere in between it feels like there’s always something fun happening in Kiama.
The Kiss Arts Festival usually held in October is a celebration of fun and funny live performances. From DJ acts to circus performers and comedy shows there’s always something new.
The annual Kiama Red Cross Fun Run is a great way to take in the sights whilst supporting a good cause and the annual Kiama Beach Tag Tournament gets the whole town on their toes. As does the Kiama Sevens Tournament which is usually held in February. Oh and can’t forget the Kiama Coastal Classic which is a beach run adventure.
The Kiama Jazz and Blues Festival is always honking good fun and the Kiama Show is a classic country show we just can’t miss.
Click here for even more fun events happening in Kiama throughout the year.
What’s Nearby
Just 10 mins south of Kiama you’ll find gorgeous Gerringong, a charming seaside village worth exploring on its own and just 10 mins north is Shell Cove which is quickly becoming a must-visit spot for both locals and visitors.
Just 15 mins inland you’ll hit Jamberoo Action Park, NSW’s largest family-owned and operated water theme park.
Kiama really has it all!
SUPPORTING LOCAL BIZ
There are some fab local businesses in Kiama, and our Business Directory is the place to find them! From mechanics to medical centres, landscapers to legal services, beauty salons to builders… The Fold’s Business Directory has got you covered.
