· AU

Kiama

Kiama, New South Wales, Australia

Welcome to Kiama, a charming coastal town located in New South Wales, Australia! Kiama is a picturesque destination known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and relaxed atmosphere that attracts tourists from …

#coastal town#beach#rock formations#tourist destination#historic lighthouse

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Kiama.

Top Hotels in Kiama

Top Flights to Kiama

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Kiama.

Tours

Kiama Blowhole Visit

Experience the awe-inspiring natural rock formation where water sprays up to 25 meters high.

Saddleback Mountain Lookout

Enjoy panoramic views of the South Coast from the Saddleback Mountain lookout.

Shopping

Shopping at Kiama Village Shopping Centre

Explore a variety of shops, boutiques, and cafes in the heart of Kiama.

Outdoor

Kiama Coast Walk

Take a scenic walk along Kiama's stunning coastline, spanning 22km from Minnamurra to Werri Beach.

Minnamurra Rainforest Walk

Discover the lush rainforest environment with well-maintained boardwalks and interpretative displays.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Kiama.

Currency

$ | AUD | Australian Dollar

Population

Not Available

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Kiama

Jan

26°18°

Feb

26°18°

Mar

25°17°

Apr

23°14°

May

20°11°

Jun

18°9°

Jul

17°8°

Aug

18°9°

Sep

20°11°

Oct

22°13°

Nov

24°15°

Dec

25°17°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Kiama.

What people love

Kiama, located in New South Wales, Australia, is a beautiful coastal town known for its stunning natural attractions and charming atmosphere. Here are some pros of traveling to Kiama:

Natural Beauty: Kiama is home to the famous Kiama Blowhole, a natural rock formation where seawater shoots up into the air, creating a spectacular display. The town is also surrounded by beautiful beaches, coastal cliffs, and lush countryside, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
Outdoor Activities: Visitors to Kiama can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, such as surfing, swimming, fishing, hiking, and cycling. The town's picturesque landscape provides the perfect backdrop for exploring the outdoors and staying active.
Historic Sites: Kiama has a rich history, with several historic sites and landmarks to explore. Visitors can visit the Kiama Lighthouse, the Pilot's Cottage Museum, and the Kiama Heritage Walk to learn more about the town's past and heritage.
Local Produce: Kiama is known for its fresh local produce, including seafood, fruits, and vegetables. Visitors can sample delicious regional dishes at the town's restaurants and cafes, or visit the local markets to purchase fresh ingredients to cook with.
Relaxed Atmosphere: Kiama has a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere that makes it the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway. The town's friendly locals and small-town charm create a sense of community that visitors will appreciate.

Overall, traveling to Kiama offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the beauty of the New South Wales coast, enjoy outdoor activities, explore historic sites, savor local cuisine, and unwind in a peaceful setting.

Enjoy your trip to Kiama!

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Kiama, New South Wales, Australia, could include:

Weather conditions: Kiama, like many coastal areas, can experience unpredictable weather patterns, including strong winds, rain, and storms. Travelers should be prepared for sudden changes in weather and pack accordingly.
Crowds: Depending on the time of year you visit, Kiama can be a popular tourist destination, leading to crowded beaches, attractions, and restaurants. This may impact your overall experience and ability to fully enjoy the surroundings.
Limited public transportation: Kiama is a relatively small town, and while it does have some public transportation options, they may be limited compared to larger cities. Renting a car may be necessary to fully explore the area.
Limited dining and shopping options: While Kiama offers a variety of dining and shopping experiences, the options may be more limited compared to larger cities or tourist destinations. Travelers looking for a wide range of choices may find the selection in Kiama to be more limited.
Distance from major cities: Kiama is located about 120 kilometers south of Sydney, so if you are looking to travel to other major cities or attractions in Australia, you may need to factor in additional travel time to reach your desired destinations.

Overall, while Kiama offers beautiful scenery and a relaxed coastal atmosphere, travelers should be aware of these potential cons when planning their trip.

Kiama is a coastal town situated in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, Australia. Its geographical location is known for its stunning natural beauty, including beaches, lush countryside, and the famous Kiama Blowhole. Here's a detailed history of Kiama, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Early History

Indigenous Heritage: Before European settlement, the area now known as Kiama was inhabited by the Wodi Wodi people, a group of the Dharawal nation. The name 'Kiama' is derived from the word 'Kiarama', believed to mean "where the sea makes a noise," referring to the blowhole.

European Settlement

Exploration and Settlement: The first European to explore the area was George Bass in 1797. Settlement began in the early 19th century, around the 1820s. Alexander Berry was one of the early settlers, establishing a large estate which included the Kiama region.
Economic Development: In the 19th century, Kiama developed as a cedar-getting and agricultural area. The rich volcanic soil was ideal for dairy farming, which became a significant industry.

Infrastructure and Growth

Kiama Harbour: The construction of Kiama Harbour in the 1870s was a significant development, facilitating the export of dairy produce and basalt (commonly known as blue metal).
Railway Connection: The arrival of the railway in 1887 connected Kiama to Sydney, promoting tourism and economic growth.

Significant Events

Blowhole and Tourism: Kiama's natural attractions, particularly the Kiama Blowhole, have been a significant draw for tourists since the 19th century. The town officially promoted tourism from the early 20th century.
Municipal Development: Kiama was proclaimed a municipality in 1859, allowing for local governance and infrastructure development.

Historical Figures

Alexander Berry: An early settler who played a pivotal role in the region's development through agriculture and land management.

Important Landmarks

Kiama Blowhole: The natural rock formation that spouts seawater high into the air, it remains one of Kiama's most famous landmarks.
Kiama Lighthouse: Built in 1887, it stands near the Blowhole and is a key navigational aid as well as a popular tourist spot.
Historic Terrace Houses: Built in the late 19th century, these houses were originally constructed for quarry workers and reflect Kiama's architectural heritage.
Kiama Post Office: Constructed in 1878, it is an example of Victorian Italianate architecture.
Pilots Cottage Museum: This museum provides insight into Kiama's maritime history and is located in a former pilot’s cottage.

Modern Kiama

Today, Kiama is a thriving township that combines its rich history with modern amenities. It continues to be a popular tourist destination, with its natural beauty and historical sites drawing visitors from around the world. The town also supports a vibrant community, with regular cultural and social events celebrating its heritage and coastal lifestyle.

Kiama’s history is a tapestry of Indigenous culture, European settlement, agricultural development, and tourism, all contributing to its unique character and charm.