Minnamurra Falls, Photography by Phil Winterton

Natural Wonders

Beauty abounds

Our coastline is marked with stunning wonders such as the blowholes, the Cathedral Rocks and the famous Kiama Coast Walk — an unbroken ribbon of exploration stretching approximately 20 kilometres from the mouth of the Minnamurra River in the north to Gerringong’s Werri Beach in the south. But if these are proving too tame, try swapping the sand for the forest floor covered by gorgeous green canopies of ancient rainforest.

As with all ecosystems, even the smallest change can upset the fragile balance. We ask that while exploring the region you respect the natural environment and its inhabitants by taking only photographs and leaving only footprints.

Blowholes

Kiama’s world-famous blowholes were formed from volcanic lava flows about 260 million years ago, yes, that’s 100 million years before the dinosaurs. The bigger of the two blowholes is the Kiama Blowhole which is most active in a south east swell. The Little Blowhole is most active in a north east swell. Experience each of these natural wonders within walking distance along the Kiama Coast Walk.

Minnamurra Rainforest

Minnamurra Rainforest is a lush reminder of what the Illawarra looked like before white settlement. Wander the network of elevated walkways through the rare remnant rainforest, feel your senses awakening as you listen to the birds, feel the spray of the waterfalls and spot rainforest residents – perhaps the superb lyrebird, eastern water dragon or swamp wallaby.

The Kiama Region, Photography by Phil Winterton

Kiama Coast Walk

One of Australia’s most spectacular walks, the Kiama Coast Walk offers an unbroken ribbon of exploration stretching approximately 20 kilometres from the mouth of the Minnamurra River south through Kiama to Gerringong’s Werri Beach. You can choose to do a section at a time with many easy access points available along the route.

Saddleback Mountain

Located 6 kilometres soutwest of Kiama, you can access various lookouts with breathtaking views from Cronulla to Jervis Bay. On the drive up you can see the historic Dry Stone walls and enjoy cabbage trees coming in and out of view. This natural wonder is one of the area’s best attractions — and a photographer’s best friend!

Cathedral rocks

These basalt columns at the southern end of Jones beach got their name because they resemble the spires of a cathedral. They were formed from volcanic rock that has been eroded over millions of years. It is also an extremely popular attraction for visitors and photographers alike.