Romantic weekends on the South Coast
With uninterrupted stretches of coastline, breathtaking views, nature walks and no shortage of places to sample the region’s award-winning food and wine, the Kiama area is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway.
No matter what you’re looking for, or when you’re visiting, the Kiama area is sure to delight. While summer is synonymous with our south coast villages of Gerringong, Gerroa, Jamberoo, Minnamurra and Bombo, there is something particularly enchanting about our winter sunsets, early morning sea mists, fresh air and open fires that provide the perfect opportunity to curl up and settle in with your special someone.
Werri Beach/ Photo Credit: Peter Izzard Photography
Places for Pillow Talk
Our small stretch of coastline and adjacent hinterland has some impressive accommodation options, ranging from the ultra-luxe to uber-affordable. A backdrop of rolling hills makes for the perfect space to reconnect with a loved one – choose from properties that exude rural elegance with old-world charm, to the rustic seclusion of the rainforest-clad escarpment. For those wanting to be closer to the action, there’s a variety of central locations across Kiama and Gerringong, all in walking distance to cafes and restaurants. If you’re chasing something different, there are also options for waterfront camping, private holiday homes and more.
Wine and Dine
One of the best parts of a perfect break is what and where you eat. The Kiama area is sure to shock with local grown produce, world-class chefs and stunning dining locations.
While coffee is the jewel in Kiama’s café crown, with everything from local roasters to independently curated bookshop/wine bars, our restaurant scene exalts fresh produce with seasonal menus and local ingredients, as well as boasts a range of dining options, including waterfront restaurants and the quintessential country pub. Treat your special someone to a fairy-lit Indian feast or combine European wines, Mediterranean-Australian cuisine in an intimate art gallery setting. Enjoy local-grown produce with ocean views, or opt for a Mexican fiesta of colour and flavour, overlooking the Kiama Harbour.
For a list of options, check out the Kiama area Dining Guide.
Vineyards with a View
While it may not be what we are known for, the wineries and breweries that call the area home make for a perfectly romantic day out. Head south and you will be spoiled for choice with places to eat, drink and enjoy the area’s natural beauty. As you round the point of Mt Pleasant you’ll greeted by the green rolling hills that extend down to the Shoalhaven, and no shortage of vines or views. With onsite restaurants and cellar-doors at most, you’ll be sure to fall in love with at least one – wander the vineyards, enjoy a wine tasting or indulge in a meal with a mesmerising outlook.
Saddleback Mountain/ Photo Credit: Peter Izzard Photography
Seaside Markets and Boutique Finds
No matter if you’re visiting mid-week or on the weekend, our market calendar means that you’re sure to find something to explore. Artisan products, homewares, clothing and local produce are just some of the things you or your love can collect. For a boutique approach to shopping, whether it’s for yourself or a loved one, there is plenty to discover – florists with locally sourced products and gifts, art and photography galleries and fashion from Australian and International labels.
Back to Nature
While our best known track may be the Kiama Coast Walk, which weaves from rivers and townships to dramatic coastlines and secluded beaches, it is certainly not the only one. Barren Grounds Nature Reserve is anything but – you’ll feel like the only people in the world as you follow the abundance of secluded tracks and trails leading to spectacular views. If you’re keen to catch the thundering sounds of falling water, head up the escarpment to Carrington Falls, but don’t forget to pack a picnic (or have one prepared for you by one of our talented local suppliers) to share with your loved one at the secluded Nellies Glenn. If you want to be closer to the coast, take a stroll through the waterfront Seven Mile Beach National Park – you’re sure to find somewhere on the 10 kilometre stretch of sand to sit together and watch the sunset, with only the crashing waves to disturb the peace.
If you’re here during the cooler months (May-November), you can add whale watching to your itinerary. Grab your keep cups, fill them with yet another cup of tasty brew, then head out for a stroll along the headlands. Keep your eyes on the horizon for the pods of whales that pass by our coastline each year as part of their annual migration.
Kiama Coast Walk/ Photo Credit: Instagram: @sarah.ktran
Get Active
Even though the temperature is dropping, there is plenty to do that will keep you warm. For those seeking a little more action, the area is home to a myriad of activities that are sure to get your blood pumping – whether it’s exploring by kayak, on horseback or even zip-lining through the treetops. A shared new skill can help reconnect you and your loved one, so try a surf lesson, take a swing at golf (or FootGolf) at one of our many golf courses, have a hit of tennis or test your balance with stand-up paddle boarding. If you’re still looking for more, explore our full range of outdoor activities here.
Minnamurra River/ Photo Credit: DNSW Tim Clark
Creative Couples
If you prefer to exercise your artistic side, this is the place to do it. The Kiama area is home to a host of creatives who are happy share their talents. Art galleries and rotating exhibitions are the perfect way to experience the soul of the area, as well as get to know your other half. If you’d like to get in on the action, workshops include pottery, weaving, painting and photography, just to name a few. If you would rather relax to the sound of local musicians, check out the live music calendar for gigs in and around the Kiama area.
Indulge and Unwind
No weekend of re-connection is complete without a pampering session. Whatever this means to you and your partner – a fully catered and stunningly set picnic, a day spa experience or a couples massage – you’ll find the perfect place to reset here in the Kiama area. Take a dip in the ocean pools of Gerringong and Kiama, float down Minnamurra River in a kayak or take in the views from the seclusion of one of Saddleback Mountain’s three lookouts. Stretch out the city-stresses with a boutique yoga or pilates class, or hit one of the many fitness-passport supported gyms.
Minnamurra Headland/ Photo Credit: DNSW Tim Clark
We would love to see your romantic tips and trips in the Kiama area – share your photos or footage with us at @KiamaNSW on Facebook and Instagram, using #kiama #gerringong #gerroa #jamberoo #mimmamurra #bombo.
While you’re visiting our beautiful area, please respect the local community by continuing to implement COVID-Safe practices such as physical distancing, wearing a mask and regular hand washing. If you are feeling unwell, please stay home and seek medical advice.
Header Image Photo Credit: Peter Izzard Photography
Destination Kiama