A Cosy Long Weekend in Kiama

Kiama is a town brimming with boutique, coastal charm. Nestled amidst endless green hills, two majestic blowholes, and sparkling golden beaches, nostalgia fills the air. With fond memories of beachside holidays and childhood adventures, Kiama still takes visitors back to simpler times as they are welcomed to the South Coast.

Take a big exhale as high-rises and traffic lights are left behind, explore the best of nature with cliff hugging walks, pristine rivers, lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, inviting ocean pools as well as some adrenaline-filled adventures. A vibrant event calendar, exceptional hospitality, and memories ready to be re-awakened.

Who's getting cosy in Kiama?

The target market for this itinerary are couples without children, specifically the young, carefree, and career-driven Millennial-Generation Z travellers. Geographically, the campaign has an intrastate focus, targeting the large markets in SE Sydney, currently Kiama’s largest day trip market.

Kiama appeals to this demographic as they crave unique and authentic experiences, outdoor pursuits, vibrant events, and coastal escapes. Many of these travellers visited Kiama as children on family beach holidays or visited the blowhole and now as grown adults, they have the opportunity to expand their memories as they discover adventure, culinary delights and spectacular landscapes.

As this target market prioritises sentimental exploration, they travel in couples (or groups), seeking authenticity and escape, not too far from home.

The pristine beaches, ocean pools, waterfalls and vibrant event calendar and varied experiences, coupled with high end accommodation from glamping to pampering, all seamlessly align and resonate with the desires of this demographic, as they seek respite from their busy lives.

SOUND LIKE YOU? LET’S GET PLANNING!

Wednesday – Day 1

Morning

Yulunga! Welcome to your ultimate 3-night, 4-day itinerary to Kiarama (Kiama), on the traditional lands of the Dharawal and Wodi-Wodi people. We have hand-crafted this holiday as the perfect couples’ retreat, with an emphasis on reconnecting with nature, adventure, and each other.
Travelling to Kiama from the north? We highly recommend the scenic route through the Royal National Park and via Grand Pacific Drive, showcasing the extraordinary bendy coast-hugging Sea Cliff Bridge – you’ll recognise it from multiple TV commercials and tourist brochures. Top tip – you can park your car and walk back along the bends.
Arriving in Kiama around 11 am? Perfect timing! Grab yourself a cuppa at Diggies Kiama and before swinging by the Kiama Visitor Information Centre, your gateway to the town’s local tips and tricks. Don’t forget to grab your copy of the Kiama Visitor Guide, Kiama Eats, Kiama Walks and Kiama Rides guide for the ultimate adventure toolkit!
No trip to Kiama can be without a visit to the towering Kiama Lighthouse and the renowned Big Blowhole, where nature puts on the best show with waterspouts during a southeast swell. Experience the exhilarating “whoosh” as waves crash against the rocks, creating a spectacle of nature’s power for the eyes and ears. The pathway to these two icons is accessible with ramps and railings.

Early Afternoon

Once you’ve had your fair share of whooshing sounds for the morning, wander down to Kiama Cycles and rent e-bikes. Equipped with your new set of wheels, head to Kiama Train Station and catch the train north to Minnamurra Train Station. From there, enjoy a scenic cycle back to Kiama via the Kiama Coast Walk. First pitstop on your cycle will be Minnamurra River. Dip your toes into the tranquil water and spot the distant Rangoon Island (also known as Stack Island), a sanctuary for local birdlife.

Lunch

On your way further south, stop off at Fish Vibes or Stacks Eatery to fuel your ride. Keep an eye out for key landmarks, including rockstars Cathedral Rocks, Boneyard, and Bombo Headland (which are all great photo ops!). For a gentler and more accessible ride, refer to your Kiama Rides guide, which highlights flat and accessible routes to best suit your needs.

Late Afternoon

When you arrive back in the Kiama township, it’ll be time to check in to your accommodation and refresh for the afternoon. Some of our top picks include Bellevue Accommodation, Oceanview Kiama, Cicada Luxury Camping (accessible tents available), Sebel Harbourside Kiama (wheelchair accessible rooms) and The Lodge at Jamberoo.
Support the local makers and growers by visiting the Kiama Farmers’ Market—a must-do on Wednesday arvos (from 3pm)! Stock up on fresh produce for tomorrow’s picnic adventures including cheese, veggies, dips, cured meats, and baked goods.

Dinner

After foraging at the markets, wander along Kiama Harbour to Little Bettys for a romantic dinner paired with cocktails – do yourself a favour and order the refreshing mojito (or nojito for a virgin version).
To round out the day, treat yourselves to a sorbet from Scoops Ice Creamery or The Original Ice Creamery.

Thursday – Day 2

Morning

Begin the morning with a cold plunge in Kiama Harbour Rock Pool or the ramp accessible Continental Olympic Pool, followed by a big breakfast with a side of coffee at one of our favourites – The Hungry Monkey or Penny Whistlers – to fuel yourself for your big day of adventure.
For those seeking a more relaxed Thursday, opt for a rugged up day at the Surf Beach with a book in hand. There’s a beach wheelchair available for hire from the Life Guards for those with additional accessibility needs before heading to Gerringong Bowlo for barefoot bowls.
Pack your picnic lunch, water and sun protection. From Kiama Harbour, head south to walk along the Kiama Coast Walk towards Gerringong (13km). If you’re visiting May through to November, whale watching season will be in full swing. Keep a watchful eye on the water as you may spot humpbacks or southern right whales on their annual migration.

Afternoon

The first stop will be the small but mighty Little Blowhole which puts on the best show when the seas are coming from the northeast. Next up you’ll spot the Dreaming Poles that represent our Wodi-Wodi and Dharawal people, traditional custodians who have roamed up and down this coastline for more than 60,000 years.
Keep an eye on the swell, and when the tide is low, take a stroll down to Campbells Hole for a refreshing dip in the secret ocean pool (photo op!).
The final destination along the walk is Werri Beach. Enjoy a game of barefoot bowls at Gerringong Bowlo, followed by refreshing drinks and afternoon snacks. The Gerringong Bowlo courtesy bus provides a convenient return service to Kiama.

Evening

Relax back at your hotel and regain your energy before you set off to Cin Cin Wine Bar for a tapas dinner – think meze plates, crumbed olives and souvlaki.
Round out the evening with delicious cocktails or mocktails at Miss Arda.

Friday – Day 3

Morning

No doubt you’ll need a stretch after your big walk yesterday, so kick off your morning with a relaxing Yin Yoga class at Emergence Yoga in Kiama.
Once you’ve found your zen, wander through the streets of Kiama – pick up a book from Bouquiniste or The Bookshop Kiama and shop for knickknacks at The Collective Beat Kiama, Sara Handmade Jewellery and Bombo Clothing Co.

Afternoon

After all that shopping it’ll be time for a wine and brew tour. If you’d rather leave the planning and driving to the experts, consider booking a tour with Foodscape Tours where you can sit back, relax, and let their knowledgeable guides take care of everything for you.
If one of you is happy to be the deso driver, we suggest first heading south to Coolangatta Estate. Set on the foothills of Mt. Coolangatta, views overlook the Shoalhaven River and the beautiful landscape and vineyards.
Next on your list is the tasting plate at Stoic Brewery in Gerringong. Here you can enjoy an ever-changing menu of brews and seasonal beers.
Finish your tour off with lunch at the scenic Crooked River Wines. Soak up the vineyard views as you dine and don’t forget to capture a sweet snap with you and your other half on the couples’ swing.

Evening

Friday nights in Gerringong are for clay dates. Head to Soul Clay Studios in Gerringong for a 2-hour, one-off pottery night – no experience needed but enthusiasm (and a booking) is essential!
After you’ve thrown enough clay around for the evening, head to The Hill Bar & Kitchen in Gerringong for a relaxed dinner with locally sourced food and delicious housemade cocktails.

Saturday – Day 4

Morning

Start your morning with pre-booked appointments at Wellness & Recovery Haus. Step into your own private floatation pod and let yourself drift into a deep state of relaxation. The purported healing properties of magnesium and the weightless environment are said to help relieve tension and rejuvenate your body, perfect for sore muscles or those living with chronic illness or disabilities.
After a solid breakfast at The Quarry Café (great gluten free, dairy free and vegan options available) head to Minnamurra River to hire SUPs or adventure south to Seven Mile Beach for a pre-booked surfing lesson with the experts from Gerroa Surf School or Surf Camp Australia. Seven Mile Beach is one of the longest beaches on the NSW South Coast, stretching over 12 kilometres from Gerroa at its northern tip to the small town of Shoalhaven Heads in the south.

Afternoon

No doubt your tummies will be grumbling after your surf efforts, so make your way to Bella Char at the Mercure in Gerringong for a gourmet lunch. Or if you’re a coffee connoisseur, let your nose guide you to Daily Grind Coffee Roasters in Gerringong, who, as their name suggests, roasts their own beans for instore and wholesale sale.
Once you’ve refuelled, venture inland towards Saddleback Mountain Lookout to take in the breathtaking views stretching from Cronulla in the north to Milton in the south. Take in the sweeping landscape and capture some stunning panoramic shots on your phone – uploading straight to your Instagram story #kiamansw!
Jump back in the car and head northwest to explore the bucolic Jamberoo Village and Minnamurra Rainforest. Whether you choose the easily accessible Lyrebird Loop or Waterfall trails, you’ll be treated to an immersive experience. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive lyrebird, graceful eastern water dragon, and shy swamp wallabies as you wander through the lush rainforest canopy and take your camera for the epic Minnamurra Waterfalls.
Before heading to lunch at the Champagne Garden at Lulus at The Lodge in Jamberoo, take a pit stop to appreciate the majestic Cabbage Tree Palms along the way. These palms hold special significance to the Dharawal people – the versatile leaves of the palms were utilised for crafting mats, fishing lines, and ropes, as well as for carrying water.
Continue your waterfall checklist with a scenic drive to Nellies Glen, Carrington Falls, Fitzroy Falls, Belmore Falls or the Illawarra Treetop Walk. These natural wonders offer views of the serene surroundings and provide the perfect finale to your coastal adventure. Take your time to explore the cascading waterfalls, lush greenery, and vistas before venturing back home. We hope to see you again soon.