Is it time for a ‘Holistay’?
We all know the Kiama Area is popular with visitors and it is for good reason. Why not take the opportunity while you’re at home (and no one can visit) to explore your own backyard? We’ll show you how.
Sandy feet, sun-kissed skin and salty hair. If you’re anything like us, Tahiti and the rest of the South Pacific archipelago are making nightly dream appearances. While we’re all dreaming of the island holidays to come, living on the planet’s largest island is the next best thing. We’ve rounded up the best bits of a tropical escape, and they’re right here on our doorstep. Want to make the most of a ‘Holistay’ right here in Kiama, NSW? Read on for our top tips.
Boneyard – Mark Fitz Photography
Slow and Steady
You’ve walked as far as you can walk, crafted as much as you can craft and have well and truly exhausted the amount of bread-based baking one human can do. Now it’s time to slow down, sit back and set the day spa vibes.
Clean space and a calm mind are the perfect way to start your day of self-care. Grab a selection of art supplies and paint away your worries from Alexander Art Supplies, or slow down with a solid array of coastal tunes (we’ve linked some of the most well-known Kiama locals here). If ritual is what you’re after, The Collective Beat (Kiama and Gerringong) can help you out with Time for Tea gift packs, candles and all things seaside.
You’d splurge on the ‘PamperPackage’ during an island holiday, so bring these vibes home with endota spa offering 20% off products throughout September (click here to get the goods) – from coconut and coffee exfoliant to their hydration collection, your skin will thank you.
Treat yourself to some decadent resort-wear from Bombo Clothing Co, stream a yoga or pilates class – check out Body In Line Pilates who is helping you commit to staying healthy over 9 weeks for $180 (9 x virtual mat class) – or try one class to see if you like it for $22. Order a selection of local wines from Crooked River Wines and you’ll have everything you could need to slow down and reset, right here at home.
We know it’s not the same when you have to do it yourself, so grab your housemate/bubble-buddy/hubby and settle in for a day of relaxation, pampering and seaside bliss.
Track Change
Remember waking up on the first day of holidays, eager to explore and armed with information and lists of must-visit places? Well, why should it be any different here? We’ve got walks and waterways throughout the area just waiting to be explored. If the Kiama Coast Walk is normally your jam, why not head a little inland and take on the leafy tracks across Barren Grounds Nature Reserve.
Male and female Superb Fairywren – Photo Credit: Louise Summerhayes
If you’re missing the sounds of bird song, Spring Creek Wetlands is home to an array of local birdlife, complete with a bird hide. Can’t decide between sand and soil? Check out Gerroa’s Sand Tracks (both North and South), whether you’re exploring by foot or bike, we think this one’s pretty special. Or try Budderoo Track to spot a Superb Fairy Wren or two. This scenic track is also perfect for a bike ride, walk and/or picnic, where you can choose to do a little of the track or the entire 24km return to really get your heart pumping. For those who have spent lockdown out and about and are up for a challenge, Hoddles Track takes you off the back of Saddleback Mountain, traversing loose gravel, raised tree roots, and rocky water holes to be rewarded with views across Foxground and beyond.
Spring Creek Wetlands Walk – Mark Fitz Photography
With four ocean pools across the area and even more natural swimming holes, no matter where you choose to walk, you’ll never be far from a place to cool off!
Searching for those true south pacific vibes, cruising along the coastline under pedal power but daunted by the hills that grace the Kiama foreshore? Stop by Kiama Cycles and Sports to hire (or buy) an e-bike to coast seamlessly up and down the steep terrain.
With maps and guides aplenty, there are hidden gems around every corner. Head to kiama.com.au to see the range of Visitor, Walking and Dining Guides available for your own backyard.
Psst – speaking of hidden gems, have you been to Campbell’s Hole in Gerringong? This amazing natural rock pool is found in a hidden spot on the southern end of the Kiama Coast Walk just north of Werri Lagoon.
Campbell’s Hole, Gerringong – Mark Fitz Photography
Feast
One of the best parts of a holiday is the food – whether you’re eating seafood on the sand next to the ocean it came from, dining amidst the hustle and bustle of a city or in a secluded rural setting, so many travel memories are centred around what we ate, and where.
While we may not be able to change up the scenery too drastically right now, that doesn’t mean we’re stuck in the 3-meal low-inspiration rotation. Across the Kiama area we are spoiled for choice when it comes to produce. Collect an array of fresh ingredients from the myriad of talented growers and producers at the weekly Kiama Farmers’ Markets, or outsource to one of our many cafes and restaurants. Take to travelling through taste – no matter where you want to go; Miss Arda will transport you to the bazaars of the Middle East, Hanoi on Manning brings the markets of Vietnam to our sunny shores, JJ’s Indian will have you dreaming of the colours and flavours of Southern Asia. Make weekends that little bit more exciting with Little Betty’s extensive drinks and tapas list that will have you dreaming of the Mediterranean and the Gerroa’s Blue Swimmer at Seahaven brings Australia’s best produce to your door through their ever-changing 3-course dinner boxes.
Black Head Reserve – Mark Fitz Photography
So, make the most of our stunning seaside location, explore the coastline, try a new restaurant or simply grab a book, sit back and slow down.
We can’t wait to welcome our visitors back once things allow, so don’t forget to save this guide and use it to plan your next South Coast adventure.
Destination Kiama