Picture perfect: six of Kiama’s best photography spots
The Kiama area’s dramatic headlands, plunging clifftops and rolling hills as far as the eye can see are made to be snapped and shared. Here’s where to head to capture its best.
While the iconic Blowhole might be Kiama’s best-known photo spot, there are plenty of other vantage points to capture the area’s stunning natural beauty. Get your camera ready – from the escarpment to the sea, here are six of Kiama’s most beautiful vistas.
Rising more than 600 metres above sea level, Saddleback Mountain Lookout is the perfect place to get a stunning panoramic photo of Jamberoo’s rolling green hills, the Kiama township and Pacific Ocean beyond. Dawn is a particularly spectacular time to visit and capture the first glittering rays as the sun emerges, making for an awe-inspiring image, and a great way to start the day.
Where: A 15-minute drive west of Kiama, head for Saddleback Mountain Road and follow the signs.
When: Sunrise – to capture the golden hues with the greens of the mountain and blues of the ocean
What to tag: #saddlebackmountain #jamberoo #kiama // @kiamaNSW
Photo credit: Peter Izzard Photography, Jamberoo
Three lookouts, all offering slightly different perspectives, means that no matter where the light is, you’re sure to get the perfect shot as the water plunges to the rocks 50 metres below. You’ll be treated to the sort of light photographers dream about, and in the colder months, the rolling mists act as a playground for the light, creating a brilliantly moody atmosphere.
For something a little less showy but just as beautiful, nearby Nellies Glen is a must-see. Pack a picnic, listen to the sounds of the bush, and of course snap some stunning close-up shots of nature at its most peaceful.
Where: A 50-minute drive west of Kiama, up Jamberoo Mountain Road.
When: Midday – to capture the bright light, subtle shadows and vivid greens
What to tag: #carringtonfalls #nelliesglen #jamberoo #kiama // @kiamansw
Photo credit: Peter Izzard Photography, Nellies Glen, Budderoo National Park
The Kiama area is home to hundreds of hectares of lush green farmland, encased by the dramatic rise of the escarpment to the west. A leisurely drive from Kiama to Jamberoo along the winding Jamberoo Road will provide numerous opportunities to photograph the area’s rolling green fields, the iconic cabbage tree palms and the friendly faces of local livestock. Keep an eye out for some of the region’s historic dry stone walls, reminders of the area’s settlement in the 19th century.
If you have a little extra time, follow the road up Jamberoo Mountain Pass to Jamberoo Lookout for sweeping views of the coastline.
Where: A 15-minute drive from the Kiama township.
When: Early morning or late afternoon – to make the most of the sprawling landscape and soft light
What to tag: #jamberoo #kiama // @kiamansw
Photo credit: Peter Izzard Photography, Jerrara
Where the winding river meets the crashing surf – this is a great place to capture the area’s wild beauty. The mesmerising blues of the varied sandy depths, along with the spectacular southern end of Killalea State Park make for a picture-prefect location, reminiscent of untouched Hawaiian island terrain. In the afternoon, as the sun sets behind Saddleback Mountain to the west, you’ll see silhouettes bathed in rich oranges and reds, making it the ideal time to capture the moment.
Where: A short drive or train ride from Kiama, Minnamurra Headland forms part of the stunning Kiama Coast Walk and can also be accessed by foot.
When: Sunset – to capture the lengthening light and vibrant colours
What to tag: #minnamurra #minnamurrariver #minnamurraheadland #rangoonisland #kiamacoastwalk #kiama // @kiamansw
Photo Credit: Destination NSW (Tim Clark), Minnamurra Headland
This is one of the longest beaches on the NSW South Coast, stretching over 10 kilometres from Gerroa at its northern tip to the small town of Shoalhaven Heads in the south; you’re sure to find a photo-worthy slice of paradise here. Starting at the Sir Charles Kingsford Smith Memorial Lookout perched atop Gerroa township, you can fully take in the vast length the beach below. Next, hit the sand and stretch your legs. Strolling through waterfront National Park to the dunes you will be spoiled for your choice of postcard-worthy shots.
Where: A 20-minute drive from Kiama, just south of Gerringong.
When: Sunset – to capture silhouettes of Coolangatta Mountain and the greater escarpment as it goes up in a show of fiery colours
What to tag: #gerroa #sevenmilebeach #kiama // @kiamansw
Photo credit: Peter Izzard Photography, Seven Mile Beach, Gerroa
This natural wonder is an absolute showstopper! Located at the southern end of Jones Beach, the formation of towering basalt columns dates back millions of years. Sunrise is the perfect time to photograph this marvel in all its majesty. Visible from a range of sides, there’s always a new view waiting to be captured.
Where: A five-minute drive north of central Kiama.
When: Sunrise – to capture the stark contrast between basalt rocks and the first light of day
What to tag: #cathedralrocks #bombo #kiamacoastwalk #kiama //@kiamansw
Photo credit: NEG Photography, Cathedral Rocks, Kiama
Still want more? Check out some of the area’s other picture-perfect natural wonders here.
We’d love to see your favourite spots within 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: Mark Fitz Photography
Destination Kiama