Winter adventures these School Holidays 2023
The winter school holidays are a magical time for families to come together and create cherished memories. If you’re planning a trip to the Kiama region during these winter school holidays, you’re in for a treat.
From exhilarating treetop adventures to ice skating by the sea, there are plenty of exciting activities to keep kids and adults entertained. Here we have served you up a few ideas that might just tickle your fancy. Come and explore with us some of the options for family fun during the winter break in the Kiama area.
We have highlighted just some of our favourite ways to spend these Winter holidays. For more cool ideas, check out our Winter School Holidays Flyer!
Embrace the winter break with these family-friendly winter adventures in the Kiama region
Ice skating at the Kiama Winter Festival in the Kiama Harbour
Ice Skating by the Sea – Kiama Winter Festival
This winter holidays, Kiama comes alive with the Kiama Winter Festival, get your skates on and book a ticket for Ice Skating by the Sea. Set on a ‘real’ ice rink on Kiama’s picturesque harbour. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or it’s your first time on the ice, it is guaranteed to be lots of fun and create lasting memories.
Enjoy the festive atmosphere with a program of events over the six days. Dust off your best costumes for the nightly themed skating, dine in our free seaside igloos, bring the littlies along to our farmyard nursery, while everyone enjoys the taste of local cuisine, entertainment from Gumaraa, and watch our live mural come together with local Aboriginal artist Unclue Richard Campbell. There really is too much to tell you about! See the event website for all the details, and follow along on the event’s Facebook page
Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventure
Immerse yourself in nature’s beauty from above at the Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventure. This breathtaking experience offers a unique perspective on the region’s stunning rainforest with views up and down the coast. Embark on an unforgettable journey as you walk along the elevated steel walkways, suspended high above the forest floor. Marvel at panoramic views, encounter fascinating wildlife and conquer the awe-inspiring treetop canopy walk, which culminates in a soaring spiral tower that provides unparalleled vistas. Want to up the excitement? Join a zipline tour and zip through the treetops either day or night or early in the morning followed by a delicious breakfast buffet.
Cuddling goats and other ways to explore sustainable agriculture with the family
Meet the adorable residents of Buena Vista Farm including pigs, chickens, turkeys, geese, and cows. Take a guided tour through the vibrant flower garden, the bountiful orchard, around the picturesque farmhouse, and into the serene coffee grove. Learn about the principles of small-scale farming, sustainable agriculture, and experience their deep love for gorgeous dairy goats. Every Sunday in the school holidays. Remember to book in advance as spots are limited.
Kids playing footgolf // Credit: Jamberoo Golf Club
Get active these winter holidays
Instead of huddling indoors, why not bundle up, step outside, we have done the hard work for you to create unforgettable memories with your family. Whether you’re seeking thrills, outdoor exploration, or a chance to stay active, the winter season offers a host of opportunities to engage in fun-filled activities. Here are just a few ideas for your winter school holidays:
Active experiences for the whole family
For families seeking active adventures, the Kiama region has plenty to offer. Try footgolf, a blend of soccer and golf, at the Jamberoo Golf Club where you kick a soccer ball into oversized holes. It’s a fun and active game that can be enjoyed by all skill levels. Kids that want to follow Peter’ Thomson’s footsteps, may like to join the Kiama Golf Club School Holiday Camp to learn everything a golfer needs to know.
If you’re looking to ride the waves, Kiama’s pristine beaches provide excellent opportunities for surfing lessons. Join a surf school and learn to catch waves together as a family. Check out Gerroa Surf Camp and Gerringong Surf School. If you prefer calmer waters, why not book a SUP tour to explore the beauty of Minnamurra River? Additionally, Granties Maze and Fun Park bring a unique experience with a large maze, mini-golf, giant chess, and other interactive games set in amongst the idyllic green hillside of Foxground, just outside Gerringong.
Kiama Coast Walk
Stretching approximately 20 kilometers from Minnamurra (there is a direct train here from Central) to Gerringong, the awe-inspiring Kiama Coast Walk is a must-do adventure for nature enthusiasts of all fitness levels. This scenic coastal trail offers breathtaking vistas, serene beaches, and unforgettable encounters with nature. Divided into three shorter segments, it caters to everyone, including the youngest adventurers on scooters looking to explore the shores. As you embark on this remarkable journey, make sure to visit not only the renowned Big Blowhole but also its lesser-known counterpart, the aptly named Little Blowhole. Small in size but big in effect, prepare to witness and feel the sheer force of nature while enjoying the convenience of nearby cafes that provide a perfect opportunity to recharge.
Saddle up and soak in the unique scenery
Rev up your glutes and embark on an exhilarating adventure that combines fitness and breathtaking scenery. Whether you opt for a traditional bike or prefer the ease of an e-bike, exploring new surroundings on two wheels promises an unforgettable experience. This Winter school holidays, gather the family and set out on the Gerringong to Gerroa shared track, where stunning views of rolling mountains and awe-inspiring vistas of Seven Mile Beach await – the option to also tackle the ‘Sand Track’ a forest track hidden away, running parallel to Seven Mile Beach.
Just remember, this track is meant for sharing, so be mindful of other users enjoying the route. Check out our comprehensive list of local rides for more exciting two-wheeled explorations.
Family working on a bead project at Bead Shack, Gerringong
Unlock your inner artist
Unleash your family’s creativity through hands-on workshops offered in Kiama, Kiama Downs and Gerringong. Bead Shack is a fantastic destination for jewelry-making enthusiasts, where you and your family can design and create unique accessories using colorful beads in their daily workshops. Alternatively, try your hand at clay sculpting at the Soul Clay Pottery Studio, where expert instructors will guide you in molding and shaping clay into beautiful creations, but also with the art of macrame and driftwood design. The Soul Clay Kids program is available for kids from 8 years old. These workshops offer a wonderful opportunity to bond as a family while nurturing artistic skills.
Or pick up your pencil and express yourself with paint in the numerous workshops with Michelle Springett at Expressive Art Experiences – how can the kids say no to a ‘Paint ‘n’ Pizza’ session??
Delve into Kiama and Gerringong Library workshops
Winter is the perfect time to spend a cosy afternoon exploring the shelves, selecting captivating reads, and participating in storytime sessions and interactive workshops. Kiama Library and Gerringong Libraries has a great winter holiday program prepared for you including sphero light painting, weaving and knitting workshops, pompom beanie-making, LEGO challenges, and more!
For more workshop ideas, don’t forget to explore our workshops page, for a full list of creative experiences that offers something for both kids and adults.
It is best to check each event for the location and if booking is required to avoid any disappointment.
Local chocolate maker Sarah Cromwell at Tilda & Cacao
Treat yourself these school winter holidays
Mark your calendars for a sweet rendezvous on Saturday, July 8th, and Sunday, July 9th at the monthly chocolate café at Tilda and Cacao in Gerringong. Treat yourself to seasonal chocolate delights, alongside a freshly poured cup of coffee or hot chocolate and experience the old school building in Gerringong. Meet the local chocolate maker Sarah Cromwell and enjoy the exquisite flavors of handcrafted stone ground chocolates, made with raw organic Criollo cacao and local Australian ingredients. While parents can take a rest from the hustle and bustle, kids get to play in the outside play area.
For something a little different
Close encounters with our migrating whales
Get on a 1.5 hour Whale Watching Cruise with Shellharbour Wild and learn about the migration of the gentle giants along the Kiama coastline. Starting out at the Shellharbour Marina you will head out to sea following the paths of the whales and get to enjoy a fresh perspective of the Kiama Blowhole with the escarpment in the background. Tickets are available from the Kiama Visitor Information Centre.
Get on the Arctic Express along the South Coast
Join the Conductor, Mr. & Mrs. Claus, and embark on an enchanting journey aboard the Arctic Express. On Sunday, July 9th, from 10 am to 3 pm, step into the festive atmosphere at Yallah Station. Capture the magic with a memorable photo in a Christmas-themed setting and indulge in complimentary hot chocolate and toast marshmallows by the cosy fire.
We would love to see your holiday snaps from the Kiama area – share your photos or footage with us at @KiamaNSW on Facebook and Instagram, using #kiamansw #gerringong #gerroa #jamberoo #minnamurra #bombo.
Destination Kiama
