It may be best known for the shock and awe of its big blowhole and spectacular coastline, but there’s so much more to discover with kids in the cool, creative and breathtakingly beautiful Kiama region, writes Eliza Velk.
The anticipation builds much like the water pressure below as crowds gather to witness the mystifying eruption of seawater from Kiama’s famous blowhole. The kids stare in anticipation – the brave ones waiting in the splash zone – not wanting to blink in case they miss it. We try to countdown the moment it will erupt only to be caught off guard. A loud ‘whoosh’ signals the blast and water shoots high into the sky, followed by synchronised sounds of awe and applause. It’s like going on a ride – once is not enough so we wait to witness the spectacle all over again.
Located by the lighthouse at Blowhole Point, Kiama’s blowhole proves a powerful introduction to the many delights of creative and delightful Kiama, a seaside town nestled between stunning beaches and scenic rainforests on NSW’s South Coast that draws families back year after year.
“A loud ‘whoosh’ signals the blast and water shoots high into the sky”
Kiama certainly does not fall short on excitement. With world-class water parks, treetop zip lines and a selection of outdoor sports, often the hardest part is agreeing on what to do first. A standout, and a long-time favourite of mine, is Jamberoo Action Park, the largest family-owned water park in the state. The bigger kids will be in their element here, racing down water slides, seeking out thrilling rides and challenging themselves on the popular rock jump. Meanwhile, little ones can splash safely in the heated pools, themed water fountains and mini water slides at Billabong Beach.
If water rides aren’t your thing, perhaps flying through the treetops on Australia’s highest zip line will take your fancy. Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures run guided tours suitable for ages four and up that involve a fun day of navigating suspension bridges and flying on cable spans 35 metres above the forest floor. While you’re there, make time to do the self-guided Treetop Walk, which is well worth it for panoramic views over the canopy to the Royal National Park, Lake Illawarra and the South Pacific Ocean.
Closer to town are several fishing spots, golf courses, cycling routes, beaches and tennis courts that also make for fun family activities. If you’re looking for a surf spot, be sure to try out The Wedge break at Kiama’s Surf Beach, or head south for the long rolling waves of Seven Mile Beach at Gerroa – said to be one of the best places in the state to learn to surf. During your stay, consider a lesson at one of the three surf schools based in Gerroa. They’ll provide all the gear and have plenty of experience teaching both adults and young kids who have never surfed before.
If you’ve still got energy to burn, marvel at the spectacular ocean views, rock formations and beaches along the Kiama Coast Walk. The complete track spans about 20 kilometres; however, for a shorter, more achievable walk, it can easily be broken down into sections with plenty of paved paths for the kids to ride their bikes and scooters.
The north section, from Minnamurra River to Kiama Blowhole, is where you’ll find some of the more impressive headland views like the dramatic Cathedral Rocks (a firm favourite with photographers), as well as whale watching platforms to witness the spectacle of the annual migration and delightful swim spots like Jones Beach.
As you reach Kiama, enjoy a coffee break and some lunch at The Hungry Monkey or treat the kids to a lush ice-cream at Café Kiama & Scoops Ice Creamery. If you prefer to sit closer to the sea breeze and soak up coastal views, Diggies Kiama at Blowhole Point is a serves an all-day brunch menu.
The middle section of this stunning coastal walk, from Kiama Blowhole to Loves Bay, takes you past the area’s most popular beaches including Surf Beach, Kendalls Beach and Easts Beach. It also passes by Kiama’s smaller and more consistent blowhole, which is the next best option when the big one doesn’t perform. Lined with pretty paths, fun playgrounds and gorgeous picnic spots, this shorter track is perfect if you’re taking a walk with young ones in tow.
The south section, from Loves Bay to Gerringong, is a little more challenging with a few hills to climb, yet it is the most untouched and runs parallel to the South Coast Railway, an easy way to travel home if you’re too tired to walk back. Before leaving Gerringong, a great place to refuel is Zoobs Woodfired Pizza Restaurant which is super family-friendly with it’s mix of gourmet and traditional pizzas, plus all the usual pasta favourites.
Drive 20 minutes west past Jamberoo to reach Minnamurra Rainforest and you’ll feel like you’re in another region completely. This rare subtropical rainforest located in Budderoo National Park offers a glimpse of what the Illawarra looked like before white settlement, and today remains a beautiful place to explore the local flora and fauna. Meander your way around the 1.6-kilometre Loop Walk, crossing elevated walkways as you go, and see how many types of birds, water dragons and swamp wallabies the kids can spot.
If you can manage an additional, and slightly more difficult, 2.6 kilometres, then the Falls Walk will lead you to the breathtaking lookout over the Upper Minnamurra Falls. After the walk, you can kick back at the Lyrebird Cafe or bring a picnic.
Once they’ve been suitably inspired by Mother Nature’s bounty, the kids can unleash their creative sides back in town at one of the many art and craft workshops on offer. Check out what’s on at the local Kiama Library, or head to nearby Gerringong where crafty kids can learn to make jewellery at Bead Shack or partake in a clay workshop hosted by the lovely folk at Barefootfivetribe.
This article originally appeared in Holidays with Kids magazine. To subscribe to the latest issue, click here.
Main image: Green Hills at Kiama © Destination NSW; Murray Vanderveer
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