The best things to do in Kiama with kids

The famous ocean blowhole will always top a list of things to do in Kiama with kids. But there’s so much more to this coastal town than spurting water.

Kiama is the traditional country of the Wodi Wodi people. The name Kiama is derived from the indigenous name Kiaram-a, which translates to  “where the sea makes a noise.”

Nestled between stunning beaches and scenic rainforests, one hour and 45 minutes south of Sydney, Kiama is an easy weekend escape. The creative and delightful town draws families back year after year. For good reason. It’s easy, it’s fun and it’s affordable.

These are the best things to do in Kiama with kids.

The Kiama blowhole

We told you it would top the list. Kiama’s blowhole proves a powerful introduction to the NSW town. It can be found in the rocks near the lighthouse at Blowhole Point.

The Kiama blowhole is a natural circular tunnel cut into the rock with a chamber of water underneath. As water fills the chamber at the end of the tunnel, pressure builds. When waves subside, the pressure inside the chamber pushes water up through the blow hole.

The anticipation of the crowd builds much like the water pressure. Kids stare in anticipation – the brave ones waiting in the splash zone – not wanting to blink in case they miss it. 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.

Jamberoo Action Park

Jambaroo Action Park is the largest family-owned water park in New South Wales. If you’re looking for things to do in Kiama with kids, you’d be crazy not to put it on your list.

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.

Treetops adventures

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.

Kiama Coast Walk

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. 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. The dramatic Cathedral Rocks is a firm favourite with photographers. Pack your swimmers, you’ll want to stop at Jones Beach for a swim with the kids.

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.

Kiama rock pools

Kiama has two beautiful rock pools close to town. Either one is a great place for active kids to swim laps or to take a toddler for a slash on a hot day.

The Blowhole Point Rock pool is at the north side of Blowhole Point. It usually has plenty of parking nearby.

Boat Harbour Rock pool is a great place to spend the day. A short walk from Boat Harbour Reserve, it has picnic and bbq facilities.

Minnamurra rainforest walk

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 in Budderoo National Park offers a glimpse of what the Illawarra looked like before white settlement. If you’re looking for things to do in Kiama with kids, this is 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.

Surf’s up

Kiama is a great place to try surfing with the kids.

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.

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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