LIST OF ATTRACTIONS
ABORIGINAL
ART & CULTURE STUDIO - BOOLARNG NANGAMAI
A studio dedicated to Aboriginal Cultural Awareness featuring artworks, weaving,
painting, drawing, tool making, bush toy making, dance, didgeridoo playing,
storytelling, Aboriginal art consultancy and Aboriginal sites consultancy.
The bush foods and medicine garden offers visitors a first hand look at available
bush foods. See Aboriginal artists at work and view artworks for sale. Located
on Bergin Street – Gerringong.
BARREN GROUNDS BIRD OBSERVATORY Scenic Drive 4.
Located at the top of Jamberoo pass this 1750 hectare nature reserve is an
established bird watcher's mecca. Defined as a `hanging swamp', it offers
several walks through the heath land including "Griffiths Trail"
an 8km circular walk with a variety of habitats. The area boasts stunning
coastal views from rocky outcrops. Cooks Nose Lookout is a shorter 6km return
walk with excellent escarpment views over Kangaroo Valley. Picnic facilities
are located here. Access from Jamberoo Mtn Rd, 19km west of Kiama.
BASS POINT
- BUSHRANGERS BAY
Adjoining Killalea State Park, via Shellharbour Village, this scenic marine
reserve is popular for scuba diving and snorkeling. Explore the wonders of
the underwater world. Diving equipment and lessons available locally at the
Dive Shops. One of the best diving locations on the NSW South Coast.
Lush and abundant walking trails weave in and out of bush and seaside. Camping facilities are available.
Access from Bass
Point Tourist Road - Shellharbour
BLOWHOLE
Discovered by George Bass on 6 December 1797 the famous Blowhole is only a
short distance from the town centre and railway station. Spectacular plumes
of water can be witnessed when the seas are running from the south-east. Picnic
area and rock pool nearby. Kiosk, Visitors Information Centre and toilets
are located nearby and open 9am - 5pm.
Tel (02) 4232 3322.
BOMBO HEADLAND Scenic Drive 1.
A legacy of blue-metal quarrying in the 1880's provides us with a stunning
moon-scape of basalt walls and columns. Made famous as a backdrop to various
television commercials and video clips, it's located at the northern end of
Bombo Beach or accessed from the Cliff Drive cycleway.
BONAIRA NATIVE GARDENS
Just south of Kendalls Beach the gardens, feature newly established rainforest
species which can be explored using the shared pedestrian/cycleway. Access
is from the Bonaira Reserve or Reid Street.
CARRINGTON FALLS Scenic Drive 4.
A spectacular waterfall nearly 50 metres high which drops into Kangaroo Valley.
Well developed walks exist with access to several lookouts. A track for the
disabled is also available. A one minute walk past the low gate will bring
you to Nellie’s Glen picnic area and a further 50 metres to a beautiful spot
with a natural swimming hole. Located 24 kilometres from Jamberoo Village
on Jamberoo Mountain Road off Tourist Drive 9.
CATHEDRAL
ROCKS Scenic Drive 1.
Located 3 km north of Kiama at the southern end of Jones Beach, this distinctive
rock formation has lured sightseers since 1890. They may be viewed from Cliff
Drive or studied from close range by approaching from the north - a photographer's
delight. Access via Cliff Drive from either Bombo or Kiama Downs exit.
CROOKED
RIVER WINERY
The commercial winery completed in 2001 produces over 100,000 bottles of soft
wines and ports each year. The vineyard and location provide a perfect back
drop to the surrounding mountains and ocean vistas. The Crooked River Restaurant
is open from Thurs – Sun 11am – 3pm and caters for indoor and outdoor dining.
It is a popular location for seminars, weddings and concerts. Having already
won 18 medals it is the largest winery on the South Coast proudly offering
24 table wines and 4 ports which can be sampled at cellar door tastings. Crooked
River Winery & Vineyard is situated one minute from Gerringong Railway
Station on Willow Vale Road just off the princes Highway.
Tel (02) 4234 0975
DRY STONE
WALLS
Stone walls are evident throughout the area, many constructed more than a
century ago as paddocks were cleared for cropping and stock agistment. Fine
examples can be seen in the hills and dales west of Kiama township with much
of the work being attributed to Thomas Newing a most prolific and skilled
stone wall builder who worked in the area for over 60 years. Brochures available
from Kiama Visitors Centre.
FAMILY
HISTORY CENTRE
One of the most comprehensive Genealogical Centres in Australia today is found
in Kiama. The role of the Centre is to encourage and advise anyone interested
in family history research. Regular courses are conducted on genealogy including
accessing records and indexes, how to access overseas resources and the many
resources available for the family historian including St Catherine’s House
Index 1837 – 1992.
It features a world wide collection of records for compiling and tracing your
family tree. Historical and educational talks are available for groups by
appointment. There are friendly staff on hand to assist visitors and comprehensive
school educational programs matched to the modern day Australian history curriculum.
Open 6 days Mon to Sat from 9.30am to 4.30pm.
Tel (02) 42 33 1122
GERRINGONG
HERITAGE CENTRE
Dedicated to our pioneers, exhibits include Kingsford Smith's history and
display, dairying and fascinating scale models of the area. Well worth a visit.
Located at 10 Blackwood Street at the back of the Scout Hall. Open weekends
1pm – 4pm.
Tel (02) 42 341 796
GOLF COURSES
Golf Courses are located at Kiama, Jamberoo and Gerringong.
Kiama
Golf Club is located five minutes north of the Kiama township at
Minnamurra and is reputed to be the best all-weather course on the coast,
a
shorter easy walking course that will still provide more than enough
challenge for the discerning player.
Phone: (02) 4237 7300
Jamberoo Golf Club located 10 km west of Kiama with stunning
escarpment views and tight, lush fairways that help provide for an enjoyable
experience.
Phone: (02) 4236 0404
Gerringong Golf Club located is set on a hillside just south of the
Gerringong township and provides spectacular views both across the ocean and
to the mountains.
Phone: (02) 4234 3333
ILLAWARRA
FLY TREE TOP WALK
A
500m elevated walk takes in the spectacular panoramic scenery of the beautiful
Kiama Coastline.
Enjoy the outdoor adventure amusements and café or just the quite beauty of this unique attraction.
Located on Knights Hill Road – access off Jamberoo Mountain Road – about 20 min drive from Jamberoo. Opening hours 9am – 5pm daily (closed Christmas Day) Last admission 45 min prior to closing Ph 1300 362 881
ILLAWARRA LIGHT RAILWAY
Fascinating display of vintage carriages and steam engines including the recently
restored "Kiama" used to haul blue metal to our harbour from 1917.
Train rides are available, a great family outing open 2nd Sunday in the month.
Located at Tongarra Road, Albion Park.
ILLAWARRA LOOKOUT Scenic Drive 4.
Located
within Barren Grounds and overlooking the Jamberoo Valley the 400 metre walk
from the car park takes you through lovely heath land - a picture in the spring.
Also a popular spot for packing a picnic breakfast to enjoy the sunrise. Off
Jamberoo Mountain Rd, 19 km west of Kiama.
JAMBEROO ACTION PARK
The park is located four kilometres north of Jamberoo village. Enjoy Billabong
Beach for the kids, Surf Hill, Outback Bay (a wave pool), bobsled ride, scenic
chairlift, mini golf, rock jump, a range of exciting waterslides, maze, and
includes barbecue and picnic facilities. Great for all the family! Open daily
until end of February 2007 then only Saturdays and Sundays 10am - 5pm until
April 2007. Open daily during NSW school and public holidays. Admission charge
applies.
Tel (02) 42 360 114
JERRARA DAM ARBORETUM & WETLANDS
A picturesque reserve established on the banks of a nine hectare dam - once
Kiama's main water supply. Just 5km west of Kiama this area now offers picnic
facilities fringed by remnant rainforest and freshwater wetland. Just the
place to relax!
KIAMA LEISURE CENTRE
Located in Havilah Place, Kiama and offering a 25m & 15m indoor heated
pools, spa, sauna, hydra circuit, basketball courts, gym and aerobics area,
kinder gym, learn to swim, court hire and a variety of indoor sports. Many
floor classes from Pilates to pump to choose from. Personalised training programs
and school activities available. All ages catered for. Open seven days.
Tel (02) 4232 1877.
KIAMA MOTORCYCLE TOURS
Specialising
in tours, joyrides and surprise gift tours, Kiama Motorcycle Tours is a fun
and exhilarating way of seeing the bet sites and attractions, the Kiama coast
and country has to offer.
The purpose built safe 3 passenger motorcycle trike is fitted with seat belts
and is a chauffer driven service. It will give the passengers the most memorable
and fun experience with all riding equipment provided. Age is no barrier as
passenger ages ranger from 3 years to our record of 95 years! Starting at
your place of choice you just have to sit back and enjoy the ride!
Ph. (02) 4232 1211 or 0410 431 448
KILLALEA STATE PARK
Located between Kiama and Shellharbour this 400 HA coastal reserve features
popular surfing beaches including "The Farm" as well as offering
fishing, walks and littoral rainforest at Minnamurra Spit. A beautiful location
for outdoor weddings. Camping sites, picnic facilities and BBQ’s available.
Tel (02) 4237 8589
KINGSFORD SMITH MEMORIAL LOOKOUT Scenic Drive 3.
Overlooking Seven Mile Beach - the location selected by Charles Kingsford
Smith for his historic flight to New Zealand January 11 1933, is well worth
a visit. A recent commemoration of the lookout celebrated the 65th anniversary
of this momentous event and a plaque laid by Gerroa's community is on display
near the outline of his aircraft the "Southern Cross".
LITTLE BLOWHOLE
Situated off Tingira Crescent it provides a fine display, especially when
seas from the north-east prevail and often more consistently than its big
brother. A viewing platform enhances enjoyment of the spectacle.
MARKETS
Kiama Craft Market - held on the 3rd Sunday of each month from 9am – 3pm at
Black Beach with a fantastic array of local arts, crafts and collectables.
Stallholder bookings Ph (02) 4237 6111.
Kiama Produce Market - held on the 4th Saturday of each month at Black Beach
from 8am – 1pm with delectable gourmet food and produce.
Stallholder bookings Ph 0438 387 387
Jamberoo Markets – held on the last Sunday of each month in Kevin Walsh Oval,
Jamberoo.
Stallholder bookings Ph 0438 387 387
Gerringong Markets
3rd Saturday of Every Month. Gerringong Town
Hall, 8am to 1pm.
MINNAMURRA RAINFOREST
Winner of the Environmental Attraction Tourism Award 1993, '94 & '95 this
rainforest is situated in Budderoo National Park 6 kms west of the Jamberoo
village. The park features a rainforest education centre allowing visitors
the chance to walk through and experience the forest habitat. A raised wooden
walkway (wheelchair accessible) takes you along the creek and into the rainforest
to enjoy the flora and fauna.1 hour walk on Board Walk. 2 hour return walk
to Minnamurra Falls. Picnic facilities and kiosk are available. Open daily
9am - 5pm. Last admission to rainforest 4pm. Admission charge applies.
Tel (02) 42 36 0469
MT PLEASANT LOOKOUT Scenic Drive 3
Just off the Highway south of Kiama as you come out of the 'bends' the view
afforded here looks down over Gerringong and Seven Mile Beach to Mount Coolangatta
at the head of the Shoalhaven River. Turn left at the water tower at the top
of Mount Pleasant where there are picnic tables and parking facilities to
make the most of the views.
PILOT'S COTTAGE MUSEUM
Situated on Blowhole Point adjacent to the Visitors Centre, this beautifully
restored cottage operates as a Maritime and Regional Museum is run by the
Kiama & District Historical Society. Detailed pictorial records of Kiama's
colourful past can be seen including cedar getters, the basalt quarrymen and
shipping history. Open 11am - 3pm Friday to Monday. (Groups welcome by appointment.)
Tel (02) 4232 1001.
SADDLEBACK MOUNTAIN LOOKOUT Scenic Drive 4
Just over 7 kms south-west of Kiama and 600 metres above sea-level, this superb
lookout offers views from the sand hills of Cronulla in the north to Pigeon
House Mountain in the south. Hoddle's Trail also starts here - a 60 minute
bush-walk up to the edge of the escarpment. Located on Jack Cleary Memorial
Drive off Saddleback Mountain Road, Kiama.
SEVEN MILE BEACH NATIONAL PARK
This heavily vegetated coastal park is located at Gerroa approximately 15
minutes south of Kiama where windsurfing at the northern end is world renowned.
Views of the park are best afforded from Gerroa Village at the entrance to
Crooked River and several picnic and barbecue areas are available. The park
backs onto the famous Seven Mile Beach.
SPRING CREEK BIRD HIDE & WETLANDS
The observation hide located between the lagoon and freshwater lake enables
a close up view of water birds including cormorants, chicks, moorhens, coots,
swans and many other local species.
Located a few minutes out of Kiama it is a wonderful example of rehabilitated wetland with different habitats located in the reserve which protects the local wildlife. It is a great place for bird watching, walking or just enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Park at Glenbrook Drive off Dido St, Kiama and follow the signs to the Bird Hide.
SURFING LESSONS
With its long, gentle rolling waves Seven Mile Beach is becoming known as
the best place to learn to surf in NSW. Located just 3km south of Gerringong,
local instructors from Land’s Edge can guide and assist you with a safe, enjoyable
surfing lesson Ph (02) 4234 3278. Other popular surfing spots for the seasoned
surfer include Mystics, Bombo Beach, Werri Beach, The Farm & Red Sands.
SWIMMING
There are 9 pristine beaches stretching from Minnamurra to Seven Mile Beach
in Gerroa at our southern boundary. There are five in Kiama – Surf, Kendall’s,
Bombo, East’s and Jones’s that are patrolled in season along with Werri Beach
and Seven Mile Beach to the south. You’ll also find rock pools at Boat Harbour,
Werri Beach and two at Kiama Harbour. Minnamurra River and Crooked River are
ideal for swimming, canoeing and kayaking.
THE TERRACE & SANDSTONE WALK SHOPS
Built in 1886 to house local quarrymen, these restored timber terraces (the
last remaining in NSW), now provide a delightful range of craft, gift and
other specialty shops including two restaurants and a cafe. Most shops open
daily.
Just behind the Terrace are the Sandstone Walk Shops with an interesting variety
of ladies fashion and accessories, gift shops, photographic gallery and coffee
shop.
WALKING TRACKS
Meander our coastline and follow our paved and very scenic walks. Try the
walk from Minnamurra to Kiama or the Blowhole to Loves Bay, strolling along
golden beaches and trails, over the headlands offering beautiful views. Try
a heritage trail to reveal some of our history. There are so many rainforest,
bushwalks and country lanes to explore – see the Kiama Visitors Centre for
Walks brochures.
THE GEM
OF THE SOUTH COAST
Being the gateway to Sydney's South Coast the Kiama Municipality stretches
from Gerroa and Seven Mile Beach in the south, west through to the Jamberoo
Mountain escarpment and north to the Minnamurra River.
Though not large in area Kiama has such a diversity of natural treasures it
has been popular with visitors for more than a century with its green undulating
countryside and paddocks separated by stone walls, now a trademark of our
region.
Our population of just over 20,000 enjoys a mild climate, with winter temperatures
averaging a comfortable 17 C to an extremely pleasant 27 C average through
the summer. Awarded "Australia's Tidiest Town" in 1996 we have long
been a mecca for honeymooners and visitors still come to our area for that
little bit of magic that is unique to Kiama.
If you're looking for a place to rest and relax, reminisce, recharge the batteries
or just a little bit of old-fashioned romance, you couldn't make a better
choice.
HOW TO FIND US
The Kiama district can be reached with ease - located approximately 90 minutes
driving time from Sydney, 30 minutes from the Southern Highlands and 2.5 hours
from Canberra.
The rail service is excellent, with some 12 trains frequenting the area daily
from Sydney, providing a relaxing journey and taking in some of the most scenic
coastline in Australia.
Interstate coaches travel daily through the area too, connecting both Sydney
and Melbourne along Highway '1', making the task of getting here simple -
finding a reason to leave will be a different story!
Our friendly staff at the Visitors Centre on Blowhole Point will be happy
to assist you during your visit or help plan your next holiday to our area.
(We are open seven days).
This Web Site is provided with the compliments of the members of Tourism Kiama
- we ask that you support them during your stay.
