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Catch every exhilarating thrill with our guide to Jamberoo Action Park

Credit: Destination NSW

Grab your sunscreen and flip-flops — our guide to Jamberoo Action Park puts you on the fast track to pure memory-making adventure.

Snatching the title of New South Wales’ largest family-owned and operated water theme park, Jamberoo Action Park unleashes unrivalled full-day-out energy. Open seasonally when the weather’s warm (typically the end of September until the end of April), the long-loved Kiama attraction started as a dairy farm in the 70s before a skiing addicted family, the Eddys, turned it into a place for high-energy antics. From crazy, stomach-churning water slides to time-sucking water play and one of Australia’s largest wave pools, there’s no shortage of entertainment at Jamberoo Action Park.

Here’s an expert guide to making the most of your visit.

What to know before you visit Jamberoo Action Park

a family exploring the Jamberoo Action Park
Spend the perfect family weekend at Jamberoo Action Park. (Credit: Destination NSW)

First up, let’s check they’re open. In 2025, Jamberoo Action Park will start welcoming guests from September 27, and the season runs until April 26, 2026. Check the website for all future go-time windows. Take it from us, crowds are far thinner on cloudy days so if you repel long theme park queues, consider dates with far-from-perfect conditions. Having said that, if storm clouds are hovering and strong winds are likely, guests should note that tickets can’t be refunded. Bottom line: get across, and stay across, your weather app in the week leading up to your trip.

Another insider tip? BYO your day’s food and drinks to save serious coin. Glass, knives and booze (sorry, parents) are banned, but everything else is fair game and coin-operated barbecues are up for grabs in the park’s picnic area. If patiently waiting for a spare plate sounds like a nightmare, pre-book a gas barbecue up to 24 hours before you arrive. They’re delivered to you at various locations throughout the park and cost $50 for the day.

Pack your bag with swimming essentials, including towels, sunscreen and slip-proof footwear (several rides, including the chairlift, require shoes), but leave your boogie boards, noodles, lie lows and frisbees at home. When you’re there, pin-operated lockers are scattered throughout the park (including right near the picnic area and the

Outback Bay area) so you can stash your gear without having to go back to the entrance to dip in and out. Small lockers cost $12 per day while the larger ones are $17 per day.

The other crucial planning tip we highly recommend is looking into the impressive range of hireable private huts, shelters and cabanas. They’re all snapped up quickly, especially on sun-soaked days, so get in early to lock down the cream of the crop. The cabin-esque Velocity Cabanas come complete with fridges, safes, dining tables and ceiling fans, while the Billabong Beach Shacks give serious Bright Beach bathing box vibes and feature lounge chairs.

Finally, book your tickets online prior to arrival because there are significant savings to be seized,  which brings us to your next key planning move…

Jamberoo Action Park ticket costs

water park at Jamberoo Action Park
Book a fun-filled family day at Jamberoo Action Park. (Credit: Destination NSW)

Buying a day ticket at the gate will set you back $74 per child aged between four and 12, and per guest aged 60 and over. Anyone aged between 13 and 59 will need to fork out $84 each. However, if you jump online to book tickets in advance, children and senior prices drop down to $64 while that middle range falls to $74.

Even if you factor in a sneaky online transaction processing fee (it’s $4.95 for up to 19 tickets), you’re saving by heading online now. Additionally, bubs aged three and under are free, thank you very much.

See yourself returning for more? Jamberoo Action Park offers an enticing season pass deal for guests aged four and over. The online fee is $204 per person, while at-the-gate splurges cost $214.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

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How to get to Jamberoo Action Park

jamberoo action park aerial
The long-loved Kiama attraction started as a dairy farm in the 70s.(Credit: Destination NSW)

Before we jump into every mind-bending ride to get excited about, knowing what to expect journey-wise is never a bad idea. Loads of guests tack Jamberoo Action Park onto a visit to beautiful Kiama; if this is you, expect a drive time of around 10 minutes. In further good news, parking at the park is free, and there are thousands of spaces to choose from. Those with access needs can take advantage of the spots located right near the main entry.

If you’re driving in from Sydney (a popular route during school holiday periods), the park is located about an hour’s drive south. You’re also just 20 minutes south of Wollongong, too.

No wheels, still keen? Public transport saves the day, especially if you’re visiting mid-week. Catch a train to Kiama train station where buses to Jamberoo Action Park run from Monday to Friday. Weekends are a little trickier, but not impossible. Shire Shuttle Bus offers return group transfers to your local accommodation from $95 per person. Check the Jamberoo Action Park website for further details.

Accessibility and parent-specific information

jamberoo action park kids on water park
The park caters to all ages and a range of mobility needs. (Credit: Destination NSW)

Some other key details to get guests with specific needs on their way:

  • The park can absolutely be enjoyed by guests with access needs. Outside of the accessible parking, the team can also be called upon to buggy guests over to hillier corners of the park – you’ll just need to touch base with a team member in the souvenir shop at the front gate to let them know you’re visiting. Additionally, a water wheelchair can be requested (although it’s first in, best dressed so call the team to lock one in before you leave), granting you access to non-slide attractions like Outback Bay and the Rapid River. Manual wheelchairs can also be hired from the park’s First Aid area.
  • Mobility scooters, plus guide, hearing and assistance dogs are all welcome.
  • Prams and strollers are also welcome, but parents should note that the park is hilly and attractions are quite widespread. Brace yourself for some cardio-tastic manoeuvring.
  • Speaking of tiny tots, southern New South Wales is partial to chilly afternoons and mornings, even if the sun is shining, so think about bringing wetsuits to ensure they’re toasty amid all-day water play.
  • Baby change tables can be found at the far-right entrance to Outback Bay and up at Billabong Beach, a haven for youngsters.

Jamberoo Action Park rides

a huge spider sculpture at the Funnel Web thrill ride, Jamberoo Action Park
Face your fear of spiders on the Funnel Web slide. (Image: Destination NSW)

Choosing which ride to start with is your only real problem at Jamberoo Action Park. If you’re chasing extreme thrills, head straight for the Velocity Falls precinct, which features The Stinger – expect a zero-gravity drop once you’re inside the creature’s tentacles – and Octo-Racer, which sends you soaring down a twisty lane in a race for the finish line.

The Perfect Storm is another highlight, towering as one of the tallest and longest water rides on the planet. It’s a super fun, darkened vortex of whirling water where zero gravity, once again, takes control. Meanwhile, The Funnel Web hits speeds of up to 30 kilometres per hour.

Surf Hill is a classic speed slide with an 18-metre drop. Line up, watch the lights and get ready to zoom. Be sure to check the scoreboard to see who won.

The Bobsled is another crowd-pleaser, inspired by traditional alpine runs and featuring two tracks that stretch for almost a kilometre. Talk about taking the scenic route.

Challenge yourself at The Rock with its five-metre drop into a pool of shimmering blue hues. It’s beautiful, but the height can make this leap terrifying, so use the three-metre drop to build up your courage.

Family-friendly pit-stops include Banjo’s Billabong’s 200 water cannons, spray guns and two giant tipping buckets, rafting along Rapid River and the unmissable Outback Bay wave pool, featuring waves that froth up to 1.5 metres in the air.

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Restaurants and cafes at Jamberoo Action Park

woman holding a hot dog
Cap off your day at the park with a hot dog or sausage roll. (Credit: Peter Secan)

Can’t be bothered to bring your own goodies? We hear you. Lean into the many eateries located across the park, including Burger Barn, Bombora Seafood (the go-to for summer fish and chips and burgers if Burger Barn isn’t open), Bombora Café’s sandwiches and sweets, and Picnic Pizza.

There’s also ice cream with your name on it at Bombora Scoop, dishing up Peter’s Connoisseur flavours, plus Splash Snacks for a classic theme park feast of pies, sausage rolls, hot dogs and fairy floss.

Find more family-friendly activities in our guide to Kiama

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Kristie Lau-Adams
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
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Art, wine & fireplaces: 8 reasons Bowral is the ultimate winter getaway

(Credit: Destination NSW)

    Carla Grossetti Carla Grossetti
    The Southern Highlands earns its title as Australia’s top country town in the cooler months, and it’s worth every minute of the 90-minute drive from Sydney.

    Many Sydneysiders head to the Southern Highlands in spring for the tulips. It’s one of the most stunning spring carnivals in Australia. But the ones in the know come to Bowral in winter.

    The first thing you notice at this time of year is the quality of the light. It catches the tangled limbs of the gums and tints the fields, farms and forests a pretty shade of Granny Smith green. And then, a world-class art museum, an impressive network of walking trails, great shops, cosy restaurants and bars and luxury accommodation take centre stage, making Bowral a place you want to linger as the mercury drops.

    Just 90 minutes south of Sydney, a Bowral winter getaway is the coolcation city folk desperately need. Here are eight reasons to pack a good coat and head for the Southern Highlands.

    1. Check in

    aerial of Ardour Milton Park Bowral in winter
    Check in to the gorgeous Ardour Milton Park Bowral. (Credit: Destination NSW)

    Ardour Milton Park Bowral rises like a hologram in the hazy green light as you turn onto Horderns Road. A $10 million refurbishment of the grand 1910 estate was completed in early 2026, and the beautifully restored hotel now includes 44 guest rooms washed in sage green, cobalt blue and dusty blush. The dining room at Horderns Restaurant continues with a botanical theme – earthy banquettes, floral touches throughout – and a menu that moves with the seasons.

    After enjoying slow-braised Cowra lamb and a second glass of red, move to the Polo Bar, which has a fireplace and views across the estate gardens. Build a grazing board from the dedicated Charcuterie Room and take it outside while the light lasts. If the sky clouds over, use this as your cue to enjoy a next-level spa experience at Èliva.

    2. Hunt for treasure

    couple exploring Dirty Janes bowral
    Find vintage treasures in Dirty Janes. (Credit: Destination NSW)

    Winter is the perfect season to lose an afternoon inside Dirty Janes Bowral. Over 1600 square metres of covered space houses 90 individual sellers of everything from mid-century furniture to industrial lighting, antique silverware, vintage clothing and objects whose previous lives you can only imagine. Enjoy a bit of off-the-cuff banter with your fellow fossickers in between searching for that must-have military jacket or vintage silk scarf.

    Around the corner, find the Instagram-famous front door of FoundAntiques, though the real finds are deeper inside. Bring cash, wear comfortable shoes and leave some room in the boot.

    kids posing with donald bradman statue in bowral's The Bradman Museum
    Learn about an Aussie legend at The Bradman Museum. (Credit: Destination NSW)

    Ngununggula – meaning ’belonging’ in the language of the Gundungurra First Nations people – is the region’s first dedicated regional gallery, housed inside the sustainably transformed old dairy building at historic Retford Park. The onsite White Cottage Gallery and restored grounds of the former Fairfax estate reward a slow wander. Find a spot to sit in the courtyard filled with rivulets of winter light and enjoy the plaintive call of a currawong carrying across the heritage-listed grounds. It’s one of the best things to do in Bowral.

    Add Bowral Honey Farm for a hands-on harvest experience, then continue into town to the Milk Factory Gallery to admire eclectic works by local artists in a converted industrial space. The Bradman Museum also knocks it out of the park. Australia’s largest dedicated cricket museum sits beside the heritage-listed Bradman Oval, where a young Sir Donald Bradman first picked up a bat.

    4. A taste of France

    table spread at Lucette bowral
    Enjoy a taste of France at Lucette.

    For a taste of France without the airfare, husband-and-wife team Julien and Romy Besnard – of long-loved Franquette Crêperie – have opened Lucette, a French cafe-bistro with Paris-born chef Guillaume Dubois at the helm. Dubois brings serious pedigree from Michelin-starred kitchens in France and Sydney’s former two-hatted Monopole, and it shows. Start your day with pastries for breakfast and bookend it with boeuf bourguignon for dinner. The chocolate mousse, freckled with Guerande Salt, is the kind of dish that will make you feel smug about the decision to drive south. Join the Sydneysiders dressed in charcoal coats, boots and black tights who’ve already worked this out; the whole scene is worthy of splicing it into an Instagram reel.

    Francophiles should also be across Julien’s Bowral Brasserie – led by Frenchman Julien Viel, who also found his way to the Southern Highlands and stayed.

    5. Indulge in a tipple

    Centennial Vineyards bowral in winter
    Spend time amongst the local vines. (Credit: Destination NSW)

    The drive to Centennial Vineyards passes through a beautiful woodland idyll, the countryside a fuzz of green all around. Inside the Barrel Room, a tasting flight of cool-climate pinot noir, chardonnay and reserve shiraz viognier flaunts how well the Southern Highlands does winter.

    This is a region that takes its cool-climate wines seriously, and the pinot noir is one of the stars – a gentle, easy-drinking style with red cherry aromas. Follow your tutored cellar door tasting with another glass of wine in the Terrace Bar, which overlooks the vineyard and manicured grounds.

    6. Blend your own gin

    Millsheds Distillery & Bar
    Pop into Millsheds Distillery & Bar. (Credit: Mattia Panunzio)

    Millsheds Distillery & Bar is somewhat of a local secret. The award-winning small-batch operation produces gin, vodka and liqueurs using Australian botanicals and has picked up silver medals at both the London Spirits Competition and International Wine & Spirit Competition. Beyond the tasting paddle, the hands-on blending masterclass – where you design and leave with two bottles of your own custom gin – is the experience to book, while the terrace bar that wraps around the courtyard is a fine place to settle in afterwards.

    7. Go for a walk at dawn

    Switch your phone off sleep mode and set your alarm to early. Mt Gibraltar rises to 864 metres just east of Bowral’s main street and offers the best views in town. You will pass a raggle-taggle bunch of hikers on the way up to the summit, all making the same quiet pilgrimage into the crisp high-altitude air. On a clear morning, the bony ridges of the ranges come into sharp relief against the light. The return loop takes roughly 90 minutes. A flat white in Bowral tastes considerably better after completing one of the scenic walking trails.

    8. Cosy up by the fireplace

    Aspinalls Whisky Bar & Lounge at the Berida Hotel
    Get cosy in the Berida Hotel’s whiskey bar.

    A cosy bar is the perfect complement to winter in Bowral, and there are a few worth committing to. Aspinalls Whisky Bar & Lounge at the Berida Hotel is built for long, languorous evenings. Take a seat beside the fireplace laden with gnarled logs and work your way through a few whiskies and bar bites like Rangers Valley beef tartare, or salt cod and potato croquettes.

    At Hickory’s within Peppers Craigieburn, well-dressed waiters in denim and leather move quietly between tables, and the cosy fireplace in the adjoining guest lounge attracts an Escape to the Country crowd.

    Start planning your Bowral escape at visitsouthernhighlands.com.au.