The Essential Guide to the Kiama Coast Walk

Strolling along the Kiama Coast Walk with the rolling waves and the fresh sea breeze filtering in really is the best feeling.

Hidden beaches, ancient rock formations, panoramic vistas, ocean blowholes and languid lagoons. It’s all waiting for you on the Kiama Coast Walk. There are three well-maintained sections to explore, suitable to most fitness levels. Take your lover, go with a mate, step out solo, or even bring the pooch along.

The Route

Stretching 20 kilometres from Kiama to Gerringong, the Kiama Coast Walk features dramatic seaside views, windswept headlands, and a stunning collection of picturesque beaches. The track is divided into three main sections, meaning you can make a day of it and gently hike for six to seven hours from start to end or keep a leisurely pace along your preferred walkway. There are ample places to stop and refuel too (try one of our recommended cafes).

a couple enjoying a walk along the Kiama Coastal Walk on the South Coast — Traverse the stunning beach path along Kiama. (Image: Destination NSW)

North Section: Minnamurra River to Blowhole Point

Distance: 8.5 kilometres
Time: three hours

a couple exploring Bombo on the Sapphire Coast, NSW — Hop your way through the basalt formations at Bombo Quarry. (Image: Destination NSW)

Park your car (for free) at the start of the Minnamurra River, aka Kiama Down,s as the locals like to call it and begin your walk south.

Sightseeing highlights include: the heritage-listed Bombo Quarry with its spectacular basalt formations jutting up from the ocean floor, the dramatic volcanic structures that form Cathedral Rocks and the famous Kiama Blowhole. If you’ve had enough beauty for one day, stroll back the way you came or catch the train from Kiama station to Minnamurra.

Mid Section: Blowhole Point to Loves Bay

Distance: Five kilometres
Time: 1.5 hours

scenic coastal views from Kendalls Beach, Kiama — Soak up scenic views from Kendalls Beach. (Image: Mark Fitzpatrick; Destination NSW)

This is the shortest section of the Kiama Coast Walk and is suitable for those seeking a casual amble by the sea as opposed to a full-tilt, all-day hiking itinerary. Watch the surfers ride ‘The Wedge’ break before you head on down to the calm waters of Kendalls Beach for a swim. Kiama’s Little Blowhole is a gorgeous place to catch your breath, break for a rest and admire the scenery. Keep in mind that the Easts Beach stretch is a terrific family-friendly (seasonally patrolled) Kiama holiday zone.

South Section: Loves Bay to Werri Beach

Distance: Six kilometres
Time: Two hours

an aerial view overlooking Werri Beach, Kiama — Feel the sand beneath your toes at Werri Beach. (Image: Mark Fitzpatrick; Destination NSW)

Beginning at Loves Bay (parking available on Elanora Road), the South Section is more popular with Gerringong residents. Approximately two hours into the walk you’ll come across Werri Lagoon, it’s an angler’s paradise so why not drop a line and see if you can catch a fish for tea? Didn’t hook anything? No problems, stay and have a feed at a nearby cafe, return and complete the walking track loop or charge ahead to Gerringong and train it home to Kiama.

Highlights

sunrise at Cathedral Rocks, Kiama — Catch the sunrise at Cathedral Rocks. (Image: Tourism Australia)

There are many natural attractions on the Kiama Coast Walk, if you find time to see them all, that’s ace, but if you need to prioritise your time, be sure to put the following unmissable highlights on your list asap: Mystic Beach, Cathedral Rocks, the Kiama Blowhole and the ocean pool at South Werri Beach.

How to make a day of it

an aerial view of a beach in Kiama — There are plenty of beaches to take a dip in. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Be prepared, sunscreen (an ocean-friendly brand is best), a hat, comfortable walking shoes and a bottle of H20 are musts. Depending on how far you plan on trekking, you might want to pack some nourishing snacks too. Oh, and swimmers, don’t forget those because there are plenty of lovely spots on the Kiama Coast Walk to stop for a dip and cool off.

Hints: if you select the North Section for your walking adventure, we recommend wrapping up your hike with a refreshing beverage at the 19th hole aka the clubhouse at the Kiama Golf Course . Always keep your camera ready when traversing the Mid Section too, it’s here you can visit the Pilot’s Cottage Museum and take a few snapshots of history. Are you an early bird catches the worm type of person? If so, start your day at the South Section, the whale-watching platform is a beautiful place to watch the sunrise and enjoy a pre-packed breaky.

Things to know before you go

the exterior of Pilot's Cottage Museum, Kiama — Step into Kiama’s rich historical heritage at Pilot’s Cottage Museum.

Dogs are allowed (on leash please) for most of the Kiama to Gerringong walk, and there are even a few pet-friendly beaches (with off-leash areas) along the way too. Certain sections of the walk are bicycle-friendly, and there are well-maintained facilities such as free beachside BBQs, viewing platforms and drinking fountains located at many points of the walk for visitors to enjoy.

The Wodi Wodi are the First Nations custodians of the Illawarra region, and many areas around Kiama, Gerringong and Bombo were considered good sources of “ochre" — a deep orange clay used for Indigenous ceremonies.

Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

When it comes to consuming the culture of a city, digesting it (in the literal sense) is an appropriate place to start. But it’s not just a world-class wining and dining scene that’s on the menu (not to mention all the new restaurants in Newcastle ). Newcastle – just two hours north of Sydney – offers the perfect blend of arts, culture and culinary experiences that make it a prime destination for an extended escape. The city’s creative future looks even brighter with the reopening of the highly anticipated Newcastle Art Gallery on the horizon.

aerial of Nobbys beach in newcastle nsw — Newcastle offers the perfect coastal setting for the arts and delicious eats. (Image: City of Newcastle)

Given Newcastle’s compact size – many venues are within easy walking distance or a quick drive away – you can immerse yourself fully. From decadent patisseries to fine diners and casual coastal eats, here’s a fresh taste of Newcastle: where to eat, drink and soak up the coastal city’s good vibes.

1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

pastries next to a pastry box from crumb cafe in newcastle — Lean into Newcastle’s pastry renaissance at Crumb. (Image: Jemma Donkin)

Pastry is having a moment, with a quietly booming scene led by CRUMB, the brand-new pastry cafe in Lambton led by legendary Gareth Williams (of Covered in Crumbs, EXP) and Ben Richardson (Autumn Rooms). Gareth describes his style of food as ‘creative chaos’. Enjoy that abstract artisanal approach over a savoury chorizo, bechamel, cheddar and poppy pastry, or a layered mortadella and pesto mayo croissant sandwich.

Meanwhile, Leibe European Pastries, Pekárna, Union St Pastry and Praise Joe also have their own flair and loyal followings. While Liebe European Pastries is famed for layered German pastries such as Franzbrötchen, Pekárna’s signatures (like cardamom pastries) are tethered to Czech traditions.

Head a few blocks west to Wickham, where Union St Pastry is the pinnacle for lovers of European-style viennoiseries, such as croissants and Danishes. A getaway to Newcastle also looks pretty fabulous with a mega brownie or chicken little toastie from Praise Joe .

2. Destination dining

Blanca resuarant in newcastle nsw — Step inside Mediterranean-inspired eatery, Blanca. (Image: Destination NSW)

Life looks pretty peachy from a table at the breezy Mediterranean-inspired eatery Blanca , which would not be out of place in Mykonos – when it swooped into the Honeysuckle Precinct a few years ago, it caused heads to swivel. Say yasou to mezedes of crudo di mare and sheftalia and grilled Abrolhos Islands’ octopus.

One may also fantasise about being back in Europe – specifically the 10th arrondissement in Paris – at Frenchie , the oh-so-French bistro that offers Euro-chic elegance with an inventive Australian flair. Indulge in the Date Night set menu, available every Thursday.

Peregrin is another stand-out. Listen to the sound of the ocean from the rooftop terrace, and order a Summertime Sour during aperitivo hour. Followed by the yellowfin tuna with pickled cucumber and market fish. And brand new on the scene is Papalote – a joint venture from the incredibly talented owners of Humbug and Flotilla serving up tasty Mexican classics.

3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

people swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths — Follow Newcastle’s coastline for stunning views and tasty eats. (Image: David Diehm)

What better way to soak in Newcastle’s legendary coastline and stunning beaches than by visiting its casual coastal eateries while on the Bathers Way?

Enjoy hot chips and scallops on the sand at Swell Kiosk Bar Beach . Or a housemade sausage roll after a morning surf at Newcastle Beach, thanks to Southy Canteen , which is open from 6am.

Bring your furry travel companion to Sunnyboy Kiosk for a piccolo and puppuccino with views out to Dixon Park Beach. Try light eats, like acai bowls, or more substantial meals like nasi goreng at Blue Door in Merewether. Do a few lazy laps at Merewether Ocean Baths (the largest in the southern hemisphere) before tucking into swordfish skewers and salad at Merewether Surfhouse .

You can also watch the ocean compose a bit of magic from your perch at The Kiosk Newcastle Beach , where a matcha latte looks even better with the beach fresco.

Pause between eats to take in the iconic Newcastle Ocean Baths and Bogey Hole – perfect for a digestive swim or scenic picnic spot.

4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

couple eating at Flotilla newcastle — Flotilla serves up delicious meals. (Image: Destination NSW)

In recent years, Newcastle’s restaurant scene has evolved to include venues that have elevated the city’s reputation for culinary excellence. In addition to its cafes and kiosks, there’s now an exciting wave of hatted favourites putting Newcastle on the map.

Humbug is the epitome of Novocastrian dining; the mafaldine with brisket and beef cheek braised in Pedro Ximenez is emblematic of what the owners aim for here. Flotilla neatly knits the Newcastle wining and dining scene together, with young gun Josh Thurston showcasing the art of cooking proteins and produce over fire.

Bistro Penny is another sophisticated, hatted dining destination in Newcastle. Order the barbecued king prawns swimming in a saffron broth and the oxheart tomato salad.

5. Newcastle nightlife

Bartholomew's small bar in newcastle nsw — Stop by Bartholomew’s for a drink. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the sun dips in the west, so the city of Newcastle’s nightlife springs to life. Maru Hi-Fi is the next-gen small bar that’s redefining a night out in Newy – the sleek space serves great cocktails and embraces Newcastle’s alt attitude. Next door, Jams Karaoke & Bar is also bringing the vibes.

If a small bar in a grand old building is more your style, check out Roxanne , Bar Mellow and Bartholomew’s .

Start planning your Newcastle culinary coastal getaway this summer at visitnewcastle.com.au.

A guide to the Kiama Coast Walk: from Gerringong to Kiama