Unmissable things to do with kids in Kiama

Carla GrossettiBy Carla Grossetti
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Keep everyone in the family happy with our guide to the best things to do with kids in Kiama.

The best things to do with your kids in Kiama revolve around making great memories. Parents who want to get their kids off screens will find plenty to do in the seaside village from wild coastal adventures to laid-back beach days and walks through the emerald-green rainforest. There are also adventure parks that parents are bound to enjoy as much as the kids.  Here’s the ultimate list of things to do as a family that will show off the seaside town, which won Gold in NSW’s Top Tourism Town Awards in 2024 and 2025.

1. Take a surf lesson

the aerial view of Seven Mile Beach, Gerroa
Hit the waves on the stunning 12-kilometre coastline of Seven Mile Beach in Gerroa. (Image: Destination NSW)

The hot ticket for families craving a seaside holiday is to sign up for a surf lesson. Create some magic moments with a private group lesson with Gerroa Surf School or Gerringong Surf School . The accredited instructors at both surf schools on the NSW South Coast will teach you how to paddle for a wave and pop to your feet. Surfing in Kiama is ideal for beginners thanks to its consistent, mellow waves and sandy-bottom beaches. Surfing is the perfect activity for beach-loving families who want to share the stoke.

2.  Slide into a good time at Jamberoo

a family enjoying in a wave pool at Jamberoo Action Park, Kiama
Get your adrenaline fix at the family-friendly Jamberoo water theme park. (Image: Destination NSW)

For theme park thrills, go to Jamberoo Action Park, NSW’s largest family-owned and operated water theme park. Located in the hinterland, between the mountains and the sea, the watery wonderland has slides and rivers to wow kids and adults of every age. Don’t miss the Taipan, a high-intensity waterslide that plunges you into darkness at high speed. Brace for steep thrills in The Stinger but wear a wedgie-proof wetsuit. Note: there are some rides that come with a 45kg requirement.

3. Browse Kiama’s best markets

Take the tension off the throttle and visit local markets such as: Kiama Farmers’ Market , held every Wednesday at Coronation Park from 3pm-6pm during daylight savings and 2pm-5pm thereafter; Gerringong Rotary Markets , on the third Saturday of every month from 8.30am to 1.30pm; Kiama Seaside Markets on the third Sunday of every month, from 9am to 3pm; and Jamberoo Village Markets held on the last Sunday of the month. BYO eco bags.

4. Have a blast at the Kiama Blowhole

water plume spouting from the Kiama blowhole
The Little Blowhole in Kiama is a sight to behold. (Image: Destination NSW)

A recipe for family holiday heaven is to take your kids somewhere that will grab their attention. Kiama Blowhole is that place. The name Kiama has long been translated as “where the sea makes a noise". Wait for the ‘whoosh’ as the blowhole blasts wide-eyed onlookers with salty sea spray. The attraction, formed from basalt lava some 260 million years ago, has grown in popularity over the years. Time your visit with a southeast swell when the spout can shoot up to 25 metres in the air. Little Blowhole is also worth a visit.

5. Get some bread cred in Kiama

Continue to stretch your legs and head north along the Kiama Coastal walk from the Blowhole to Minnamurra River. Those with little legs will have worked up an appetite to refuel on berry muffins at Minnamurra Cafe .  You could also start your day with a freshly lacquered croissant from Parfait Patisserie . Or join the fervour for a gourmet pie or sanga from Flour Water Salt . Embrace the NSW South Coast’s slow food movement by picking up a deliciously chewy artisan loaf from Slow Dough (only open Friday to Sunday). The Hungry Monkey is the locals’ choice for burgers.

6. Enjoy fish and chips beside the sea

a hand holding a prawn over a dish at Saltwater Kiama
Prawn, Salmon & Avocado Salad at Saltwater Kiama.

Cave in to that voice that whispers ‘you must have fish and chips beside the seaside’ and find your fix at Diggie’s. The bright, breezy eatery is one of the most family-friendly places to eat in Kiama. Order crumbed fish tacos for the little tackers. Penny Whistler’s is another popular local haunt for fish and chips with ocean views. And you can enjoy an altogether more leisurely seafood lunch at Saltwater Kiama where the signature dish of battered blue grenadier and chips is the go.

7. Enjoy a history lesson

Celebrate Kiama’s heritage with a visit to the Kiama Pilots Cottage Museum , built in 1880-1881. The Kiama Historical Society has done a stellar job of curating the collection on show at the Blowhole Point museum, which is near to Kiama Lighthouse. The museum starts by honouring the connection the Wodi Wodi people have to the land and sea in the Kiama area, with evidence of their presence dating back at least 12,000 years.  It also charts the region’s seafaring history, shares stories about shipwrecks and profiles local legends involved in everything from agriculture to tourism.

8. Get creative with a hands-on workshop

molding a pot using hands at South Coast Ceramics, Kiama
Sign up for a pottery class at South Coast Ceramics.

There are a lot of creative ways you can keep your kids entertained in Kiama, from Creative Beading to DIY Chocolate Rocky Road workshops. Check the Visit Kiama website to see the schedule of workshops for budding writers, potters, painters and candlemakers. The Bead Shack in Gerringong also has a regular roster of kiddie-friendly classes from bead-stringing to macramé. There are also beginner classes on offer at South Coast Ceramics in Gerringong.

9. Meet the makers

Get an insight into the creative scene in Kiama at The Collective Beat , which provides artists, makers, creators, designers, innovators and entrepreneurs the opportunity to sell direct to the public. The collective acts like a giant canvas, providing each artist with the opportunity to add their own colour. You will find everything from handmade toys and clothes to homewares and original artworks. Think of it as a treasure trove of items that celebrate Kiama’s vibrant community spirit.

10. Get lost in a good book

The Bookshop Kiama stocks a carefully curated selection of books that aims to please readers of all ages. It’s the kind of place you might wander into for five minutes and accidentally lose an afternoon. The kids’ section here is a cracker: stocked with beautifully illustrated picture books, junior fiction favourites and young adult fiction. Whether you are after a rainy-day read or a book to get a reluctant reader off the ropes, the charming shop has your next great read sorted.

11. Kiama Coast Walk

a couple enjoying the Kiama Coast Walk on the South Coast
Soak up seaside views while walking from Kiama to Gerringong. (Image: Destination NSW)

For the small effort of wandering along the Kiama Coast Walk, there are big rewards. The walk can be carved up into three sections: north, midway and south. The section that extends between the Continental Rock Pool and the Little Blowhole is one of the most kid-friendly walks in Kiama. And it’s great for families with prams or kids on scooters.

12. Journey to Cathedral Rocks

a night sky full of stars over Cathedral Rocks, Kiama
The volcanic rock formation glows under the dazzling night sky. (Image: Destination NSW)

The distinctive saw-toothed spires of Cathedral Rocks can be seen from a range of different vantage points along the Kiama Coast Walk. The northern section between Minnamurra River and Blowhole Point is where you will find Cathedral Rocks . Nature has been the architect here and the resulting volcanic rock formation is one of the most well-photographed on the NSW South Coast. Encourage your children to sit and watch the birds wheel overhead and pause to take it all in.

13. Find your hinterland happy place

scenic hinterland views above Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures, Knights Hill
Soak up the scenery from the elevated steel treetop walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

The Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk is also popular with families up for an adventurous hike and is one of the best things to do with kids near Kiama. Introduce the family to the practice of shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) as you wander along the walkway above a riot of sage green, jade and viridescent rainforest that shifts with the light. Those wanting to holiday closer to home can jump in the car and spend some time on the NSW South Coast.

14. See Kiama’s cultural side

The cultural calendar in Kiama has you covered year-round with reasons to return. Watch Kiama come alive for the return of this year’s Winter Street Festival , which includes street performances, interactive workshops and kids’ activities. The KISS Arts Fest will also appeal to the young and young at heart as the Kiama foreshore transforms with a jam-packed program that ranges from a hilarious raft race to a lantern parade in October. The Changing Tides Festival in December also has a gig aimed at 10–18-year-olds and includes acts such as Mallrat and Tones and I.

15. Spot whales from the headland

an aerial view of Rangoon Island north of Kiama
Catch occasional sightings of humpback whales from Rangoon Island. (Image: Destination NSW)

Kiama is not just a summer destination. Experience the very best of Kiama with kids over the winter months by heading to the whale watching platform at Minnamurra Headland. Have your binoculars at the ready to watch for migrating whales during the height of the season, from late May to July. The Kiama Blowhole and Gerringong Whale Watching Platform also provide great vantage points.

16. Go on a grand road trip

an aerial view of the Grand Pacific Drive road
The scenic route stretches along the dramatic cliffs of the NSW South Coast. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Kiama has joined forces with Destination Sydney Surrounds South for the Go Grand campaign . The idea behind the campaign is to promote the Grand Pacific Drive road trip as it bounces along the coast from Wollongong to Shellharbour, Kiama, the Shoalhaven and Southern Headlands. You can build your own itinerary or click on the carefully curated Family Getaway route, which loops in top spots such as Bangalay Luxury Villas and Cupitt’s Estate.

17. Go for a bushwalk

the scenic Minnamurra Falls in Jamberoo
Walk to the majestic Minnamurra Falls. (Image: Destination NSW)

Tick one bush walk off at a time while visiting the Sydney Surrounds South region of Kiama, Shellharbour, Shoalhaven, Wollongong and Wingecarribee (Southern Highlands).  The region includes spots such as Boneyard, Minnamurra Rainforest, Easts Beach and Blackhead Reserve. As well as inspiring your children to look out for various birds and identify native flora, little explorers will get to experience the joy of bushwalking in Australia.

18. Visit the Southern Highlands

Belmore Falls in Morton National Park in the Southern Highlands
Cool off in the idyllic Belmore Falls in Morton National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

Looking for a special experience other than sitting on a headland and watching the whales go past? Head inland from Kiama and into the Southern Highlands to ooh and aah at Carrington and Belmore waterfalls. Pick up some local cider and visit the region’s cool-climate wines, which will help you get a taste of the terroir. It’s one of the most charming regional getaways to plot an escape to.

Carla Grossetti
Carla Grossetti avoided accruing a HECS debt by accepting a cadetship with News Corp. at the age of 18. After completing her cadetship at The Cairns Post Carla moved south to accept a position at The Canberra Times before heading off on a jaunt around Canada, the US, Mexico and Central America. During her career as a journalist, Carla has successfully combined her two loves – of writing and travel – and has more than two decades experience switch-footing between digital and print media. Carla’s CV also includes stints at delicious., The Sydney Morning Herald, and The Australian, where she specialises in food and travel. Carla also based herself in the UK where she worked at Conde Nast Traveller, and The Sunday Times’ Travel section before accepting a fulltime role as part of the pioneering digital team at The Guardian UK. Carla and has been freelancing for Australian Traveller for more than a decade, where she works as both a writer and a sub editor.
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Your guide to what’s new and exciting this summer on the Central Coast

    Kassia ByrnesBy Kassia Byrnes
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    From serene natural beauty to vibrant nightlife, with plenty of arts and culture in between, the NSW Central Coast has been enjoying a serious glow up.

    Just one hour from Sydney, the Central Coast has long been the perfect seaside getaway. And with its ECO Destination certification with a focus on sustainability, it’s a trip travellers can feel good about, too. Recently, new and exciting openings have turned the Central Coast into a place where incredible natural beauty is still on the table, but so is a vibrant and sophisticated arts, dining and nightlife scene.

    Find out what’s new to discover on the Central Coast.

    1. Gosford’s glow up

    room at voco gosford
    Book into voco and experience the best of Gosford.

    Long-time Central Coast lovers will hardly recognise Gosford these days. While always boasting gorgeous water views, a range of revamps and new openings have turned it into a busy hub of arts and culture, with an increasingly diverse and vibrant nightlife.

    Landmark lifestyle hotel voco Gosford is the perfect home base for a Central Coast getaway. At this IHG hotel overlooking sparkling Brisbane Water, guests can spend sunny days soaking in the rooftop pool (or just sipping a cocktail beside it). When it comes to meals, you can enjoy multiple venues serving up everything from modern Australian fare to fine-dining Japanese.

    Venture out to lay eyes on the Central Coast’s first permanent Moving Image Gallery (MIG) . Opened this year inside the Gosford Regional Gallery , the immersive space is a showcase of screen-based and digital art. While at the gallery, wander around the Edogawa Commemorative Garden, a traditional Japanese strolling garden complete with teahouse, koi pond and an ornamental bridge.

    Meanwhile, the revamped Gosford Regional Library has even more than books to discover. Now, it’s one of the best in the southern hemisphere – find exhibitions, historical archives and community initiatives for all ages at this perfect family-friendly escape.

    2. Newcomers to the dining scene

    table full of food at Amarilla restaurant terrigal
    Treat yourself to sundowners and snacks at Amarilla.

    The Central Coast has long been the perfect destination for gourmands, with everything from casual eats to fine dining elevating the local offerings. And three new destinations have been added to the map.

    Amarilla at The Haven in Terrigal is the perfect seaside venue for sundowners, with blissed-out beats providing the soundtrack. Book in for golden hour and choose bites from a Spanish tapas menu made for sharing. Do as the locals do and wash it all down with sangria – the Sunday Sangria Sessions have become a local institution.

    Also in Terrigal, Little Miss has brought a premium Mediterranean menu to the waterfront. Try the wagyu tartare with Greek caviar or butter-poached lobster and tomato bisque, paired with inventive cocktails and a handpicked selection of Lebanese wines.

    Over in Ettalong, Bar Toto is perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks. This award-winning cocktail bar is known for its creative concoctions, along with craft beer, wine and antipasti platters to snack on. The interior sets the mood, with dim lighting and wooden furnishings.

    3. New Central Coast experiences

    winemaker at Firescreek Botanical Winery
    Book an experience at Firescreek Botanical Winery.

    It’s entirely possible (and recommended) to spend a Central Coast getaway relaxing on one of its many peaceful and pristine beaches. But for those who crave more, there’s a long list of options to keep you busy.

    Pop into the iconic Australian Reptile Park to see the new Weigel Venom Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that’s home to over 200 of the country’s most venomous snakes.

    Get out on the water with Sail Central Coast , which offers 20 years of expertise in yacht charters. Book the Sunset Sail & Dine yacht charter for a private afternoon cruising the waterways of Bouddi National Park and Brisbane Water, stopping at Anchor on Hardys for a two-course meal with a cocktail.

    For something completely different, Firescreek Botanical Winery is now offering an Aboriginal Storytelling and Wine Tasting Experience. Learn about local cultures, stories and traditions from an Aboriginal Elder, then enjoy a botanical-inspired wine tasting led by a local winemaking expert.

    4. Central Coast accommodation

    view from a cottage at Noonaweena
    Sleep in the hinterland at Noonaweena.

    There’s simply too much to experience on the Central Coast to only stay for one day. Turn your trip into a relaxing getaway by the beach.

    Allawah , a retreat on the banks of the Hawkesbury River, is accessible only by boat. This secluded two-bedroom cottage is the perfect place to unwind, allowing you to spend lazy days fishing, kayaking, paddling or unwinding with a book on your own private jetty.

    In the Kulnura hinterland, Noonaweena features a range of accommodation styles, from a luxe glamping bell tent to cottages and a treetop suite. It’s a leader in green travel, with 10 years of certification from Eco Tourism Australia. Relax in the onsite wellness centre or get active on various courts and in the gym facilities.

    To stay by the ocean at Toowoon Bay, book into Kim’s Beachside Resort . This adults-only property offers a luxury escape nestled within a sub-tropical rainforest. Along with 36 private timber bungalows, indulge in massages or reiki treatments at the dedicated spa, or stop by the cocktail bar and à la carte restaurant.

    5. Shopping on the Central Coast

    Umina’s Centred Ceramics central coast
    Try your hand at Umina’s Centred Ceramics’ pottery courses.

    For those after unique trinkets, handmade treasures and beautiful homewares, the Central Coast is a haven.

    Markets on the Central Coast have a special flavour. Wander the Umina Beach Markets at twilight, where you’ll find small businesses from the local areas, and the Norah Head Ocean View Markets , where you can soak up good food, live music and artisan finds by the beach after sunset. ‘Tis the season for the Christmas twilight edition of the Avoca Beachside Markets, celebrating the season with pop-up bars, tasty treats and plenty of unique gift options from local artists and producers.

    Galleria Ettalong has also added to the Central Coast’s recent makers and creators renaissance, wrapping cinemas, a dining precinct and over 40 boutique shops into one area.

    Sign up for a pottery course at Umina’s Centred Ceramics , or peruse the shop for a range of one-of-a-kind pottery made on the premises for a special souvenir.

    For more eclectic arts and homewares, pop into Blue Bird Collective Co . This marketplace supports over 35 small, local and handmade businesses, artists and creatives. Take the time to check out fashion, jewellery and homewares that won’t be found anywhere else.

    Start planning your coastal getaway at lovecentralcoast.com .