The Underrated Coastal Town In Australia Where Blowholes And Lighthouses Steal The Scene

Nestled along the stunning New South Wales coastline — and roughly 80 miles south of Sydney — Kiama boasts the perfect blend of small-town charm, natural wonders, and indigenous heritage. In fact, its name actually translates to "where the sea makes a noise" from the Dharawal language spoken by the Indigenous Wodi Wodi people — the traditional custodians of the region, who have maintained deep cultural and spiritual connections to the land for thousands of years.

Once a quiet port village, tourism and coastal development have transformed the town into a gem brimming with cafés, independent shops, and restaurants that add a touch of sophistication to its atmosphere. Vibrant and laid-back — and an ideal destination for your Australian bucket list — Kiama's heritage-lined streets and pristine beaches beckon travelers looking to kick back in style.

However, in between the surf spots and coastal walks, there's one major attraction that continues to steal the limelight: the Kiama Blowhole. One of the largest in the world — totaling 8 feet wide and featuring jets of water that can reach up to 100 feet tall — the blowhole's natural display draws in visitors year-round. Better yet, just 200 feet away, the Kiama Lighthouse looms over the coastline. Standing proud since 1887, the iconic landmark continues to guide ships to this day.

Without a doubt, one of the best ways to see and enjoy the best of Kiama is to embark on the 12.5-mile Kiama Coast Walk. A trip that'll take you along some of the town's most spectacular sights, the walk starts just north of the Minnamurra River and winds through headlands and beaches until you reach Werri Beach in Gerringong. Split into three sections — which can be tackled together or individually — each segment offers its own unique collection of views.

For starters, the north section — roughly 5.2 miles long — will lead you past the dramatic Cathedral Rocks at Jones Beach (pictured above), as well as the imposing Bombo Headland basalt columns, before guiding you to the famous Kiama Blowhole. Meanwhile, the middle section — adding up to about 3.7 miles between the blowhole and Loves Bay — connects a string of postcard-worth beaches, including Surf Beach and Kendalls Beach. Along with these, you'll also have the chance to stop by the Little Blowhole — which tends to create more consistent bursts than its larger counterpart — about halfway through. As a pro tip, make sure to also keep your eyes peeled for dolphins playing along the water!

Finally, the southern section of the coastal walk offers the most untouched — and challenging — landscapes. Totaling 3.7 miles, this section of the path winds through coastal pastures and past century-old railway tunnels as you make your way toward Gerringong. Once you arrive, you can visit Werri Beach, check out the Gerringong Headland, or even hit up the Gerringong Bowling Club. As a precaution, always make sure you bring all of the hiking gear you'll need to complete your trip safely — including plenty of water, sturdy walking shoes, and sun protection.

Still craving more of the outdoors? Luckily, Kiana has plenty of other wonders to deliver in addition to the Kiana Blowhole and Kiana Lighthouse. Just 20 minutes west of the town, the Minnamurra Rainforest stands out as a must-see destination. A subtropical rainforest — a rare glimpse to what the region's vast rainforests once looked like — the spot is brimming with local flora and fauna, as well as elevated walkways and bridges. With two walks available for all kinds of explorers — a 0.9-mile loop around the canopy and a 1.6-mile walk to the park's Minnamurra Falls — there are plenty of opportunities to come face to face with some breathtaking beauty. Back in town, other outdoor activities include things like surfing, cycling, fishing, birdwatching, golfing, and more.

Once you're ready to trade up your hiking boots, Kiama's dining scene is more than ready to satisfy your cravings. Showcasing its strong farming heritage through fresh and locally-sourced ingredients, there are more than 30 cafés dotted along the coastline from Kiama to Gerroa — each one an absolute must-visit if you love coffee. Beyond that, don't miss out on the town's farmer's market, which takes place every Wednesday and offers fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and crusty breads.

Lastly, shopping enthusiasts can also get their fill of boutiques and speciality stores while in town. With a comprehensive directory featuring 19 stores that sell everything from beachwear to antiques, jewelry, and homeware, Kiama's shopping scene is thriving — and will surely steal you over.