Kiama Harbour
A picturesque harbour on NSW's South Coast, famous for its natural blowhole and stunning coastal vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Kiama Harbour
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque harbour on NSW's South Coast, famous for its natural blowhole and stunning coastal vistas.
"It was great to see a big pod of dolphins come into the harbour. Great view up the coast."
🌅 Catch the Sunrise
Sunrise at Kiama Harbour is spectacular for photos!
🌊 Check Blowhole Tides
See the blowhole in action by checking tide times before you visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kiama Blowhole
Adjacent to the harbour
Witness the powerful spray of water erupting from this natural rock formation. A must-see spectacle!
Harbour Sunrise/Sunset
Kiama Harbour
Capture stunning golden hour hues reflecting on the water and boats. Perfect for photographers.
Dolphin Watching
Kiama Harbour
Keep an eye out for playful dolphins often spotted swimming in the harbour waters.
Coastal Walks
Kiama Harbour and surrounding areas
Explore scenic paths offering panoramic views of the coastline and ocean.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Kiama Harbour
Embrace the Coastal Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunrise
Sunrise at Kiama Harbour is spectacular for photos! 
🌊 Check Blowhole Tides
See the blowhole in action by checking tide times before you visit.
🚶♀️ Explore Coastal Paths
Enjoy scenic walks around the harbour and nearby headlands.
🐬 Dolphin Spotting
You might get lucky and see dolphins in the harbour!
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunrise
Sunrise at Kiama Harbour is spectacular for photos!
🌊 Check Blowhole Tides
See the blowhole in action by checking tide times before you visit.
🚶♀️ Explore Coastal Paths
Enjoy scenic walks around the harbour and nearby headlands.
🐬 Dolphin Spotting
You might get lucky and see dolphins in the harbour!
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Kiama Harbour offers great views for photography.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Kiama Harbour for its stunning coastal scenery, particularly the dramatic Kiama Blowhole and beautiful sunrise/sunset views. Many enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, opportunities for dolphin spotting, and the scenic walking paths. Some find parking can be challenging during peak times.
"It was great to see a big pod of dolphins come into the harbour. Great view up the coast."
C F
"What a great view... Perfect spot for photography, walking or just have a great day!!!"
Martha Almeyda
"This is scenic drive road, just take it and enjoy."
Anup
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kiama Harbour is a popular day trip from Sydney, approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive south via the M1 and Princes Highway. Public transport options include taking a train from Sydney Central Station to Kiama Station, which is a short walk from the harbour. +1
Yes, there is parking available near Kiama Harbour, though it can get busy on weekends and during peak season. Consider arriving early or exploring nearby street parking options.
Absolutely! Trains run regularly from Sydney to Kiama, making it an accessible destination without a car. The station is conveniently located close to the harbour.
The drive down the South Coast of NSW to Kiama Harbour is incredibly scenic. Consider taking the coastal route for stunning ocean views.
The main areas around Kiama Harbour are generally accessible, with paved paths for walking. Some of the more rugged coastal tracks might require more mobility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting Kiama Harbour itself is free. Access to the harbour, walking paths, and general viewing areas does not require a ticket.
The Kiama Blowhole is a natural attraction and is free to visit. There are no entry fees associated with viewing the blowhole.
Kiama Harbour is accessible 24/7 as it's a public area. However, amenities like cafes and shops will have their own operating hours.
Yes, there are various accommodation options, including Kiama cabin accommodation and Kiama harbour accommodation, ranging from hotels to holiday rentals.
The Kiama Blowhole is best viewed during high tide when the waves are strong enough to force water through the blowhole. Check local tide charts for optimal viewing times.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography at Kiama Harbour, with beautiful golden hour hues.
The harbour itself with its boats, the lighthouse, the Kiama Blowhole, and the surrounding coastal cliffs are all highly photogenic.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's advisable to check with the local council or authorities regarding any restrictions before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. A tripod is recommended for sunrise/sunset shots.
The bioluminescence can sometimes be seen in the harbour waters, offering a unique and magical photography opportunity.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy scenic walks, watch the Kiama Blowhole, spot dolphins, take photos, and explore nearby attractions like Cathedral Rocks and Bombo Headland.
Yes, Kiama Harbour is a very popular and rewarding day trip from Sydney, offering beautiful coastal scenery and natural attractions.
Nearby attractions include the Kiama Blowhole, Cathedral Rocks, Bombo Headland, and the charming town of Gerringong.
Yes, it's common to see pelicans and other seabirds around the harbour. Dolphins are also frequently spotted in the waters.
The Kiama coastal walk offers stunning ocean views and passes by key landmarks like the blowhole and lighthouse. It's a well-maintained path.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several cafes and restaurants near Kiama Harbour offering various dining options, from casual coffee to full meals.
Penny Whistlers and KG Cafe & Wine Bar are often recommended for coffee and brunch/lunch in Kiama.
Given its harbour location, you can likely find fresh seafood options at restaurants in and around Kiama.
The harbour area and nearby parks offer pleasant spots for a picnic while enjoying the coastal views.
You'll find a mix of Australian cuisine, with a focus on fresh local produce and seafood, in Kiama's dining establishments.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy by the water, making it a budget-friendly and relaxed meal option. The coastal walks are generally stroller-friendly in parts, but check accessibility for specific paths. Keep an eye out for pelicans and other seabirds – kids often love spotting local wildlife.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Don't miss the opportunity to explore the coastal walks for dramatic landscape photography. The lighthouse and surrounding rock formations provide excellent subjects. If you're lucky, you might even capture the magical bioluminescence at night for a truly unique shot.
A wide-angle lens and a tripod are highly recommended.🚗 Road Trippers
Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Kiama Blowhole and Bombo Headland for a comprehensive coastal experience. There are also charming towns like Gerringong nearby for further exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Kiama Blowhole
To witness the blowhole at its most impressive, it's crucial to check the tide times. High tide, particularly during rougher seas, will provide the most dramatic displays. Many visitors recommend arriving a bit before high tide to secure a good viewing spot and experience the full force of nature.
While the blowhole is the main attraction, the surrounding area offers beautiful coastal scenery and walking paths, making it a perfect stop on any South Coast adventure. Remember to keep a safe distance from the blowhole when it's active.
Capturing Kiama Harbour's Beauty
+1Beyond the harbour itself, the coastal walks provide ample opportunities for landscape photography. From the rugged cliffs to the expansive ocean views, there's always a new perspective to discover. Don't forget to look out for local wildlife, such as the pelicans that often perch on streetlights or posts, adding a unique touch to your shots.
For those interested in unique phenomena, keep an eye out for bioluminescence in the harbour waters, which can create an ethereal glow at night. This rare but incredible sight offers a truly unforgettable photographic experience.
Remember to pack a tripod for low-light conditions and a wide-angle lens to capture the sweeping vistas.Exploring the Kiama Coastline
Beyond the immediate harbour area, venturing to nearby spots like Cathedral Rocks and Bombo Headland reveals more dramatic coastal formations and excellent vantage points. These locations are perfect for exploring rock pools, enjoying the sea air, and capturing more incredible photographs.
Many visitors find Kiama to be a perfect day trip from Sydney, offering a refreshing escape to the coast. The combination of natural wonders, scenic drives, and charming local spots makes it a well-rounded destination for a short getaway.
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