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Guide to Kiama Blowhole & Kiama Coast Walk

The Kiama Blowhole is one of the South Coast’s most dramatic natural attractions, known for sending plumes of seawater high into the air when swell and wind line up. Sitting beside Kiama Lighthouse, grassy lookouts, and the family-friendly Blowhole Point Ocean Pool, it’s an easy stop packed with high visual impact. Just a few minutes from the town centre, it’s one of the most accessible coastal spectacles in New South Wales. 

Running alongside this is the Kiama Coast Walk, a 20–21 km clifftop trail linking Minnamurra River with Gerringong. With viewpoints, beaches, rock formations, and multiple entry points, it’s a flexible day walk suitable for both families and seasoned hikers. Whether you’re visiting for the classic Kiama blowhole, the Minnamurra rainforest or one of the most scenic coastal hikes in NSW, this part of the Grand Pacific Drive Kiama region is a must-see. 

 

Why do people go to Kiama? 

The Kiama Blowhole is one of Australia’s largest and most famous blowholes. Formed from a basalt sea cave, it ejects columns of seawater when conditions are right, sometimes reaching impressive heights of over 30 metres. The area is compact and easy to explore, with Kiama Lighthouse, short clifftop paths, picnic lawns, and the scenic Kiama Ocean Pool just steps away. 

Then, of course, there is the Kiama Coast Walk, which links Minnamurra to Kiama and onward to Gerringong, following beaches, headlands, wetlands, and the striking volcanic columns of Bombo Headland. You can walk it in one long day or split it into signed sections with rail links available at Kiama and Gerringong for those looking for a one-way route. Dogs are allowed on leash for most of the route, with some beach exclusions, and you’ll find whale-watch platforms, several ocean pools, and calm, easy-to-follow signage along the route.  

 

How long should I spend at Kiama? 

If you’re visiting the Kiama Blowhole and nearby headland, 30–60 minutes is usually enough to see the blowhole, explore the lighthouse precinct, wander the cliff paths, and visit the nearby rock pool. On big swell days, many visitors stay longer just to watch the ocean drama unfold. 

For the Kiama Coast Walk, the full 20–21 km takes 6–8 hours, depending on pace and conditions. Many travellers instead choose to tackle just one section, such as Minnamurra to Kiama or Kiama to Gerringong, for an easier two- to three-hour stroll. 

 

Is Kiama worth visiting? 

Definitely, the blowhole is an easy, big-impact natural attraction that is within arm's reach of the town amenities, and the coast walk offers one of NSW’s most scenic day walks. With flexible Kiama Coast walk sections, public transport links, and year-round ocean views, it’s an ideal stop for photographers, families, and road-trippers looking for a rewarding mix of nature and convenience. 

 

How to get to Kiama Blowhole & Coast Walk 

Kiama sits on the NSW South Coast, about 2 hours south of Sydney via the Grand Pacific Drive or the Princes Highway. The blowhole precinct is a short, signposted walk from Kiama Station, and the town centre is close by. 

Access points for the Kiama Coast Walk include Minnamurra, Kiama, Bombo, and Gerringong stations, making it easy to walk one direction and return by train. 

Day-use parking is available at Blowhole Point near the lighthouse and visitor centre, and additional parking can be found along the foreshore and streets around town. 

NOTE: No overnighting is permitted at Blowhole Point, but you do have plenty of options for nearby holiday parks if travelling in a campervan. 

 

Best time to visit Kiama Blowhole & Coast Walk

While there is no wrong time to visit this gem, there are a few factors to consider when it comes to busy times, swells and time of year:  

  • Blowhole activity varies depending on swell direction and tide, and south-easterly swells typically produce the biggest plumes. If you want to time your visit around the biggest swells, it's worth checking out the local swell forecast! 

  • Early morning and late afternoon give you softer light and fewer crowds, and can be a good idea if you are hoping to do any kind of photograph.y 

  • The Kiama Coast Walk is enjoyable year-round, with spring to autumn offering mild winds and more extended daylight, but winter is excellent for whale watching, so it really depends on the experience you are chasing. 

 

Weather & on-trail conditions at Kiama

Expect full coastal exposure: sun, wind, and changing conditions. Carry water, sun protection, and a light layer even on mild days. What's more, Clifftop sections can be gusty, so keep back from unfenced edges and avoid rock platforms during heavy swell. Track surfaces vary from paved paths, boardwalks, grass, and firm dirt, with some steeper undulations near Gerringong. So it's worth wearing comfortable and grippy shoes if you plan to adventure off the main township paths. Dogs are allowed on-lead for most of the walk, although some beaches have exclusions, so be sure to keep an eye out for signage as you walk.  

 

Best place to park your campervan at Kiama 

For the Kiama Blowhole, use the Blowhole Point day-use car parks, which generally accommodate larger vehicles outside peak times (so it's a good idea to make an early start if you are travelling in a campervan). If you’re walking a longer section of the Kiama Coast Walk, parking near a rail station trailhead (Minnamurra, Kiama, Bombo, or Gerringong) makes it easy to complete a one-way walk and return by train. 

For those travelling in a campervan, it is worth noting that overnight camping is not permitted at Blowhole Point. That said, there are plenty of options for overnight parking nearby, with convenient facilities available at local holiday parks around Kiama or Gerringong.  

 

FAQs and must-see answers 

How long does the Kiama Coast Walk take? 

Around 6–8 hours for the full 20–21 km. Most visitors choose a 2–3-hour section using rail access at Kiama or Gerringong. 

Is the walk from Kiama to Gerringong dog-friendly? 

Yes! Dogs are allowed on-lead for most of the trail. Some beaches exclude dogs, so be sure to follow signage or detour along adjacent streets. 

What is the most scenic clifftop walk in Sydney? 

Many walkers compare Kiama’s scenery to Sydney’s classics, and it's little wonder why! The Bondi to Coogee walk and the Spit Bridge to Manly track are often considered the most scenic in Sydney. It is definitely worth visiting yourself if you are venturing north (and you can compare them yourself!) 

Can you swim at Minnamurra Rainforest? 

No, swimming is not permitted within the nearby Minnamurra Rainforest area of Budderoo National Park, and canyoning/abseiling is also prohibited. So keep this in mind if you are planning to head out that way! 

 

Compliance and safety 

  • Clifftops & swell: Stay well back from edges and avoid rock platforms during heavy seas. Follow closure signage around blowhole lookouts. 

  • Dogs: On-leash rules apply to most parts of the walk; some beaches exclude dogs, check signs. 

  • Parking & overnighting: Blowhole Point is day-use only. Travellers in campers should book a nearby holiday park for overnight stays. 

 

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