Why Kiama is the ultimate seaside escape near Sydney

Everyone knows Kiama has a blowhole. (In fact, it has two.) What you might not know is that Kiama Blowhole is the largest in the world. The seaside landmark was formed by a collapsed ancient volcanic vent, eroded down to a 2.5-metre-wide hole. When waves rush in, the blowhole produces sprays of up to 30 metres, which you can view from a range of vantage points.

But Kiama is more than spectacular sea spray. The coastal locale was crowned Australia’s most liveable town in 2023 by renowned demographer Bernard Salt. It’s not only surrounded by stunning natural beauty, but offers a seaside escape for people who want easy access to Sydney and Wollongong without a city lifestyle.

Located on the lands of the Wodi Wodi people of the Dharawal nation, Kiama gets its name from the Dharawal word “kiarama”, which means “where the sea makes a noise”. The area piqued the interest of British explorer George Bass in 1797 when he saw the Kiama Blowhole from his ship.

As a coastal town, the area’s beaches and marine activities dominate, particularly surfing and whale-watching. There are also top walking tracks, including the scenic Kiama Coast Walk from Minnamurra to Gerringong, and the inland trail up Saddleback Mountain, with views over the Illawarra. In recent years, Kiama has developed its arts and culture scene with the Kiama Arts Trail, a self-guided tour of galleries and artist studios on the first weekend of each month. Plus, the town’s museums pay special attention to Kiama-born figures like writer Charmian Clift and Oscar-winning Hollywood costumier Orry-Kelly.

The dining scene is equally chic while retaining a relaxed beachside ambience. Meze restaurant Miss Arda specialises in Turkish cuisine. Think sumac calamari or tahini cauliflower, and a range of inventive cocktails. Fancy a Turkish Delight Martini or Orange Blossom Margarita? There’s also Hanoi on Manning for elevated Vietnamese fare and the more casual Frida’s Cantina for all-day Mexican.

Another favourite is Penny Whistlers, which takes pride in using local produce and sauces made in-house. The Penny’s Benny, for example, features eggs from nearby Kangaroo Valley and house-made hollandaise. At night, its dinner menu comes with a side of live music.

For more dining with an ocean view, get a table at modern Australian restaurant Silica.

If you love to cook, you can source produce from local growers at the Kiama Farmers’ Market every Wednesday afternoon. Otherwise, boutique offerings in town include fashion and homewares store Deer Willow, which stocks brands like Elka Collective, Fazeek and Leif; the style-conscious Bombo Clothing Co; and The Collective Beat, an emporium where local artists and makers sell their wares.

Agent lens

with Helena Crumpton from Stone Real Estate Illawarra

Why does this suburb appeal to high-end buyers?

If you take a wander through the gorgeous town of Kiama, you will understand what captures the hearts of buyers. The exciting vibe of this coastal town has a romantic feel, with its dramatic coastline, family-friendly beaches, authentic fishing harbour and boutique shops and cafes. There’s direct access to the train line, and it’s approximately 20 kilometres to Shellharbour Airport and 15 kilometres to the Marina, making it the perfect spot for those who wish to escape the speed of city living yet be within 90 minutes of Sydney.

For sale in Kiama

Price Guide $4,900,000 - $5,300,000

1 Elouera Place, Kiama NSW 2533

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This grand estate blends European-inspired country elegance with modern luxury, featuring a main residence with soaring ceilings and herringbone floors, a self-contained studio and a two-bedroom tiny home. Enjoy a saltwater pool, an outdoor cabana complete with a barbeque, a firepit and an al fresco bath and shower.