Need a Reset and a Refresh? The Very Best Walk on the South Coast To Blow the Cobwebs Away!
The Kiama Coast Walk Route
This walk easily divides into 3 natural sections – each section taking between 1.5 and 3 hours.
This stunning 22km pathway along our sparkling coastline has spectacular ocean views, inviting detours and good access to both amenities and public transport. The Kiama Coast Walk is the perfect way to explore our region. A a mix of sealed pathways, beaches and grassed tracks, this walk is suitable for most levels of fitness.
Birdlife, basalt, beaches, bays and blowholes are just the beginning.
Stage 1: From Minnamurra to Blowhole Point
Distance: 8.4 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 3 hrs
Kiama Coast Walk
Start at the mouth of the Minnamurra River (just a short walk from the nearby train station) before heading south. Markers will guide you to the gentle sweep of Jones Beach and the Cathedral Rocks beyond, Bombo Beach and Kiama Harbour. Continue until you get to the Kiama Lighthouse and Blowhole Point.
Along with the hidden beauty of ‘the Boneyard’ and eerie basalt columns of Bombo headland are all well-marked and worthwhile detours along the way. Popular with surfers all year round, North Bombo Beach gives you your first glimpse of Kiama Township. At the other end, ascend Pheasant Point to receive a scenic ‘wow-factor’ welcome. Kiama Harbour is home to picturesque rock pools on either side, along with many boats, nearby cafes and shops – even the odd pelican. The lighthouse and blowhole await, with impressive views in all directions.
As well as walking, you’ll be able to swim or snorkel at various spots along the way.
Stage 2: BlowHole Point to Loves Bay
Distance: 5 km
Difficulty: Medium/Hard
Time: 1.5 hrs
From Blowhole Point (also home to Kiama’s Visitor Information Centre and historic Pilot’s Cottage), beaches and bays lie ahead, with signage highlighting landmarks and history along the way.
From Storm Bay, past the Showground and down to Surf Beach (Kiama’s most popular beach, patrolled from October to April), all-weather exercise equipment and sweeping views accompany you for this part of your journey.
The Norfolk-pine-dotted headland carries you around to Kendalls Beach, with its beachfront cabins and steep sides. Steps and a breathtaking grassy walk will then deliver you to the Little Blowhole. While its larger cousin operates best in a South-East swell, this one takes flight in a more common North-Easter.
Your journey now continues on grass until sheltered Easts Beach comes into view, with steps at each end.
The next point is a great spot to look back at how far you’ve come. Loves Bay and its rocky solace beckons – your urban leg is complete.
Rock Formations on the Kiama Coast Walk
Stage 3: Loves Bay to Gerringong
Distance: 6 km
Difficulty: Medium/Hard
Time: 2 hrs
Dramatically different from the previous two, this section leaves the world behind.
This newest part of the Kiama Coast Walk (opened late 2009) is also the most untouched, as you follow a zig-zag of coastal pastures south from Kiama Heights to Werri Beach.
Your occasional partner on this journey is the South Coast railway, appearing and disappearing into tunnels carved more than 120 years ago. It is here, amongst the exposed cliff tops, rainforest remnants and endless ocean views, that the weather can play a factor – so be prepared for all possibilities.
Kilometre markers inform your progress, while the Illawarra Escarpment gently tumbles into the sea before your very eyes.
Along the way, it’s possible to feel miles from civilization.
Rolling Hills of the South Coast Kiama Coast Walk
Dipping amongst rocky bays and finally to the tidal Werri Lagoon, the township of Gerringong sits atop the next hill; a well deserved coffee or return train ride with your name on it. Or why not continue on a little further to the Werri Fish and Chip shop. Gerringong is another 2.5 kilometres along Werri Beach and up the southern headland to the whale-watching platform.
Take water with you, use sun protection, suitable footwear and be prepared for wet weather.
For an electronic link to everything Kiama Coast Walk, and to download a map – Click here!
For more information on walks to do in the Shoalhaven click Here!
Louise, Mt Hay Retreat.
