The 'perfect' summer getaway just 90-minutes south of Sydney
As the weather gets warmer, it's time to start thinking about your next quintessentially Australian beach getaway destination.
Kiama, located only 90-minutes south of Sydney, could be exactly what the doctor ordered.
Just don't forget your sunscreen, swimsuit, and a good pair of hiking shoes…
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Kiama is located only 90-minutes south of Sydney. Getty
Things to do in Kiama
If your first thought is beaches, you're on the money and some of the best include Surf Beach for surfing, Kendalls Beach for something a little more relaxed, and Bombo beach if you like to pair your day in the ocean with a scenic walk.
Since we're talking sea spray, don't forget that no trip to Kiama is complete without experiencing the seaspray of Kiama Blowhole and Little Blowhole.
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It's important to keep your distance, so if you prefer, check them both out while you're tackling the Kiama Coast Walk.
This popular stretch of paths (suitable for hiking and biking) stretches some 20 kilometres along the seaside. Don't worry, you can break it up into shorter sections if you can't quite commit to the whole thing.
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The area is famous for its relaxed coastal lifestyle and a couple of iconic blowholes. Getty Images/iStockphoto
You'll want to leave some energy for a stroll through the gargantuan trees and crystal clear streams of ancient Minnamurra Rainforest in Budderoo National Park.
Visiting in winter? Head to one of the whale watching platforms in Minnamurra for a chance to see some of those majestic creatures swimming past.
Of course, not everything can be about Kiama (and its surrounding area's) landscapes. For those craving a little adventure, you're not only a short drive from family favourite, Jamberoo Action Park, as well as Illawarra Fly TreeTop Adventures. True, the latter is still all about lush canopies and walking through them, but there's also a thrilling zipline option available.
If you've yet to learn to surf, you can also sign up for those surf lessons, courtesy of Gerringong Surf School.
A stunning natural waterfall flows through the lush Minnamurra Rainforest in New South Wales, Australia. This high-resolution image captures the serene beauty of Australia's pristine wilderness Getty
Drinking and eating
Locals and regular visitors will be quick to tell you that the best way to start the morning is by stopping in at Parfait Patisserie, a French-inspired bakery where all baked goods - be it croissants or small cakes - are made from scratch on the premises.
That second coffee you're likely to desire a mere hour later? Best to zero in on Daily Grind Coffee Roasters where you can watch coffee beans roasting from the upstairs café.
Craving a casual bite? Diggies and Penny Whistlers (both located at Black Beach) are a popular choice for a reason, while The Blue Swimmer, a fine dining establishment overlooking the water in Gerroa, is the place to go for that special meal.
Parfait Patisserie is a French-inspired bakery. Parfait Patisserie
While you're making reservations, you may also want to circle Miss Arda for a touch of Middle Eastern, and Bella Char Restaurant for its generous share plates.
Those in town on a Wednesday can head to the Kiama Farmers' Market to load up on fresh produce courtesy of the region's team of growers.
Just be sure to tack on a visit to Crooked River Estate, the largest vineyard on New South Wales' South Coast, and home to some seriously good plonk.
Where to stay
Whether your budget leads more towards the campground and holiday park category, or you can stretch to something a little more luxurious, Kiama is home to a wealth of accommodation options ranging from private rentals and farmstays to hotels and resorts.
Seven Mile Beach Holiday Park and Big 4 Easts Beach Holiday Park continue to be popular with young families in particular.
But those who want something a little different could also consider a stay which involves time on the land with a host of wild and woolly residents such as Jamberoo Valley Farm, a working permaculture farm complete with charming cottages.
Jamberoo Valley Farm is a working permaculture farm complete with charming cottages. Jamberoo Valley Farm
Bed and breakfasts, too, are relatively easy to find (check out Terragong 1858 Bed and Breakfast), but if you're hooked on striking architecture and modern design, Dovecote - set on a 60-hectare farm - is the ticket.
The two onsite lodges include fireplaces, outdoor cinemas, multi-course meals and more than a few cows to be seen outside their floor-to-ceiling windows.
In a similar vein, The Shed, another architecturally designed property - this time with views over Seven Mile Beach - is also a hit with the well-heeled. The property offers a plunge pool, freestanding tubs and an outdoor firepit.
