The name Kiama comes from the Aboriginal word Kiaram-a, which allegedly means ‘where the sea makes a noise’. Indeed this colourful town is famous for its blowhole. On the cliffs at Blowhole Point, waves surging into an underground cavity are compressed and forced upwards, exploding high into the air and accompanied by a loud ‘oomph’. The strength varies according to the wind, waves and tide but when it’s pumping it always draws a crowd.
Kiama Terrace – the row of weatherboard cottages along Collins Street – was constructed in 1886 to house quarry workers and their families. Discover the history of this township at the Pilot’s Cottage Museum where you’ll learn about the cedar cutters, basalt quarrymen and dairy farmers who settled here.
Don’t miss the Kiama Lighthouse.
Nearby Gerringong and Shellharbour are worth a visit.