14 January 2026

Don't let rain dampen your Kiama holiday - this guide has you covered in all kinds of weather

| By Dione David
Start the conversation
Kiama lighthouse and blowhole

The iconic Kiama Lighthouse, as captured by local photographer Belinda Doyle, is the cover photo for the 2026 Kiama Visitor Guide. Photo: Belinda Doyle.

Kiama is most commonly synonymous with its natural attractions and coastal scenery, including a certain blowhole/lighthouse combo that’s become the seaside town’s unofficial mascot.

But with the jury out on whether the state will experience below or above average rainfall this summer, there’s still a fair chance residents (and visitors) will need to entertain themselves in wet weather.

Fortunately, Kiama wasn’t named NSW’s Top Tourism Town two years running without good reason — the region has entertainment covered come rain or shine.

“Kiama is an all-year-round destination that’s lovely whatever the weather,” a Destination Kiama spokesperson said.

In fact, rainy day activities have scored their own dedicated section in Destination Kiama’s 2026 Kiama Visitor Guide, alongside action-packed adventures, creative pursuits, holidays with kids, travelling with pets and more.

READ ALSO Iconic landscape and visitor growth scores Kiama podium finish at national tourism town awards

The guide touches on the appeal of the region’s many wonderful cafes and eateries, with plenty of cosy spots to retreat to on rainy days.

Among other indoor recommendations are the obvious fan favourites, including HARS Aviation Museum, Bundanon art destination and the region’s numerous libraries and museums that are impervious to the weather.

Less expected in a rainy day guide are some outdoor spots, including the region’s numerous waterfalls and its iconic blowhole.

“There’s a beauty to visiting a tourism destination in shoulder seasons and on rainy days, when crowds tend to thin,” the spokesperson said.

“More than that, familiar places take on a whole new flavour in that weather, but no less beautiful.”

A little more “insider” are the guide’s suggestions for activities, which include signing up for one of the region’s many workshops, go-karting, Flip Out, bowling and the “rage room” known as SmashLAB, located just 15 minutes north in Albion Park Rail.

READ ALSO Have your say as Shellharbour charts a new course for tourism

Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald described the 2026 Kiama Visitor Guide as a celebration of everything that made the region special.

“From sun‑drenched beaches and walking trails to vibrant arts, local food and a growing evening scene, this guide captures the spirit of Kiama,” he said.

“We hope it inspires everyone: families, first‑time visitors or those who keep returning, to explore, enjoy, and fall in love with our coast all over again.”

The guide has been freshly designed to help everyone plan their perfect trip. Families, pet owners, visitors with additional needs, and night owls will all find handy tips and dedicated sections, including a new “Kiama After Dark” feature for exploring the nightlife.

Grab your copy at the Kiama Visitor Information Centre, check it out online or pick one up from partner businesses and Visitor Information Centres across NSW.

Free, trusted, local news, direct to your inbox

Keep up-to-date with what's happening in Wollongong and the Illawarra by signing up for our free daily newsletter, delivered direct to your inbox.
Loading
By submitting your email address you are agreeing to Region Group's terms and conditions and privacy policy.

Start the conversation

Daily Digest

Want the best Illawarra news delivered daily? Every day we package the most popular Illawarra stories and send them straight to your inbox. Sign-up now for trusted local news that will never be behind a paywall.

By submitting your email address you are agreeing to Region Group's terms and conditions and privacy policy.