From jumping off giant rocks to swirling down steep slides, Jamberoo Action Park knows how to thrill. Photo: Jamberoo Action Park.
Kiama may be famous for its picturesque and serene lifestyle but for those looking to explore or find something a bit faster paced they need not go very far.
These outdoor adventures are set to help community members soak up the summer rays while getting the adrenaline pumping, discovering hidden gems in their own backyard or even learning a new skill or two.
Whether you want to have some fun on the water or even in the trees, there’s no need to leave the region, with Kiama the ultimate adventure destination.
Jamberoo Action Park
The state’s largest family-owned water park has been a summer hit for decades and with new attractions popping up all the time, Jamberoo Action Park just keeps getting better.
It’s home to some of the biggest and best waterslides in the country which are sure to get the blood pumping, but as its slogan – ‘Where you control the action’ – indicates, visitors can choose the space that fits their pace with wave pools, kids areas, a bobsled and even mini golf.
The sheer size of Jamberoo Action Park may make it seem like it’s a world away, but the venue is less than 30 minutes from the Wollongong CBD and less than 20 from the main stretches at Shellharbour and Kiama (depending on traffic), and there are thousands of carpark spaces.
It is also just a short bus ride away from Kiama train station.
It’s cheaper to buy tickets online in advance, with prices ranging from $50 to $84 per person (free for children three and under!)
Season passes are also available for those looking to get the adrenaline pumping over and over again, or potentially just after a surefire way to wear out the kids.
More details and tickets are available on the Jamberoo Action Park website.
Illawarra Fly
The highest zipline in Australia and one of only four steel canopy walks in the world is hidden away in the Illawarra rainforest, creating a unique opportunity for both thrill seekers and nature lovers alike.
The Illawarra Fly Zipline Tour provides the chance to soar through the treetops on a series of elevated cable spans and suspension bridges up to 35 metres above the forest floor.
The eco-wilderness adventure sees participants from as young as four zip between tree platforms called ‘cloud stations’ guided by expert tour guides who also teach about the growing and vibrant forest below.
The treetop walk lets you go at your own pace through a 1500 metre walk nestled among the warm rainforest canopies 20 to 30 metres above the ground, culminating in a spiral tower that rises to a breath-taking 45 metres above the forest floor.
Two springboard cantilevers can then take guests to the edge of the escarpment.
From Kiama, the best way to reach the treetops is via Jamberoo and Jamberoo Mountain roads, past the Minnamurra Rainforest towards Robertson.
There is free parking onsite with room for coaches and caravans (in case you’re bringing along the whole crew).
Prices for the treetop walk start at $20, with the zipline adventure from $100 (with treetop walk included).
Booking in advance is advised with annual passes also available through the Illawarra Fly website.
Stand Up Paddleboarding Shellharbour holds SUP experiences from dawn to dark at Minnamurra River. Photo: Shellharbour Stand Up Paddleboarding.
Paddleboarding, Kayaking and Surfing
Whether you want to get in the water or explore from the surface, there are scenic spots to search which allow you to set the pace.
Land’s Edge Foundation runs outdoor education and activities across the region, from canoeing at Minnamurra River to surf lessons at Gerroa and snorkelling in Kiama Harbour.
Gerringong Surf School holds holiday programs and private and group lessons with a hint of skating also involved at Seven Mile Beach. Surf Camp Australia also boasts multi-day surfing experiences allowing participants to live the ultimate surfer’s lifestyle in Gerroa while mastering their new skill.
If you’re looking for a stand up paddleboard experience with a twist, Stand Up Paddleboarding Shellharbour hosts night, sunrise, sunset, private and group SUP sessions at Minnamurra River and a Cultural Connections to Waterways tour led by Dr Jodi Edwards.
For those confident to guide their own way, places such as Seven Mile Beach, Crooked River and Minnamurra River are much loved spots for kayaking, canoeing and stand up paddleboards, whereas Werri and Jones beaches are loved by surfers and those looking for some saltwater swimming and snorkelling.
Costs vary from hiring basic equipment to taking lessons or participating in programs which span multiple days.
For more information on programs and pricing visit the individual businesses’ websites or to learn more about waterways to suit your needs visit Destination Kiama’s website.
Horse riding at Kimberley Park Stud
As much as Kiama is a celebration of the coast, the town also offers a country atmosphere and experiences.
Kimberley Park Stud creates experiences with horses for people of all ages, from casual fun rides for first-timers to one-on-one lessons to refine your riding technique.
It offers a fully supervised ride for children and inexperienced riders along the scenic banks of Broughton Creek with the lesson creating the excitement of riding a horse in a controlled and safe environment.
For those looking to pursue the craft further, the business also offers one-on-one tuition for beginners to teach the basics of riding and assess progression before being introduced to group lessons where they can meet likeminded friends and reach personal goals.
Horsemanship lessons teach participants how to work with the horse on the ground and while riding, and about horse care and suitable equipment for each breed.
It also offers 15-minute pony rides for those five years and younger and can discuss facilities for ride experiences for people with a disability.
Kimberley Park Stud is nestled away on McClelland Road in Broughton Village, just five minutes from Gerringong and 15 minutes from Kiama.
Pricing for lessons and experiences varies from $40 to $150, with specific pricing available through the organisation.
For more information call 0434 221 238 or visit the Facebook page or website.
