Natural Parks and Reserves in Kiama New South Wales, Australia

The beautiful and quaint town of Kiama lies 120 km south of Sydney, Australia. Kiama is a popular tourist destination for white sand beaches, surfing competitions, the Kiama Blow Hole, great festivals, and various historical attractions; however, there is also a fascinating richness of natural parks in Kiama that should not be overlooked.

Budderoo National Park

Location: West of Kiama township, extends from the base of the Jamberoo Mountains to the Kangaroo River.

Budderoo National Park is a rainforest paradise. The Minnamura Rainforest extends throughout the park, offering a unique experience you won’t soon forget. The elevated walkways and paved tracks of the Rainforest Loop Walk, allow you to easily traverse through the lush vegetation. You will see sights such as giant roots in the rainforest floor, large fig trees, and various bird species (Lyrebirds, Eastern Water Dragons, and Swamp Wallabies).

The Falls Walk is a 2.6 km trail that leads to the canyon cliff and Upper Minnamura Falls. It offers stunning views of the beautiful upper and lower Minnamura Falls.

In the northwest portion of Budderoo National Park is Carrington Falls. Carrington Falls is regarded as the most beautiful falls in New South Wales. Carrington Falls picnic area is within walking distance of spectacular views of the falls so don’t forget to pack a lunch.

Seven Mile Beach National Park

Location: 25km south of Kiama township on Geroa Rd.

Head to Seven Mile Beach for a day of tranquility. Here you can enjoy the peace of a long walk to the sound of ocean waves or explore the beautiful sand dunes. Plan your day around beach activities like swimming, diving, surfing, fishing, kayaking, picnicking, and nature walking.

Within the park are various picnic spots for the family. Check out Beach Road Picnic Area where you are surrounded by beautiful trees and just a short walk from the beach. There are open picnic tables as well as sheltered tables and grilling areas.

For a more secluded and peaceful environment, check out the Gerroa Picnic Area where you can set up on a lush grassy spot. Tables are also available.

The two picnic areas are connected by the beautiful Sand Track Walk which is a trek through the lush Australian bush with huge old trees in every direction. The trail winds north from the Beach Road Picnic Area through dune blackbutt, bangalay forests, and the littoral rainforest to the Gerroa Picnic Area.

Barren Grounds Nature Reserves

Location: 19 km west of Kiama township at the top of Jamberoo Pass.

Here you can experience a variety of hiking trails from 2km to 20km in length. On the trails you will find lush vegetation, grand lookouts over the ocean, natural stone bridges, and a large variety of birds.

Take the Illawarra Lookout trail for a short and easy walk with a great view of the rolling green hills and coastline at the end. If you want to spend a little more time in the bush, consider Griffiths Walking track, an 8km walk with several lookouts along the way. To really get your heart pumping, try the more challenging walking track out to Cooks Nose. This trail has rewarding views and colorful vegetation.

All in all, if you are a nature lover, or just need a tranquil escape from the everyday, don’t miss out on any of these natural parks in Kiama.