# Kiama Tours | Whale Cruises, Kayaks, Wine and Culture URL: https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/things-to-do/kiama-tours/ Last updated: 2026-10-17 # Kiama tours to book for whale cruises and river paddles The Kiama tours most visitors book are Shellharbour Wild's whale cruises from Shell Cove (May to November), Gumaraa's Aboriginal paddle and canoe tours on the Minnamurra River, SUP and kayak trips on the same river, surf lessons at Gerroa, South Coast Journeys wine tours with a Kiama pickup, and Illawarra Fly's treetop walk. [](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/authors/joseph-joshua-ngushual/)By [Joseph Joshua Ngushual](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/authors/joseph-joshua-ngushual/), Kiama Travel SpecialistPublished 17 October 2026 · 9 min read Stay at Kiama Ridge Waters Three-bedroom apartments from $200 a night Sleeps 6 · 15-minute walk to Easts Beach [First Floor 3-Bed Unit by the Ocean First floor · Sleeps 6 · From $214 a night](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/apartments/first-floor-ocean/)[3-Bed Apartment with Study Nook First floor · Sleeps 6 · From $201 a night](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/apartments/study-nook/)[Ground Floor 3-Bed Home in Kiama's Heart Ground floor · Sleeps 6 · From $200 a night](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/apartments/kiama-heart/)[3-Bed Kiama Unit with Courtyard Ground floor · Sleeps 6 · From $306 a night](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/apartments/courtyard/)[3-Bed with Alfresco Dining Ground floor · Sleeps 6 · From $204 a night](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/apartments/alfresco-dining/) [Book now](https://book.madecomfy.com.au/properties/656fed562e0a0-first-floor-3-bed-stunning-unit-by-the-ocean/?ref=nddmytc&utm_source=ridgewaterskiama&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=booking-handoff&utm_content=guide-hero) Photo: WalkingKooka (still from video), [CC BY 3.0](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Humpback_whale_mother_and_calf_south_of_Gerringong_Boat_Harbour,_NSW,_Australia.webm) ## Compare Kiama tours by type, departure point and drive time Photo: Maxim75, [CC BY 4.0](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:2023-09-02_Kiama,_NSW_1.jpg) Kiama itself is small, so most guided tours start a short drive away: at Shell Cove marina to the north, on the Minnamurra River, on [Seven Mile Beach](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/beaches/seven-mile-beach/) at [Gerroa](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/towns/gerroa/) or up on the escarpment. The table sets out the main options, with drive times from Kiama Ridge Waters at 2 [Surfleet Place](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/live-and-own/kiama-ridge-waters-location/). Prices and times change often, so check before you go. Tour | Operator | Departs | Drive | Whale cruise | Shellharbour Wild | Shellharbour Marina, Shell Cove | About 16 min | Aboriginal SUP and canoe tours | Gumaraa Aboriginal Experience | Trevethan Reserve, [Minnamurra](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/towns/minnamurra/) | About 12 min | SUP lessons and tours | SUP Shellharbour | Lake Illawarra or Minnamurra River | 12 min to Minnamurra | Kayak and canoe [day trips](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/towns/day-trips-from-kiama/) | Canoe and Kayak Adventures | James Oates Reserve, Minnamurra | About 11 min | Surf lessons | Gerroa Surf School, [Gerringong](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/towns/gerringong/) Surf School | Seven Mile Beach, Gerroa | About 11 min | Wine and brewery tours | South Coast Journeys | Pickup from your Kiama address | None | Reef fishing charter | Kiama Charter Service | [Kiama Harbour](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/landmarks-and-walks/kiama-harbour/) | About 4 min | Treetop walk and zipline | Illawarra Fly | Knights Hill, above Jamberoo | About 32 min (27 km) | Helicopter scenic flight | Touchdown Helicopters | Shellharbour Airport, Albion Park Rail | About 20 min | Heritage steam train | The Picnic Train | Sydney, Sutherland or Wollongong to Kiama | Kiama station is a 27-min walk | No whale cruise leaves from Kiama Harbour, so the nearest whale boat is at Shell Cove. If you want to watch from land instead, our [whale watching guide](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/landmarks-and-walks/whale-watching-kiama/) lists the free lookouts. ## Cruise with migrating whales from Shell Cove Photo: JTButterflies, [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Shell_Cove_Marina.jpg) Shellharbour Wild runs the closest whale cruises to Kiama, aboard the catamaran Cat Balou from the public jetty at Shellharbour Marina. The standard Whale Cruise lasts 1.5 hours and runs from May to November, every day including public holidays. The operator lists an 11am departure on weekdays and 10am, 12pm and 2pm departures on weekends. Arrive 20 minutes early to check in at the boat with your confirmation email. Bring a jacket, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water and a camera. The cruise is not recommended past 24 weeks of pregnancy. Prices are shown on the booking page only, so check there. The season finishes in November, so late October and early November are your last chances this year. Make a morning of it with our [Shellharbour guide](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/towns/shellharbour/). ### Shellharbour Wild Public Wharf, 13 Marina Drive, Shell Cove Whale Cruise of 1.5 hours, May to November, plus the 2-hour Aboriginal Cultural Whale Cruise on limited dates. About 16 minutes' drive from the apartments. Phone 02 4203 2379. [Website](https://shellharbourwild.com.au/)[Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Shellharbour%20Wild%2C%2013%20Marina%20Drive%2C%20Shell%20Cove%20NSW)Directions: [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&origin=2%20Surfleet%20Place%2C%20Kiama%20NSW%202533&destination=Shellharbour%20Wild%2C%20Public%20Wharf%2C%2013%20Marina%20Drive%2C%20Shell%20Cove%20NSW) · [Waze](https://waze.com/ul?q=Shellharbour%20Wild%2C%20Public%20Wharf%2C%2013%20Marina%20Drive%2C%20Shell%20Cove%20NSW&navigate=yes) ## Learn on Country with Gumaraa on the Minnamurra River Photo: MrActiniuM, [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Minnamurra_River.jpg) For an Aboriginal tour near Kiama, start with Gumaraa Aboriginal Experience, an Aboriginal-led business based at Albion Park Rail that shares Dharawal and Yuin culture. Two of its public tours run on the Minnamurra River, about 12 minutes' drive north of the apartments. - Stand Up Paddle Boarding, Minnamurra River: a 2-hour guided paddle led by a Gumaraa cultural facilitator and an accredited SUP Shellharbour instructor, with stops for stories about freshwater Country. Board, paddle and safety gear are included, and beginners are welcome. Meet at Trevethan Reserve and arrive 15 minutes early to sign waivers. - Culture Canoeing Tour: a 2-hour canoe trip through the mangroves and channels that starts with a Welcome to Country, smoking ceremony and ochre ceremony. - Aboriginal Cultural Whale Cruise: run with Shellharbour Wild from Shell Cove on limited dates. Gumaraa's Richard Campbell and Lisa Bazzano lead a smoking ceremony and storytelling about the place of whales in Yuin culture, and UOW whale researcher Dr Jodi Edwards joins some cruises. Tours run on set dates and depend on the weather. Dates and prices are on each tour's booking page, so check before you go. Read more about the river in our [Minnamurra River guide](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/things-to-do/minnamurra-river/). ### Gumaraa Aboriginal Experience Trevethan Reserve, Minnamurra (river tours) Aboriginal-led SUP and canoe tours on the Minnamurra River, about 12 minutes' drive away, plus workshops and bush tucker walks elsewhere in the Illawarra. Phone 0432 645 912. [Website](https://gumaraa.com.au/public-tours/)[Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Trevethan%20Reserve%2C%20Minnamurra%20NSW%202533)Directions: [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&origin=2%20Surfleet%20Place%2C%20Kiama%20NSW%202533&destination=Gumaraa%20Aboriginal%20Experience%2C%20Trevethan%20Reserve%2C%20Minnamurra%20(river%20tours)%20NSW) · [Waze](https://waze.com/ul?q=Gumaraa%20Aboriginal%20Experience%2C%20Trevethan%20Reserve%2C%20Minnamurra%20(river%20tours)%20NSW&navigate=yes) ## Paddle the Minnamurra River by kayak or SUP Photo: MrActiniuM, [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Minnamurra_River_w-sandbank.jpg) The Minnamurra River is calm, shallow and lined with mangroves, which makes it the local choice for a first paddle. Two operators run guided trips there. SUP Shellharbour is a mobile stand-up paddleboard school. Its main base is Lake Illawarra, and it also runs sessions at Trevethan Reserve on the Minnamurra River. Group lessons, private lessons, SUP yoga and summer night paddles with underwater lights are on offer, and it is open every day from [sunrise](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/beaches/kiama-sunrise-sunset/) to sunset. Its group page lists $45 per person for a group session with all equipment and an instructor, and $70 per person for a night paddle. Ask for the Minnamurra River when you book if you want to stay close to Kiama. Canoe and Kayak Adventures (South Coast Safaris) runs half-day canoe and kayak trips on the Minnamurra for small and large groups, with equipment, basic instruction and guides if needed. Meeting points include James Oates Reserve. Prices are not listed, so call for a quote. To hire a boat and paddle on your own, our [Minnamurra River guide](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/things-to-do/minnamurra-river/) covers the launch ramps and the tide. ### SUP Shellharbour Trevethan Reserve, Minnamurra, and Lake Illawarra Group and private SUP lessons, SUP yoga and night paddles. Open every day, 6am to 6pm. Phone 0427 667 938, calling after 1pm if you can. [Website](https://www.supshellharbour.com/)[Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Trevethan%20Reserve%2C%20Minnamurra%20NSW%202533)Directions: [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&origin=2%20Surfleet%20Place%2C%20Kiama%20NSW%202533&destination=SUP%20Shellharbour%2C%20Trevethan%20Reserve%2C%20Minnamurra%2C%20and%20Lake%20Illawarra%20NSW) · [Waze](https://waze.com/ul?q=SUP%20Shellharbour%2C%20Trevethan%20Reserve%2C%20Minnamurra%2C%20and%20Lake%20Illawarra%20NSW&navigate=yes) ### Canoe and Kayak Adventures (South Coast Safaris) James Oates Reserve, Minnamurra Half-day guided canoe and kayak trips on the Minnamurra River for groups of all sizes, about 11 minutes' drive away. Phone 0404 895 379. [Website](https://kayakadventures.com.au/the-minnamurra-river/)[Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=James%20Oates%20Reserve%2C%20Minnamurra%20NSW%202533)Directions: [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&origin=2%20Surfleet%20Place%2C%20Kiama%20NSW%202533&destination=Canoe%20and%20Kayak%20Adventures%20(South%20Coast%20Safaris)%2C%20James%20Oates%20Reserve%2C%20Minnamurra%20NSW) · [Waze](https://waze.com/ul?q=Canoe%20and%20Kayak%20Adventures%20(South%20Coast%20Safaris)%2C%20James%20Oates%20Reserve%2C%20Minnamurra%20NSW&navigate=yes) ## Take a surf lesson on Seven Mile Beach at Gerroa Photo: Cookaa, [CC BY-SA 3.0](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:7_Mile_Beach_NSW.JPG) Kiama's town beaches are better for watching than learning, so the surf schools work the long, gentle stretch of Seven Mile Beach at Gerroa, about 11 minutes' drive south. Gerroa Surf School, part of Surf Camp Australia, has run lessons since 1999 and is Surfing Australia accredited. Lessons last two hours, suit ages 6 and up, and include soft boards and full wetsuits. Its multi-lesson packs start at $200 for three lessons over a weekend. Under-13s must have a participating adult. Gerringong Surf School is led by former big-wave surfer Rusty Moran and runs group lessons (including ladies-only groups), private lessons, soft board hire and a 3-day school holiday program at $200. Text 0414 555 306 to ask where the lesson meets that day. Surf breaks, patrol times and safety tips are in our [Kiama surf guide](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/beaches/kiama-surf/). ### Gerroa Surf School (Surf Camp Australia) Crooked River Road, Gerroa Two-hour group and private lessons on Seven Mile Beach for ages 6 and up, with boards, wetsuits and free photos for groups. Free call 1800 888 732. [Website](https://surfcamp.com.au/surf_packages/daily-surf-lessons-surf-school/)[Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Gerroa%20Surf%20School%2C%20Crooked%20River%20Road%2C%20Gerroa%20NSW)Directions: [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&origin=2%20Surfleet%20Place%2C%20Kiama%20NSW%202533&destination=Gerroa%20Surf%20School%20(Surf%20Camp%20Australia)%2C%20Crooked%20River%20Road%2C%20Gerroa%20NSW) · [Waze](https://waze.com/ul?q=Gerroa%20Surf%20School%20(Surf%20Camp%20Australia)%2C%20Crooked%20River%20Road%2C%20Gerroa%20NSW&navigate=yes) ### Gerringong Surf School Gerringong and Gerroa Group, ladies-only and private lessons, holiday programs and soft board hire. Open 7am to 5pm daily. Phone or text 0414 555 306. [Website](https://www.gerringongsurfschool.com.au/)[Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Gerringong%20Surf%20School%2C%20Gerringong%20NSW)Directions: [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&origin=2%20Surfleet%20Place%2C%20Kiama%20NSW%202533&destination=Gerringong%20Surf%20School%2C%20Gerringong%20and%20Gerroa%20NSW) · [Waze](https://waze.com/ul?q=Gerringong%20Surf%20School%2C%20Gerringong%20and%20Gerroa%20NSW&navigate=yes) ## Leave the car behind on a wine or brewery tour Photo: emmett anderson, [CC BY 2.0](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Gerringong_NSW_View.jpg) For food and wine tours, South Coast Journeys is the local operator that will collect you in Kiama. Its South Coast Winery Tour for 10 people or fewer picks up from your address between about 9am and 10.30am. Every tour includes three wine tastings, two cheese platters and a one-course lunch with a glass of wine, beer or cider. A sample day visits Coolangatta Estate, then lunch at Cambewarra Estate or Coolangatta Estate. Bigger groups can book the 10-plus version. For beer drinkers, its craft beer tour visits three breweries with tasting paddles and a gourmet burger lunch, mostly around Wollongong and sometimes as far south as Gerringong. Prices depend on numbers, so ask for a quote. Give 2 Surfleet Place, Kiama, as your pickup address. If you would rather drive yourself to a cellar door or two, see our [wineries near Kiama](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/eat-and-drink/wineries-near-kiama/) guide. ### South Coast Journeys Pickup from your Kiama address Small-group and large-group South Coast winery tours and craft beer brewery tours. Call or text Hamish on 0421 497 604. [Website](https://southcoastjourneys.com.au/our-tours/private-south-coast-winery-tour-10-or-less-people/)[Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=South%20Coast%20Journeys%20NSW)Directions: [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&origin=2%20Surfleet%20Place%2C%20Kiama%20NSW%202533&destination=South%20Coast%20Journeys%2C%20Pickup%20from%20your%20Kiama%20address%20NSW) · [Waze](https://waze.com/ul?q=South%20Coast%20Journeys%2C%20Pickup%20from%20your%20Kiama%20address%20NSW&navigate=yes) ## Book a reef fishing charter out of Kiama Harbour Photo: TrimmerinWiki, [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Robertson_Basin,_Kiama_(October_2020).jpg) The one tour that leaves from Kiama itself is fishing. Kiama Charter Service takes reef fishing trips within about 15 km of port, all year, seven days a week (except Christmas Day and New Year's Day), weather permitting. Boats leave Kiama Harbour at 6am and return about 2pm. Its website lists reef fishing at $205 per person, or $2,000 for a group of 10, with 4 to 10 people per trip. Deep sea trips to the continental shelf run mainly from May to September, for whole-boat bookings only. The harbour is about 4 minutes' drive from the apartments. For rock and beach fishing spots, read our [Kiama fishing guide](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/things-to-do/kiama-fishing/). ### Kiama Charter Service Kiama Harbour Reef fishing from 6am to about 2pm for 4 to 10 people, and deep sea charters for whole-boat bookings. Phone (02) 4236 1716 or 0428 621 875. [Website](https://kiamafishing.com.au/)[Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Kiama%20Harbour%2C%20Kiama%20NSW%202533)Directions: [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&origin=2%20Surfleet%20Place%2C%20Kiama%20NSW%202533&destination=Kiama%20Charter%20Service%2C%20Kiama%20Harbour%20NSW) · [Waze](https://waze.com/ul?q=Kiama%20Charter%20Service%2C%20Kiama%20Harbour%20NSW&navigate=yes) ## Walk the rainforest canopy at Illawarra Fly Photo: Gonzo Gooner, [CC BY 3.0](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Illawarra_Fly_-_panoramio.jpg) Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures sits on the escarpment at Knights Hill, about 32 minutes' drive (27 km) from the apartments via Jamberoo Mountain Road. The Treetop Walk is a 1.5 km loop with 500 metres of steel walkway 20 to 30 metres above the ground, plus the spiral Knights Tower. The Zipline Tour is a guided run between platforms in the canopy. It is open daily from 10am to 4.30pm (9.30am in holiday periods), except Christmas Day, with last entry at 3.30pm. The Treetop Walk is from $20 and the Zipline Tour from $100. Fewer zipline tours run on weekdays outside school holidays, so book a session online and arrive 15 minutes early. Parking is free. Pair it with Minnamurra Rainforest and lunch in the village, using our [Jamberoo guide](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/towns/jamberoo/). ### Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures 182 Knights Hill Road, Knights Hill Treetop Walk from $20 and Zipline Tour from $100. Open daily 10am to 4.30pm, last entry 3.30pm. About 34 minutes' drive. [Website](https://illawarrafly.com.au/)[Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Illawarra%20Fly%20Treetop%20Adventures%2C%20182%20Knights%20Hill%20Road%2C%20Knights%20Hill%20NSW)Directions: [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&origin=2%20Surfleet%20Place%2C%20Kiama%20NSW%202533&destination=Illawarra%20Fly%20Treetop%20Adventures%2C%20182%20Knights%20Hill%20Road%2C%20Knights%20Hill%20NSW) · [Waze](https://waze.com/ul?q=Illawarra%20Fly%20Treetop%20Adventures%2C%20182%20Knights%20Hill%20Road%2C%20Knights%20Hill%20NSW&navigate=yes) ## See the escarpment and Jamberoo Valley from a helicopter Photo: Ymblanter, [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Budderoo_NP_View_from_Jamberoo_Lookout_2.jpg) Touchdown Helicopters flies scenic tours from Shellharbour Airport at Albion Park Rail, about 20 minutes' drive north. The one that suits a Kiama stay is the Waterfall Discovery Flight: 25 minutes over the escarpment, Budderoo National Park, Gerringong Falls, Carrington Falls and the green Jamberoo Valley, listed at $330 per person. Flights are sold on a shared basis, with private flights on request. Its shorter coastal flights leave from Wollongong Heliport and stay around Wollongong, so check the route before you book if you want to see Kiama's own coast. Flights depend on the weather. From the ground, the same valley views are free from the lookouts in our [Kiama lookouts](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/landmarks-and-walks/kiama-lookouts/) guide. ### Touchdown Helicopters 38 Airport Road, Albion Park Rail Waterfall Discovery Flight, 25 minutes, $330 per person on a shared basis. About 18 minutes' drive. Phone (02) 4257 7612. [Website](https://touchdownhelicopters.com.au/tour/30-minute-waterfall-discovery/)[Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Touchdown%20Helicopters%2C%2038%20Airport%20Road%2C%20Albion%20Park%20Rail%20NSW)Directions: [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&origin=2%20Surfleet%20Place%2C%20Kiama%20NSW%202533&destination=Touchdown%20Helicopters%2C%2038%20Airport%20Road%2C%20Albion%20Park%20Rail%20NSW) · [Waze](https://waze.com/ul?q=Touchdown%20Helicopters%2C%2038%20Airport%20Road%2C%20Albion%20Park%20Rail%20NSW&navigate=yes) ## Ride a heritage steam train to Kiama on the Picnic Train Photo: SpottoBotto, [CC BY 4.0](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:5917_The_Picnic_Train.jpg) The Picnic Train is a volunteer-run heritage steam trip from Sydney (Tempe, or Central on some dates), Sutherland or Wollongong to Kiama and back in a day, with about 3 hours 45 minutes in town. The remaining 2026 dates are 24 and 25 October, 14 and 15 November, and 28 and 29 November. Fares are per group: a DUO ticket for two is $260, a four-seat booth $360 and a private compartment for up to eight $550, with First Class high tea tickets sold separately. Book only on the operator's site, not at a station. If you arrive by steam and stay the night, Kiama station is about a 27-minute walk (2.2 km) from the apartments. Timings and tips are in our [Kiama Picnic Train guide](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/things-to-do/kiama-picnic-train/). ### The Picnic Train Arrives at Kiama station Same-day return steam trips to Kiama. Remaining 2026 dates in October and November. Phone 1300 936 587. [Website](https://www.picnictrain.com.au/kiama)[Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Kiama%20railway%20station%2C%20Kiama%20NSW)Directions: [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&origin=2%20Surfleet%20Place%2C%20Kiama%20NSW%202533&destination=The%20Picnic%20Train%2C%20Arrives%20at%20Kiama%20station%20NSW) · [Waze](https://waze.com/ul?q=The%20Picnic%20Train%2C%20Arrives%20at%20Kiama%20station%20NSW&navigate=yes) ## Join a ranger walk or follow a self-guided heritage tour Photo: Maksym Kozlenko, [CC BY-SA 3.0](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Minnamurra_Rainforest_-_panoramio_(21).jpg) Guided walking tours in Kiama are scarce, so the options here are a mix of ranger-led and self-guided. - Minnamurra Rainforest by Torchlight: NSW National Parks rangers lead a 1.6 km night walk on the Lyrebird Loop for ages 5 and up, from 6pm, priced at $25 for adults, $15 for children and $70 for a family of four, including park entry. It runs on set dates only, and the last listed 2026 session was 1 October, so check for new dates before you plan around it. - Free audio tours: the NSW National Parks app has self-guided audio tours of the Minnamurra Rainforest loop. Download them before you go, as there is little mobile coverage. - Kiama Heritage Walk: pick up the free heritage walk brochure at the Kiama Visitor Information Centre on Blowhole Point and follow it past the Lighthouse, Pilot's Cottage, Terrace Houses and old banks and churches. More routes, including the Kiama Coast Walk, are in our [walks in Kiama](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/landmarks-and-walks/walks-in-kiama/) guide and our [Minnamurra Rainforest guide](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/landmarks-and-walks/minnamurra-rainforest/). ### Minnamurra Rainforest Centre Minnamurra Falls Road, Jamberoo Meeting point for NSW National Parks ranger tours on set dates. About 23 minutes' drive. Phone 1300 072 757 for tour information. [Website](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/budderoo-national-park)[Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Minnamurra%20Rainforest%20Centre%2C%20Minnamurra%20Falls%20Road%2C%20Jamberoo%20NSW)Directions: [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&origin=2%20Surfleet%20Place%2C%20Kiama%20NSW%202533&destination=Minnamurra%20Rainforest%20Centre%2C%20Minnamurra%20Falls%20Road%2C%20Jamberoo%20NSW) · [Waze](https://waze.com/ul?q=Minnamurra%20Rainforest%20Centre%2C%20Minnamurra%20Falls%20Road%2C%20Jamberoo%20NSW&navigate=yes) ### Kiama Visitor Information Centre Blowhole Point Road, Kiama Free heritage walk brochures, maps and local tour bookings. Phone 1300 654 262. [Website](https://kiama.com.au/listings/info-services/kiama-visitor-information-centre)[Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Kiama%20Visitor%20Information%20Centre%2C%20Blowhole%20Point%20Road%2C%20Kiama%20NSW)Directions: [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&origin=2%20Surfleet%20Place%2C%20Kiama%20NSW%202533&destination=Kiama%20Visitor%20Information%20Centre%2C%20Blowhole%20Point%20Road%2C%20Kiama%20NSW) · [Waze](https://waze.com/ul?q=Kiama%20Visitor%20Information%20Centre%2C%20Blowhole%20Point%20Road%2C%20Kiama%20NSW&navigate=yes) ## Plan your tour days from Kiama Ridge Waters A few tips make tour days run smoothly: - Book ahead in school holidays. Whale cruises, zipline sessions and the Picnic Train sell out on weekends. - Keep a back-up plan. Boats, paddles, surf lessons and flights all depend on the weather, and operators will move or refund trips when conditions turn. - Mix water and land. A morning paddle at Minnamurra and an afternoon at Illawarra Fly work well together, as both sit north and west of town. - Search for Kiama Scenic Tours with care. It is a local coach company on Manning Street, but its day trips and extended tours are mostly built for Illawarra residents rather than visitors. Wetsuits and picnic gear go straight from the car to the door, as each apartment has garage parking for two cars and three bedrooms for up to six guests. For a surf weekend or a winery tour with a crowd, book several apartments on the same site for the whole crowd. See our [three-bedroom apartments](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/apartments/), [group accommodation in Kiama](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/stay/groups/) and [group activities in Kiama](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/things-to-do/kiama-group-activities/), or [check availability](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/book/). ### Staying at Kiama Ridge Waters The river, surf and whale tours all leave 11 to 16 minutes' drive from Kiama Ridge Waters, and each apartment has garage parking for two cars. Kiama Ridge Waters offers three-bedroom apartments at 2 Surfleet Place, Kiama, each sleeping six with parking for two cars. [View apartments](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/apartments/) [Check availability](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/book/) ## Quick answers **Are there whale watching cruises from Kiama?** No whale cruise leaves from Kiama Harbour. The nearest is Shellharbour Wild at Shell Cove, about 16 minutes' drive north, running 1.5-hour cruises daily from May to November. Book on its website and check departure times before you go. **Are there Aboriginal tours near Kiama?** Yes. Gumaraa Aboriginal Experience runs 2-hour cultural SUP and canoe tours on the Minnamurra River, about 12 minutes from the apartments, and a cultural whale cruise with Shellharbour Wild. Tours run on set dates and depend on the weather, so check the booking pages first. **Can you do a kayak tour in Kiama?** Yes, on the Minnamurra River, about 11 minutes' drive north. Canoe and Kayak Adventures runs half-day canoe and kayak trips from James Oates Reserve, and SUP Shellharbour runs paddleboard lessons at Trevethan Reserve. Gumaraa also runs a cultural canoe tour on the same river. **Is there a food and wine tour that picks up in Kiama?** South Coast Journeys picks up from your Kiama address between about 9am and 10.30am for its South Coast winery tours, which include three tastings, cheese platters and lunch. It also runs craft beer tours. Prices depend on group size, so ask the operator for a quote. **Where can I take surf lessons near Kiama?** Head to Seven Mile Beach at Gerroa, about 11 minutes' drive south. Gerroa Surf School (Surf Camp Australia) runs two-hour lessons for ages 6 and up with boards and wetsuits included, and Gerringong Surf School runs group, private and holiday lessons. Book ahead in summer. **How far is Illawarra Fly from Kiama?** Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures is at 182 Knights Hill Road, about 32 minutes' drive (27 km) from Kiama Ridge Waters via Jamberoo Mountain Road. It opens daily from 10am to 4.30pm, with last entry at 3.30pm. Treetop Walk tickets start at $20. **Can you go fishing on a charter boat from Kiama?** Yes. Kiama Charter Service runs reef fishing trips from Kiama Harbour from 6am to about 2pm, seven days a week, weather permitting. Its website lists $205 per person, with 4 to 10 people per trip. Deep sea trips run mainly from May to September. Written by [](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/authors/joseph-joshua-ngushual/) ### Joseph Joshua Ngushual Kiama Travel Specialist Joseph Joshua Ngushual writes the Kiama Ridge Waters guides to Kiama and the NSW South Coast. He researches every guide against official sources such as Destination Kiama, Kiama Council and NSW National Parks, checks local businesses directly, and measures walking and driving times from the apartments, so you can plan beach days, walks, meals and day trips with accurate, current detail. - Kiama travel - NSW South Coast - Beaches and walks - Food and drink - Family trips - Trip planning [View all articles](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/authors/joseph-joshua-ngushual/)[](https://www.facebook.com/joshua.joseph.5648)[](https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephjoshuangushual/) ## Sources and useful links - [Destination Kiama: Tours](https://kiama.com.au/experience/tours) - [Destination Kiama: Getting here (tours and charters)](https://kiama.com.au/explore/plan/getting-here) - [Shellharbour Wild: Whale Cruise](https://shellharbourwild.com.au/whale-cruise/) - [Shellharbour Wild: Aboriginal Cultural Whale Cruise](https://shellharbourwild.com.au/aboriginal-cultural-whale-cruise/) - [Gumaraa: Stand Up Paddle Boarding, Minnamurra River](https://gumaraa.com.au/stand-up-paddle-boarding-minnamurra-river/) - [Gumaraa: Culture Canoeing Tour](https://gumaraa.com.au/culture-canoeing-tour/) - [SUP Shellharbour: About and contact](https://www.supshellharbour.com/about) - [SUP Shellharbour: Group sessions and prices](https://www.supshellharbour.com/items) - [Canoe and Kayak Adventures: The Minnamurra River](https://kayakadventures.com.au/the-minnamurra-river/) - [Surf Camp Australia: Gerroa Surf School](https://surfcamp.com.au/surf_packages/daily-surf-lessons-surf-school/) - [Gerringong Surf School](https://www.gerringongsurfschool.com.au/) - [South Coast Journeys: South Coast Winery Tour (10 or less people)](https://southcoastjourneys.com.au/our-tours/private-south-coast-winery-tour-10-or-less-people/) - [South Coast Journeys: Craft beer brewery tour](https://southcoastjourneys.com.au/our-tours/south-coast-nsw-craft-beer-distillery-brewery-pub-tour/) - [Kiama Charter Service: Reef fishing](https://kiamafishing.com.au/reef-fishing/) - [Illawarra Fly: Opening hours](https://illawarrafly.com.au/plan-your-day/before-you-visit/opening-hours) - [Illawarra Fly: Getting here](https://illawarrafly.com.au/before-you-visit/getting-here) - [Touchdown Helicopters: Waterfall Discovery Flight](https://touchdownhelicopters.com.au/tour/30-minute-waterfall-discovery/) - [The Picnic Train: Kiama](https://www.picnictrain.com.au/kiama) - [NSW National Parks: Minnamurra Rainforest by torchlight](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/guided-tours/minnamurra-rainforest-torchlight) - [Destination Kiama: Kiama Heritage Walk](https://kiama.com.au/listings/things-to-do/kiama-heritage-walk) - [Kiama Scenic Tours](https://kiamascenictours.com.au/) ## Keep exploring Kiama [Landmarks and walks ### Whale watching in Kiama from six free lookouts, plus cruises Whale watching in Kiama runs May to November. Six free lookouts from Minnamurra to Gerroa, the month-by-month season, cruises from Shell Cove and spotting tips. 7 min read](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/landmarks-and-walks/whale-watching-kiama/)[Things to do ### Minnamurra River guide to swimming, paddling and fishing near Kiama Plan a day on the Minnamurra River near Kiama: where to swim, launch a kayak or paddle board, the fishing rules, tides, river mouth safety and parking. 6 min read](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/things-to-do/minnamurra-river/)[Things to do ### 10 Kiama group activities for friends and family Kiama group activities for 8 to 30 people: a winery long lunch, surf lessons, barefoot bowls, Jamberoo Action Park group tickets, golf and fishing charters. 9 min read](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/things-to-do/kiama-group-activities/) [All things to do guides](https://ridgewaterskiama.com.au/explore-kiama/things-to-do/)