Hidden Gems Escape

Kiama, Shellharbour, Wollongong

DAY 1

Morning:

Grab breakfast and a coffee at The Farmer’s Table, tucked away in Kiama’s historic terrace houses. Featuring local produce, and capturing loads of natural light, it the perfect place to start your trip.
Head to the Little Blowhole – skip the crowds at the main blowhole and visit this dramatic, lesser-known natural wonder. It’s just as powerful, with far fewer people.

Mid-Morning:

Hidden in Gerringong’s industrial estate, you’ll find the calming, creative gem that is Soul Clay Studios – try your hand at pottery, wheel-throwing or simply browse the beautiful handmade ceramics.

Lunch:

Head just up the road to Stoic Brewing – this small-scale craft brewery blends industrial charm with vineyard views, and an all-American inspired menu. It’s laid-back, friendly, and full of character—just like the region.

Afternoon:

Take on the southernmost stretch of the Kiama Coast Walk. Starting at the northern end of Werri Beach, cross the lagoon and follow the grassy, clifftop walking track as far as feels comfortable.

Evening:

Check into The Bunker House – A sleek, architecturally designed retreat perched above the ocean in Gerringong. With floor-to-ceiling windows and a glass-sided swimming pool, it exudes minimalist luxury.

Dinner

Just minutes away, The Hill Bar and Kitchen serves up seasonal dishes with a panoramic view. Expect warm lighting, local produce, and a central fireplace to keep you cosy all night.

DAY 2

Morning:

Head north to Shellharbour’s Killalea Regional Park – Grab a takeaway coffee from The Farm Kiosk and wander down to ‘The Farm’, a local surf haven with wild beauty.

Mid-Morning:

Gumaraa Aboriginal Experience – Join a cultural workshop or bush tucker tour with local Aboriginal guides. It’s immersive, educational, and deeply grounding.
Pop into Bass Point Reserve for a coastal walk and dive into Bushrangers Bay – a snorkelling and scuba diving haven, brimming with marine life, tidal rock pools perfect to snap a photo or seven of the stunning natural surrounds.

Lunch:

The Ocean Beach Hotel is tucked in Shellhabour Village – boasting epic water views and serving traditional pub fare, lunch is sure to be an enjoyable experience.

Afternoon:

HARS Aviation Museum is only minutes down the road. Take a tour of historical aircraft where some planes still fly today. Step on board ‘Connie’ the Super Constellation – airline of the 1950s and learn about the insightful history of aviation. Talk to enthusiastic volunteers and take on the Wing Walk and step out onto the wing of a Qantas Boeing 747. Looking for something a little more adventurous? Take to the sky in a real ex-military L-36 jet fighter plane for some sky-high aerobatic fun with Jetflight – an adventure you’ll never forget.

Evening:

Check in to Argo Serviced Apartments North Wollongong, for sun-drenched spaces with sweeping city and ocean views, only moments from the city’s buzzing streets.
What might look like a surf club is also home to The Boathouse North Wollongong. With water views and local produce, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the evening.

DAY 3

Morning:

Rise early and take on the Mount Keira Ring Track – a peaceful rainforest loop that is lush, quiet, and offers panoramic views over the Illawarra.
Grab a coffee at the on-site café enjoy the slower pace at Wollongong Botanic Garden. Explore the rainforest gully and duck pond—tranquil, green, and full of hidden corners.

Lunch:

Follow the Grand Pacific Drive north through Wollongong’s coastal suburbs, before stopping at Thirroul’s South Sailor for a seafood extravaganza.
Head up Bulli pass, and inland for a rustic, flavour-filled finale at Darkes Cider Orchard. Enjoy a cider tasting paddle, pick up some local apple products, and if the timing’s right—join a seasonal orchard tour. Head home with a boot full of cider and a camera roll full of hidden gems.