Kiama is a small town in New South Wales(NSW), Australia. The name “Kiama” translates to “place where sea makes noise”. This place is a home for one of the world’s largest blow hole. It is not just a home for big blow hole but also home for lesser known little blow hole. Iconic lighthouse, ‘whoosh’ from the blow holes make Kiama a must visit place while in NSW. Read through to know more about Kiama big and little blow hole.
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How to get to Kiama
Kiama is just 90 minutes away from Sydney, NSW by Car. Trains also run regularly from Sydney which is a very relaxing journey along the spectacular coastline. Visit NSW transport official site to know more about the Sydney- Kiama train timetable.
Kiama Big Blow Hole
Kiama’s blow holes were formed from volcanic lava nearly 260 million years ago. Waves from the ocean erodes the softer strata rock to create vertical blowholes. Kiama big blow hole is active in the south east swell.
Big blow hole is at a short distance from Kiama town and railway station. We are welcomed by large light house as we cross the visitor information center making way to the big blow hole. Big blow hole has a 2.5 meter wide opening and has recorded heights of 30 meters. Powerful display depends on the southeast ocean swells and waves entering the rocky cavern.
What causes “Whoosh” sound from big blow hole??
During the right wind conditions, waves surges into the passage and compresses the air inside. Later the air and water erupt through the hole making a “whoosh” sound. This hole was first discovered in 1977 by European colonial explorer George Bass. He described the sound as “most tremendous noise”.
Kiama Little Blow Hole
Little blow hole is most active in a north east swell. Located just 3 kilometers south of the Kiama Township, this natural wonder is a bit hard to find but worth the effort. Water gushing out from the hole can be experienced better at the little blow hole than the big hole.
One Day Trip Suggestion
Looking for one day trip from Sydney. Here is my suggestion. Start early in the morning from Sydney and cover the following places.
- Sri Venkateshwara Temple, Helensburgh. Enjoy piping hot masala dose along with coffee for breakfast.
- Bald hill Lookout at Stanwell Tops. A must visit place to enjoy scenic ocean and sea cliff bridge. Photographers paradise.
- Sea Cliff bridge.
- Parks all along the way from Sea cliff bridge towards Kiama.
- Kiama Blow holes(Big and Little Blow hole) – Enjoy your Lunch at Kiama amidst nature.
- Nan Tien Temple – Beautiful Buddhist Temple. Small Cafe available for evening Tea.
Travel Tips
- Wear comfortable clothes. Layering is advisable. It might get very cold due to strong winds.
- Picnic area is available near big blow hole
- Both the places are suitable for people with access needs.
- Watch your step while walking along the big blow hole.
- Carry/Apply sunscreen to protect yourself.
