Standing on the round green apex of Blowhole Point, the Kiama Lighthouse is one of the town’s most photographed landmarks, right next to the famous blowhole and a short walk from the harbour. It’s a classic stop on any visit to Kiama: free to visit, easy to reach, and the views along the coast are worth the trip on their own. Here’s what to know before you go.
A short history of the Kiama Lighthouse
The Kiama Lighthouse (officially Kiama Harbour Light) was established in 1887, about ten years after the man-made Kiama Harbour was built. The tower was automated in 1920 and remains an active navigation light today. Built of concrete and brick and rising from its clifftop on Blowhole Point, it has guided vessels along this stretch of the New South Wales South Coast for well over a century.
Visiting the lighthouse
The lighthouse sits on Blowhole Point Road, a few minutes’ walk from the centre of Kiama and right beside the blowhole. Entry is free, there’s parking at the point, and the grassy reserve around the base is open to wander. As an active, automated lighthouse the tower itself isn’t open to climb, but you can walk right up to it, take in the panoramic ocean and coastline views, and explore the headland around it.
Best time to visit and photograph it
The lighthouse is a favourite with photographers, and sunrise and sunset are when it’s at its best, with low golden light on the white tower and the sea behind it. Early mornings are also the quietest. On the right day you can frame the lighthouse, the blowhole erupting and the ocean rock pool together, which is why this corner of Kiama turns up so often on Instagram.
What’s around the lighthouse
Blowhole Point packs a lot into a small area, so it’s easy to make a half-day of it:
- The Kiama Blowhole: the world’s largest, just metres from the lighthouse. See our Kiama Blowhole guide for the best times to catch it.
- The ocean rock pool and Surf Beach: a short stroll from the point.
- The Kiama Coast Walk: the clifftop track passes right by; see our Kiama Coastal Walk guide.
- The harbour and town centre: cafes and restaurants are a few minutes’ walk away.
Where to stay near the Kiama Lighthouse
Blowhole Point is right in the heart of Kiama, so it pays to stay close. Ridgewaters Kiama offers luxury beachfront apartments a short walk from the lighthouse, the blowhole and the coast walk, so you can be out for sunrise photos or an evening stroll without driving. See our Kiama accommodation and book your stay.
Kiama Lighthouse FAQs
When was the Kiama Lighthouse built?
It was established in 1887 and automated in 1920. It remains an active lighthouse today.
Can you go inside the Kiama Lighthouse?
No. It’s an active, automated lighthouse, so the tower isn’t open to the public, but you can walk right up to it and around the headland for free.
Is there parking at the Kiama Lighthouse?
Yes, there’s parking at Blowhole Point, and it’s an easy walk from the centre of Kiama.
Where is the Kiama Lighthouse?
On Blowhole Point Road, on the headland right beside the Kiama Blowhole, about 90 minutes south of Sydney.
Is it free to visit?
Yes. There’s no entry fee to visit the lighthouse and its surrounding reserve.
