Kiama Blowhole, NSW: How was it formed and where can I see it?
The Kiama Blowhole is a 30 metre water spout caused by waves crashing into a volcanic sea cavern. Purpose-built platforms at Blowhole Point in Kiama, NSW, give the best viewing experience.
The Kiama Blowhole is where volcanoes meet the ocean. In Kiama, part of the Illawarra region of the New South Wales South Coast, ancient lava flows characterise the coastline. The blackened, rugged rocks were created by volcanic activity 260 million years ago. These days, however, ocean waves cause the turbulence rather than volcanic eruptions.
What is the Kiama Blowhole?
The Kiama Blowhole is essentially a big explosion of water. It occurs as a result of a sea cavern beneath the rock. The ocean swells crash in and enter the sea cavern. This has the effect of compressing the air, and spurting water through a gap in the rocks towards the sky. There’s an almighty wooshing sound, and the water shoots around 30 metres upwards.
There are several viewing platforms for the Kiama Blowhole, and some of them pretty much guarantee a drenching if ocean swells are heavy. At other times, it’ll just be a sprinkle of seawater on the cheeks.
Blowhole Point attractions in Kiama
Handily, the Kiama Blowhole is lit up at night, so you can come after dark and watch the ocean crash.
The blowhole is at Blowhole Point, a headland just to the east of Kiama Train Station. While there you can also take a look at the 19th century Kiama Lighthouse and the Pilot’s Cottage Museum. If you fancy a swim, Blowhole Point Ocean Pool is cut dramatically into the rocks.
Kiama Blowhole on Kiama Coastal Walk
The Kiama Blowhole is one of the main attractions on the 22km Kiama Coastal Walk.
Other attractions along the walk include the Bombo Headland’s basalt columns, beaches such as Kiama Surf Beach, Kendalls Beach and Easts Beach, plus the Little Blowhole at Marsden Head.
Kiama accommodation options include the centrally-located Nova Kiama, the plush Sebel Harbourside Kiama and the rather cheaper Surf Beach Holiday Park.
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