A South Coast Town Built on Local Pride
Long before Sydneysiders began heading south for weekend escapes and coastal retreats, Sydney itself relied on Kiama. In the late 1800s, the town’s renowned “blue metal” basalt played a vital role in paving roads and supporting the rapid expansion of colonial Sydney.
That history serves as a reminder that Kiama has never depended solely on outside attention to define its value. Instead, this South Coast gem has always carried a strong sense of identity — one grounded in community, resilience, and genuine local pride.
Located just 90 minutes south of Sydney and framed by rolling green hills, forests, and the coastline, Kiama offers a lifestyle that feels calm, connected, and enduring. Unlike markets driven purely by trends, Kiama’s appeal comes from the people who proudly call it home.
A Lifestyle That Continues to Attract Buyers
According to Kathe Manansala of Raine & Horne Kiama, the property market saw a major shift during the COVID period as Sydney buyers searched for a slower coastal lifestyle. However, demand today is increasingly being sustained by locals, South Coast residents, and returning families reconnecting with the area.
With median house prices rising 40.5 per cent over the past five years, according to the latest Domain House Price Report, buyer confidence in the region remains strong.
“More locals are active, with a clear rise in returning locals,” Manansala says. “Kiama offers a calmer pace where people genuinely embrace the outdoors, community and family life.”
That deep sense of connection is one of the town’s strongest assets. Buyers are not simply purchasing property — they are investing in a lifestyle shaped by belonging, familiarity, and long-term community ties.
Local Businesses Reflect Kiama’s Community Spirit
Kiama’s strong local identity is reflected in the businesses that continue to thrive throughout the town.
One example is Becks Kiama, a popular cafe opened by Kane Presland and his brother, both of whom grew up locally and dreamed of building something meaningful within their hometown.
“A lot of my connections — friends, family and now business — are rooted here,” Presland says. “Kiama is the town I grew up in and one I’ve always found myself coming back to.”
That same authenticity can be felt throughout Kiama’s vibrant food scene. Locals and visitors alike enjoy quality coffee and brunch at Becks Kiama, laid-back breakfasts at The Hungry Monkey, and handcrafted gelati and milkshakes from The Pines Pantry. The weekly Kiama Farmers’ Market further strengthens the town’s community atmosphere, bringing together local growers, seasonal produce, and residents in a setting that feels genuinely welcoming.
Coastal Beauty and Outdoor Living
Kiama’s lifestyle extends far beyond its cafes and shops. The town is known for its breathtaking natural scenery and strong connection to outdoor living.
Early mornings at the Kiama Lighthouse offer spectacular sunrise views alongside the famous Kiama Blowhole, which can spray water up to 30 metres into the air. The Kiama Coast Walk continues to attract visitors with its dramatic ocean views, connecting iconic locations such as Cathedral Rocks, Boneyard Beach, and Minnamurra Headland.
For those seeking a cultural or luxury experience, SevenMarks Gallery brings a contemporary creative presence to the area, while Greyleigh — a luxury estate set on a former dairy farm — showcases the softer rural elegance of the region through manicured orchards and rolling farmland.
Why Kiama Continues to Stand Out
In a property market often shaped by rapid trends and changing buyer preferences, Kiama continues to stand out for its authenticity. The town’s appeal lies not only in its coastal setting, but also in the strength of its community and the lifestyle it offers residents every day.
For buyers seeking a balance between natural beauty, strong community connections, and long-term lifestyle value, Kiama remains one of the South Coast’s most compelling destinations.
