Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
Kendalls Beach folds into the Illawarra escarpment just north of Kiama's blowhole crowds, a pocket of coast where the carpark holds maybe twenty vehicles and the sand belongs mostly to residents who know the reef breaks left on southeast swells. You'll share the shore with dog walkers before nine and retirees who arrive with thermoses mid-morning, their folding chairs angled toward Saddleback Mountain's green bulk rising inland. The rock platform at the southern end pools knee-deep at retreat, warm enough by afternoon that children float on their backs watching sea stars cling to basalt ledges. Norfolk Island pines throw late-day shade across the grass reserve behind the beach, and the single picnic shelter fills with families unpacking coolers of prawns and mango. No surf club flags, no kiosk—just weathered benches and a cold-water shower that runs slower than you'd like. You'll catch locals launching kayaks at dawn when the water goes glassy, paddling south toward the cathedral arch at Cathedral Rocks or north past Bombo Headland's columnar formations. By late afternoon the offshore breeze stiffens and the beach empties except for a few fishermen casting for bream off the platform. It's the kind of strand you return to between Kiama's showpiece stops, where the rhythm resets to tides instead of tour buses.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Kendalls Beach.
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Kendalls Beach is generally suitable for swimming, though conditions vary with tides and weather. The beach is more sheltered than nearby Surf Beach, making it calmer on most days. However, it's unpatrolled, so swim with caution and stay within your abilities. Rock pools at the northern end offer safer options for children during low tide. Always check current conditions before entering the water, avoid swimming alone, and be mindful of submerged rocks. The beach is popular with families due to its typically gentler waves.
Kendalls Beach can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering different appeals. Summer (December-February) brings warm weather ideal for swimming and sunbathing, though it's busier on weekends. Autumn and spring offer pleasant temperatures with fewer crowds, perfect for walks and rock pool exploration. Winter provides dramatic coastal scenery and whale watching opportunities (June-November). Early mornings offer the calmest conditions and beautiful light for photography. Weekdays are quieter than weekends throughout the year, making it easier to enjoy this hidden gem's peaceful atmosphere.
Kendalls Beach is located in Kiama Heights, accessible via Kendalls Beach Road off Boanyo Avenue. Limited street parking is available along Kendalls Beach Road near the beach access path. There's no dedicated car park, and parking can be tight during busy periods. The beach is reached via a short walking track and stairs from the street. It's about a 5-minute drive from central Kiama. The somewhat hidden access contributes to the beach's quieter atmosphere, as it's less obvious to casual visitors than the main Kiama beaches.
Kendalls Beach has no onsite facilities—no toilets, showers, or cafes directly at the beach. You'll need to head to nearby Surf Beach (approximately 1km north) or Kiama town centre (about 2km) for cafes, restaurants, and public amenities. Several holiday rentals and accommodation options are available in the Kiama Heights residential area surrounding the beach. It's best to bring your own supplies, including water and snacks. The lack of commercial development preserves the beach's natural, local character but requires some planning for longer visits.
Kendalls Beach stands out as a quieter, more residential alternative to Kiama's busier beaches. Its relative anonymity among tourists means you'll often share it primarily with locals. The beach features interesting rock platforms and pools for exploration, particularly at the northern end. Being tucked away in Kiama Heights, it offers a more intimate coastal experience without the crowds of nearby Surf Beach or Kiama's main beach. The lack of facilities reinforces its natural, uncommercialized feel—perfect for those seeking a peaceful beach day away from tourist hotspots.
