Bombo Headland Quarry: Walking on the Moon in Kiama

There is nowhere else in New South Wales that feels quite like Bombo Quarry. Located just north of Kiama, this heritage-listed site is a surreal landscape of jagged basalt columns, towering sea stacks, and deep stone channels where the Pacific Ocean thumps with incredible force. For more South Coast geology, explore Cathedral Rocks or discover Figure 8 Pools.

Whether you're an astrophotographer chasing the Milky Way or a weekend hiker looking for the ultimate coastal view, Bombo is the "industrial-meets-natural" wonder that needs to be at the top of your South Coast bucket list.

Quick Stats

• Access: Free (Open 24/7).

• Location: Off the Princes Highway, Bombo (Kiama).

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (The new 2026 staircase has replaced the steepest scrambles).

• Best For: Sunrise photography, geology buffs, and "otherworldly" vibes.

How to Get to Bombo Quarry

Most visitors make the mistake of parking at Bombo Beach and walking the long way around. Here is the local's way:

1. The Shortest Walk: Set your GPS for Darian Avenue, Bombo. Park at the end of the street and follow the paved path towards the headland.

2. The New Staircase: Look for the Bombo Headland Eco Walk staircase. Opened in May 2025, this 13-metre structure allows you to descend safely from the cliff top to the quarry floor, offering a spectacular viewing platform along the way.

3. By Train: Take the South Coast Line to Bombo Station. It's a scenic 15-minute walk from the station to the headland.

A "Giant" History

The hexagonal columns you see here were formed 270 million years ago when 1,200°C lava cooled and contracted. But the "sculpted" look of the site comes from its time as a Blue Metal Quarry (1880s–1940s).

Thousands of tonnes of basalt were hand-dressed here and shipped to Sydney to build the city's roads and railways. Today, it's a protected geological site—even serving as the backdrop for films like Mighty Morphin Power Rangers (as the planet Phaedos!).

Photography Tips: Chasing the Light

• The "Hero" Shot: Visit at sunrise. The rising sun hits the basalt columns from the east, turning the dark grey stone into glowing gold.

• Slow Shutter: Use a tripod and a slow shutter speed (1 to 2 seconds) to capture the "silk" effect of the waves snaking between the black boulders.

• Astro Heaven: Bombo is a premier dark sky site. Between April and September, the Galactic Core of the Milky Way rises directly over the basalt spires.

  • Pro Tip: Bring a headlamp! The terrain is jagged and visibility is low after dark.

Expert Tips for Your Visit

• Watch the Swell: This is an exposed coastline. "Rogue waves" are a real danger here—never turn your back on the ocean, especially if there is a large swell running.

• Footwear Matters: Even with the new staircase, the quarry floor is made of sharp, uneven rocks. Leave the thongs in the car and wear sturdy hiking shoes or sneakers.

• The "Boneyard": If the main quarry is too busy, follow the track north to The Boneyard. It's a secluded, pebble-filled cove that's perfect for a quieter picnic. Discover more NSW hidden gems in our complete guide.