Bombo Headland Quarry
Explore an ancient volcanic landscape with dramatic basalt columns, a photographer's dream on the NSW South Coast.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light for photos
Bombo Headland Quarry
Best Time
Magical light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore an ancient volcanic landscape with dramatic basalt columns, a photographer's dream on the NSW South Coast.
"This place is absolutely incredible. The rock formations are some of the coolest I’ve ever seen."
📸 Photographer's Dream
Bring your camera! This spot is renowned for its surreal rock formations and stunning light.
⚠️ Watch Your Step
Rocks are sharp and can be slippery. Be mindful of loose stones and rogue waves.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Basalt Columns
Millions of years in the making, these dramatic hexagonal rock formations create an otherworldly landscape.
Sunrise/Sunset Spectacle
The golden hour light transforms the quarry into a photographer's paradise, highlighting the textures and colors.
Coastal Views
Enjoy sweeping ocean vistas and the rugged beauty of the NSW South Coast from this unique vantage point.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Photos
Safety First on the Rocks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photographer's Dream
Bring your camera! This spot is renowned for its surreal rock formations and stunning light.
⚠️ Watch Your Step
Rocks are sharp and can be slippery. Be mindful of loose stones and rogue waves.
☀️ Sun & Wind Protection
It's very exposed. Pack a hat, sunscreen, and water, especially on warmer days.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for furry friends too!
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photographer's Dream
Bring your camera! This spot is renowned for its surreal rock formations and stunning light.
⚠️ Watch Your Step
Rocks are sharp and can be slippery. Be mindful of loose stones and rogue waves.
☀️ Sun & Wind Protection
It's very exposed. Pack a hat, sunscreen, and water, especially on warmer days.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for furry friends too!
🚶 Easy Access Walk
A short walk from the parking area leads you to the main geological features.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Bombo Headland Quarry's breathtaking and otherworldly basalt rock formations, calling it a photographer's dream, especially at sunrise and sunset. The easy access and unique geological features make it a highly recommended stop on the NSW South Coast. Some caution is advised regarding the sharp rocks and potential for rogue waves.
"Bombo Headland is a breathtaking coastal location near Kiama, known for its dramatic basalt rock formations and rich geological history. The unique landscape, shaped by ancient volcanic activity and past quarrying, resembles something from another planet. It’s a popular spot for photographers, especially during sunrise and sunset, when the light enhances the surreal beauty of the rock columns and crashing waves. Easily accessible with nearby parking, it’s a great place for a short walk, sightseeing, or simply soaking in the power of nature. A must-visit on the NSW South Coast!"
T J
"Very beautiful area. Can be accessed after a short walk from the carpark. Be careful not to get too close as people have drowned after being swept off the rocks in the past."
Jason Hui
"This place is absolutely incredible. The rock formations are some of the coolest I’ve ever seen.
If you enjoy photography , you’ll be in heaven. Toilets , picnic tables in the carpark area, walking path to follow around the headland. I would recommend going on a cooler day as it is quite open with no shade , but totally worth it.
Also dog friendly."
Jeanie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bombo Headland Quarry is about a 1.5-hour drive south of Sydney. Take the M1 Motorway and then the Princes Highway towards Kiama. There's parking available near the quarry site.
While there isn't direct public transport to the quarry itself, you can take a train from Sydney to Kiama and then a local bus or taxi to Bombo.
There is a parking area located at the entrance to the quarry site, offering convenient access to the walking paths.
Absolutely! It's a perfect stop on a South Coast road trip or a dedicated day trip from Sydney, especially when combined with nearby Kiama attractions.
A short walk from the car park will lead you to the main geological features. You can explore the paths around the headland for different perspectives.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Bombo Headland Quarry is a free public access site. There are no entry fees required to explore the geological formations.
Bombo Headland Quarry is accessible at all times, as it's an outdoor natural site. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and photography.
There is no entrance fee for Bombo Headland Quarry. It's a free natural attraction for everyone to enjoy.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns with the uneven terrain and lack of lighting. Stick to daylight hours for the best experience.
The main restriction is to be mindful of safety, especially around the water and on the rocks. Dogs must be kept on a leash. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset are considered the prime times for photography, as the golden light dramatically enhances the basalt columns and coastal scenery.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive rock formations and ocean views. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions during sunrise/sunset.
The hexagonal basalt columns are the main attraction. Experiment with different angles and perspectives, especially from the beach and the higher points of the headland.
Drone flying is permitted in many areas, but always check current regulations and be mindful of other visitors and wildlife.
Conditions with moderate waves can create dramatic spray and reflections, adding to the visual appeal. However, always prioritize safety.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the unique basalt rock formations, enjoy scenic coastal walks, take stunning photographs, and witness beautiful sunrises and sunsets.
While visually interesting, the terrain can be challenging and the proximity to the ocean poses risks. Adult supervision is crucial.
Yes, there are toilets and picnic tables available in the carpark area, making it convenient for visitors.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes for walking on uneven surfaces. Dress in layers as it can be windy and exposed.
You might spot seabirds along the coast. The main draw is the geological landscape rather than abundant wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, safety is paramount. The terrain can be uneven and slippery, with sharp rock edges, and the proximity to the ocean means constant supervision is essential for young children. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The golden hours of sunrise and sunset are particularly magical, bathing the ancient rocks in a warm, ethereal light. 🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
It's conveniently located just a short drive from Kiama and offers a unique natural spectacle that breaks up the journey beautifully. You can easily spend an hour or two exploring the site, taking photos, and enjoying the coastal air before continuing to your next destination. The nearby parking and picnic facilities make it a hassle-free stop. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Geological Marvels of Bombo Headland
The dramatic cliffs and unique columnar jointing make it a significant site for geologists and a captivating visual experience for all visitors.The geological significance of Bombo Headland Quarry lies in its well-preserved examples of columnar basalt. This phenomenon occurs when lava cools and contracts, forming polygonal cracks that often result in hexagonal columns.
The site offers a rare opportunity to see these formations up close, with the added dramatic effect of the ocean waves crashing against them. It’s a place where the raw power of nature and geological history are on full display, making it a must-see for anyone interested in the Earth's ancient past.Visitors often marvel at the sheer scale and symmetry of the rock formations.
The site’s accessibility via a walking path from the carpark allows for easy exploration, though caution is advised due to the sharp edges and potential for loose rocks. Photography Hotspot: Capturing Bombo's Beauty
+1 The basalt columns provide incredible textures and patterns, especially when framed by the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean. Many photographers recommend visiting during sunrise or sunset to capture the magical golden hour light, which accentuates the natural colors and contours of the landscape. To make the most of your photography session, consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views and the grandeur of the rock formations.
A tripod can be invaluable for stabilizing your shots during the softer light of dawn and dusk, allowing for longer exposures that can smooth out the water or capture the movement of the waves. Experiment with different vantage points, from the beach level to the higher points of the headland, to find unique compositions.Beyond the main geological features, the interplay of light and shadow on the rocks, the reflections in tidal pools, and the vastness of the ocean all offer compelling photographic opportunities.
Remember to be mindful of the conditions; windy days can bring dramatic spray, which can be a fantastic element in photos but also requires protecting your gear. 
Social
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