Boneyard (Kiama)

Boneyard (Kiama) is an exposed reef break off the Kiama Coast known for powerful, hollow surf that can produce wall-like sections and barrels. Sources emphasize it is a serious wave: entry and exit are over sharp rocks and shallow reef, and the bottom includes boulders/urchins—so conditions quickly become high-risk for anyone without strong reef-surf experience. Across descriptions, the break is characterized as reef-and-boulder surf with heavy, high-performance sections. Some accounts describe it as a left-hand reef break, while others describe a right-hand reef with boulders. Regardless of the handedness, the wave is repeatedly framed as best at mid tide and reliant on solid south to southeast swell to wrap in effectively. Wind is commonly described as best from the west-northwest / west, with some notes that south winds are more sheltered by headlands/cliffs. Winter cold fronts and high-pressure variability are also cited as affecting wind reliability, which aligns with the wider pattern of westerly/south-westerly frontal influence in winter. The spot is also commonly reported as best in July, and more generally through fall into winter. Safety-wise, hazards mentioned include sharks, sharp rocks, shallow reef, urchins, and strong currents—especially during larger swells. Tips focus on using experienced riders’ entry/exit lines through the rocks and planning for an off-the-track bush/cliff/quarry walk to reach the area. Emergency access is referenced for nearby Shellharbour or Wollongong facilities, with emergency number 000.