FROM SMALL GROUP MEETINGS TO GOURMET WEEKENDS AWAY, KIM’S BEACH HIDEAWAY HAS BEEN ENCHANTING TRAVELLERS ON THE NEW SOUTH WALES CENTRAL COAST SINCE FIRST OPENING ITS DOORS IN 1886.

WORDS JAMES WILKINSON

The oldest family-owned and operated resort in Australia, Kim’s Beach Hideaway dates back to 1886 and is located in Toowoon Bay, an hours’ drive north of Sydney.
It’s idyllic location and quaint feel makes it the ideal getaway for both couples and small groups alike – what started as a tented camp by Captain Frans Charlson over 100 years ago is now a series of cabins, with 36 rooms, each offering something excitingly unique.
“Being right on the beach, amongst seven hectares of lush sub tropical gardens and the close proximity to Sydney makes us the ideal holiday destination,” said General Manager Diana Kershaw, when asked why Kim’s is so unique. “Plus, our tariffs also include Kim’s beautiful very much loved homemade meals.
Diana operates Kim’s with husband Peter. The two are also directors and shareholders of Kim’s, along with Andrew and Maryjane Strachan. The Strachan family’s involvement stretches a long way, with four generations of the family involved with Kim’s since the 1950s.
When asked what she was expecting for 2009, Kershaw said it would certainly be a challenge.


“Everyone is feeling the world economy crisis, however, as more people are choosing to stay in Australia for holidays we are perfectly located for that romantic escape,” she said.
“Occupancy and yield are slightly down from previous years but we are focusing on expect the unexpected in 2009 and be prepared.”
Having unique points of difference is a key to the success of Kim’s – and one of those is the high-quality F&B on offer, including the home-cooked meals Kershaw mentioned.
“One of the highlights is the fresh array of Seafood on offer,” she said. “From the very beginning of Kim’s we have always purchased our seafood from the fishermen.
“Kims has a Registered Fish Receivers License that allows us to buy direct from our local professional fishermen. We scale and clean all our fish, this of course means absolute freshest of seafood from the ocean.
“ Our guests enjoy the fisherman’s catch variety of Silver Bream, Red Snapper, Dusky and Sand Flathead, Mulliway (Jew Fish), Blue Swimmer Crabs and local Day or Night Prawns.  Then there are the homemade desserts and dishes on our ever changing buffet and the large selection of cheese featured on our cheese board. We also have an abundant selection of Kim’s signature cocktails. “
Food of this calibre is one of the many reasons why Kim’s has such a high amount of repeat guests, including groups.
“Most of our MICE market is return guests and we are currently focusing on increasing awareness of Kim’s actually having conference facilities,” she said.
“Kim’s conference room is set high and spans the ocean with standard conference equipment. It features an enclosed verandah where delegates enjoy the homemade morning or afternoon teas.
“Kim’s conference and accommodation facility can accommodate up to 22 people and is the perfect conference venue,” she said.
Why should a group select Kim’s for their next event or corporate meeting?
“The beautiful surrounds, private hideaway and mouth-watering gourmet food offered are the unique aspects that makes Kim’s the perfect honeymoon, corporate meetings and events destination,” Kershaw said.
Recently, Kim’s underwent a refurbishment and that has been proving to be popular for regular guests.
The refurbishment included: new pillowtop beds in every room; marble and granite bathrooms; high polish wooden floors; large balconies; and the installation of a volcanic limestone plunge bath in the Longbeach bungalow.
“Our many regular guests always comment on our newest additions and that Kim’s continues the traditions that make a place of romance and indulgence,” she said.
The upgrade will again be put to the test over the upcoming Easter long weekend, when Kim’s hosts a range of activities.
“The Easter Bunny makes an appearance at Kim’s and leaves special chocolate goodies for our guests,” Kershaw said. “We also have an entertainment program over the Easter long weekend and guests will enjoy melodies played by our pianist, saxophonist and bass player. “
Combined with the high-quality food, the Easter weekend will be one not to be missed at Kim’s.