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Dharawal Country

We would like to acknowledge Aboriginal people and their cultural and spiritual connection to this land. As you travel through the Illawarra immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Dharawal Country.

Image credit: Richard Campbell

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Home » Travel Guides » Australia » 15 Best Things to Do in Wollongong (Australia)

15 Best Things to Do in Wollongong (Australia)

An hour south of Sydney , Wollongong is a coastal city bursting with beaches, magnificent natural scenery and inspiration for days out.

The city is jostled onto a natural coastal plain by the sandstone Illawara Escarpment, climbing to several hundred metres just inland.

A few attractions on this list take advantage of the widescreen views from the escarpment, while the Grand Pacific Drive meanders along the coastline and can leave you lost for words.

There are 17 surf beaches open in Wollongong in summer, all with free parking on the foreshore, and if the Pacific waves are too much the city has a few saltwater pools right on the seafront.

To mix things up you can head off to museums, zoos and an excellent water park, or retreat to a Buddhist temple complex or rich botanic garden.

1. Grand Pacific Drive

Wollongong is on a 140-kilometre coastal route, setting off from Sydney’s CBD and finishing up in beautiful Shoalhaven.

The route wends its way through the Royal National Park (second-oldest on the planet) past cliffs, cinematic beaches, tracts of coastal rainforest and up to countless places where you can step out of the car and take in the scenery.

One stretch sure to take your breath away is the Sea Cliff Bridge (2005), nearly half a kilometre long and snaking with contours of the sandstone cliff-face.

You can get out and walk or ride on the parallel paths, and there are lookouts on the cliff-tops so you can capture this manmade wonder and its Pacific backdrop from above.

2. Wollongong Botanic Garden

In the highest part of Wollongong, on the delightful grounds of Gleniffer Brae Manor House is the city’s world-class botanic garden.

This is all set along a creek, feeding a small lake, and has important collections of native and exotic plants.

To name a small few, there’s a palm garden, rose garden, rainforest collection dryland garden, succulent collection and a garden for flowering trees and shrubs.

In the palm garden alone are more than 800, rare and endangered species, while the rose garden boasts all sorts of varieties and cultivars, from Hybrid Tea to Floribunda.

The Towri Bush Tucker Garden gives you an insight into the many plant species used in Aboriginal culture for food, shelter and medicine.

The Wollongong Botanic Garden is free to enter, has a gigantic children’s playground and puts on a whole programme of activities and events for the local community and visitors, ranging from guided walks to cinema screenings.

3. Wollongong Harbour and Lighthouses

One of the prettiest sights along the coast is Wollongong Harbour, on a basin first dredged and carved out to ship coal from local mines in the 1840s.

Now heritage-listed, the harbour is a point of departure for fishing charters, and combines natural and manmade beauty.

At the eastern edge of the harbour’s mouth is the Wollongong Breakwater Lighthouse, built in 1872 when coal shipping was at its peak and decommissioned in 1974. Roosted atop Flagstaff Hill to the south is the operating Wollongong Head Lighthouse (1936), with fluted walls and a range of 19 nautical miles.

In the 1880s a concealed gun emplacement was built on the hill to protect the harbour.

The three guns you see today are the original 68-pounders, cast in 1861.

4. Nan Tien Temple

Berkeley, a southern suburb of Wollongong, is the setting for the largest Buddhist temple in the southern hemisphere.

Designed like a Chinese palace with flying eaves, Nan Tien Temple was built using modern techniques in the early 1990s.

The complex is embedded in landscaped gardens on a peaceful hillside and incorporates two vast prayer halls with Tibetan-style architecture, as well as meeting rooms, a museum, accommodation and a restaurant.

In the courtyards are serene, Japanese-style gardens.

You can come to be dazzled by the architecture, enjoy the tranquil grounds and browse an exhibition.

The temple also hosts all sorts of retreats and classes, for mindful doodling, meditation, Buddhism and Tai Chi.

5. Jamberoo Action Park

There’s a lot to love about this water park in Jamberoo, a short drive south of Wollongong.

The setting is a big part of that, on steep topography, using the slopes for its many gravity-fed rides.

The headline attractions at Jamberoo Action Park are too long to list, but a structure that catches the eye right away is the humungous cone of Perfect Storm.

This ride has outrageous production values for a water slide, plunging you into a giant vortex surrounded by darkness except for special effects like lightning flashes and thunder cracks.

Listed in the Guinness Book of World Records for the world’s largest spider sculpture is Funnel Web where you top speeds of 30km/h on a four-person raft.

There’s lots for smaller children to get up to, at spots like Banjo’s Billabong, four storeys of slides, climbing features, water cannons, cranks and valves.

6. Symbio Wildlife Park

Posted atop the Illawarra Escarpment near Stanwell Park Beach, Symbio Wildlife Park is a family-run zoo in 16 acres of pristine landscaped gardens.

This is a place to get up close to typical Australian animals like koalas, kangaroos, wallabies and dingoes, but there are also lots of exotic species, from red pandas to ring-tailed lemurs, meerkats and even cheetahs.

A variety of safe and humane close encounters are available, as simple as buying animal feed for the park’s farmyard species, or feeding kangaroos and wallabies or cuddling koalas.

There’s also a day-long schedule of presentations for meerkats, dingoes, Tasmanian devils, cheetahs and those koalas.

7. Science Space

The prime science education centre for New South Wales is part of that new generation of museums where kids can learn by getting involved.

Along those lines there are more than 100 quirky and engrossing exhibits on anything from light to electricity, dinosaurs and nanotechnology.

Central to any visit is a show at “NSW’s best planetarium”, which has a super-crisp 4K projection system, able to blast off for a tour of the universe or descend to unseen ocean depths.

There’s also lots of razzle-dazzle at the Illawarra Coal Science Theatre, which puts on interactive and occasionally explosive live science experiments.

8. North Wollongong Beach

The next beach up from Wollongong Harbour is the city’s favourite place to bathe or surf in the Pacific.

This is the only local beach that is patrolled by lifeguards all year, and has a lot of features and amenities for families.

There are rock pools, picnic areas, cafes, big grassy spaces and a playground an easy walk away at Stuart Park.

As is the norm for Wollongong, all the facilities are kept sparkling clean, and running behind is a continuous multiuse track, which we’ll talk about later.

South of the beach you can hit the water and not have to worry about the currents at the Continental Pool.

This is one of a series of outdoor saltwater pools along the Wollongong coast.

9. Port Kembla Beach

About ten kilometres south of Wollongong is a bay that is special, even by Wollongong’s high standards.

Port Kembla Beach is fringed by a low cliff, covered in vegetation, and at the south end is a set of rock pools revealed at low tide.

Port Kembla beach has real history too, and has been frequented by surfers since the beginning of the 20th century.

The surf club here was founded in 1910, and is based on the high fore dune at the north end of the beach.

Also on the northern rocks is an Olympic-sized saltwater pool for swimmers, pumped with new water every day.

Follow the coastline to the headland and you’ll be at Breakwater Battery, built in 1939 to defend Port Kembla against submarines.

10. Minnamurra Rainforest Centre

Head for the eastern tip of the Budderoo National Park on Tourist Drive 9 and you’ll be at a rare remnant of the primeval rainforest that once covered most of the Illawarra region.

There’s a newly updated visitor centre that reopened in 2020, bedded in a sandstone canyon where you can witness the multitude of species that flourish in this habitat.

This can be done on a 1.6-kilometre loop, weaving through the canyon along suspension bridges and over raised boardwalks.

It will take about an hour to complete this trail, stopping every so often to appreciate the waterfalls and lush vegetation and spot animals like Australian water dragons, king parrots, swamp wallabies and lyrebirds.

11. Wattamolla Beach

A slice of paradise up the coast in the Royal National Park, Wattamolla Beach is worth every minute of the journey.

Tucked a couple of hundred metres inland, between Martin Head and Providential Point, is a cove, golden sandy beach and a lagoon fed by a waterfall.

The sand extends along a bar, way back into the lagoon, so you’ll have plenty of room to yourself.

There’s safe swimming in the lagoon’s peaceful waters, and you can have a bite in the ample shade of the cabbage tree palms.

The waterfall is seasonal, and people hike up to sit on the ledge and take in the view of the lagoon, beach and ocean beyond.

12. Scenic Lookouts

Always on the western horizon, the Illawarra Escarpment gives you magnificent views down the slope to Wollongong’s communities, the Pacific coastline and the deep forest in between.

Like a balcony a few hundred metres in from the coast, the escarpment has a long line of lookouts: Starting in the north, just past the Sea Cliff Bridge, you’ve got Bald Hill at Stanwell Tops and the Southern Gateway Centre Lookout and Sublime Point Lookout, both at Bulli Tops.

Backing Wollongong’s CBD is Mount Keira, rising to more than 460 metres and on a 5.5-kilometre looped trail.

Finally Mount Kembla dominates the historic mining village of the same name, and affords knockout panoramas of the coastline and Lake Illawarra.

13. Wollongong to Thirroul Bike Track

Starting at Belmore Basin close to Flagstaff Hill and its historic lighthouse, you can make a very scenic 15-kilometre ride north to Thirroul on a designated track.

This route sticks to the coastline, which oscillates along a chain of sandy bays, including Wollongong North Beach, but also Brighton Beach, Bulli Beach and Sandon Point Beach.

The way is paved so is also suited to rollerskaters and skateboarders, and is great for families as there are almost no roads to deal with.

You can take your time and enjoy the coastline, and the constant views of the Illawarra Escarpment rearing up to the west.

There are cafes and restaurant all along the route, and you can pause at any time to picnic, feel the sand between your toes or swim in a saltwater pool.

14. Australian Motorlife Museum

The second-largest motoring museum in Australia is right here in the Illawarra tourism area and gives you a complete summary of the development of consumer technology between 1880 and 1950. So as well as some extremely rare motorcars you’ll find motorbikes, petrol pumps, radios, gramophones, typewriters, tools, telephones, lawnmowers and a great deal more.

Naturally the museum’s vehicles inspire a lot of interest, as there’s a 1904 Australian-built Innes, and one of only two surviving motorcycles by Brisbane manufacturer David Spencer, from 1906. The museum has such a quantity of vintage appliances that it was able to loan lots of items for the production Baz Luhrmann’s Great Gatsby (2013).

15. Illawarra Light Railway Museum

Operating a narrow-gauge and miniature railway, this museum preserves Illawarra industrial history, as well as light railway heritage in general.

You couldn’t pick a better outing if you have a train-obsessed child! On site are railway artefacts from the region, like signal box, the entire Yallah station building, a fettlers’ shed and a workshop and carriage restoration shed.

The museum looks after a big line-up of steam and diesel locomotives, as well as several passenger cars and a variety of other rolling stock.

You can also check out a host of stationary engines, boilers, generators, compressors, pumps and winches.

The museum is open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, but operating days are every second Sunday of the month.

15 Best Things to Do in Wollongong (Australia):

• Grand Pacific Drive
• Wollongong Botanic Garden
• Wollongong Harbour and Lighthouses
• Nan Tien Temple
• Jamberoo Action Park
• Symbio Wildlife Park
• Science Space
• North Wollongong Beach
• Port Kembla Beach
• Minnamurra Rainforest Centre
• Wattamolla Beach
• Scenic Lookouts
• Wollongong to Thirroul Bike Track
• Australian Motorlife Museum
• Illawarra Light Railway Museum

19 Awesome Things to Do in Wollongong, Australia (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: January 5, 2024

Wollongong is a charming coastal city in Australia that doesn’t get as much attention as it deserves. 

Located just one hour south of Sydney along the Grand Pacific Drive, Wollongong has all the best elements of Australian natural beauty and culture. 

There are enough restaurants, bars, shops, cafes, and attractions to make Wollongong classify as a city, but it has the residential feel and relaxed atmosphere of a small beach town. 

It has two amazing beaches, ocean pools, a few nature reserves, a biking trail along the coast, and two mountains nearby. So you can go surfing, cycling, and hiking all in one day!

READ MORE: Don’t miss our ultimate round-up of the best places to visit in Australia !

There’s an art gallery, live music venues, a shopping mall, and weekly street markets. You can also find the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge, two lighthouses, and the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere.

There are so many things to do in Wollongong that appeal to everyone, whether you’re looking for entertainment and culture, or natural beauty and adventure. 

It’s also an extremely accessible place to visit. If you have a car, just head south of Sydney along the stunning Grand Pacific Drive and over the Sea Cliff Bridge. 

If you’d rather not drive, you can just jump on the Southern Trail Line from Sydney. The journey is only an hour and goes directly into Wollongong Train Station. 

Once you arrive, you can start exploring all the best Wollongong attractions!

Table of Contents

1. The Grand Pacific Drive, Bald Hill Lookout, & Sea Cliff Bridge

2. check out the wollongong art gallery, 3. stroll through the wollongong botanic garden, 4. shop at the forager’s market, 5. go for a run or bike ride along the cycleway, 6. learn to surf at north wollongong beach, 7. hike mount kiera, 8. explore puckey’s estate, 9. sky dive, 10. check out nan tien temple, 11. eat ice cream on a hot sunny day, 12. visit the eat street markets, 13. go to the cinema, 14. swim in the rock pools, 15. sunbathe at wollongong city beach, diggies cafe, opus coffee brewers, lettuce b. frank, 17. hike mount kembla, 18. hang out at the illawarra brewery, 19. watch the sunrise at the wollongong head lighthouse, the best hostel in wollongong – wollongong backpackers kieraleigh, best budget accommodation for couples – figtree hotel, best mid-range hotel in wollongong: coniston hotel, best luxury hotel in wollongong – adina apartment hotel, budget: thai gong restaurant, mid-range: kneading ruby, high-end: steamers bar and grill, the best things to do in wollongong.

Wollongong is quite small, so a 2-3 day weekend trip from Sydney is perfect. Or you can visit on a day trip.

If you want to take more day trips to the surrounding areas of Wollongong, you could even stay for up to a week and visit nearby areas like the Blue Mountains , the Royal National Park, or the Southern Highlands.

You could also head south on a day trip to enjoy attractions like the Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk, Port Kembla Beach, Lake Illawarra, Budderoo National Park, or Jamberoo Action Park.

So for anyone wondering what to do in Wollongong, Australia, there is no shortage of attractions and activities in this beautiful coastal city of NSW!

Here is our list of the 20 best things to do in Wollongong!

If you’re driving from Sydney to Wollongong, you can do so along the Grand Pacific Drive. This coastal route from Sydney to Kiama is so gorgeous, and you’ll pass lots of scenic lookouts. Bald Hill Lookout is the best one, which overlooks Stanwell Park beach.

After Bald Hill Lookout, continue driving until you reach the famous Sea Cliff Bridge! It’s a massive, white bridge that curves away from the seaside cliffs and sticks out over the Pacific Ocean. So when you drive across it, you feel like you are flying over the sea. 

It’s one of the coolest spots along the Grand Pacific Drive. The Sea Cliff Bridge has a little pedestrian walkway next to the road so you can walk along it as well. 

After passing the bridge, you’ll drive through lots of charming beach towns until you can turn off the Grand Pacific Drive to Wollongong.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or not, visiting the local art gallery is one of the best things to do in Wollongong. 

This small but entertaining art museum is full of paintings, photographs, and other pieces from talented local artists. Lots of the art depicts scenes from the surrounding areas, so it’s a cool insight into the local culture, scenery, and wildlife. 

The Wollongong Art Gallery is located right in the town centre, and only takes about an hour to explore but it’s a fun activity especially for a rainy day. 

One of the best Wollongong attractions is the Botanic Gardens . 

This huge green space is free to enter, so even if you’re not interested in all the plants you can just come relax in the gardens and read or have a picnic. 

There are so many cool things to see at the Wollongong Botanic Garden, including rainforest and desert sections full of native and exotic plants. 

The Wollongong Botanic Garden also has a small pond and stream with an adorable Japanese bridge and a beautifully landscaped rose garden.

Every Friday morning, the main pedestrian street of Wollongong fills up with an incredible local market . 

This is the Forager’s Market, a farmers market where you can shop for fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade pastries, desserts, and bread, trendy clothes and accessories and a whole bunch of other products. 

All the vendors are well-loved locals who run small businesses, so shopping here is a nice way to support the community and pick up some interesting souvenirs. 

So if you’re in town on a Friday, this is one of the top things to do in Wollongong. 

One of the best things to do in Wollongong is going for a bike ride along the Cycleway. This long pedestrian-friendly strip of sidewalk runs from Wollongong Harbour and up the coast all the way to the town of Thirroul. 

The whole trail is 17 km long, so this is a great way to get some exercise and explore the small towns along the coast. 

There are also some nice cafes right on the beach along the cycleway, like the North Break Cafe in Woonona, Olive’s Cafe in Bellambi, and Ruby’s Cafe in Bulli . 

You could also further explore Thirroul when you arrive up there. The Sublime Point Lookout is a steep hike, but it offers a panoramic view of the entire Wollongong area.

For bike rentals in Wollongong, visit Trek Bicycle or Wollongong Bike Hub .

READ MORE: Check out the perfect 1 day in Sydney itinerary !

Wollongong has two beaches right in the city center. 

North Wollongong Beach is an amazing place for swimming, sunbathing, and learning how to surf. 

If you’ve never learned to surf but always wanted to try, the waves here are small and easy so it’s a great place to learn. 

There are a couple of surf schools with experienced local instructors who can teach you the basics. 

Pines Surfing Academy is located right on North Wollongong Beach.

The nearby Mount Kiera is one of the best things to see in Wollongong. 

Incredibly, this seaside city has its own mountain, so hikers and lovers of the outdoors will not be disappointed here!

The Mount Kiera Ring Track is a 5.5km loop that trails around the mountain. The walk takes between 3 and 5 hours depending on your fitness level. 

Visit the official NSW National Parks website for more detailed information.

If you’re not up for hiking, you can also drive to the top of Mount Kiera for an amazing lookout point over the landscape. 

For more hiking opportunities, check out these awesome walks in the Royal National Park just up the road. It’s only a 30-40 minute drive from Wollongong to the Royal National Park, making it an amazing excursion from the city.

Those looking to explore nature without going as far as Mount Kiera can visit Puckey’s Estate, a nature reserve between North Beach and the next town north of Wollongong, Fairy Meadow. 

Mout Kiera is only about a 15-minute drive away from the city centre, but Puckey’s Estate is around 5 minutes away. You can even walk there from central Wollongong, as it lies right on the Cycleway. 

Once you reach Puckey’s Estate, enjoy a couple of hours exploring the bush and walking, running, or biking along the woodland trails. 

You can also emerge from the forest and walk along the inlet, or see the sand dunes that line the ocean. 

What better to enjoy the coastal scenery of Wollongong than by jumping out of a plane? 

Believe it or not, sky diving is actually one of the top things to do in Wollongong. 

There is a very reputable sky diving company in Stuart Park near North Beach, and they are constantly taking adrenaline-seekers on jumps. 

You can fully trust their equipment and their guides, but this activity is definitely not for the faint-hearted!

For a fun and insightful day trip from Wollongong, drive about 20 minutes away to the town of Berkeley, NSW, and check out the Nan Tien Temple . 

This is actually the largest Buddhist Temple in the Southern Hemisphere, which is quite unexpected! Australia isn’t a Buddhist country, but this temple is extraordinary. 

Nan Tien Temple includes a large main temple and courtyard, a towering pagoda, a gift shop, museum, tea room, classrooms and retreat spaces, and a landscaped garden. 

So if you’re looking to see something majestic when you visit Wollongong, the Nan Tien Temple is the perfect place to go. 

Australian summers can be scorching, so you’ll need to cool down on a sunny day. 

After swimming in the sea, head into town and treat yourself to ice cream. 

Here are some delicious ice cream shops in Wollongong that feel like absolute heaven on a hot day. 

• Normie’s Ice Cream and Gelato
• Gelatissimo
• Cold Rock Ice Creamery
• Wendy’s Milk Bar
• C9 Chocolate and Gelato

READ MORE: Check out these great day trips from Sydney !

For more food adventures in addition to ice cream and dumplings, the Eat Street Markets is one of the most enjoyable Wollongong attractions. 

Every Thursday evening, Crown Street fills up with food trucks selling everything from Indian curries to Greek wraps to Ethiopian dishes to handmade pasta to sugary churros and more. 

Tea lights fill the trees along the street, and street musicians serenade you while you eat. This is definitely a must-have experience in Wollongong. 

Another one of the most enjoyable Wollongong activities is going to the cinema. 

Whether you’re looking for entertainment on a rainy day or something fun to do in the evening after dinner, the movie theatre in Wollongong is always showing the best new films. 

Treat yourself to some popcorn and get cozy at Greater Union Cinemas !

The local rock pools are some of the most beautiful things to see when you visit Wollongong. 

Whether you visit a rock pool at low tide to soak in the serenity, or at high tide to witness the wild waves tumbling over the edges of the pool, the rock pools are a truly beautiful addition to the Wollongong coastline. 

You can swim laps if you’re feeling ambitious, or just splash around and dry out on the rocks afterwards. 

There are some small and shallow rock pools up on the headland near the lighthouse, and there are deeper ones called the Gentlemen’s Baths located just to the south of North Beach. There is also an official swimming pool with lanes for swimming laps near Wollongong Harbour.

Both are incredible scenic spots, especially at sunrise or sunset. Visit a rock pool for a quick dip during the day or to just absorb the stunning coastal views. 

Spending some time at City Beach is one of the best things to do in Wollongong. 

This is the city’s biggest beach, stretching for 3.1 kilometers along the coast. There are lots of fun waves here for swimming, bodyboarding and surfing, and the water is a brilliant shade of sapphire on a nice day. 

The sandy portion of the beach is super wide and long, so it’s perfect for lying out in the sun or going for a long walk. 

On weekends, the beach gets quite lively with locals playing sports and blasting music. 

There are also a few cafes and restaurants right next to the beach if you get hungry!

16. Eat Brekkie at a Local Cafe

Cafe culture is strong everywhere in Australia, and Wollongong has some particularly great cafes. 

Most of them open early and close around 2 or 3 pm, so breakfast is the best time to visit. 

Whether you’re in the mood for something savoury, like smashed avo on toast or a bacon and egg roll, or something sweet like an acai bowl, a homemade pastry, or yogurt with muesli and fruit, there is no shortage of delicious food options at the local cafes. 

They all serve incredibly high-quality coffee as well. 

Here are some of the top cafes in Wollongong:

This trendy cafe is located right on the North Beach Pavilion. Grab a smoothie and stroll along the beach!

• Address: 1 Cliff Road
• Website: https://diggies.com.au/wollongong/

This traditional cafe serves its delicious coffee in gorgeous homemade ceramic mugs.

• Address: 118-120 Keira Street
• Website : https://www.opuscoffeebrewers.com/

This health-conscious cafe has lots of vegan and gluten-free breakfast and lunch options.

• Address: 337 Crown Street
• Website: https://lettucebfrank.com.au/

READ MORE: Plan your trip to Australia using our travel guide with everything you need to know!

Believe it or not, there are actually two mountains in Wollongong! This city has it all. 

Mount Kembla is just south of Mount Kiera, and you can see both of them in the distance while driving into Wollongong. 

Mount Kembla is a bit bigger than Mount Kiera, but it’s not as popular to climb. 

However, it also has its own Ring Track that trails around the peak. This trail is marked as a Grade 4, meaning previous bushwalking experience is recommended. 

The loop is 5.3 kilometres long and can take between 2 and 4 hours.

This is an amazing way to immerse yourself in nature and maybe see some local wildlife like echidnas or cockatoos. It’s also free! 

Visit the NSW National Parks website for more information about the hike.

For anyone who likes beer, socializing, and an ocean view, head to the Illawarra Brewery . 

This is the perfect place to come on a weekend afternoon, or on a weekday evening for some casual drinks and hearty pub food. 

There are plenty of craft beers to choose from at the Illawarra Brewery, and they often have happy hours and theme nights on for guests. 

You can also get fancy grazing boards to snack on while you sip. 

In any coastal Australian town, sunrise is one of the most beautiful and pure times of the day. 

The streets are quiet, the sky is colourful, and the atmosphere is promising. 

One of the best things to do in Wollongong is to watch the sunrise at the lighthouse. There are actually two lighthouses in the city, but the biggest one is located on Flagstaff Hill . The smaller one is Wollongong Breakwater Lighthouse, located in Wollongong Harbour.

Up on Flagstaff Hill, you get incredible sweeping views of the entire coastline. You can also see the mountains in the background. The sunrise from Wollongong Harbour isn’t bad either, so you can pick your spot.

This is the best spot to see the sunrise, so try to get up early one day and witness it. 

Wollongong Travel Guide

Now that you know what to do in Wollongong, here are some of the best accommodations and places to eat in the city.

Best Accommodation – Where to Stay in Wollongong, New South Wales

Anyone wondering where to stay in Wollongong will be happy to know, there are lots of options!

There are some lovely hotels in Wollongong located super close to the beach. The budget accommodation options are more limited, but there is at least one great cheap hostel.

This big, cozy backpacker hostel feels more like a home than a hostel!

It has a beachy decor, friendly staff, and is within walking distance to the town centre and to the beach.

Figtree Hotel is an affordable, 3-star hotel that offers everything you need for your stay. From free parking, to excellent staff and a convenient location, you can save money and stay comfortably during your visit to Wollongong!

This four-star hotel is quite affordable, especially when you consider the quality you get. The rooms are crisp and clean with refreshing, modern decoration.

It is close to the train station and town, though it is a little far from the beach so this is an ideal place to stay if you have a car!

For travellers who want their own gorgeous apartment in Wollongong, this is the best place to stay.

Even though this hotel is walking distance from the beach and town, there’s a pool, hot tub, sauna, and restaurant on-site so you have the choice of going out or staying in.

Best Restaurants in Wollongong

Wollongong has so many restaurants of all different price ranges and cuisines. You can splurge on fresh seafood and wine or find a flavorful Thai curry for less than 20 AUD, and both are delicious!

Thai Gong Restaurant is a small and humble local restaurant that sells authentic Thai dishes for under 20 AUD. Visit at lunchtime and the prices will be even cheaper!

For heartwarming food and great wine, head to Kneading Ruby . This place specializes in Italian cuisine, and the homemade pizzas are incredible.

One of the best restaurants in Wollongong is Steamers Bar and Grill . Located right next to City Beach and the Wollongong Harbour, this classy and modern restaurant has ocean views, specialty cocktails, and plenty of mouthwatering dishes and desserts.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

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12 Best Things to do in Wollongong, Australia

Although often overlooked by visitors to Sydney, the lovely coastal city of Wollongong is certainly worth visiting in its own right. Wedged in between the soaring cliffs and mountains of the Illawarra Escarpment and the glinting waters of the Tasman Sea, it boasts lots of beautiful surf beaches and spectacular natural scenery.

While it is noted for both its heavy industry and busy port, New South Wales’ third largest city also has a lively, youthful feel thanks to its sizeable student population. Besides visiting its excellent art galleries and state-of-the-art science center, there are also a handful of interesting historic tourist attractions for you to check out. Other things to do in Wollongong include visiting its humongous Buddhist temple and botanical gardens.

With the scenic Grand Pacific Drive passing by and both Sydney and Royal National Park lying nearby, ‘The Gong’ makes for the perfect daytrip destination or quiet weekend away.

12. Wollongong Art Gallery

Set right in the center of the city you can find the excellent Wollongong Art Gallery which is home to a huge number of impressive artworks and exhibitions. Much of its collection focuses on the Illawarra region of New South Wales with fantastic paintings, photos and sculptures all on display.

One of the largest regional art museums in Australia, it was established in 1951 and now occupies a striking historic building with four floors full of light and airy galleries. In total, it contains almost 3,000 artworks with everything from Neolithic pots and Colonial-era works to Asian contemporary pieces and Aboriginal artifacts and art show.

Aside from perusing its extensive collection, guests can also attend one of its temporary exhibitions which are regularly held over the course of the year.

11. Wollongong City Beach

If instead of art it is some sun, sea, sand and surf that you are after, then Wollongong City Beach is the ideal place to head. Located just a short walk from the center, it is very popular with both locals and tourists alike thanks to its gorgeous golden sands, easy accessibility and umpteen amenities and outdoor activities.

Stretching three kilometers in length, its warm and welcoming sands are perfect for lounging on lazily while some superb swimming and surfing can be enjoyed offshore. In addition, there is a playground, picnic areas and a bike path for visitors to make use of with grassy parks and outdoor exercise equipment also on offer.

While exercising or kicking back and relaxing on the beach, you can bask in fabulous views of the rocky headland to its north and the sparkling white lighthouse perched atop of Flagstaff Point.

10. Kiama Blowhole

Long a top tourist attraction, Kiama Blowhole has been attracting visitors to the area for well over a century now. Set just half an hour’s drive south of the city, the impressive and awe-inspiring natural phenomenon lies on a wind-swept point right next to the center of the small coastal town of Kiama.

Formed approximately 260 million years ago, the blowhole is surrounded by craggy basalt columns and dramatic rock formations with the ferocious sea pounding the coastline just a couple of meters away. Under certain conditions, water is channeled through the narrow chasm and sprayed up to 25 meters into the air, drenching everyone and everything around it.

While this certainly makes for a spectacular sight, the less famous and less visited ‘Little Blowhole’ nearby is much more regular when it comes to spurting seawater into the sky.

9. Science Space

A very fun and family friendly place to explore, the brilliant Science Space can be found just five minutes’ drive north of downtown. Aside from its interactive exhibits, the hands-on science museum also has an exquisite planetarium for visitors to check out with live experiments and demonstrations regularly taking place.

Now operated by the University of Wollongong, the state-of-the-art center was first opened in 1989 and has proved to be very popular with children and adults alike ever since. Currently it contains more than ninety interesting exhibits for you to engage with that look at everything from buoyancy and dinosaurs to electricity, anatomy and nanotechnology.

After having learnt about various scientific laws and phenomena, it is well worth staying to watch an educational film at what is NSW’s best planetarium with special science shows featuring sound, music and liquid nitrogen also being held in its theater.

8. North Beach

Although much shorter than its southernly neighbor, North Beach is the primary place that people in the city go to sunbathe, swim and surf. This is because it is not only backed by beautiful bluffs and big grassy spaces but is the only local beach that is patrolled year-round by lifeguards.

Ideal for families, it has lots of rock pools, wading areas and calm swimming spots for young and old alike to splash about in while offshore waves up to two metres-high attract surfers too. Besides strolling along the 500-metre-long beach, visitors can sunbathe, sit and enjoy a picnic or head to the nearby park and playground.

With countless cafes and restaurants located nearby and the city centre set just a short drive away, it is no wonder that the scenic and sun-kissed North Beach appeals to so many people.

7. Mount Keira Lookout

Boasting breath-taking panoramas over the city and its surroundings, Mount Keira and the rest of the Illawarra escarpment rise up dramatically above Wollongong. In just fifteen minutes’ drive, you can find yourself atop of the lofty mount, enjoying stunning views up and down the Pacific coast from its lovely lookout.

Due to its distinctive shape and close proximity to the center, Mount Keira has long been a major local landmark. Reaching 464 meters in height, its rainforest-coated slopes are home to some great hiking trails and incredible wildlife with the whole escarpment acting as a sacred site for the local Wodi Wodi people.

While many people come to hike or bike amidst its pristine nature, the main reason most visit is for the unparalleled views on offer from its prominent peak which has benches, binoculars and a cafe for visitors to make use of.

6. Wollongong Botanic Garden

A very peaceful and picturesque place to amble around, the delightful Wollongong Botanic Garden can be found right at the foot of the mighty Mount Keira. Home to a huge collection of plants, flowers, trees and shrubs, it has lots of scenic sections and secluded spots for visitors to explore.

First opened to the public in 1970, its sprawling site now boasts thousands of species of plants with innumerable azaleas and succulents on show alongside pretty herb, rose and woodland gardens. On top of this, you can also find several rainforest areas while a charming creek quietly meanders its way through the park and into a reflective lake.

Besides enjoying all its fantastic flora and seeing its gorgeous Japanese bridge and tea house, guests can take guided walks and workshops or explore the colorful contents of the garden’s glasshouse.

5. Port Kembla Beach

Widely considered to be one of the best beaches in the area, the popular Port Kembla Beach lies just fifteen minutes’ drive down the coast from the center. Bordered to the north by a low-lying cliff, its soft sands seemingly stretch away forever into the distance as they curve their way gently along the Tasman Sea.

At the nearest part to Wollongong, visitors can find a large saltwater pool and a historic surf club which was impressively founded in 1910. While strong rips and swells abound around the northern headland, the southern stretches of the beach have much calmer spots where you can swim and wade about in rock pools.

Aside from swimming, surfing and splashing about in the sea, you can also stroll along its endless sands which reach over 6.5 kilometers in length and are lined by pretty parks and lush vegetation the whole way along.

4. Wollongong Head Lighthouse

Perched atop of the prominent Flagstaff Point is one of the city’s stand-out symbols and sights: the Wollongong Head Lighthouse. Set just a stone’s throw away from downtown, it overlooks both the historic harbour and the glimmering waters of the Pacific Ocean.

Built all the way back in 1936, it is remarkably still in use until this day with its automatic bi-colored light guiding ships, yachts and sailing boats to safety. Not only do they have to navigate the various rocky headlands that dot the coast but the small group of The Five Islands which lie just offshore.

Towering 25 meters in height, the brilliantly bright white lighthouse stands out delightfully against its surroundings with the grassy knoll at its foot being both a popular viewpoint and picnic spot.

3. Nan Tien Temple

Another of Wollongong’s most important landmarks is the massive and majestic Nan Tien Temple which is set amidst some lovely grounds and gardens. Located on the southern outskirts of Wollongong, it is impressively the largest Buddhist temple complex in all the Southern Hemisphere.

Meaning ‘Paradise of the Sun’ in Chinese, the sprawling site was erected between 1992 and 1995 by the Taiwanese Fo Guang Shan Buddhist order. Alongside an attractive eight-storey pagoda you can spy large and elaborately decorated prayer halls and landscaped gardens studded with sacred shrines and statues.

At the temple complex visitors can take t’ai chi classes and meditation retreats or learn more about Buddhism by wandering around its museum and taking in all the amazing architecture and religious artworks on show.

2. Wattamolla Beach

Tucked away within a secluded part of Royal National Park is yet another of the New South Wales coastline’s most beautiful beaches. Although it lies almost at the midway point between the city and Sydney, Wattamolla Beach is definitely well worth visiting due to its spellbinding beauty and ample outdoor activities.

Protected from the rough waves of the Tasman Sea by the protruding Martin Head and Provincial Point, Wattamolla is not only home to a picturesque beach but a quiet cove and lagoon too. Only adding to the site’s scenic splendor is the small waterfall that slowly cascades its way down one of the nearby cliff faces.

Aside from lounging on the sandbar and swimming in the lagoon’s calm waters, visitors can bask in breath-taking views of the coast from the Provincial Point Lookout or surf the rips and breaks nearer to the headland.

1. Grand Pacific Drive

Winding its way along the coast from Sydney to Shoalhaven is one of the most scenic routes in all of Australia: the Grand Pacific Drive. An absolute treat to travel along, it takes you past wonderful beaches and steep coastal cliffs with stupendous scenery, nature and views wherever you go.

Although it stretches 140 kilometers in total, the section from Sydney to Wollongong is particularly scenic and enjoyable to drive along. This is because the rambling route passes through the pristine wilderness of Royal National Park with idyllic beaches and imposing cliffs set alongside lush tracts of coastal rainforest.

Besides stopping off at famous spots such as Wattamolla Beach and the incredible Wedding Cake Rock, one of the most memorable parts of the journey is driving across the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge. Directly facing the open ocean, the bridge boasts unparalleled views of the Pacific as you continue down the coast towards Wollongong.

Map of Things to do in Wollongong

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Top Things to Do in Wollongong

Things to do in wollongong, explore popular experiences, tours in and around wollongong.

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Top Attractions in Wollongong

Other Top Attractions around Wollongong

Outdoor Activities

Tours & Sightseeing

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Shore excursions, what travelers are saying.

• Nan Tien Temple
• Grand Pacific Drive - Sydney to Wollongong and Beyond
• Wollongong To Thirroul Bike Track
• Wattamolla Beach
• Wollongong Head Lighthouse
• Port Kembla Beach
• Wollongong Botanic Garden
• North Wollongong Beach
• Royal National Park Day Trip Hike
• Full Day Private Shore Tour in Sydney from Kembla Cruise Port
• Private Tour: Sydney South Coast & Highlands
• Private Day Trip to Royal National Park - up to 7 guests

• Accommodation
• Travel Inspiration

• destinations
• south coast

Wollongong and Surrounds

Let yourself be surprised.

The ‘Gong’ will do nothing if not surprise you. Framed by the Pacific to the east and a lush escarpment to the west, the region is naturally blessed – but it’s equally blessed by fabulous human-made attractions, like the biggest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere, kilometres of coastal cycling tracks, inviting eateries and bars, the spectacular Sea Cliff Bridge and sky-high adventure experiences.

Places to visit

Stanwell Park

Wollongong highlights

Things to do.

Adventure activities

Best beaches

Travel inspiration.

Four ways to explore Wollongong by bike

A delicious long weekend in Wollongong

Top food adventures for kids in Sydney and NSW

Short breaks & daytrips.

Grand Pacific Drive

Expert Guide of the Grand Pacific Drive

Watch: a long weekend in wollongong.

Swap the city for a coastal chill out with a long weekend in Wollongong, exploring glorious beaches, top-notch eateries and cultural hotspots.

Getting there

The Wollongong area is located just south of  Sydney  and the drive takes around 90 minutes. Take the scenic route along the Grand Pacific Drive and through the Royal National Park. You can catch the train from Sydney, which also takes around 90 minutes and stops off at most coastal towns in the region.

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18 Top-Rated Wollongong Attractions to Add to Your List

Located about 1-hour drive south from Sydney, Wollongong is a top destination in Australia for those looking to relax and escape the city crowds. Wollongong means “between the mountains and the sea”, and that’s exactly what it is! It’s a narrow strip, bordered by beaches on one side and an escarpment on the other.

Wollongong offers a lot of activities that appeal to everyone no matter your taste and lifestyle including water sports, hiking, museum visits and much more! 

Wondering what are the best Wollongong attractions to do?

Here is the guide of the 18 best attractions in Wollongong and nearby you should add to your bucket list! 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

The Full List of the 18 Wollongong Tourist Attractions

Natural attractions in wollongong, man made attractions in wollongong, wollongong attractions map, more landmarks in australia.

There are 2 main kinds of tourist attractions in Wollongong: the natural attractions versus the man made attractions. Find below is the list of some of the best ones👇

Natural attractions: 

• Grand Pacific Drive 
• Wattamolla Beach
• Port Kembla Beach
• Wollongong Beach
• Macquarie Pass National Park
• Bald Hill Lookout
• Austinmer Beach
• Minnamurra Rainforest
• Kiama Blowhole

Man made attractions:

• Nan Tien Temple 
• Wollongong Harbour and Lighthouses
• Jamberoo Action Park
• Symbio Wildlife Park
• Wollongong Botanic Garden
• Wollongong Art Gallery
• Helensburgh Tunnel
• Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk
• Illawarra Light Railway Museum

Keep reading to learn more about each of these W ollongong tourist attractions! 

When thinking about natural attractions in Wollongong Australia, I can’t help but think of beaches: there are 17 beaches open in Wollongong in summer, all more beautiful than the others!

But you’ll see below that apart from beaches, there are other types of natural attractions you should visit! 

1. Grand Pacific Drive

The very famous Grand Pacific Drive crosses through the city of Wollongong! The route starts from the Royal National Park 1-hour drive south of Sydney , and goes along the coastline up to the city of Kiama. Wollongong is one of the city stops of this 140-kilometer route. 

Grand Pacific Drive is one of the most beautiful routes in Australia: it offers breathtaking lookouts and serve wonderful places that must be seen in one’s lifetime such as Sea Cliff Bridge or Stanwell Tops.

It’s the ideal route for a road trip in Australia as you’ll be able to enjoy both nature and city activities. Bathing in beautiful fine sandy beaches, exploring the rainforest, wine tasting… You can do everything on the Grand Pacific Drive!  

2. Wattamolla Beach

This lagoon is a true little piece of heaven in the heart of the Royal National Park!

Wattamolla Beach is a sandy oasis where people can relax and bathe in clear waters with a superb view of the ocean. You can also bark by the waterfall depending on the season, enjoy water sports such as snorkeling and paddling or hike around the beach. As a bonus, this wilderness spot has a picnic area where you can cook your meal with public barbecues.

Be careful of the crowds! The beach gets quickly full of people on weekends, so prefer going during the week if you can!

3. Port Kembla Beach 

You shouldn’t miss Port Kembla Beach when visiting Wollongong! Indeed, Port Kembla Beach is considered as one of the city’s most breathtaking beaches. 

Happy days 09 / CC BY-NC-ND

Located about 20min drive from Wollongong city center, Port Kembla Beach is the place to be for surfers, but also for families. There’s a swimming pool and a toddler’s pool right on the sandy beach, creating an incredible setting and offering beautiful panoramic views.  

4. Wollongong Beach

Wollongong Beach is the only beach in the center of the city, just 5min drive from the CBD! Locals love taking a quick dive after work there. 

Serguei / CC BY-NC-ND

There are all the facilities needed to spend the day there, and the beachfront is full of cafes, restaurants and shops. Make sure to try local cuisine and craft beers before going home! 

If you’re with family and want to swim safely, you should know that this beach is the only one in Wollongong that is patrolled all year around.

5. Macquarie Pass National Park 

Located about 40min drive from Wollongong city center and 2 hours from Sydney, Macquarie Pass National Park is a rainforest full of cascades and waterfalls, the most famous one being Clover Falls. 

There are easy and more difficult hiking trails leading to different waterfalls, but all of them offers a moment of peace inside the forest wilderness. If you’re lucky, you might be able to see some animals such as koalas, wombats, swamp wallabies or possums! Not to mention the spectacular sceneries you’ll have from the steep cliffs. 

So grab your picnic – or everything you need to use the barbecue facilities of the park – and go on a day-trip to Macquarie!

6. Bald Hill Lookout 

Bald Hill has to be in your Wollongong sights and attractions list.

Nic Tinker / CC BY-NC-ND

This lookout offers one the most beautiful and popular lookouts on the Illawarra Escarpment with breathtaking views over the Pacific coastline. It’s also a renown place for hang gliding, so if you’re ready for the big jump, Bald Hill is the perfect place to do it! 

Located about 30min drive from Wollongong downtown, Bald Hill Lookout is also one the best view over the Sea Cliff Bridge on the Great Ocean Drive, and Mount Keira that rises at 464 meters.

7. Austinmer Beach

Austinmer Beach is another popular beach in Wollongong located only 20min drive north from the city center.

Michael Radzieta / CC BY

Like Bulli or Woonoona beaches, Austinmer Beach has ocean pools. So, if you’re not comfortable swimming in the ocean but still would like to feel it, this is your beach!

Indeed, this beach is mostly famous for its twin rock pools filled by the ocean tides that offer crisp clear water to swimmers, and amazing scenic views to photographers. Surfers also like this beach because of the quite high waves of 1.4 meters.  

8. Minnamurra Rainforest

Located in Budderoo National Park about 35min drive from Wollongong CBD, The Minnamurra Rainforest is a remnant of warm temperate and subtropical rainforest. 

The rainforest starts on paved tracks and elevated walkways offering beautiful scenery. The main track is the Loop Walk, a walk along the Minnamurra Rivulet of 1.6 kilometers most visitors do in 45min to 1 hour.

There, you’ll be able to observe the typical fauna and flora of the rainforest including waterfalls, water dragons, lyrebirds and much more.  

9. Kiama Blowhole 

Located in Kiama, an other stops of the Great Ocean Road, this natural landmarks is definitely worth a visit when in Wollongong. Situated only 30min drive from Wollongong’s CBD, it’s an easy visit you can do in just a day. 

David Robertson / CC BY-NC-ND

Kiama Blowhole is one of the main attractions of all New South Wales as it is the largest blowhole in the world. The largest one in the site has on opening of 2.5 meters.

Under specific conditions, the geyser can project water 25 meters high in such a quantity that it sprays visitors. It’s a  true spectacle of nature!

You’d be surprise of how the attractions Wollongong has to offer! Museums, themed parks, zoos,… You won’t stay long wondering what to do in Wollongong. 

Let’s review 8 tourist attractions near Wollongong and inside the city just below!  

10. Nan Tien Temple 

Located only 15min drive from Wollongong center, this temple is the largest Buddhist temple of the Taiwanese Fo Guang Shan order. It’s definitely the most impressive attraction in Wollongong. 

Nan Tien temple offers many activities such as exhibitions, culinary festivals, seminars as well as spiritual and meditation retreats. In addition to all this, the accommodations available at Pilgrim Lodge overlook a lotus pond, the temple, its beautiful gardens and the Illawarra escarpment.

If you have time, spend a day or a weekend here on a retreat to experience serenity.

11. Wollongong Harbour and Lighthouses

Wollongong Harbour offers one of the best view of the coast with 2 lighthouses at the eastern edge, the Breakwater Lighthouse and the Flagstaff Point Lighthouse.  The first one dates back to 1872 and is not active anymore, while Flagstaff Point, built in 1936, is still active.

The Harbour itself has been heritage-listed in 2010 and is the starting point for fishing fleets and recreational boats, contributing to create a beautiful landscape. 

12. Jamberoo Action Park

Located only 30min drive south from Wollongong, Jamberoo Action Park is a water park where you’ll find world class attractions and rides for kids and families of all ages. 

Set in the mountains of Jamberoo, this theme park is is one of the biggest ones in New South Wales. It provides many attractions including mini-golf, wave pools, speed slides, a funnel web and much more. 

The parking is free, so there’s no excuse not to spend a day in Jamberoo Action Park! 

13. Symbio Wildlife Park

Symbio Wildlife Park will get you closer than ever to Australian wildlife!

Located 30min drive from Wollongong in Helensburgh, this zoo is home to some amazing animals like kangaroos, possums, lemurs, wombats, koalas, red pandas and more! You’ll have the chance to interact with these animals by feeding and petting them. 

You’ll love spending quality time with family or friends in Symbio Wildlife Park . 

14. Wollongong Botanic Garden

The Wollongong Botanic Garden is located in the city center, at the foot of Mount Keira. People come to this garden to relax, contemplate nature and learn more about plants.

Vanessa Pike-Russell / CC BY-NC-ND

The garden is divided in sections including Rainforest Collection, Towri Bush Tucker Garden, Dryland Garden, Plant Life, Rose Garden, Woodland Garden, Palm Garden and a Succulent Collection. All sections are beautiful to visit. 

The garden also has a red bridge and a pagoda, which makes the Wollongong Botanic Garden perfect for photos.

15. Wollongong Art Gallery

If you like art and history, you’ll be served in Wollongong. Located in the heart of the city, Wollongong Art Gallery has a large collection of over 2,500 artworks. 

Matt / CC BY-NC-ND

Built in the 1950s, the gallery holds exhibitions, public and education programs all year long, so you’ll always find something special when visiting it. 

16. Helensburgh Tunnel 

Located 30min south from Wollongong, Helensburgh Tunnel  is an abandoned railway and tunnel that was built in the 19e century, and not in use since the 1920s. 

Visiting Helensburgh Tunnel is quite an adventure! To visit it, you’ll need comfortable shoes you don’t mind getting muddy and a torch to see in the darkness.

But before visiting, make sure to check if the tunnel is open first as it’s often closed due to flooding or glow worms .  

17. Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk

Located about 45min drive south from Wollongong, Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk offers the highest zipline tour of Australia, as well as an amazing stroll on treetops. 

The zipline tour is a original and eco-friendly way to visit Illwarra rainforest by flying on a series of cables spans at more than 30 meters from the ground and going from one tree platform to another. 

The Treetop walk is a loop track of 1.5 kilometers, with 500 meters of elevated walkway at around 25 meters above the ground. A unique experience for everyone of all ages. 

18. Illawarra Light Railway Museum

Illawarra Light Railway Museum is a testimony to Illawarra industrial history and railway.

Hpeterswald / CC BY-SA

Located only 20min from Wollongong center, this museum operates a miniature railway and houses stationary engines, generators, boilers, compressors, winches and pumps.

The site also has all kinds of railway artefacts and buildings from the region such as the Yallah station building, signal box, a carriage restoration shed and more. 

Here is a Wollongong attractions map with all the listed sites in this post. To get it, click on the image below to open it in Google Maps. Then click on the “star” icon to save it to your own maps.

So here are the 18 attractions in Wollongong you should visit! I hope you’ll have a nice trip there.   

Want to discover more famous Australia landmarks? Well, I have other posts that you might like!

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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Wollongong

Things to do in wollongong, explore popular experiences, tours in and around wollongong.

Wollongong Tandem Skydiving 15,000ft

• Private Wildlife Waterfalls and Wine Day Tour from Sydney

Waves, Wildlife, & Wines in South Coast (Sydney private tour)

Private Tour: Sydney South Coast & Highlands

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Blue Mountains Small-Group Tour from Sydney with Scenic World,Sydney Zoo & Ferry

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Top Attractions in Wollongong

Other Top Attractions around Wollongong

Outdoor Activities

Tours & Sightseeing

Private & Custom Tours

Shore excursions, what travellers are saying.

• Nan Tien Temple
• Grand Pacific Drive - Sydney to Wollongong and Beyond
• Wollongong To Thirroul Bike Track
• Wattamolla Beach
• Wollongong Head Lighthouse
• Port Kembla Beach
• Wollongong Botanic Garden
• North Wollongong Beach
• Royal National Park Day Trip Hike
• Full Day Private Shore Tour in Sydney from Kembla Cruise Port
• Private Tour: Sydney South Coast & Highlands
• Private Day Trip to Royal National Park - up to 7 guests

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Wollongong Attractions – Top 50 Things to do and see

Wollongong is a coastal city in Australia, south of Sydney along the Grand Pacific Drive. Surfing beaches and rock pools line the coastline. Trails encircle the forests and rocky cliffs of Mt. Keira in the Illawarra mountain range, which frames the city.

To the north, hang gliders launch from Bald Hill. South lie the Buddhist temple of Nan Tien and Lake Illawarra, a large lagoon with boating and fishing facilities.

Best things to do in Wollongong

In this video, we check out the best places to visit in Wollongong – Australia.

The most famous spot in Wollongong is its route to Sydney, the beautiful view from Grand Pacific Drive. Wollongong To Thirroul Bike Track also has amazing views by bike.

Tourist attractions in Wollongong – Illawarra such as Wollongong Botanic Garden, Wollongong Head Lighthouse, Port Kembla Beach, Nan Tien Temple, Wattamolla Beach, Towradgi Beach Park, Cordeaux Dam, Lake Illawarra, North Wollongong Beach, Beach Cove Belmore Basin, Austinmer Beach, etc.

For the complete list of all things to do in Wollongong tourist attractions or best places to visit simply watch this video in the player above from list 1 to 50. Enjoy the video.

We hope you took inspiration from our video covering the TOP 50 WOLLONGONG Attractions (Things to Do & See) .

Though our video guides are designed to provide further insight into what it might be like to live in the state of New South Wales, we’re hopeful that this video will also help you to choose places to visit (or even call home) when living in Australia.

Have you visited Wollongong in NSW before?

Have you visited any of the locations featured in our video before? What did you think? Would you go back? Could you live there?

We’d love to hear your views so please share these in our comments below.

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If this is how many Wollongong attractions there are, then I guess Sydney must have 500

bruh im suprised you scraped more than 5

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Explore Wollongong

Plan Your Trip to Wollongong: Best of Wollongong Tourism

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Wollongong is an exotic coastal city in Australia known for its heavy industry and port activity. The best thing about Wollongong is its physical setting. Visitors can savour the fun of gliding, basking, surfing, and many other water activities in a coastal region. The city's coastal location enables the port activity, so it has several lighthouses for you to explore.

Though it is not that popular, you surely need to witness this coastal city's beauty. Here are the top 10 places to visit in Wollongong.

List Of 10 Places To Visit In Wollongong

About an hour away from south of Sydney, Wollongong is a hive of natural scenic spots and surfing reaches. Sandwiched between the Illawarra Escarpment mountains and the Tasman Sea, the city can rejuvenate your senses. Read ahead to know how!

• Grand Pacific Drive | Journey of the Lifetime
• Wollongong Botanic Garden | The Tranquil Spot
• Mount Keira Lookout | Hike Up The Trail!
• Wollongong Head Lighthouse | Watch the Stunning Sunrise
• Nan Tien Temple | Let Your Worries Disappear
• Wattamolla Beach | A Slice of Beach Fun
• Port Kembla Beach | The Surfing Spot
• Science Space | Kids and Parent-Friendly
• Kiama Blowhole | A Truly Unique Spot
• Wollongong Art Gallery | Cultural Events in Wollongong

1. Grand Pacific Drive | Journey of the Lifetime

For travel bloggers, the Grand Pacific Drive is one of the best attractions in Wollongong. Connecting the south of Sydney to Wollongong, the 140-km long coastal path takes you through a plethora of scenic locations, beaches, and more. One of the primary spots along the Grand Pacific Drive is the Sea Cliff Bridge.

The bridge curves along the seaside cliffs and leaps over the Pacific Ocean. Therefore, while driving, you will experience as if you are driving over water. There is also a walkway on the bridge for you to take a stroll and gaze at the natural scenery.

• Address: Otford Rd, Stanwell Tops NSW 2508
• Timings: 24 hours

2. Wollongong Botanic Garden | The Tranquil Spot

If you love tranquil spots, the Wollongong Botanic Garden is the place for you. Resting on the foot of Mount Keira, this stunning botanic garden houses some of the most beautiful and endangered species of plants, shrubs, and flowers.

All these plants, shrubs, and flowers are distributed across various gardens, such as the palm garden, rainforest collection dryland garden, and rose garden. Alongside a beautiful lake, the entry into the garden is free. While you take guided walks and workshops, your children can have fun in the gigantic children’s playground within the garden.

• Address: 40 Murphys Ave, Keiraville NSW 2500
• Timings: 7 am to 5 pm

3. Mount Keira Lookout | Hike Up The Trail!

For hiking lovers, the Mount Keira is a true dream in Australia. The 464-meter-high natural structure encompasses one of the longest Wollongong hiking trails . The 5.5-kilometre Mount Keira Ring Trail takes you through the changing terrains and forests of the Illawarra Escarpment.

Due to its height, the mountain casts a shadow on the Wollongong city. Moreover, when on the top, you can get a wide view of the city details. There are nice picnic spots at the beginning and end of the trail and a kiosk that serves you coffee and light meals.

• Address: Queen Elizabeth Drive Mount Keira NSW 2500 Australia
• Timings: 8 am to 6 pm

4. Wollongong Head Lighthouse | Watch the Stunning Sunrise

Looking for family-friendly attractions in Wollongong ? Get up a bit early and head to the Wollongong head lighthouse. The 25-meter natural high structure erected on Flagstaff Hill was built in 1936, which to date, guides ships, yachts, and sailing boats to safety.

The top of the lighthouse is best for witnessing the early sunrise. Moreover, you can also view the stunning Pacific coastline while breathing in fresh air. The surrounding greenery motivates you to stay fit. You can also organise a picnic for your family on a weekend.

• Address: lot 2500/LOT 2 Endeavour Dr, Wollongong NSW 2500

5. Nan Tien Temple | Let Your Worries Disappear

After a long day of travelling, if you like to let your mind rest in tranquillity, the Nan Tien Temple should be your final resort. Holding the meaning “Paradise of the Sun”, the temple features two vast praying halls located in the Peaceful Hillside Landscape Garden.

When you are here, you can take part in all sorts of retreats and classes related to mindful doodling, meditation, Buddhism and Tai Chi. On top of that, you can sit in the tranquil environment in the Japanese-style gardens. If you like to stay or grab a bite, there is an accommodation facility and a restaurant in the temple itself.

• Address: 180 Berkeley Rd, Berkeley NSW 2506
• Timings: 9 am to 5 pm

6. Wattamolla Beach | A Slice of Beach Fun

Don't go by size in the picture. Wattamolla Beach has a lot more to offer than its size. Located in the hidden part of the Royal National Park, the little slice of golden sand has a Lagoon, a small waterfall, a quiet cove, and cabbage tree palms that provide shade in a small area.

You can begin by taking a cool swim in the lagoon and basking in the sunlight when you are here. The ocean-side spot is also ideal for a picnic. However, you have to carry all your stuff from home.

• Address: Sutherland Shire NSW 2232
• Timings: 7 am to 8:30 pm

7. Port Kembla Beach | The Surfing Spot

Looking for the best surfing spots in Wollongong ? We present you the Port Kembla Beach. As surfers have frequently visited the beach since the 20th century, it has a real history. Unlike other beaches, this one has the oldest surf club, was founded in 1910 and is located on the North side of the beach.

On one side is a low-lying cliff, while on the other is the saltwater swimming pool. So, head to the pool and get a chilled swimming experience. The pool receives fresh water every day. After surfing and swimming, you can take a romantic stroll while gazing at the beautiful seaside scenery.

• Address: Olympic Boulevard Port Kembla NSW 2505

8. Science Space | Kids and Parent Friendly

To take your kids on a learning journey, this place is the best. Located five minutes away, North of Downtown, the Science Space is the best to nurture the intellect of your kids. You can begin the Science Space tour with exhibitions based on buoyancy, dinosaurs, nanotechnology, light, electricity and more.

There are over 90 exhibits for you to explore. Moreover, there is a planetarium where live experiments and demonstrations keep going on. The end of your tour at the Science Space will be with an educational film and science shows that feature sound, music and liquid nitrogen.

• Address: Puckey Avenue, Innovation Campus, North Wollongong, NSW, 2500
• Timings: 10 am to 4 pm

9. Kiama Blowhole | A Truly Unique Spot

For the best Wollongong weekend getaways , the Kiama Blowhole is the perfect place. The spot is not that popular because there is not much to see. However, when the sea water hits the hole from below, the water is channelled above and splashes 25 m above the ground, drenching everyone around it.

Formed around millions of years ago, the Kiama blowhole produces a sight worth your photography. So, do carry your camera along.

• Address: Kiama NSW 2533

10. Wollongong Art Gallery | Cultural Events in Wollongong

This art gallery is the primary spot for all the cultural events in the City. Housing over 3000 spectacular artworks, including paintings, photos and sculptures, the gallery takes you on a journey from the past to the present. Established in 1951, till date, it remains the largest regional art museum in Australia.

To complete your gallery tour, you have to walk across the airy galleries on four floors. But in the end, it will be worth it. You can also attend some temporary exhibitions that are consistent throughout the year.

• Address: 46 Burelli St, Wollongong NSW 2500
• Timings: 12 to 4 pm

Adotrip simplifies trip planning to Wollongong with tailored itineraries, accommodation bookings, and local insights. It streamlines the process, saving time and effort. With cost-effective packages and expert guidance, Adotrip ensures a memorable and stress-free journey, allowing you to enjoy Wollongong's coastal charm, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions.

With us, nothing is far!

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Frequently asked questions about places to visit in wollongong.

Q1. What are the top attractions and viewpoints to explore in Wollongong? A1. Some of the top attractions and viewpoints in Wollongong are the Grand Pacific Drive, Wollongong Head Lighthouse, and Mount Keira Lookout.

Q2. Can you recommend any beaches or coastal spots for leisure in Wollongong? A2. Beaches and coastal areas in Wollongong are Wattamolla Beach, Port Kembla Beach, and Kiama Blowhole.

Q3. Which cultural centres, museums, or art spaces are worth visiting in Wollongong? A3. You must visit the Wollongong Art Gallery, Australian Motorlife Museum, and Wollongong Botanic Garden.

Q4. Are there any nearby national parks or walking trails to explore from Wollongong? A4. Mount Keira Lookout is the best place to go on a walking trail. It is 5.5 km long.

Q5. What are some family-friendly attractions or interactive museums in Wollongong? A5. Science Space, Wollongong Art Gallery, and Botanic Garden are the ideal family-friendly attractions in Wollongong.

Q6. Which neighbourhoods offer shopping, dining, and local markets in Wollongong? A6. Crown Street Mall, Keira Street, and Wollongong Harbour are the top spots for shopping and dining.

Q7. Can you suggest any day trips or excursions from Wollongong? A7. The best day trips or excursions from Wollongong are Day trips to Royal National Park, Coal Coast Day Tour, Wildlife, Waterfalls and Wine Small Group tours, etc.

Q8. What's the best way to explore the Wollongong Harbor and its surroundings? A8. The best way to explore the Wollongong Harbour is on a bike or foot.

Q9. Are there any historical sites, heritage buildings, or maritime history in Wollongong? A9. Nan Tien Temple, Historic Colonial Fort, and Wollongong Harbour Precinct are the top runners in the history and heritage spots list.

Q10. Is there a recommended time to visit Wollongong for its cultural or music events? A10. September to February is the best window to visit Wollongong for its cultural or music events .

--- Published By  Adotrip

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20 things to do in Wollongong

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Are you looking for a place to escape from Sydney, with fantastic ocean views, fabulous beaches and delicious food? Wollongong is the 10th largest city in Australia and is only a 1.5-hour drive from Sydney. You could easily visit Wollongong as a day trip from Sydney but there’s enough to do if you plan on staying longer.

This lovely seaside city has an alluring mix of culture and nature-based attractions as well as cool cafes, restaurants, bars and pubs. Here are some of the best things to do in Wollongong .

Looking for accommodation?

1- visit the kiama blowholes, 2- surf or sunbake on a wollongong beach, 3- have fun at jamberoo action park, 4- hangout with wildlife at symbio wildlife park, 5- hang glide like a daredevil from bald hill, 6- drive the sea cliff bridge, 7- go on a illawarra fly treetop walk, 8- discover the wollongong science centre, 9- explore minnamurra rainforest, 10- visit trainworks, 11- explore the illawarra museum and marketplace, 12- take a helicopter flight, 13- photograph the wollongong lighthouse, 14- explore helensburgh tunnel, 15- visit nan tien temple, 16- visit the historical aircraft restoration society museum, eat street markets, friday forage market, 18- see the plants in grevillea park, 19- visit the australian motorlife museum, 20- go skydiving and land on the beach, wollongong accommodation, altitude 1148, samba brazil, what’s on in wollongong.

• Half-Day Deep Sea Fishing Wollongong – a fantastic day out on the water.
• Wollongong Blowholes and Rainforest Tour – enjoy the incredible landscapes of the south coast.
• Wollongong Hang Gliding – an adventure you’ll be talking about for the rest of your life!

Hotels in Wollongong range from top international brands to apartment-style stays. There are eight internationally branded Wollongong hotels and plenty of B&Bs. If you are on a road trip, there are some caravan parks in Wollongong to choose from too. Compare hotel rates here .

A 40-minute drive south of Wollongong lies the sleepy seaside town of Kiama, where seeing the Kiama blowhole is one of the top things to do in Kiama . 

First sighted in 1797 by George Bass when he anchored his whaleboat in Kiama harbour, the Kiama blowholes are a wonder of nature.

The blowholes were formed over 250 thousand years ago and even if you don’t have time to explore Kiama, the blowholes are worth the effort.  

The larger blowhole has an opening of 2.5m, allowing the sea to gush through the opening and up into the air for 30m.

Recommended tour: Kiama Blowhole Bushwalks, BBQ Small Group or Private

As it is a coastal city, Wollongong has many beautiful beaches.

North Wollongong Beach and Wollongong City Beach are fun and relaxing.

There’s something earthy about feeling the sand between your toes and the flow of the ocean around your feet.

There are numerous things to do in Wollongong, however, going to the beach would have to be high up on the priority list of most visitors.

Take a surfing lesson or a beach fishing tour with a professional.

For an adventure you will never forget, try skydiving over Wollongong’s beaches for an adrenalin rush with a splendid bird’s-eye view.

Jamberoo Action Park is full of fun-packed activities for families and kids of all ages.

If you are travelling with your family, you can’t go wrong in Wollongong and Jamberoo always delivers loads of family fun.

Jamberoo recreation park is one of the largest theme parks in New South Wales.

It has attractions like mini-golf, speed slides, wave pools and an exciting funnel-web water slide that is part of the new Kangaroo Island development at Jamberoo water park.

Symbio Wildlife Park is in Helensburgh, and if you’re visiting Wollongong, then this is the place to see wildlife.

Spend the day checking out the Sumatran tigers, meerkats, red pandas and tamarin monkeys. And, of course, Australian icons like koalas and kangaroos.

Symbio has a decent range of animals to attract wildlife lovers and families.

The park is also active in koala conservation and is a great place to learn more about what’s happening to Australia’s koala population.

If you’re looking for a day trip from Sydney that incorporates a visit to Symbio and other attractions like Grand Pacific Drive, check out this tour .

Being a coastal city, the thermals around Wollongong are perfect for hang gliding, and there are hang gliding lessons for all experience levels.

However, if you are undecided about whether or not to take the plunge, head to Bald Hill in Stanwell Park to watch the hang gliders throw themselves off the cliff’s edge.

Bald Hill is near the southern boundary of the Sydney Royal National Park and has a splendid view of the Royal National Park and New South Wales coastline.

Hang gliding is a fun activity when travelling with friends . 

Book your hang gliding experience now! You may also like this Royal National Park tour .

For more things to do in NSW, read:

• 25 Things To Do In The Blue Mountains
• 22 Things To Do In Bowral
• 20 Things To Do In Wollongong
• 20 Things To Do In Yamba
• 19 Things To Do In Port Macquarie
• 17 Things To Do In Tamworth
• 17 Things To Do In Goulburn
• 17 Things To Do In Mudgee
• 12 Things To Do In Hunter Valley
• 18 Things To Do In Kingscliff
• The Carrington Hotel Katoomba
• 16 Things To Do In Maitland
• 15 Things To Do In Byron Bay
• 15 Things To Do In Newcastle
• 16 Things To Do In Port Stephens
• 10 Things To Do In Kiama
• 12 Things To Do In Windsor
• 20 Things To Do In Sydney For Couples
• 20 Things To Do In Sydney At Night
• 17 Things To Do In Central Coast
• 19 NSW Country Towns
• Reflections Holiday Parks

Just south of Sydney, at the entrance of the Royal National Park , Grand Pacific Drive is an impressive 140 km route through rainforests and seaside villages.

The star of the drive is the 665-metre Sea Cliff Bridge.

The balanced cantilever bridge cost $52 million and links the coastal villages of Coalcliff and Clifton.

Rent a sports car, put the roof down, crank up the music and head across Sea Cliff Bridge for a drive to remember.

The bridge is an impressive Australian landmark worth exploring. 

Not keen on driving?

• Book a Sydney to Grand Pacific Drive Tour here .
• Book your private tour of the NSW South Coast here .

Take the Illawarra Fly treetop walk through lush rainforests.

The steel walkway sways gently as you meander beneath the forest canopy 50m from the ground.

The Illawarra treetop walk brings you close to nature and is suitable for all the family.

However, adventurous travellers will love the range of Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures offered.

The Illawarra Fly zip line is Australia’s highest zip line tour and involves soaring 35m above the ground on a series of cable spans and suspension bridges.

The views of the rainforest and coastline are stunning.

Combine the walk and the zip line experience for an Illawarra treetop experience to remember.

Wollongong Science Centre and Wollongong Planetarium is an interactive, hands-on science centre with experiences for all ages.

There’s a science theatre and plenty of exhibits to captivate the entire family, especially if it is a rainy day!

Don’t miss the free science shows and planetarium shows.

From dinosaurs to space travel, this is the place to hide away for a few hours to stimulate the mind.

The facility is part of the University of Wollongong’s Innovation Campus.

Explore the Minnamurra rainforest in Budderoo National Park for gushing waterfalls and lookouts with jaw-dropping views.

It is the place to get away from the city and go bushwalking and bird watching.

Spend some time soaking up the energy of Minnamurra Falls.

The national park has decent facilities, including the Minnamurra Rainforest Centre, with riverside picnic areas and well-marked walks along raised boardwalks.

Alternatively, glide along the Minnamurra River in a canoe or kayak.

There are several spots to launch a kayak on your own, but if you are unsure of the Minnamurra tides, a guided tour is a less stressful way to experience the river.

Book this personalised Erupting Blowholes and Ancient Rainforests tour .

Trainworks is Australia’s top railway museum.

The Thirlmere train museum is home to a significant rail heritage collection.

It has more than 100 historical items associated with the history of New South Wales’ railways.

Of all the places to visit in Wollongong, the Thirlmere railway museum is the place that will impress railway buffs.

Thomas the Tank Engine fans will love visiting on Sundays for the heritage train ride between Thirlmere and Buxton.

It is a fabulous day out for families.

Bring a picnic and enjoy some time in the sun after learning about railway history at Trainworks Thirlmere.

Keep an eye out for the Thirlmere Steam Festival in March each year.

Illawarra Museum is housed in the former post and telegraph office.

The historic building (1876-92) is a fitting place for the museum’s 19th-century displays.

You’ll get insights into the domestic Wollongong history and the Mt Kembla mining disaster here.

The museum is next to Market Square, the historic town hub with a charming bandstand and old lamp posts.

Besides exploring the museum, a great way to learn about history is to go on this Wollongong Scavenger Hunt .

The region around Wollongong is stunning from the sky.

A scenic flight over the Jamberoo Valley and spectacular Carrington and Gerringong Falls will wow you.

The bird’s-eye view of mountains, ocean and rainforests reveals the stunning cliff faces and gorges of the Great Dividing Range in NSW

Did you know that Wollongong is the only point on Australia’s east coast with two lighthouses?

The historic breakwater lighthouse in Wollongong Harbour was restored in 2002 and is inactive.

The white lighthouse sits on Flagstaff Hill and was built in 1936. It has white and red lights light.

Helensburgh Tunnel is a hidden treasure near Wollongong. The tunnel was constructed in the 1800s and is a photogenic spot.

The tunnel is sandwiched between two rock cliffs and is home to glow worms and, according to some, ghosts.

The tunnel was part of the railway line, which was abandoned in the 1920s. The tunnel was recently fenced off, so you may or may not be able to get in to see the glow worms.

This Buddhist temple is one of the most impressive of all the Wollongong attractions.

Wollongong’s NanTien Temple is also known as “Southern Paradise” because it is the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere.

Most visitors to Wollongong would not expect to visit a Buddhist temple but trust me, this temple is worth the trip.

The Nan Tien Institute has a programme of regular activities like meditation, retreats, excursions and art seminars.

Visitors are welcome at this Wollongong Buddhist temple; participating in the activities is serene experience.

Discover the secrets of Australia’s intriguing aviation history at the Historical Aircraft Restoration Society Museum.

Aviation fans will not be disappointed at historical aircraft displays, including a Connie Lockhead Super Constellation that dominated the 1950s.

There are Neptune Bombers, World War II C47 Dakota troop carriers and an F-111.

Visiting the museum reminds us that we live in an age where aircraft technology is rapidly advancing.

17- Go shopping in Wollongong’s markets

Whether you’re looking for a gift or to buy a souvenir to take home, Wollongong’s markets are fun to wander around. 

Even if you’re not looking to buy anything, make sure you go to Eat Street Markets at least once to see how passionate local foodies are about food.

Sip on an aromatic coffee made from roasted coffee beans while you shop for fruit and veggies that are in season and, where possible, organic.

Many of the producers are passionate believers of the slow food movement. 

Eat Street Markets happens on Thursday nights (5 pm to 9 pm) in Crown St Mall. 

Another fun market to visit is the Friday Forage market, for its food stalls and to buy odds and ends such as jewellery, garments and hand-made soaps. 

The Friday Forage Market is at Lower Crown Street Mall on Fridays (9 am to 3 pm). 

Keen gardeners will want to keep an eye out for the displays at Grevillea Park, which has special gardening shows around Australian natives 12 times a year. 

If you’re lucky enough to be visiting when there’s an event happening, you’ll get the chance to buy some of the most amazing native plants as well as learn all about them. Check out more here. 

At other times, the park is a lovely place for a stroll or a picnic, as paths are accessible to those with prams or wheelchairs.

The Australian Motorlife Museum is a magnet for anyone who loves old cars. 

With a range of historic motor vehicles, motorbikes, and other machinery, such as pumps, radios, sewing machines, and lawnmowers, this is the place to lose yourself in the past.  

From the 1904 Innes motorcar, built in Australia, to Australian-manufactured motorcycles, it’s worth visiting the Australian Motorlife Museum for a walk down memory lane. 

Being a quieter coastal city, Wollongong is the perfect place to try a tandem skydiving adventure. 

It’s even better when you can jump out of an aircraft, free fall from the sky at 220 kilometres an hour and land on the beach!

It’s an experience you’ll be talking about for the rest of your life.

Book your Wollongong skydiving experience here .

How to visit Wollongong

Getting to wollongong.

Getting from Sydney to Wollongong by car is an easy one-hour drive along the Princess Highway and freeway. However, if you have more time, the Bulli Pass is the more scenic route.

If you’d rather not do the driving, book a private tour to Wollongong here .

Getting around Wollongong is easy if you have a car; if you don’t, public transport is available by bus and train.

A free shuttle bus around the Wollongong CBD (route numbers 55A and 55c) travels in a loop between Wollongong Station and Wollongong University. The bus operates every 10 minutes (7 am to 6 pm) on weekdays/every 20 minutes (6 pm to 10 pm) and every 20 minutes (8 am to 6 pm) on weekends.

There are train services to Wollongong’s suburbs and coastal towns. See the train timetables here.

Here’s a map of Wollongong to help you get your bearings.

Hotels in Wollongong range from top international brands to apartment-style stays. There are eight internationally branded Wollongong hotels and plenty of B&Bs. If you are on a road trip, there are some caravan parks in Wollongong to choose from too.

Compare the latest prices of Wollongong hotels here

Best restaurants in Wollongong

You will not go hungry in Wollongong as there are hundreds of eateries and a range of cuisines. Here are three suggestions:

Altitude 1148 is a contemporary restaurant that serves up modern Australian cuisine in Bulli Tops. The restaurant has impressive floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto a balcony with fantastic coastal views.

Caveau was awarded a chef hat in the 2017 SMH Good Food Guide Awards. Treat yourself to the seven-course French degustation menu for a dining experience you will not forget.

Looking for a cool multicultural treat? Samba Brazil is the place for a traditional Brazilian barbecue and a Latin dancing show.

Wollongong nightlife is buzzing hidden bars, quirky cafes and new nightspots.

The bar and club scene is hopping in Wollongong, and places like His Boy Elroy, Howlin Wolf and The Throsby are fun spots to have a cocktail or a beer with friends.

Many festivals and events in Wollongong occur throughout the year, including theatre festivals, art exhibitions and charity walks. 

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Attractions

Wollongong City Tourist Parks are in easy reach of some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and natural areas, plus a huge range of entertainment, shopping, dining and adventure activities.

If you’re looking for something to do or see while you’re staying with us, check out the links below. Our friendly reception staff are also happy to share their local knowledge if you have questions!

The Visit Wollongong website is a great guide for things to do, from cuddling a koala to skydiving.

More handy links:

• Public pools and rock pools
• Wollongong Botanic Garden
• Wollongong Art Gallery
• Playgrounds
• Skate Parks
• The Vale Golf Course

Food and drink

In Wollongong, you’re never far away from a great café, restaurant or small bar. Check Visit Wollongong’s Places to Eat Guide for some tasty options.

Our neighbourhood guides for Bulli , Corrimal and Windang also have details about shops and food close to each of our Parks.

If your idea of a great holiday includes a bit of retail therapy, check out these major retail centres:

• Wollongong CBD
• Wollongong Central
• Stockland Shellharbour
• Warrawong Plaza

You can also create your own itinerary using Visit Wollongong’s trip planner

Top Things to Do in Wollongong, Australia

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Places to visit in and around Wollongong NSW

Come and discover the myriad adventures and natural areas between Sydney and the ‘Gong, from the beautiful drive along Sea Cliff Bridge or the lovely Illawarra-wide view from Bald Hill lookout, to a walk through the forests of Mount Keira.

The city’s hidden gems include the Botanic Garden with its focus on wellness and nature, and connections from the garden to Puckeys Estate Nature Reserve, where you can spot 130 species of migratory birds.

If you’re seeking art and culture, head to Wollongong Art Gallery or take in the large-scale community art project – ‘Bright Lives’ – at Hooka Park on the shores of Lake Illawarra.

You might choose a walk between the 2 lighthouses on Wollongong Harbour or the foreshore walk around Lake Illawarra – there’s plenty to keep you active, and a variety of spots to relax, dine out or enjoy a drink when you’re ready to relax.

Sea Cliff Bridge

The iconic 665 metre Sea Cliff Bridge dramatically hugs the craggy coastline as it winds between picturesque coastal villages.

Address: Lawrence Hargrave Drive between the 'coastal villages of Clifton and Coalcliff. 

Country and/or local Aboriginal group:  Dharawal

For further information please visit Sea Cliff Bridge overview Sea Cliff Bridge

Sea Cliff Bridge is one of Australia's most scenic experiences. The 665 metre bridge hugs the Pacific Coast just north of Wollongong. Linking the Illawarra’s pretty coastal villages with Sydney to the north, the bridge adjoins a 7-span, 203 metres incremental launched bridge, sharing a common pier.

This is more than just a link, however – its magnificent design lends itself to a brilliant walk where you’ll feel like you’re floating above water. You can park at the south end of the bridge and get out to stretch your legs on a 30-minute return walk along the path that runs parallel to the bridge.

You might also use the viewing platform, accessible from the car parking area, to look for migrating whales or even manta rays in the ocean below. Look up and you might be able to spot a sea eagle soaring above the cliffs.

The Sea Cliff Bridge is also accessible via public transport. There is a steep incline from the Coalcliff rail station to the bridge; the walk will take approximately 15 minutes.

Bald Hill Lookout, Stanwell Park Reserve

Bald Hill Lookout and Stanwell Park Reserve provide world-class coastal views of the dramatic northern Illawarra coastline and hang-gliding launch site.

Address: Lawrence Hargrave Drive Stanwell Park Reserve Stanwell Park NSW 2508

For further information please visit  Bald Hill Lookout

With an elevation of approximately 300 metres, Bald Hill is one of the best known lookouts in the Illawarra. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas across the Illawarra escarpment and over the Illawarra plain and South Pacific Ocean.

The area is also internationally known as a major hang-gliding point – you can spend hours just enjoying the views of humans taking flight. You might also want to take in the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge that extends along the Grand Pacific Drive.

The beach below Bald Hill welcomed Lawrence Hargrave, an Australian pioneer of flight, from his successful flight in 1894 – visit the memorial cairn dedicated to his achievements at the peak of Bald Hill. You can also relax at Stanwell Park Reserve and enjoy some takeaway from the café as the kids play at the playground. Picnic facilities are also available.

If you’re travelling in November, you might catch the Stanwell Park Festival of Flight to commemorate the anniversary of Hargrave's achievements.

Wollongong Botanic Garden

Reconnect with nature and explore an impressive collection of native and exotic plants, sculptures, heritage-listed Manor House, and an all-abilities playground at Wollongong Botanic Garden.

Address:   Main entrance 40 Murphys Avenue Keiraville NSW 2500

The Garden has 7 entrances in total.

For further information please visit  Wollongong Botanic Garden

Wollongong Botanic Garden is a serene place to relax, celebrate and immerse yourself in nature. It features an impressive collection of native and exotic plants from around the world and is home to a range of native wildlife including bower birds, ring tail possums, kookaburras, native bees, water dragons and more.

Escape with a walk through one of Australia’s largest rainforest collections and explore the new Nature Wellness Trail, designed to help you slow down, connect and relax. Two free mobility scooters are available for hire on weekdays for visitors who are less mobile or jump onboard the Garden Discovery Buggy Tour, which operates weekly.

On your journey take in the Garden’s impressive sculpture collection, which includes ‘King Coal’ by Louis Pratt, ‘Steel City’ by Michael Purdy, ‘Curious Dream of an Architect’ by Fatih Semiz, and Robert Woodward’s Mercury Fountain, inspired by Wollongong’s industrial and mining history.

The Japanese bridge and tea house are a gift from the City of Kawasaki. The shape of the bridge is called taiko-bashi (drum bridge) in Japanese, as it forms a circular reflection in the water like a drum.

Kids will love the all-abilities playground, the duck pond, the nature-based school holiday activities and weekly story time. The Garden also hosts guided tours, workshops, nocturnal walks and the popular outdoor cinema.

The Wollongong Botanic Garden is free and open 7am to 6pm weekdays (non-daylight saving hours) and 7am to 6.45pm weekends and public holidays (daylight saving hours).

Mount Keira Summit Park

Enjoy awe-inspiring views over Wollongong from Mount Keira Summit Park Lookout and explore bushwalking tracks, a café, a picnic space and public art.

Address:   Queen Elizabeth Drive Mount Keira NSW 2500

For further information please visit  Mount Keira Summit Lookout

Everyone in Wollongong knows Mount Keira – it overlooks the city, towering nearly 464 m above the beautiful coastal city. Mount Keira is a significant location to the Aboriginal people of Dharawal Country. Also pronounced Djeer or Geera, the mountain holds a strong connection to a local Dreaming story and the creation of the Five Islands. It is culturally known as a significant area for Aboriginal women and ceremonial practice.

You can access the summit from Mount Keira Road or by the Mount Keira Ring track, a 5.5 kilometre track that passes through the terrains and forests of the Illawarra Escarpment. From here you’ll view the Illawarra coastline from the Royal National Park in the north, across the Wollongong CBD, to Port Kembla, Five Islands and Lake Illawarra to the south.

Be sure to visit the ‘Six Daughters of the West Wind’ sculpture at the south-facing lookout, behind the picnic area. This sculpture commemorates the Aboriginal significance of Mount Keira with the story about this mountain and the Five Islands visible off the coast.

You can access Mount Keira lookout every day. The summit park has a kiosk serving coffee and light meals as well as BBQ facilities and accessible toilets.

Belmore Basin, Wollongong Harbour

From Belmore Basin you’ve get a lovely view of Wollongong Harbour, the two Wollongong lighthouses, surfing beaches and ocean baths.

Address:   Endeavour Drive Flagstaff Point Wollongong NSW 2500

For further information please visit: Wollongong Head lighthouse Wollongong University

Wollongong Harbour is a beautiful place to relax and wander along the beaches and lawns.

This area was first used by Aboriginal people, with the sheltered area now known as Flagstaff Hill used for cultural and ceremonial purposes for thousands of years. This sheltered aspect also attracted European settlers, who used the bay off Brighton Beach to ship local timber to Sydney.

The Harbour is home to the Wollongong Breakwater Lighthouse, also known as Wollongong Harbour Lighthouse, on the southern breakwater. Venture to south of the Harbour to Flagstaff Hill and enjoy stunning views of the harbour and the coastal beaches. Further along the Hill is Flagstaff Point with another lighthouse that assists the passage of vessels into Port Kembla.

This area is the only point on the eastern coast of Australia that has two lighthouses – both are delightful places to spend time and enjoy the coastline.

The area offers opportunities to stop for a break on the grassy areas to enjoy a picnic. There are also cafes along for a light meal or refreshments as well as accessible amenities.

Puckeys Estate Nature Reserve

Soak up the cultural and natural wonders at Puckeys Nature Reserve Estate including one of the few remaining coast back dune systems in the Illawarra.

Address: North access Elliots Road Fairy Meadow NSW 2519

Country and/or local Aboriginal group: Dharawal

For further information please visit Puckeys Estate Nature Reserve

Puckeys Nature Reserve Estate has a strong connection to the Aboriginal people who once used this land and remain custodians of this important cultural place.

It contains one of the few remaining coastal back dune systems and was once part of the Illawarra foreshore. Linked to the Wollongong Botanic Garden, this rare coastal dune system is home to several endangered plant communities, lagoons, front dune systems, marshland and endangered coastal rainforest.

Keen bird-watchers will embrace this habitat for its 130 species of migratory birds, possums, reptiles, frogs, flying fox and fish. You might even see the remains to the salt works and homestead used by Courtney Puckey, an eccentric English chemist who built a salt mill and a grand home called ‘Seafield’ in the early 20th century.

While at the reserve, walk along the 1.5 kilometre links from Fairy Creek Bridge on Squires Way in the south, through to Elliotts Road, Fairy Meadow.

Enter the reserve from the south via a pedestrian boardwalk located adjacent to the Fairy Creek Bridge on Squires Way, North Wollongong or from Elliots Road at Fairy Meadow from the north. Public amenities are located in nearby Fairy Meadow surf club (near north entry) and at Lagoon Seafood Restaurant (near south entry).

Wollongong Art Gallery

See innovative contemporary art and diverse cultural programs at Wollongong Art Gallery, housed in one of the city’s historically interesting buildings.

Address:   46 Burelli Street Wollongong NSW 2500

For further information, please visit Wollongong Art Gallery

Wollongong Art Gallery is one of the largest regional galleries in Australia. Located in a historically significant building in the centre of Wollongong – surrounded by theatres, restaurants and cafes – Wollongong Art Gallery, known as WAG to locals, hosts a diverse program of contemporary exhibitions and cultural programs that celebrate its Aboriginal, multicultural and working-class history as well as the region’s natural beauty.

Some of the artworks from the gallery’s collection of more than 3,000 objects are presented alongside works by regional and national artists in unique and innovative exhibitions.

The Gallery is open Tuesday to Friday 10am to 5pm and weekends 12pm to 4pm, and closed Mondays and public holidays. Entry is free. It’s on the corner of Kembla and Burelli Streets, about 10 minutes from Wollongong rail station. You can catch the free Gong Shuttle Bus to the Gallery or metered parking is available.

Hooka Park is a hidden gem on the shores of Lake Illawarra, a place for healing, recovery and exploring local wildlife in a quiet, contemplative, regenerated landscape.

Address: Hooka Park Holborn Street Berkeley NSW 2506

For further information please visit:  Hooka Park

Hooka Park is a hidden gem on the shores of Lake Illawarra. Situated on Dharawal land, it is named after King Hooka, an Aboriginal leader and Wodi Wodi man otherwise known as Micky Johnson.

You can enjoy a fully accessible walking loop track and take in the stories from interpretive artworks on the Hooka Creek jetty, bridge and pontoon – beautiful places to be active in a natural setting.

This is an easy place to spend time, with water bubblers and seating for you to rest and take in the scenery. A 2-storey bird watching tower overlooks the lake and an impressive view towards Kanhooka, as well as a secluded spot to watch numerous species of water birds, including the Australian Pelican, Pied Cormorants and the Pacific Black duck.

The second walk at Hooka Park meanders off the main path into Hooka Creek. This area includes a large-scale community art project called ‘Bright Lives’ that involved more than 300 local community members alongside local Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal artists.

The artworks you’ll see aim to promote Aboriginal heritage and both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal healing, including stone seats and carved wooden seating

Open grassy areas are a lovely place for a quiet picnic. Dogs on leash are also welcome. Toilets and parking are located nearby.

Lake Illawarra Foreshore Walk

Cycle or walk along the Foreshore Walk shared path and enjoy the sparkling waters and pristine foreshores of Lake Illawarra.

Address: Hooka Park - Berkely to King Street Wharf Warrawong NSW 2502

For further information please visit:  Wollongong City Council Lake Illawarra

Lake Illawarra, located between the Illawarra escarpment and the Pacific Ocean, is around 9.5 kilometres long and 5.5 kilometres wide. Its surrounded by boat ramps to support recreational fishing, prawning and all water sports.

You might want to see out mullet, blue swimmer crab, dusky flathead and school prawns. You can arrange to hire a boat or stand up paddle board to enjoy on the lake during the day, and you can stay to watch a beautiful sunset in the evening.

The walking and cycling trails include the Lake Illawarra Foreshore Walk, commencing at Hooka Point and continuing for 7 kilometres to King Street Wharf in Warrawong. Reddall Reserve on the foreshore of Lake Illawarra is a popular spot for picnics with its new children's playground, picnic shelters, gas BBQs, toilet facilities and a kiosk.

You can also visit Shellharbour’s Lake Illawarra Art Trail, which explores Aboriginal heritage, local history, flora and fauna.

The artworks were created by local artists in collaboration with the community in response to the lake, its history and its people. The artists use natural and fabricated objects and various techniques such as woodcarving, painting, mosaic and glass imagery.

Hill 60 Lookout

The amazing coastal views and rich history make Hill 60 Reserve a must-see destination.

Address:  Hill 60 Reserve Military Road Port Kembla NSW 2505

For further information please visit:  Hill 60 Reserve

The Hill 60 reserve north of Port Kembla Beach is an iconic headland with a rich history.

Dominated by the rocky headland of Boilers Point and the sheltered embayment of Fisherman's Beach, it is a naturally beautiful site where you’ll enjoy spectacular views of both the northern and southern coastlines of the Illawarra, including the ecologically and historically significant Five Islands.

Rising steeply above Fisherman’s Beach, Hill 60 reserve’s large grassy areas are perfect for a picnic. These areas are easy to access and offer toilets, BBQs and a walking track to the beach.

The Traditional Custodians of the Hill 60 reserve, or ‘Illowra’, are the Wodi Wodi people of the Dharawal language group. The Hill 60 reserve is home to significant Aboriginal sites including shell middens.

Hill 60 forms part of an emerging cultural walk known as the Ngaraba-aan Art trail. Ngaraba-aan is a local Dharawal word meaning past, present and future. The 9km trail winds its way through the Port Kembla Heritage Park, along MM Beach, up to Hill 60 and down to Coomaditiche Lagoon.

Dogs are permitted on leash and car parking and amenities are available.

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