Welcome to Austinmer – where golden sands meet ocean blues, and the vibe is as breezy as the sea air. Tucked between the towering Illawarra Escarpment and the sparkling coastline, this little slice of paradise is all about salty swims, lazy beach days, and coastal charm.
Whether you’re diving into the iconic ocean pools, grabbing a coffee from a local gem, or just soaking in the spectacular views, Austinmer is the kind of place that steals your heart and keeps you coming back for more.
A Taste of Austinmer
Austinmer may be a small seaside spot, but when it comes to dining, it’s all about quality over quantity. The handful of eateries here are local favourites for a reason—serving up top-notch coffee, fresh bites, and flavours that perfectly match the laid-back coastal vibe.
Whether you’re after a hearty breakfast to fuel your beach day, a lazy long lunch with ocean views, or a sunset drink to wrap up the day, Austinmer’s dining scene proves that sometimes, less really is more.
Perched on the stunning South Coast of NSW, just 20 minutes north of Wollongong and an hour south of Sydney, Headlands Austinmer Beach is a multi-award-winning destination that brings together breathtaking views, incredible food, and a laid-back coastal vibe.
With sweeping ocean panoramas as your backdrop, this is the place to kick back and indulge. Enjoy a mouthwatering meal at the Brasserie, grab a tasty bite from The Airstream, sip an ice-cold beer in the Sports Bar, or explore a rotating lineup of weekend cuisine pop-ups that keep things fresh and exciting. Add in live music and that salty sea breeze, and you’ve got the ultimate spot to eat, drink, and soak up the good times.
Austi Beach Café is a laid-back local gem where warm welcomes, great food, and top-notch coffee come standard.
Set along the stunning coastline, it’s a go-to for friends, families, and visitors to relax and refuel. Whether you’re grabbing a morning brew, a tasty bite, or treating yourself to their signature gelato, every visit feels special.
With friendly service and a cosy vibe, Austi Beach Café isn’t just about what’s on the menu – it’s about feeling at home. Come for the food, stay for the smiles, and keep coming back for more.
Shells is a classic, no-fuss fish and chip and burger shop right by Austinmer Beach. With its old-school charm and relaxed vibes, it’s a local favourite for good food and beachy nostalgia.
Start your day with a fresh coffee and their famous double egg and bacon roll, or swing by for classic fish and chips or a burger done just right. Whether you’re chilling by the sea or passing through, Shells serves up simple, satisfying eats that hit the spot every time.
It’s the kind of place that feels like summer – any day of the year.
Must-See Spots You’ll Love
If you’re all about the great outdoors, then Austinmer is your kind of playground. Nestled between the lush Illawarra Escarpment and the sparkling coastline, this charming village has everything from adrenaline-pumping hikes to dreamy ocean rock pools perfect for a refreshing dip.
Take on the challenge of Sublime Point, where a heart-pounding climb rewards you with jaw-dropping panoramic views, or embrace the salty life with a swim in Austinmer’s iconic ocean pools. And after all that adventure? Treat yourself to some well-earned relaxation at the best spa in the region, where the only thing more blissful than the treatments is the serene coastal setting.
Sublime Point Walking Track is a must-do for experienced bushwalkers, offering a challenging climb through lush coastal rainforest to a scenic plateau.
Starting in Austinmer, the steep descent takes you through dramatic cliffs and dense forests, perfect for birdwatching with sightings of cockatoos and raptors. The track features ladders and a giant staircase for added adventure, with the option to arrange a pick-up or catch a train from Austinmer Station.
With breathtaking views, it’s a rewarding escape into nature just an hour north of Wollongong.
Austinmer Beach, just 20 minutes north of Wollongong, is a beloved spot offering a mix of natural beauty and amenities.
Patrolled from September to April, this 250m stretch is perfect for swimming, surfing, or relaxing by the sea. With shops, a spacious car park, and a park nearby, it’s easy to spend a full day here. The beach is nestled between two headlands with rock platforms and features strong rips at each end, so caution is advised.
Whether you’re sunbaking or exploring coastal beauty, Austinmer Beach is a must-visit destination.
Ibah Spa Austinmer, nestled in tropical gardens with a stunning Illawarra Escarpment backdrop, offers a serene escape for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Known for its Balinese-inspired atmosphere, it’s often described as a slice of Bali. The spa offers luxurious treatments, from rejuvenating massages to soothing facials, using exclusive aromatherapy and organic Phyt’s products.
With a thoughtful experience starting from refreshments to a Balinese foot ritual, Ibah Spa provides a peaceful retreat, perfect for a few hours or a full day of pampering.
At the southern end of Austinmer Beach, the iconic twin rock pools, overlooked by a historic pavilion, offer a perfect spot for swimmers and sunbathers.
The southern pool is slightly longer and narrower than the northern one, both attracting visitors year-round. These ocean water pools are a fantastic alternative to the surf, allowing swimmers to enjoy refreshing ocean water and feel the rhythm of the waves.
Whether you’re after a peaceful swim or a fun challenge, the rock pools offer a relaxing, natural spot with the excitement of the ocean just beyond.