Wollongong, the vibrant heart of the Illawarra, is perfectly positioned to send you on a whirlwind of epic day trips you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a Wollongong local craving a fresh adventure or a visitor using our city as your base, there’s no shortage of exciting escapes just a short drive away.
Get ready to uncover hidden gems and quirky towns, each with its own charm and surprises that’ll leave you hooked. Let the adventure begin!
Kiama
Kiama is where nostalgia meets natural beauty, and it knows exactly how to make visitors feel right at home. After all, this town’s been welcoming passengers since the 1880s, proudly flaunting its golden sands and treasure trove of nature’s best. The best way to experience it? Lace up your sneakers and hit the 20km Kiama Coast Walk, which takes you from the Minnamurra River to Gerringong. Along the way, you’ll be treated to jaw-dropping views and – if you’re lucky – whale sightings (May-November).
Families love to kick back here, picnicking on the hill, soaking in the free Wi-Fi, and splashing in the sparkling ocean baths or local beaches. But that’s just the start – Kiama is a gateway to some of the best chilled vibes in the region. Cruise on down to Gerringong and Gerroa for a mix of surfer-friendly spots, laid-back bars, an award-winning winery, and a microbrewery that’ll have you feeling the local zest. It’s a vibe that’s hard to define, but oh-so-easy to enjoy.
And don’t forget to fuel up at Diggies Kiama. Picture this: coastal views, a refreshing sea breeze, and delicious fresh food, all paired with epic cocktails. Grab your morning coffee with the sunrise, or indulge in all-day brunch while soaking in those stunning seaside vistas. Then, when the afternoon sun hits, cool off with a scoop of ice cream or sip on a cocktail from the bar. It’s the Kiama way – relaxed, refreshing, and unforgettable.
Southern Highlands
While Wollongong kicks back, barefoot, embracing the easygoing coastal life, up in the Southern Highlands, it’s all about slipping into boots and gear, ready for an adventure as a dramatic theme tune plays in the background. Alright, maybe we’re exaggerating a bit – but trust us, the style, grandeur, and sweeping gardens of this unique escape will totally captivate you.
This region is like trying to herd cats – lots of them, all with their own charm. But these cats purr, not scratch, with towns like Bowral and Mittagong leading the way, offering a delightful mix of boutique shopping, gourmet dining, galleries, and picture-perfect gardens. While you’re in Bowral, don’t miss the Bradman Oval and Museum, which pays tribute to the legendary cricketer, Sir Donald Bradman.
The Highlands adore a good trail – whether it’s following your nose to a top-notch coffee, sampling local wines, soaking in tulips, or simply hopping between the charming villages like Berrima (home to Australia’s oldest pub), Bundanoon (as Scottish as it sounds), and Moss Vale. And just when you think the rolling hills and English-esque vibe are enough, you’ll stumble upon stunning waterfalls like the powerful Fitzroy Falls – a must-see.
A short drive from Wollongong, the Southern Highlands offers the perfect day trip!
Jamberoo
Nestled in the heart of the Illawarra, Jamberoo is a charming village where stunning landscapes, thrilling adventures, and laid-back vibes come together perfectly.
The Illawarra Fly’s collection of walkways, cantilevers and towers see native bush peel back to reveal breathtaking camera-friendly vistas. But if you’re craving some real flying, Australia’s highest zipline tour will have you zipping through the trees, rocketing safely through a lush, spectacular forest setting.
A little closer to sea level, Minnamurra Rainforest is a living snapshot of what this region looked like 200 years ago, complete with an accessible-friendly loop track that lets you step right into nature’s heart. And just up the road, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to discover NSW’s favourite water theme park. During the summer months, Jamberoo Action Park serves up the perfect blend of world-class thrill rides, lazy rivers, wave pools, mini golf, and plenty of refreshing treats.
At the heart of all this lies the irresistibly charming village of Jamberoo – where the local pub doubles as a gathering spot, waterhole, and even a museum for both visitors and locals. This town pulses with energy, whether its music festivals echoing through the valley, classic vehicle enthusiasts cruising alongside lycra-clad cyclists, or the traffic simply giving way to the cattle. Jamberoo is as laid-back as it is lively – an unforgettable escape.
Whether you’re seeking outdoor thrills, scenic escapes, or a taste of small-town charm, the Illawarra region has it all. From the surf and sand of Wollongong to the lush rainforests and adrenaline-pumping adventures of the Southern Highlands, each day trip offers something unique.
So, lace up your boots, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore – the Illawarra is waiting, and it’s more than ready to impress.