Project Contemporary Artspace is open to the public and has art exhibitions with artworks for sale throughout the year. It is a not-for-profit, artist run initiative operated by a management committee made up of volunteers. The Gallery was originally opened in 1995 by three local artists who recognised the need for artists of the Illawarra…
For over 30 years, this South Coast favourite has welcomed guests just an hour south of Sydney. Set on the water’s edge at Belmore Basin, it offers stunning views of Wollongong Harbour and the coastline. They showcase the finest local produce with two menu options: the Market Menu, available Monday to Sunday, featuring a daily…
Touchdown Helicopters is a small and friendly, scenic helicopter charter business located in the heart of the picturesque Illawarra. Only two hours drive south of Sydney, we are available every day of the week to take you on the adventure of a lifetime. Whether flying over the gorges, chasms and waterfalls of the Illawarra Ranges,…
Nestled in the heart of Wollongong and participating in the town’s cheery seaside dining scene is Kneading Ruby on Crown Lane. Imposed from the outside with high brick walls, the inside is unassumingly elegant, with lofty ceilings giving an airy feel to pair with delicate vines draped across timber ceiling beams and polished floors. Naturally…
Headlands Austinmer Beach is a multi-award-winning venue located on the picturesque south coast of NSW just 20 minutes north of Wollongong and 60 minutes south of Sydney. With panoramic ocean views, there is no better place to indulge in a delicious meal from the Brasserie, tasty treats from The Airstream, a cold beer in the…
The Dragons are an iconic brand within Australian sport. The club actively engages with its community and is richly supported with heritage and tradition. Home games are played at the WIN Sports and Entertainment Centre. Make sure you check out a St George game during your visit to Wollongong! Visit the website for times and…
WE ARE THE ILLAWARRA HAWKS Don’t miss the live action of the Illawarra Hawks home games at the WIN Sports Entertainment Centre over the summer months. Make sure you check out a Hawks game during your visit to Wollongong! Visit the website for the schedule of all their home games!
The Illawarra Folk Club Inc. is a non-profit incorporated association formed in 1979 and presents the annual Illawarra Folk Festival at Bulli, Folk by the Sea at Kiama and regular folk music concerts throughout the year. The annual Illawarra Folk Festival held in mid-January is three exciting summer days of folk, world, roots, bluegrass and…
Located between the Wollongong suburbs of Woonona and Bellambi, Woonona Beach stretches out to the northern part of the beach whilst Bellambi Beach is located in the southern part. Woonona Beach features an elevated rock platform, upon which is perched a large rock pool -perfect for admiring the scenic views. Bellambi Beach has a small…
An accredited Visitor Information Centre located within the beautiful Southern Gateway Centre. With stunning 180-degree water views from the viewing platform, this truly is the gateway to the south! A nine-screen video array that displays bespoke videos, telling the history, culture and significance of Dharawal Country. The display includes videos from the previous Jumbulla Aboriginal…
Merrigong Theatre Company manages the Wollongong Town Hall which is the city’s key civic and community venue and is located within Wollongong’s Arts Precinct. It comprises four meeting and performance spaces, including the 824-seat main auditorium. Smaller rooms are able to accommodate 30 to 270 people. The Wollongong Town Hall is suitable for a variety…
Stretching three kilometres along the scenic Wollongong coastline, Wollongong City Beach is located between Flagstaff Point in the north and Port Kembla in the south. As one of Wollongong’s most popular beaches, the best area for swimming is the northern end near Wollongong City Surf Life Saving Club. Nearby, in Lang Park, visitors can also…
Wollongong Central is located in the beautiful Illawarra and is the leading retail/lifestyle destination in the region. Wollongong Central is home to leading brands such as David Jones, H and M, Target, Coles, Rebel, Anaconda, JB Hi-Fi Home, Mecca Maxima and over 220 leading specialty retailers. Plus, enjoy the array of wonderful eateries from which…
Located on Dharawal Country, Wollongong Art Gallery is one of the largest regional art museums in Australia. Entry is free and they welcome everyone to visit the Gallery. There is a range of exhibitions, events, activities, and workshops designed for all ages and abilities. Wollongong Art Gallery is a service of Wollongong City Council.
Wollongong Harbour’s Breakwater lighthouse has been inactive since 1974 (a decorative light is displayed on special occasions). It stands 12 metres (40 feet) high and has a tapered round wrought iron tower with lantern, painted white. The lighthouse was seriously deteriorated before a restoration in 1978 and 1979 stabilised its condition. In 2000 to 2002,…
The Wodi Wodi track is a 6.5-kilometre walking track, named after the original Custodians who lived along the Illawarra coast. The track has been designed to provide a comfortable one-day circular trip, starting at Stanwell Park Station and ending near Coalcliff Station. Various points of interest include the Bullock Track used by European settlers (1820),…
Windang Beach is located at the entrance to Lake Illawarra, 15 kilometres south of Wollongong’s city centre. It offers spectacular views of the famous Five Islands off the Wollongong coastline. The beach is very popular with families and there is accommodation nearby at the local caravan park, which has views of the lake and the…
Treetops Adventure Nowra is the first tree and cliff edge tree ropes park. Spend the day hanging around the South Coast at the treetop adventure park located right inside Shoalhaven Zoo! Treetops Adventure Nowra is Australia’s First Cliff Edge adventure park along the banks of the Shoalhaven River, that will have you zipping through the…
Towradgi Beach is located approximately five kilometres north of the Wollongong city centre. Towradgi Beach extends three kilometres from Towradgi Creek in the north, to a southern estuary formed by the following streams of Cabbage Tree Creek and Fairy Creek (or Para Creek, as some people call it). With a salt water rock pool, playground,…
Thirroul Beach is one kilometre in length and faces east, so it picks up swell from most directions. There’s little wind protection at either end, although big southerly swells or southerly winds get slowed up somewhat by the Sandon Point headland. Thirroul Beach is patrolled September to April and there is a saltwater pool that’s…
The Russell Vale Golf Club, affectionately known as The Vale, is the friendliest club on the coast. Situated between the magnificent Northern Illawarra Escarpment and the beautiful Pacific Ocean, the picturesque course combines a mixture of Par 3’s, four Par 4’s and a challenging Par 5. The course is relatively short and provides memorable holes…
Discover your wild side at Symbio Wildlife Park, where you can meet some of Australia’s (and the world’s) most intriguing animals. See koalas, kangaroos, wombats, little penguins, red pandas, meerkats, monkeys, reptiles, birds, farmyard critters, and more! Take a selfie with a koala, feed and interact with friendly kangaroos and wallabies, and explore the farmyard.…
Sublime Point walking track is one of the iconic treks of the Illawarra escarpment, and a challenging walk through lush coastal rainforest to the plateau above with incredible scenic views. The steep climb is ideal for experienced bushwalkers and a great nature escape only an hour from Sydney, north of Wollongong. Starting near Sublime Point,…
Sublime Point Lookout offers 180 degree views over the sea, the rainforest and the 17 beaches that span the coastline to Wollongong. The lookout offers some of the best views of the Illawarra escarpment, plain and coastline. Barbecues, picnic shelters, and toilets cater to visitors, but bring your own drinking water. Sublime Point Walking track…
Stanwell Park Beach is located in a beautiful spot under the escarpment off the Grand Pacific Drive. There is a large reserve with plenty of space to run around, and barbecue facilities are available, making it the perfect spot for picnicking. Stanwell Park is located 26 kilometres north of the Wollongong central business district. Dog…
Stand Up Paddle Boarding Shellharbour delivers unforgettable SUP adventures for all levels. Beginners can learn and build confidence, while experienced riders can chase the thrill of waves, all with expert instructors and top-quality gear. As a mobile business, locations are chosen to match conditions. Reddall Reserve, Lake Illawarra has vast waterways and seal sightings; Minnamurra…
Skydive Sydney – Wollongong is an award-winning adventure tourism company headquartered in Wollongong. With nine premium drop zones Australia wide, and a skydiving crew that takes professionalism to new heights, their unforgettable skydiving adventures invite you to leave your world behind and experience the ultimate thrill of freefall. Starting as a small beachfront operation in…
The 665 metre long Sea Cliff Bridge is a highlight along the Grand Pacific Drive. A drive which takes in 140 kilometres worth of coastal scenery from the Royal National Park, Loftus down to Nowra. The bridge has become an icon to the people of Wollongong and the world, once again welcoming tourists annually to…
Situated in the small northern coast town of Scarborough, this small beach offers fantastic views of the coastline and the cliffs that lie above. There are parklands close by for families to use for picnicking. Scarborough is located 21 kilometres north of Wollongong central business district. Scarborough Beach occupies an area of more moderate slope.…
Sandon Point Beach is extremely popular for surfing and many surfing tournaments have been held at this beach. There is plenty of parking and open reserve for picnics and gatherings. Sandon Point Beach is located at Bulli, 11 kilometres north of the Wollongong central business district. This pristine location is ideal for families, with a…
Port Kembla Beach is regarded as one of Wollongong’s most prestigious beaches. It is located approximately 11 kilometres south of Wollongong CBD. The surf club was established in 1910, with bathing at Port Kembla Beach dating back to the 1900s and the first dressing sheds erected in 1912. The surf club is perched on the…
Otford Farm has been operating since 1961, and with friendly and experienced staff they take pride on offering, just a little more hands-on horse experience and atmosphere. They are always happy to help and instruct you. With this in mind, Otford Farm will not only make your riding experience a pleasure but will enhance your…
Ideal for families, North Wollongong Beach has rock pools, wading areas and good surf. There is plenty of grass, shade, and picnic booths plus a children’s playground is close by in Stuart Park and shops, cafes and amenities are provided, parking is free. North Wollongong Beach is the only beach that’s patrolled all year round…
Looking for peaceful and unique Wollongong accommodation? Pilgrim Lodge offers a truly unforgettable stay within the tranquil grounds of Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. It’s the ideal base for exploring Wollongong and the Illawarra region. This 100-room Lodge provides a tranquil retreat, with sweeping views of the lotus pond,…
Experience the awe of Nan Tien Temple, a must-see destination in Wollongong. Where towering Buddha statues, vibrant temple halls, lotus ponds, and sweeping gardens create an atmosphere of peace and wonder. Just 90 minutes south of Sydney, it is the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere and a State Heritage–listed landmark, recognised for its…
Mount Kembla is a significant Aboriginal site for the Wodi Wodi people, featuring in many of their creation stories. The impressive natural landmark also acts as a dramatic backdrop for the Ring track, with lush vegetation and a glimpse of local history on a terrific five kilometre loop. With access to the scenic Kembla lookout…
Circling Mount Keira in an engaging loop, the ring track is a terrific setting for a casual hike or an energetic run. Expect to encounter a lush parade of forests and terrain, from cool sub-tropical bush to lofty red cedars and rocky outcrops. Catbirds call in the rainforest as you trace the old route of…
Take the easy Maddens Falls walk to the lookout for a view of the waterfall dropping from Maddens Creek to the pools below. The short and easy walking track is a great one for walking with children. It’s also ideal for birdwatchers so don’t forget your binoculars – look for local residents like honeyeaters, red…
Food, wine and an experience to remember. You know that feeling when you’re sitting back with a glass of wine, looking out over the countryside, laughing with great company and you think this is the life? That’s exactly what Kenny Escapes is about. Kenny Escapes believe in a good life; in great food and awesome…
Cruise the Illawarra and its surrounds with Just Cruisin’ Motorcycle Tours on a chauffeured trike, sidecar or solo motorcycle. Enjoy a sensory experience, feel the wind in your face, smell the surroundings, hear the motor, and see all around you without the constraints of a car. A motorcycle tour is vastly superior to anything else…
Jervis Bay is renowned for its natural beauty and extraordinary wildlife, such as dolphins, seals, sea birds, fairy penguins and migrating whales (from May through November). Rich in Australian history, Aboriginal culture, and geological marvels, Jervis Bay is also famous for its unspoilt coastline with exceptionally clear water. Jervis Bay Wild are committed to sustainable…
Looking for a great family experience with something for everyone? Want quality entertainment in a natural setting where no two rides are ever the same? This season, experience Jamberoo Action Park where you control the action! Just an hour south of Sydney, NSW’s largest family-owned and operated water theme park features a host of world-class…
Inside Industry, located just south of Wollongong, is a vibrant and historical destination where industry, education, and tourism come together to offer an engaging and transformative experience. Learn about Port Kembla’s rich history, new technologies, and decarbonisation while embracing an exciting era of change and innovation. The tours and educational programs provide a unique opportunity…
The Illawarra Performing Arts Centre (IPAC) is the region’s premier performing arts complex and is conveniently located in the Wollongong Arts Precinct. It is also home to The Social, a unique café and bar boasting an impressive al fresco space. Merrigong Theatre Company manages the IPAC and presents a variety of professional theatre productions. Visit…
The Illawarra Grevillea Park Botanic Garden is arguably the best of its kind in Australia. Just walking through the gates invites a feeling of getting back to nature. Set against the backdrop of the stunning Illawarra escarpment, and with views of the ocean, this is a plant lover’s paradise. At every turn, there is something…
Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures offers a captivating experience for those who love to explore nature from new heights. Home to the famous Treetop Walk – a leisurely 1.5-kilometre loop track that boasts a 500-metre elevated steel walkway, taking visitors 20-30 metres above the lush forest floor. Admire the stunning views of the rainforest canopy, coastal…
Millions of years in the making, the Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area features dramatic sandstone cliffs and a medley of different forest types, from sub-tropical rainforest to olive-green eucalypts and towering cedars. Throw in two accessible mountains, an abundance of colonial and Aboriginal heritage, and a stunning variety of birdlife, and you have a unique…
Hill 60 Lookout is reached via a narrow but well formed established walking track and offers spectacular views up and down the coast line. A series of post and rail guards can be found at this interesting and spectacular spot. Just below the lookout are beaches fished commercially by local Aboriginal fishermen up until the…
An aviation museum, located at Shellharbour Airport, is just over one hours drive south of Sydney, providing the unique opportunity to access many aircraft and to see restorations in progress. Highly acclaimed collection of lovingly restored aircraft including: Lockheed Super Constellation Boeing 747-400, City of Canberra – London to Sydney non stop record holder F-111C…
Experience Wollongong’s spectacular coastal drive – the Grand Pacific Drive, between Sydney to Wollongong and beyond. Grand Pacific Drive is a 140 kilometre award winning coastal drive beginning 45 minutes south of Sydney’s International Airport in the Royal National Park. Follow the directional signage. The Grand Pacific Drive signage creates a more interesting and meaningful…
The German Club is not your traditional club. It is a great place to come and enjoy a time of relaxation and to eat and drink the German way. The club was originally established as a place where German people went to find their own countrymen. A place where they could find something of what…
Fairy Meadow Beach offers fantastic views south to Wollongong, with distant views of the two lighthouses and harbour. It is a popular spot, especially for students being so close to the university accommodation in Fairy Meadow, as well as families who are staying at the nearby tourist park, Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort. Fairy Meadow is…
Just an hour south of Sydney, Darkes Glenbernie is a sixth-generation family orchard set in the stunning Northern Illawarra mountain top, surrounded by Dharawal National Park. Experience authentic farm life with interactive tours that reveal the challenges and triumphs of growing fruit. Relax with a coffee and one of their famous apple pies or plan…
Nestled in pristine native bushland just over an hour south of Sydney and 30 minutes north of Wollongong, Darkes Forest Riding Ranch is the ultimate destination for a memorable horse riding experience. Darkes Forest Riding Ranch prides itself on being a family-owned and operated establishment, ensuring a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all visitors. The…
Cycle Tours NSW is all about creating unforgettable experiences. Your tour can be customised from Sydney to Wollongong and the South Coast, Western NSW, Southern Highlands, Canberra and the stunning Alpine country and Snowy Mountains. Cycle Tours NSW mission is to provide you with the ultimate cycling adventure, so each tour can have distances and…
Corrimal Beach is 1.4 kilometres long and backed by sand dunes, grassy reserves and Corrimal Beach Tourist Park. Holiday makers and local’s alike enjoy this beach. A small lagoon proves popular with children for shallow paddling. Corrimal is located six kilometres north of Wollongong’s central business district. Corrimal Beach is only patrolled from the commencement…
Coledale Beach offers a campers haven with a reserve right on the beach edge. There are fantastic views of the waves, and both ends of the beach are closed in with rock formations. Coledale Beach is located 18 kilometres north of the Wollongong central business district. This beach is only patrolled from the commencement of…
Coalcliff is located 24 kilometres north of the Wollongong’s city centre. This is a small beach in the northern suburbs, surrounded by rocks and cliffs which is a popular fishing spot. There is a salt water rock pool at the southern end of the beach. Explore the rocks for ocean life from this quite secluded…
Canoe and Kayak Adventures offer canoe and kayak experiences on a variety of spectacular waterways. The half day Minnamurra River and Port Hacking package is perfect for those seeking a taste of the outdoors. This trip is complete with a mouthwatering riverside lunch. Alternatively, your group may prefer an overnight expedition on the Nepean or…
Nestled within the picturesque Illawarra Escarpment, Calderwood Valley Golf Course is the ultimate social golfer’s course. A high quality public layout with stunning scenery welcomes social players seven days a week. Set in a quiet rural location 20 minutes south of Wollongong, Calderwood offers a relaxed, friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The course is always immaculately…
This picturesque beach is 900 metres long, backed by sand dunes and a large parkland area ideal for family picnics and gatherings. This beach proves to be popular as the nearby caravan park houses many visitors all year round. Bulli is located 11 kilometres north of the Wollongong central business district and is accessible via…
The Breakwater Lighthouse is located at Wollongong Harbour just up from Belmore Basin. It was commissioned in 1872 and the height of the tower is 42 feet (12.8 metres). This now disused lighthouse was initially powered by vegetable oils and in the 1910s by gas. It was a prefabricated structure. A larger, improved lighthouse on…
Immerse yourself in nature at the Wollongong Botanic Garden with their excellent network of paths to explore and hidden treasures to discover. Open daily, this spectacular 27-hectare space is a serene and beautiful place to relax, celebrate, and learn more about plants and horticulture. Overlooking the city of Wollongong from its highest point at the…
Belmore Basin played a large part in Wollongong’s early development as a busy seaport. There are tables and picnic facilities, restaurants, cafes and a playground. All overlooking the picturesque harbour, Belmore Basin is studded with lighthouses and Norfolk Island Pines and flanked by golden surfing beaches. Belmore Basin is home to a large fishing fleet…
Bellambi Beach is at the southern end of a two kilometre stretch of beach and is backed by a reserve with distant mountain views. The beach is extremely popular for fishing with the boat ramp and small harbour near by and its accessible via the Wollongong shared Cycle Way. Bellambi is located seven kilometres north…
Bald Hill lookout offers expansive views south towards Wollongong and is internationally known as a major hang-gliding point. Overlooking the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge which extends along the Grand Pacific Drive a 140-kilometre award-winning coastal drive beginning 45 minutes south of Sydney in the Royal National Park. The first of three missing links in the…
Austinmer Beach is one of Wollongong’s most popular beaches, located just 20 minutes north of the central business district. Austinmer is well set up to cater to large summer crowds being patrolled September to April. It is located off Lawrence Hargrave Drive, with shops lining the western side and a large car park and park…
Aquilla Fishing Charters is an award-winning fishing charter operator in Wollongong. Enjoy a fishing adventure as they take you to the seas in one of the most stunning areas of New South Wales. With three generations of experience in Wollongong, they know some of the best fishing spots that will guarantee you an unforgettable day…
Australian Landscape Photography by local Wollongong photographer Brad Chilby. 500,000 plus stock images available for purchase Including a massive collection of Illawarra photos: landscapes, aerial and historical photographs All photos are available to purchase as framed prints, print onlys, matted prints, mounted canvas, acrylic photo blocks, metal and glass prints Corporate gifts with engraved metal…
