This publish could comprise affiliate hyperlinks. We could obtain a small fee, without charge to you, in case you make a purchase order. Learn Disclosure.
Wollongong is a vibrant coastal metropolis on the South Coast of New South Wales and is legendary for its glorious surf, superb seashores with rock swimming pools, and being the gateway to the rocky Illawarra Mountain vary.
There are such a lot of issues to do in Wollongong, we shortly found it was the right vacation spot for a weekend break free from Sydney.
With gorgeous mountain climbing trails encircling the shoreline and historical coastal forest, to the quite a few outside actions that maintain our younger youngsters entertained, it is a metropolis that may maintain you occupied for greater than per week.
It was additionally our first cease on our 18-month highway journey round Australia, so we had been desirous to get on the market and begin exploring the very best that Aus needed to supply.
In case you’re unsure what to do in Wollongong and wish some concepts for sights so as to add to your itinerary, then maintain studying to see what we did after we visited.
Is Wollongong price visiting?
Wollongong is NSW’s third largest metropolis, however regardless of being a big metropolis, it’s something however the concrete jungle you see in Sydney.
And that’s what attracted us to Wollongong. To be trustworthy, I actually didn’t need one other concrete jungle, I needed a hammock by the river within the bush the place broadband indicators couldn’t attain.
The mountains loom over the cityscape and the ocean shrouds the concrete in a mist of peace. It has a vibrancy of youth and well being, with out the frenetic tempo and aloofness of different large cities.
I used to be utterly taken without warning when within the twilight hours, I exhaled contently and stated, “You already know I actually like this place.”
It’s a metropolis, but doesn’t really feel like one.
Wollongong welcomed us again into nomadic journey life so effortlessly, providing us the liberty to be distant and revel in nature, however have the services round us with a view to work (good wifi and a good espresso store is all we want).
And to suppose I used to be fairly nonplussed about visiting.
I used to be grounded and feeling like we had made the very best choice to go on this loopy journey. Wollongong gave me simply what I wanted. And for that cause, it’s positively price visiting.
How To Get to Wollongong
Wollongong is positioned within the Illawarra area simply 82 kilometres south of Sydney. If driving, we advocate you’re taking the scenic route from Sydney by way of Royal Nationwide Park and the Grand Pacific Drive. (Click on right here for rental automotive costs and availability)
By prepare, leap on the South Coast Line from Central Station in Sydney heading in direction of Port Kembla.
Issues to Do in Wollongong
In case you’re pondering of visiting Wollongong however you’re unsure what there may be to do, then you should definitely add the next sights to your listing.
1. Take a Bike Trip Across the Metropolis
We had been taking a day bike journey on the foreshore previous Metropolis Seashore and North Wollongong Seashore. We rode across the lighthouse, previous boat harbour and alongside the particular monitor only for cyclists, joggers and afternoon strollers that adopted the cliff face partitions.
The surroundings was lovely and we’re relaxed and smiling. Wollongong is a very simple metropolis to cycle round and it has loads of cycle paths and protected routes to take in case you’re biking with youngsters.
Kalyra rode beside me chattering away, the enjoyment radiating from her face and beaming into my soul. Already my little woman was tasting why Mummy and Daddy have taken this journey – so we will spend our days doing issues like this collectively.
“Isn’t this improbable? It’s 5.00pm and no one is screaming or arguing. I’m not racing round getting dinner organized and a home cleaned. We’re simply out using and having fun with the shut of the day collectively.”
“Yep. I like these holidays Mummy!”
2. Drive the Grand Pacific Drive
If you’re driving from Sydney to Wollongong, you should go by way of the Grand Pacific Drive, which is without doubt one of the finest highway journeys in Australia.
It begins within the Royal Nationwide Park (second oldest on this planet behind Yellowstone) and follows the shoreline, by way of small coastal cities and spectacular surroundings.
In case you’re not driving from Sydney to Wollongong and also you’ve come from the South, then you should definitely add a fast day’s drive up this coastal highway and take a look at the breathtaking surroundings.
Alongside the best way, make a cease on the following:
Bald Hill Lookout
One of many high issues to do in Wollongong is go hangliding, and that is the spot the place the hangliders launch off the cliff.
In case you aren’t that daring there are fairly nice views alongside the shoreline and a pleasant grassy patch for folks watching, nature gazing relaxation.
Symbio Wildlife Park
We’ve visited loads of wildlife parks in Australia and Symbio is fairly good.
You may hand feed the kangaroos, koalas, and emus and there are many livestock and birds the children will love. Our go to corresponded to our unit of labor on bones for Kalyra’s distance training.
So she was excited to race round taking images of residing issues that had bones and no bones.
I don’t suppose anybody may ever get sick of feeding and patting kangaroos. Don’t you?
Sea Cliff Bridge
The ocean cliff bridge is a fairly spectacular construction if you have a look at it from one of many viewpoints. Whenever you drive on it, you may’t actually see a lot as a result of excessive boundaries. Hop out of your automotive and stroll again alongside it for some cool images.
Scarborough Pub
The meals on the Scarborough, though tasty, had been small and overpriced. However the views out to the ocean are price a cease, not less than for only one drink.
There’s a big grassed beer backyard making it good for households. You might be fortunate, like we had been, and have whales leaping and pirouetting out of the water in entrance of you. Magic.
3. Go to North Wollongong Seashore
Head to North Wollongong Seashore early within the morning for dawn over the rocks and the lighthouse, and take an early morning stroll alongside the seaside.
It’s an amazing place to go for a surf or pack a picnic and benefit from the views from one of many picnic areas.
Seize breakfast or a espresso at Diggies Cafe proper on the seaside.
4. Test Out The Nan Tien Temple
Bucket listing verify off! The Nan Tien is the most important Buddhist temple within the Southern Hemisphere and effectively price a go to.
We had been lucky to have a information take us across the temple grounds and clarify lots of the symbolism inside the design and the tales behind Buddhist philosophy. I discovered it fascinating.
Be sure you pay a go to to the Museum which is on the decrease degree. The unique foundations type a rock wall, which has been was a Buddhist backyard with flowing water, lotus leaves, and quite a few statues of assorted Bodhvistas.
Take a minute to step into the mirror gallery and mirror upon the Buddhist philosophies corresponding to nothing is because it appears, we’re all interconnected, the influence of phantasm and delusion upon our lives, and the way eradicating ourselves from the center of the Universe presents a extra enlightening perspective. I beloved it!
I additionally beloved the meals within the Dew Drop Inn, a teahouse on the grounds of the temple. Low-cost, scrumptious, vegan meals.
Strive a pot of lotus leaf tea, some dumplings, curry puffs, and the most well-liked dish: Veggie mince and ham noodle soup.
5. Go to the Science Area Centre and Planetarium
The science centre is the place the nice minds of our future go to experiment and be taught by doing. It’s run by the College of Wollongong and has interactive reveals that youngsters will love.
As I walked round interacting in actions that helped me to know levers, how tornadoes are fashioned, engine mechanics, and sound and lightweight vitality, I couldn’t assist however suppose why our lecture rooms don’t educate like this? In the event that they did, youngsters wouldn’t solely be taught the ideas shortly, they might have a ball doing it.
The kids raced from station to station, squealing with pleasure, blissfully unaware they had been studying amongst the enjoyable. I’ve by no means seen a scholar of mine that enthusiastic within the classroom.
We completely loved the bubbles and balloons dwell present. Craig walked out saying it was hilarious – and all of us discovered a little bit extra about how bubbles are fashioned and which balloons can win a race – the rocket balloon was superior.
One different present price seeing, which you pay further for, is the planetarium. It was so nice to lie again and have somebody level out the constellations and mission big image types of them on the roof.
There’s a little bit alien film that goes with it as effectively, which is superior for educating your youngsters concerning the planets.
Earth seems to be so lovely if you evaluate it to the others. What about how good it’s to permit life to thrive prefer it does? I like actions that assist me to really feel that awe and surprise.
6. Go Indoor Rock Climbing
Indoor mountaineering isn’t one thing I ever would have thought of doing when travelling. The outside sort, I’d embrace for certain.
The Hangdog climbing fitness center was such an satisfying exercise for us to do as a household. It made me notice the significance of staff constructing, particularly if you journey.
Kalyra had a ball.
She beloved pushing herself a little bit out of her consolation zone, but having the safety of us supporting and inspiring her. It was additionally nice for strengthening belief between Craig and I – he was greater than a little bit nervous once I was belaying for him. Do my skinny calves not offer you religion in my energy?
Even little Savannah had enjoyable – and seemed so cute – all harnessed up. She was glad to attempt to climb the wall, she was simply so petrified of the rope when it was connected and pulled her up a little bit so she selected to assist us belay as an alternative.
Prime tip: If you’re visiting with toddlers, come by on a Tuesday morning at 9.00am when beneath 5s can climb at no cost.
7. Dine at Illawarra Brewery
Illawarra Brewery has a stunning outlook out to the seaside. It’s connected to the soccer stadium. Craig was glad to attempt a good beer, and the women had been excited to get their free ice-cream with their meal.
We used a coupon right here to purchase one get one meal free. We discovered it within the Wollongong vacationer brochure. Love a discount!
8. Take a look at the Lagoon at Wattamolla Seashore
Situated within the Royal Nationwide Park is Wattamolla, a secluded seaside which is most well-known for its lagoon, which sits behind the sandy seaside and connects to the Wattamolla falls.
As a result of the lagoon is reduce off from the ocean, the water could be very light which makes it an amazing swimming spot for younger youngsters.
You too can convey a kayak and paddle on the lagoon, or convey a surf board and his the waves from Wattamolla Seashore.
In case you’re searching for a seaside close to Wollongong that’s quieter and peaceable, it is a excellent place.
9. Take a look at Wollongong Botanic Backyard
The Wollongong Botanic Backyard is a superb place to go to in case you love nature and the fantastic thing about the outside.
This tranquil paradise showcases native species of crops, timber and fauna which might be indigenous to Wollongong.
There are many strolling paths, picnic areas and particular occasions happening all year long, corresponding to like workshops for youths and artwork installations.
It’s onerous to not be enchanted by the fantastic thing about Wollongong Botanic Backyard, and it’s the right place to calm down in when the town feels a bit a lot.
10. Splash Round at Jamberoo Motion Park
The Jamberoo Motion Park is a big water park and one of many high issues to do in Wollongong with youngsters.
It’s one of many largest family-owned theme parks in NSW and has every little thing from rollercoasters to water slides.
In case you’re discovering the Australian summer time climate a little bit stifling, then it is a excellent place to chill off and revel in some household enjoyable.
11. See Native Artwork at Wollongong Artwork Gallery
The Wollongong Artwork Gallery is a superb place to admire native artworks by artists from the Illawarra area.
The gallery is managed by the town council, and is a crucial a part of Wollongong’s heritage.
It’s the most important regional artwork gallery in Australia and accommodates work by Australian, Aboriginal and Asian artists.
In its everlasting assortment, you may uncover artwork that takes you thru the historical past of the Illawarra area and its folks.
12. Go to the Australian Motorlife Museum
In case you’re searching for indoor issues to do in Wollongong for a wet day, then a go to to the Australian Motorlife Museum is a should.
The museum is a charity group that has been working because the 1990’s, and began out as a bunch of veteran and Classic motoring fans who needed to a spot to showcase their assortment.
Over time, extra reveals have opened up and the museum has expanded. Right now you may see not solely classic vehicles and motorbikes, however see reveals from occasions of previous, together with instruments, gramophones, previous typewriters, and family home equipment.
This can be a excellent place to go to in Wollongong for these enthusiastic about traditional vehicles.
13. Take a Illawarra Fly Treetop Stroll
Situated exterior Wollongong within the Illawarra escarpment space close to the Budderoo Nationwide Park, is the Illawarra Fly Treetop Stroll, which is a mild 1.5km stroll by way of the canopies of the forest.
It’s identified for its 500 meters of metal cable bridges, which take you up into the cover of the timber some 20-30 meters above the bottom.
If you wish to up the journey, you can even take a zipline journey right here, which is the very best zipline in Australia.
14. Go to Port Kembla Seashore
After all, no journey to Wollongong can be full with out a journey to the seaside. Certainly one of its finest seashores is Port Kembla, which is 11 km south of the CBD.
It’s a well-maintained seaside with mushy white sand, and turquoise blue waters.
It’s an amazing seaside for browsing, and also you’ll discover the Port Kembla Seashore Surf Membership providing classes and surf leases.
The surf membership is positioned on the excessive fore dune on the northern finish of Port Kembla Seashore. There’s a car parking zone subsequent to the membership the place you may park your automotive.
The seaside is patrolled through the summer time months from September to the tip of April.
15. Go to Wollongong Metropolis Seashore
Wollongong Metropolis Seashore, of simply Metropolis Seashore for brief, is positioned simply south of the lighthouse on Flagstaff Hill.
It’s a small seaside with light waves and a rock pool to the north, which is a superb place to go snorkelling or rock pool fishing.
The seaside can be patrolled through the summer time months and has a stunning grassy space behind it the place you may unpack a picnic.
16. Go Whale Watching at Stanwell Tops
In case you drive alongside the Nice Pacific Drive in direction of Sydney, you’ll attain Stanwell Tops, which is without doubt one of the finest locations to see humpback whales on their migration from the shore.
The rugged headland sits on pure hills which have unparalleled views of the ocean and surrounding sea cliffs. It’s additionally a well-liked dangle gliding leap level.
In case you’re searching for issues to do in Wollongong in June to November, that is an unmissable exercise.
17. Stroll to Wollongong Breakwater Lighthouse
Situated in Wollongong Harbour is the Wollongong Head Lighthouse, a historic lighthouse which has been defending the harbour since 1871.
The lighthouse is a heritage-listed constructing and was restored in 2002 to be totally operational once more.
The lighthouse is an iconic landmark in Wollongong and a must-see for any first time customer to the town.
18. Take a Day Journey from Wollongong
We haven’t scratched the floor of what the Wollongong space presents. It’s someplace you may park up for per week or so and use it as a base to discover different components of the South Coast area of NSW.
Whilst you’re there, you should definitely go to the next areas on a day journey.
19. Go to The Eat Avenue Markets
The Eat Streets Market is a pop up farmers market the place native artisans can promote recent produce and boutique crafts. There’s additionally dwell music and road meals.
The colourful ambiance is what brings folks to the Eat Avenue Markets, to not point out the scrumptious meals you could find when you’re there.
For the reason that market solely occurs every so often, it’s finest to comply with their Fb web page to see when the following market is occurring.
Last Ideas on Issues to Do in Wollongong
Whether or not you’re searching for a fast weekend getaway from Sydney otherwise you’re on a South Coast highway journey, there isn’t any doubt that Wollongong is a superb vacation spot so as to add to your itinerary.
As you may see, there’s a lot to see and do right here, from thrill-seeking adventurous actions to laid-back and peaceable.
We hope this information helped you intend your journey to Wollongong and gave you some inspiration for what to do.
Take a look at the Go to NSW web site for a complete listing of issues to see and do in Wollongong and surrounding areas.
Extra South Coast NSW journey suggestions
Do you will have recommendations on issues to do in Wollongong? Tell us within the feedback.
Supply: Breaking Travel News
