Top Adventures in Wollongong

Just 90km south of the Sydney CBD, take the journey down to a slice of coastal paradise. With tantalising eateries, an abundance of stunning beaches and endless outdoor activities, Wollongong appeases any traveller's adventurous spirit or laidback nature. Unearth the top venturesome and leisurely pursuits.

Eating Escapades

1)There's a new laneway scene popping up in Wollongong, and Boy Elroy is a little shop in the thick of it. With an industrial feel and craft beers, Boy Elroy is home to Australia's 11th best burger. Ever. Take a trek down the cobblestone streets of Globe Lane. If you see a profusion of murals, you're headed in the right direction.

2) Humber is a triangular café bar with three levels of deliciousness. Housed in an 80-year-old structure, this eatery sources half of its fresh produce locally. The kitchen, bar, and relaxed rooftop setting await.

3) While you're in town, stop by the Illawarra Brewery, known for their award-winning craft beers. Located right near Wollongong beach, they offer ten custom brews along with a cheese degustation experience. Side note: Speaking of cheese, the Bodalla Cheese Factory and Tilba Cheese Factory are both excellent pit stops during your stay. Cheese please!

4) Food market frenzy. At Wollongong's Crown Street Mall, sink your teeth into the Eat Street food markets on a Thursday night. Open from 5pm to 10pm, all producers strive to provide insights into 'conscious' eating and forming community connections.

Beaches & Bays

1) Coalcliff Beach
Located 24 km north of the city centre, take a quick drive to this shoreline surrounded by rocks and cliffs (hence its name). Removed from the hustle and bustle, this mesmerising enclave offers a prime fishing environment and salt water rock pools at the south end.

2) Corrimal beach
A secluded 1.4km long beach, this part of the coast is great for families to enjoy. Near grassy reserves, resorts, and a caravan park, the vast shoreline is backed by fenced in sand dunes and maintains mild currents.

3) Kiama
Trek 40 minutes South of Wollongong to experience Kiama. Get splashed by the Kiama Blowhole, a natural rock formation that propels ocean water high in the air. Other destinations to explore include Surf Beach, Kendalls Beach and the Kiama lighthouse.

4) The Boneyard
Near the Kiama region is Boneyard Beach. Secluded and pristine with a scenic walkway, this is a recognised snorkelling and surfing area. This location is also near Bombo Quarry and Cathedral rocks. Get your goggles ready.

5) Sandon Point Beach
A hit with the surfers, this beach holds various surfing tournaments and is an ideal spot for families and picnics. Discover the Bulli Boat Sheds, a historic place where anglers used to store their vessels.

6) Mystics Beach
A 30-minute drive south, the Killalea State Park covets one of the most beautiful and untouched beaches. Positioned between the Minnamurra River and enchanting rainforests, prepare for a hike to reach this 'mystical' oasis.

7) Bushrangers Bay
Unspoilt in the crux of Shellharbour's marine reserve sits Bushrangers Bay. A paradise for aquatic life and snorkelling, trek to a set of stairs that guide you down to the rocky shores. Enclosed with impressive cliffs, float your way through the day within the turquoise waters.

Activities & Exploration

1) Grand Pacific Drive and Sea Cliff Bridge
On your way to Wollongong, breathe in the sea air with your windows down, and absorb the breath-taking views of mother nature for 140 km. The Grand Pacific Drive begins at the Royal National Park with stunning outlooks throughout the entire drive. You'll then hit the scenic Sea Cliff Bridge, just 30 minutes north of the Wollongong destination.

2) Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk
Drive for about an hour from the coast to the lush green hills into the charms of the Southern Highlands Rainforest. Embark on a 1500m walk, with 500m of the adventure being a steel walkway attached to large tree trunks far above the ground. Look out below!

3) Wollongong Botanic Garden
A place of fulfilment and relaxation, take a stroll through the Botanic Gardens. Stop for a snack, take a guided walk to learn more about the local flora, or participate in a community horticulture workshop. In the evenings, catch live theatre or cinema screenings in the depths of this natural sanctuary.

4) Hang Gliding from Bald Hill
With ideal conditions for soaring above the coastline, Warren Windsports, Sydney Hang Gliding Centre, and Hangglideoz offer hang-gliding tours and flying lessons. Starting at Bald Hill (also the southernmost part of the Royal National Park), fly high above the sea for a bird's eye view of Wollongong and beyond.

5) Symbio Wildlife Park
This wildlife park is an adventure for the whole family. Koalas, Tigers, Wallabies, oh my! Enjoy zookeeper presentations, take a dip in the swimming pool, or enjoy a group picnic while spending time with some of the world's most intriguing creatures.

6) Nan Tien Buddhist Temple
The largest Buddhist Temple in the Southern Hemisphere is located ten minutes from the Wollongong CBD. Visit for the day or purchase accommodation in the Pilgrim Lodge on the Temple Grounds for a more spiritual experience.

7) Breakwater Battery Military Museum
Check out the history throughout the museum from World War II. Be sure to make time for the beach tank traps. A plethora of iconic concrete pyramids perch within the heritage park overlooking the sea. A profound view at sunset.

8) Wollongong to Thirroul Bike Trail
A flat, easy ride of about 18km in length along the coast, experience the atmosphere of Wollongong's beaches, lagoons, and coves all the way to Thirroul. This trail is appropriate for all levels of biking proficiencies. For a shorter leisurely ride, we recommend turning back at the halfway mark around Bellambi Beach (10km) or Towradgi Rock Pools (7km).

9) Glow Tunnels
Glow worms galore. A stone's throw from Helensburgh railway station is Tunnel Road. Take the journey through the old rail tunnel, inhabited by a settlement of glow worms. For full effect, wait until after sunset to venture into their world. Take a torch to shine the way, but once you're inside, click the 'off' switch and marvel at their bioluminescence.