posted on November 14, 2024
Located an easy 90-minute drive south of Sydney, Wollongong is a regional city bursting with coastal charm. Situated on the South Coast of New South Wales, the best things to do in Wollongong offer something for every kind of traveller.
From a dip at North Wollongong Beach to tackling outdoor adventures (like the Illawarra Escarpment Forest Walk), we’ve rounded up the top Wollongong attractions to add to your to-do list.
An overview of the 10 best things to do in Wollongong
- Take a scenic drive along Sea Cliff Bridge
- Swim at North Wollongong Beach
- Tackle the Sublime Point Walking Track
- Dine on fish and chips by the water at Wollongong Harbour
- Get your adrenaline pumping with hang gliding at Bald Hill Lookout
- Experience the Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures walk
- Wander around the Nan Tien Temple
- Take a day trip to Symbio Wildlife Park
- Get back to nature at the Wollongong Botanic Garden
- Experience the thrill of Jamberoo Action Park
Before you go: What you need to know about Wollongong (NSW)
- How to get to Wollongong: If you’re driving to Wollongong from Sydney, you’ll follow the M1 and Princes Highway for an easy 90-minute drive. Why not stop in at the iconic Royal National Park on the way?
- Best time to visit Wollongong: Summer (December to February) offers the best weather conditions, perfect for beach hopping or eating fish and chips by the harbour. But Wollongong’s mild climate makes it a welcoming year-round destination.
- What you’ll love about Wollongong: Secluded beaches, lush escarpment walks, easy access to NSW’s South Coast and day trips to Kiama, Berry and Gerringong.
- Driving conditions in Wollongong: Expect less traffic on the roads than the big smoke. In fact, Wollongong has been ranked as one of Australia’s least congested cities! While highways and freeways can get congested during peak hours on weekdays, the roads are wide, well-maintained and easy to navigate. Just keep an eye out for speed cameras on major roads like the Princes Highway.
- Best vehicle to hire in Wollongong: Any car will suit the smooth roads of Wollongong. A spacious SUV is a good option if you’re travelling with multiple adults or even a people mover if you’re bringing the whole family to the ‘Gong.
- Accommodation and camping options in Wollongong:
- Budget: Downtown Motel, Wollongong (from $145 per night)
- Mid-Range: Hotel TOTTO, Wollongong (from $200 per night)
- Luxury: Mantra Wollongong (from $400 per night)
The top 10 things to see and do in Wollongong, NSW South Coast
From the moment you hit the scenic Grand Pacific Drive, you’ll be greeted by Wollongong’s picturesque coastal charm. The best things to do in Wollongong will see you explore waterfront cycle paths, visit the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere, venture along lush hiking trails, and so much more.
1. Take a scenic drive along Sea Cliff Bridge
- Travel time and distance from Wollongong: Approximately 30 to 40 minutes (22km) via Lawrence Hargrave Drive.
- Ideal activity length: Walking the bridge takes 15 minutes (one-way), but we recommend about an hour to soak in the sights.
- Cost: Free
- Bookings: N/A
- Best for: Spotting humpback whales migrating off the coastline from May to August and late August to November annually. You might even spot a pod of dolphins if you’re lucky, too!
There’s a reason why the locals call this the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge. Located along the Grand Pacific Drive, this 665m bridge has been a major tourist attraction since opening back in 2005. Stroll along the pathway for a top-notch whale-watching vantage point and soak in the stunning coastline. We recommend getting in early (before 9 am) to beat the crowds and the blustering coastal winds.
2. Swim at North Wollongong Beach
- Travel time and distance from Wollongong: Approximately 7 minutes (2.4km) via the Princes Highway and Kembla Street.
- Ideal activity length: A half to a full day, depending on how long you want to spend soaking up the sun and the beautiful coastline of Wollongong.
- Cost: Free
- Bookings: N/A
- Best for: Swimmers, surfers and beach lovers.
Wollongong has no shortage of top-notch surf beaches, from Austinmer Beach to the iconic North Wollongong Beach. The latter is home to sprawling rock pools, picnic tables and plenty of surf-worthy swells. If you’re visiting with kids, head to the nearby Stuart Park for a playground and plenty of leafy-shaded spots to host a picnic.
Once you work up an appetite, head to Diggies Cafe, The Boathouse North Wollongong or the North Beach Kiosk for a relaxed waterfront dining experience.
3. Tackle the Sublime Point Walking Track
- Travel time and distances from Wollongong: The drive to Sublime Points takes about 21 minutes (22km), which is the perfect starting point for this hike.
- Ideal activity length: One to two hours, with the hike taking around 30 to 45 minutes each way.
- Cost: Free
- Bookings: N/A
- Best for: Avid hikers and nature lovers who are ready for a challenging but rewarding walk through lush rainforest.
Get ready to break a sweat with an epic hike through the Illawarra escarpment. Soak in panoramic views of Wollongong from the Sublime Point lookout, keep an eye out for yellow-tail black cockatoos and get ready for plenty of ladders and giant staircases that will take you all the way down to Austinmer below.
Note from the author: As of November 2024, this walking track is closed and undergoing repairs and upgrades. Stay up to date with the latest reopening dates on the National Parks NSW website.
4. Dine on fish and chips by the water at Wollongong Harbour
- Travel time and distance from Wollongong: 7 minutes, 2km via Smith Street.
- Ideal activity length: Up to two hours.
- Cost: Packs range from approximately $20 for one person or $40-$45 for two people.
- Bookings: Walk-ins welcome
- Best for: Fans of fresh seafood and dining alfresco from a relaxed local kiosk.
A visit to Wollongong isn’t complete without a trip to Wollongong Harbour. After a coastal walk around the headland near the Wollongong Lighthouse, you’ll likely work up an appetite.
Head down to Levendi Fish and Chippery, a family-run favourite operating alongside the harbour since 2006. Expect everything from fish burgers to seafood packs loaded with everything from barramundi to prawns and even potato scallops.
5. Get your adrenaline pumping with hang gliding at Bald Hill Lookout
- Travel time and distance from Wollongong: Approximately 30 minutes (37km) via the M1, right near Stanwell Park.
- Ideal activity length: Half day, with each hang gliding experience running for roughly 30 minutes.
- Cost: From $279 per person
- Bookings: Essential and can be made with a range of providers, including Hang Glide Oz.
- Best for: Thrill seekers who are keen for a unique, fun-filled adventure in the air.
There’s no better way to experience the sparkling coastline of Wollongong than by booking a hang gliding experience. Bald Hill Lookout is a popular starting point, with a tandem hang gliding experience perfect for beginners. It’s an unforgettable experience that takes you along the rugged coastline with aerial views of Wollongong’s glorious beaches.
6. Experience the Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures walk
- Travel time and distance from Wollongong: Approximately 50 minutes (47km) via the M1 and Jamberoo Mountain Road.
- Ideal activity length: Easily a full day activity, with plenty of walks, zipline tours and even archery experiences to try.
- Cost: From $28.50 per person, depending on which activities you book and your group size.
- Bookings: Highly recommended as you’ll save at least 10% by booking ahead online.
- Best for: Kids, families and nature lovers.
Ready for a rainforest adventure? Less than an hour’s drive from the Wollongong CBD is the Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventure Centre. Located on the Southern Highlands, experience a 1.5km elevated Treetop Walk, the Knights Tower spiral structure (rising 45 metres above the forest floor) along with thrilling Zipline Tours and a brand new Archery range.
Parking is free with spaces for up to 200 vehicles available on-site, making it the perfect day trip for the whole family when visiting Wollongong.
7. Wander around the Nan Tien Temple
- Travel time and distance from Wollongong: Approximately 15 minutes (7.6km) via the Princes Highway and M1.
- Ideal activity length: Half day
- Cost: Free entry
- Bookings: N/A
- Best for: Travellers looking to explore the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere.
For a unique day out, don’t miss a trip to the iconic Nan Tien Temple. Situated an easy 15-minute drive from the city centre of Wollongong, this major tourist attraction offers grand architecture, unique exhibitions, community events and a glimpse into Buddhist culture. Make sure to leave time for a meal at the temple’s vegetarian restaurant, and don’t miss a stroll around the lush Lotus Pond.
Tip from the author: It’s important to dress modestly when planning to visit this temple, as visitors may be turned away for wearing tank tops, leggings, shorts or thongs.
8. Take a day trip to Symbio Wildlife Park
- Travel time and distance from Wollongong: Approximately 25 minutes (33km) via the M1.
- Ideal activity length: Half day
- Cost: From $27 per child and $42 per adult, with family admission packs available (starting from $94).
- Bookings: Recommended, but not essential. Tickets can also be purchased on arrival.
- Best for: Families looking for a fun activity to enjoy during the kid’s school holidays.
Located at the top of the Illawarra escarpment, Symbio Wildlife Park is a family favourite. Explore 16 acres of gardens brimming with native Australian animals as well as exotic species like cheetahs, meerkats and small monkeys. There’s even a farmyard area filled with goats, sheep, and even cute guinea pigs for the little ones to feed and pat. Don’t miss the kangaroo feeding experience, perfect for curious kids and parents alike.
9. Get back to nature at the Wollongong Botanic Garden
- Travel time and distance from Wollongong: Approximately 7 minutes (3km) via Throsby Drive.
- Ideal activity length: Half day
- Cost: Free
- Bookings: N/A
- Best for: Couples and families looking for a relaxing picnic destination.
Explore the lush surrounds of the Wollongong Botanic Gardens. Spread across 27 hectares, expect everything from a Japanese Tea House to duck ponds and even an all-abilities playground for kids from two to 12 years old. Don’t miss the Sunset Cinema, a fun pop-up event that happens from December to March each year, hosted in the Botanic Gardens.
10. Experience the thrill of Jamberoo Action Park
- Travel time and distance from Wollongong: Approximately 40 minutes (35km) via the M1 and Jamberoo Road.
- Ideal activity length: Full day
- Cost: From $64 per person
- Bookings: Recommended as you’ll save upwards of $10 per ticket by buying tickets online.
- Best for: Anyone ready to experience the largest family-owned and operated water theme park in NSW, with world-class rides for kids and parents alike.
Are you ready to control the action? At Jamberoo Action Park, you’ll be treated to a series of epic water rides located less than an hour south of Wollongong. There’s a stack of attractions to keep you busy, from the surf hill to the Rapid River and even The Taipan. Get ready for a jam-packed day of fun in the water!
Exploring the ‘Gong: Your complete guide to what to do in Wollongong
Think we’ve covered everything to see and do in Wollongong? We’re just getting started. From gourmet travellers to couples and even bargain hunters, we’ve rounded up everything to add to your itinerary for your Wollongong road trip.
Best things to do for foodies
Wollongong is a foodie city with no shortage of local cafes, wine bars, award-winning restaurants and breweries to explore. Some of our must-see spots include:
- Enjoy speciality brews at Runner Duck Coffee: Situated on Langs Corners in the heart of the Wollongong CBD, don’t be put off by the queue at Runner Duck Coffee – the locals know it’s well worth the wait. Not only does this local favourite roast its own beans but they make an excellent filter coffee, along with all your black and milk coffee classics.
- Experience top-notch fusion eats at Baby Face Kitchen: For upscale eats using high-quality produce from local, sustainable farms, expect a top-notch dining experience at Baby Face Kitchen.
- Sample wood-fired pizza at Kneading Ruby: Did someone say pizza? Grab a slice from Kneading Ruby, a favourite Italian restaurant in the laneways of Wollongong’s city centre.
Things to do in Wollongong for couples
From romantic dinners to live music, spoil that special someone with some of the best things to do in Wollongong for couples.
- Get your adrenaline racing with Skydive Wollongong: Sign up for a tandem Skydive over Wollongong’s iconic beach and make memories to last a lifetime.
- See a gig at Anita’s Theatre: Just a short drive up north is an old-school theatre playing host to local bands, touring musicians and comedy acts.
Things to do in Wollongong for families
Looking for fun things to do in Wollongong with kids? We’ve got you covered.
- Explore the UOW Science Space Museum: Let their imagination run wild at over 90 interactive exhibitions along with live science shows, workshops and an incredible Planetarium.
- Pack a picnic and visit Stuart Park: Claim a picnic table, bring the bikes and enjoy a day outdoors in this leafy coastal park in Wollongong.
- Stroll around the Flagstaff Hill lighthouse: While it has been inactive since 1974, this lighthouse is situated along an easy coastal walking track that connects North Wollongong to the Harbour and beyond.
Free things to do in Wollongong
You don’t need to break the bank to experience the best of Wollongong. In fact, there is a stack of free things to do around the city, including:
- Visit Wollongong Art Gallery: Explore one of the largest regional art museums in Australia, showing exhibitions from local talent as well as international artists.
- Cycle along Blue Mile: This scenic coastal shared cycleway is the perfect place to stretch your legs. Whether you run, walk or cycle, expect stunning water views.
Things to do in Wollongong at night
Even after dark, Wollongong knows how to turn it on with arts, entertainment and plenty of great eats.
- See a show at the Illawarra Performing Arts Centre (IPAC): Home to Merrigong Theatre Company. The IPAC hosts stacks of epic shows, from dance performances to live music and more.
- Hop your way around local bars and breweries: Sip cocktails at Howlin’ Wolf Whiskey Bar, sample wines at Roy’s Restobar or enjoy local beers from the Dusty Lizard or Five Barrel Brewing.
- Dine at Crown Street Night Markets: Running every Thursday from 5 pm to 9 pm, head to Crown Street for delicious eats and diverse stalls from local makers and artists.
Explore Wollongong by car
There’s no shortage of epic things to do and see in Wollongong, making it a perfect day trip from Sydney and even one of the best road trips in NSW.
Whether you’re planning a family-friendly Wollongong holiday or looking for a couple’s getaway, this city has it all. On Turo, you can easily rent the perfect car in Wollongong to explore the entire region at your own pace, making your trip as flexible and enjoyable as possible.
Lucinda Starr
Lucinda is a Sydney-based content specialist and avid road tripper. Having travelled across Asia, North America and the South Pacific, she's experienced everything from glamping in a Yurt in -30 degrees in The Yukon, snorkelling in the open seas of Vanuatu and hiking the rocky alps of Kamikochi in Japan. She's currently planning her next overseas adventure, a toss-up between a classic #EuroSummer or a multi-day trek through Nepal.
