wollongong tourist accommodation

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Looking for the perfect place to stay in Wollongong? Your search ends here!

Whether you’re planning a getaway to this picturesque coastal city or embarking on the Grand Pacific Drive, we offer a diverse range of accommodation options to meet your needs. Immerse yourself in Wollongong’s breathtaking natural beauty, where the Pacific Ocean meets lush escarpments. From luxurious hotels to charming cabins, our selection ensures a comfortable and memorable stay for every traveller.

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Destination Wollongong, enabled by the strategic long term support of Wollongong City Council, is charged with delivering visitor economy growth by positioning Wollongong and surrounds as the premier regional tourism, events and conference destination.

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Adorned by rainforest-covered escarpment and the stunning golden beaches of the South Coast, NSW’s third-largest city is a fun, vibrant and delicious urban centre that offers diverse appeal. Dial up the adventure by going skydiving, playing golf or cycling, or discover beautiful botanic gardens, relaxed cafes and restaurants, and a thriving arts scene.

Eat & drink

From visiting bustling  food markets  to enjoying a cocktail at a hidden small bar, there are many foodie experiences on offer in Wollongong. Explore the dedicated ‘eat street’ on Keira Street between Crown and Smith streets. Visit  Babyface Kitchen  for a seasonal produce-inspired menu,  His Boy Elroy  for American-style burgers,  Rookie Eatery  for contemporary cuisine within a historic house and  Diggies Cafe  for a modern Australian brunch with water views.

Diggies Cafe , Wollongong

Wollongong’s small bar scene is quite exciting, with top options including  The Little Prince ,  Night Parrot Bar and Kitchen ,  The Throsby ,  Humber  rooftop bar,  Red Square  and  Howlin’ Wolf Whisky Bar . Or enjoy a cool drink at  The Illawarra , a historic pub, and visit the cellar door of  Five Barrel Brewing . A 30-minute drive away is the  Glenbernie Orchard , where you can pick your own seasonal fruit or enjoy a crisp cider. 

Things to do

The city also has a vibrant arts precinct, centred on the  Wollongong Art Gallery , one of Australia’s finest regional art galleries that houses a large collection of contemporary, Aboriginal, Asian and colonial artworks. At the  Illawarra Performing Arts Centre , there are three venues that host theatre, music and comedy.

North Wollongong Beach , Wollongong

Journey to the stars at the  Science Space , home to Australia’s most digitally advanced Planetarium and over 90 interactive exhibits For children under 10,  Early Start Discovery Space  offers hand’s on experiences that will inspire the imagination, perfect for 10 years and under. A short drive south of Wollongong is the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere,  Nan Tien Temple . Take a tour and explore the pretty gardens. There are also guided tours of the  Port Kembla Steelworks  and the  historic Blue Mile .

Wollongong Art Gallery , Wollongong

The great outdoors

Take a dip at one of the beaches that line the edge of the city. Around Wollongong, there are plenty of outdoor adventures from skydiving and scuba diving to surfing, fishing and mountain biking. Explore rainforest walking tracks on the  Illawarra Escarpment  at  Mount Keira  and  Mount Kembla .

Wollongong Beach , Wollongong

Just getting to Wollongong from Sydney is a tourist attraction. Instead of taking the M1 Princes Highway, take the Grand Pacific Drive , a spectacular touring route through the Royal National Park to Stanwell Park and south over the  Sea Cliff Bridge . More scenic views await at  Hill 60 lookout .

Flagstaff Hill Park, Wollongong

Getting there

Wollongong is located just south of Sydney and the drive takes around 90 minutes. For the scenic option, journey via the Grand Pacific Drive . You can also catch the train from Sydney, which also takes around 90 minutes.

Port Kembla is a working industrial port and cruise ships dock at a dedicated terminal. Because of this, it’s considered a ‘closed port’ and you can’t walk around the area. A free shuttle bus meets the cruise ships and takes passengers into the city centre, where they will be met by friendly local ambassadors. You can also book a taxi or private car.

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Explore all accommodation

We have plenty of options for affordable accommodation near Wollongong.

Our beachfront caravan, camping and self-contained cabins at Bulli, Corrimal and Windang are in easy reach of Sydney, Canberra, and NSW’s South Coast.

Explore our current options below or contact one of our parks for more details.

Please note: online bookings are automatically assigned. To request a specific cabin or site, please call your preferred Park.

Bulli Beach​ Tourist Park

​​​​​​​​​Corrimal Beach​ Tourist Park

Windang Beach​ Tourist Park

Wollongong hotels

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Search by review score, search by price, search by freebies, how much is a wollongong hotel, 2 stars and below, 4 stars and above, good to know, when to book a hotel in wollongong, top tips for finding wollongong hotel deals.

• If you’re looking for a cheap hotel in Wollongong, you should consider visiting during the low season. You'll find cheaper hotels in Wollongong in August and July.
• Hotel room prices vary depending on many factors but you’ll most likely find the best hotel deals in Wollongong if you stay on a Sunday. The opposite is true for, Tuesday, which is usually the most expensive day.
• Book at least 50 days before your stay begins to get the best price for your Wollongong hotel.
• The cheapest 3-star hotel room in Wollongong found on KAYAK in the last 2 weeks was $109, while the most expensive was $119.
• How long should you stay? KAYAK users usually book their hotel in Wollongong for 2 days.
• Wollongong is a good halfway point for all those driving the famous Grand Pacific Drive highway. For those who want more information to help with your road tip, you may wish to stay closer to the Grand Pacific Drive centre; the Adina Apartment Hotel Wollongong is only a 5-minute walk away from it.
• The downtown area of Wollongong also offers plenty of restaurants, shopping and other services, including adventure tourism offices. From here you can book your skydiving adventure over Wollongong beach or a zipline tour across the Illawarra tree tops. The Downtown Motel will keep you close to the action and only 2 minutes away from the Visitor Information Centre.
• One of the most popular sights of Wollongong is the Wollongong Head Lighthouse, located at the headland between Brighton Beach and Wollongong Beach. If you’re looking to stay somewhere nearby, the Boat Harbour Motel is a good option. From here you will be only a 10-minute walk away from the headland.
• Not only is Wollongong popular for its beaches, but it is also located close to Lake Illawarra. For those who want a bit of everything, the Comfort Inn Fairways is located on the spit between Lake Illawarra and the sea. You will also be close to the Port Kembla Golf Course and the Korrongulla Wetlands – an excellent spot for bird watching.
• The Nan Tien Buddhist Temple is another of Wollongong’s most popular sights. The temple is located just outside of Wollongong with views over Mount Kembla and the Illawarra Escarpment. Classes and regular retreats are offered for visitors interested in Buddhism or Chinese Culture. For those who wish to visit the temple, you may wish to stay somewhere in south Wollongong, such as the Sovereign Inn. Here you will be a 10-minute drive from the temple, and 7 minutes from Wollongong’s city centre.

FAQs when booking a hotel in Wollongong

What hotels in wollongong are close to the sports stadium.

If you are in Wollongong to watch one of Australia’s favourite pastimes, its rugby league, then the WIN Stadium is perfect as it is home to the local St George Illawarra Dragons. The Sage Hotel Wollongong and Best Western City Sands are both within a only a 5-minute walk to this centrally-located stadium.

What hotels in Wollongong are close to the beach?

There are two major beaches in Wollongong – Wollongong Beach and North Wollongong Beach. The Novotel Wollongong Northbeach will put you across the road of North Wollongong Beach and offers views of the surf. If you’d rather stay by Wollongong Beach and closer to downtown, then the City Beach Motel is a only a 2-minute walk to the sands.

What hotels in Wollongong have free parking?

For those with a hired car doing the Grand Pacific Drive road trip, you want to be sure that your car will be safe and secure. Both the Beach Park Motel and the Windmill Hotel offer free self-parking on the premises and are close to the motorway, helping you get back on the road quicker.

What hotels in Wollongong have a pool?

Especially for those who are coming to Wollongong during the hot Australian summer, having easy access to a pool will help you relax and stay cool. The Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort offers a great indoor pool for both exercise and leisure. The Elsinore Indoor Pool and hot tub will help you unwind after a long day on the road or a busy day of sightseeing.

What are the best hotels near WIN Entertainment Centre?

KAYAK users like staying at Novotel Wollongong Northbeach and Sage Hotel Wollongong when looking for a hotel in close proximity to WIN Entertainment Centre.

How much does a hotel cost in Wollongong?

In the last 3 days, double rooms in Wollongong have been found on KAYAK for as cheap as $24. On average, the price for a double room is $177.

How much is a hotel in Wollongong for tonight?

In the last 3 hours, KAYAK users looking for double rooms in Wollongong found 3-star hotels from $122 and 4-star hotels from $86. The cheapest room found for tonight was $24.

How much is a hotel in Wollongong for this weekend?

The cheapest hotel room in Wollongong for the upcoming weekend found on KAYAK in the last 3 days was for $112 per night. For the same dates, 3-star hotel rooms have been found for as low as $163 per night and 4-star hotel rooms from $112 per night.

How do I find a hotel in central Wollongong?

After you launch a hotel search on KAYAK, you can refine your research by neighborhood, which allows you to pick the central Wollongong districts. You can also do a search using the city map to choose a specific location, like Wollongong city center.

How can I find hotels near me?

Take a look at our extensive hotel map to find the best hotels near you.

Are there Wollongong hotels with free parking?

There are many hotels in Wollongong that offer both parking and free parking. Popular choices among KAYAK users include Comfort Inn Towradgi Beach , Five Islands Hotel and Headlands Austinmer Beach .

Where to stay in Wollongong?

Everything you need to know for your stay in wollongong, hotels near airports in wollongong, complete your trip to wollongong, other popular hotel destinations, stays in wollongong.

The ultimate travel guide to Wollongong

• getting there
• eat & drink

Lush rainforest trails that lead to breathtaking lookouts, pumping surf breaks and adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities combined with a thriving cultural and foodie scene makes Wollongong , affectionately nicknamed The Gong, one of NSW’s most enthralling cities.

Getting to Wollongong

The great road trips of NSW: Grand Pacific Drive itinerary

Prepare yourself for sweeping coastal views, a hidden national park, heart-pounding adventure activities and so much mor...

The coastal city of Wollongong lies 80 km south of Sydney and can be reached in just under 1.5 hours by car. For a truly spectacular view of the coastline, abandon the most direct route down the M1 and take the scenic drive from the Royal National Park along the Grand Pacific Drive to wind through rainforest and over the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge. Wollongong is also connected from Sydney via the train network.

Top Things to Do in Wollongong

featured post

The 11 best things to do in Wollongong

Wollongong is at once grand and gritty and we’ve stitched together some of the best things to do on a weekender. Besi...

Wollongong combines the best of the outdoors with a burgeoning cultural scene to deliver activities and attractions to suit everyone from the nature lover and adventurer to the refined diner and art lover, with plenty more thrown in for the kids.

Attractions

Nan Tien Temple , which means paradise of the south in Chinese, is the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. Since its opening in 1995, the temple continues to draw a steady stream of tourists, intent on walking through the serene gardens and admiring the sheer scale of the temple. Dine at the onsite café for authentic Asian cuisine and a steaming hot cup of tea before you hit the road.

Standing proudly on the northern side of the headland is the historic Wollongong Breakwater Lighthouse . Constructed from wrought iron in 1871, the local heritage site was restored in 2002 but has been inactive since 1974. Not to be confused with its slightly more modern neighbour, the electricity-powered Wollongong Head Lighthouse to its right, was built from reinforced concrete in 1936 and is still in operation today.

Take a self-guided or host-guided walk around the winding paths of the Wollongong Botanic Gardens . There are a large variety of gardens to explore, from the rainforest and the flowering trees and shrubs to the succulents and the Australian open forest and more. There is a playground to keep the kids entertained with maze and climbing net, as well as plenty of green spaces to relax in.

Views don’t get much better than the one you’ll find at Bald Hill Lookout in Stanwell Tops at the northern tip of Wollongong. Not only will you see expansive views of the Pacific Ocean and the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge, but you’ll also watch hang-gliders and paragliders launch themselves off the edge to glide over coastline. The lookout is an internationally acclaimed area for the sport, and is the very spot where Australian aeronautical pioneer Lawrence Hargrave first flew his box kite in 1894.

Wollongong and its surrounding suburbs are home to some of the coast’s best beaches. If it’s a surf you seek, Sandon Point and Windang Island are two of the best spots in Wollongong and the winter months deliver the most consistent swells.

For those more interested in swimming, relaxing on the sand, or picnicking in a reserve, then head to either Wollongong City Beach or North Wollongong Beach. Nearby Stanwell Park Beach, Coledale Beach and the rock pools at Austinmer Beach are also great alternatives. Swimmers can also get in some early morning laps at the Continental Pool right on Wollongong beach.

There are plenty of hiking trails to explore around Wollongong, but the Sublime Point walking track  is one of the most iconic. The steep 45-minute climb to the top will reward you with far-reaching views over the city and the Pacific Ocean.

If you’re itching to throw a line in the water head to Wollongong City Beach and fish around the boulders or off the rock platform for tailor, salmon, bream and drummer. The breakwall in Wollongong Harbour is another great option.

Once they’ve had enough of the beach, kids can burn off all that extra energy at MagicZoom . The indoor family play centre is kitted out with soft play, climbing structures, slides and an arcade.

Flip Out  is another high-energy activity guaranteed to get your child’s approval. Several of the highlights at the indoor trampoline park include the foam pit, wall running, a human pinball trampoline and the basketball trampoline court.

Take little ones to the Early Start Discovery Space  to visit Australia’s only dedicated children’s museum. The life-sized exhibits provide interactive, play-focused experiences that include crawling inside a giant stomach, designing and building a house, acting on the stage, crawling through a cave and much more.

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Best Places to Stay in Wollongong

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Hotels & Motels

Sage hotel is your go-to for a four-star stay on the foreshore of Wollongong City Beach. Breathe in the fresh ocean air from your balcony, take in the views of the ocean or Mount Keira – depending on the location of your room, and make use of the lap pool on days when you feel like a change from the beach.

The Novotel Wollongong Northbeach  has an equally enviable position on the coastline right across from North Wollongong Beach and a stones-throw from the city’s restaurants and cafes. The spacious, light-filled rooms deliver ocean-views or mountain-views and guests have access to the hotel’s spa, sauna, pool and gym.

If you’re looking to set up a home away from home for an extended holiday at The Gong, then check in to The Mantra Wollongong and make use of their large one or two bedroom apartments.

Caravan & Holiday Parks

Just south of Wollongong in the coastal town of Kiama lies Big4 Easts Beach Holiday Park. The pool complex complete with Sunny’s Adventure Park easily makes this every kid’s dream destination, and they also have an impressive games room, jumping pillow and playground. Camping and caravan sites are available in addition to luxury cabins.

Nearby, Surf Beach Holiday Park  also packs a punch in the caravan park stakes with whirlpool tubs, a clubroom and playground, and cabins with balconies – all within a few steps from the beach. You can also pitch a tent or park your van and bring your pets along for the holiday.

Bulli Beach Tourist Park  is located to the north of Wollongong and offers one, two or three bedroom cabins in addition to powered camping sites with ensuites. Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at the park’s Ruby Café – or have it delivered to your door (or tent).

Coledale Beach Camping Reserve  is ideally positioned just off the Grand Pacific Drive next to the ocean in the small beachside village of Coledale about a 30-minute drive outside of Wollongong. The local surf club manages the campsite and on-site amenities include hot showers, toilets, laundry facilities, camp kitchen in addition to the electric BBQs on the grass promenade nearby

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Old Chaff Mill: stay 3 nights & save 30%

Pamper yourself at a stunningly restored former Chaff Mill and save 30% -living history amongst organic shiraz vineyards.

Railway adventures at The New South Wales Outback

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World Heritage Sites like Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park are just the entrée to this deep dive into the Northern Territory. Explore ancient structures and culture on this tour, and eat a lot of food along the way. Image credit: Tourism NT

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Experience some of NSW’s best scenery, museums, and regional producers in our 1960s sleeping train.

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Spend quality time with your tribe nestled in nature

These one, two and three-bedroom villas are awaiting your tribe’s arrival, set amid the epic Greater Blue Mountains.

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A luxury escape to JW Marriott Gold Coast

Experience ultimate luxury with two nights’ accommodation, plus breakfast for two daily, two welcome beverages on arrival, self-parking and $50 dining credit daily.

Restaurants & Bars in Wollongong

A guide to the best Wollongong restaurants and cafes

Plan your next visit to the Illawarra region around where to eat and drink in Wollongong. Wollongong has, in its own qu...

As the fourth largest city in NSW, behind Sydney , Newcastle and the Central Coast , you’d expect nothing less than a stellar bar and restaurant offering.

Order a quality cup of coffee, a delicious brunch spread and watch the surf roll in over North Wollongong Beach as you sit back and soak in the coastal vibes at Diggies . The seasonal menu is chock full with mouth-watering breakfast favourites, including fluffy buttermilk pancakes served with fresh strawberries, maple syrup and optional additions of sweet ricotta and crispy bacon.

You’ll find Lee and Me café inside a charming old heritage terrace house. Cosy on up alongside the fireplace in winter, soak in the sun on the outdoor terrace with friends in summer or order from the takeaway menu for days when you can’t linger. Try the Prana sticky chai latte with steamed milk and honey, the porridge topped with roasted apple and cinnamon crumble or the pork toastie stuffed with slow cooked pork, relish, cheese and pickles.

The Brewery is the home of Illawarra’s craft beer and also a top notch place to grab a hearty feed. Try the Big Brewery Burger with Black Angus beef, Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato, caramelised onions all drizzled with chipotle aioli and a side of fries. They also have a menu jam-packed with tasty quick bites, a selection of mains on the a la carte menu and a kids menu for the little ones.

The Scarborough Hotel  is well worth the 25-minute drive outside of Wollongong to experience the clifftop beer garden with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Sit on the grass, soak up the sun and dine on your choice of share plates, seafood, hearty modern Australian mains or classic pub fare such as the market fish and chips or cheese burger and chips.

For a truly exceptional meal you can’t go past Babyface Kitchen on Keira Street in Wollongong. Dine with a group and splash out on the set menu or tasting menu to ensure you get to experience as many dishes as possible. Order the Moreton Bay bug schnitzel in salt and pepper sauce and a small of the smoked cauliflower with cream, barley and miso butter sauce.

The award-winning fine dining restaurant Caveau , partners with producers, wine makers and artisans to bring patrons a meal made with the finest organic, sustainable and locally-sourced products with a decidedly native Australian flair. Think wallaby tail and potato pie, barramundi cooked over smoking paperbark and lemon aspen custard with native thyme meringues drizzled in honey.

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Tours and Packages in Wollongong

Thrill seekers can freefall from a plane at over 200 km per hour in 60 seconds with Skydive Sydney . You’ll drop from Australia’s highest altitude of up to 15000 feet with North Wollongong Beach directly below.

Take a scenic cycle around Wollongong with a rental from South Coast Bike Hire . Bikes can be delivered direct to your accommodation, which means you’ll have more time to explore Wollongong’s 42 km of shared paths.

Book at horse riding lesson or ride with experienced, fully accredited instructors at Otford Farm . Set on over 300 acres of vast tropical rainforest with bubbling rivers and ocean views from coastal trails to explore on a one, two or three-hour ride.

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19 Awesome Things to Do in Wollongong, Australia (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: January 5, 2024

Wollongong is a charming coastal city in Australia that doesn’t get as much attention as it deserves. 

Located just one hour south of Sydney along the Grand Pacific Drive, Wollongong has all the best elements of Australian natural beauty and culture. 

There are enough restaurants, bars, shops, cafes, and attractions to make Wollongong classify as a city, but it has the residential feel and relaxed atmosphere of a small beach town. 

It has two amazing beaches, ocean pools, a few nature reserves, a biking trail along the coast, and two mountains nearby. So you can go surfing, cycling, and hiking all in one day!

READ MORE: Don’t miss our ultimate round-up of the best places to visit in Australia !

There’s an art gallery, live music venues, a shopping mall, and weekly street markets. You can also find the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge, two lighthouses, and the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere.

There are so many things to do in Wollongong that appeal to everyone, whether you’re looking for entertainment and culture, or natural beauty and adventure. 

It’s also an extremely accessible place to visit. If you have a car, just head south of Sydney along the stunning Grand Pacific Drive and over the Sea Cliff Bridge. 

If you’d rather not drive, you can just jump on the Southern Trail Line from Sydney. The journey is only an hour and goes directly into Wollongong Train Station. 

Once you arrive, you can start exploring all the best Wollongong attractions!

Table of Contents

1. The Grand Pacific Drive, Bald Hill Lookout, & Sea Cliff Bridge

2. check out the wollongong art gallery, 3. stroll through the wollongong botanic garden, 4. shop at the forager’s market, 5. go for a run or bike ride along the cycleway, 6. learn to surf at north wollongong beach, 7. hike mount kiera, 8. explore puckey’s estate, 9. sky dive, 10. check out nan tien temple, 11. eat ice cream on a hot sunny day, 12. visit the eat street markets, 13. go to the cinema, 14. swim in the rock pools, 15. sunbathe at wollongong city beach, diggies cafe, opus coffee brewers, lettuce b. frank, 17. hike mount kembla, 18. hang out at the illawarra brewery, 19. watch the sunrise at the wollongong head lighthouse, the best hostel in wollongong – wollongong backpackers kieraleigh, best budget accommodation for couples – figtree hotel, best mid-range hotel in wollongong: coniston hotel, best luxury hotel in wollongong – adina apartment hotel, budget: thai gong restaurant, mid-range: kneading ruby, high-end: steamers bar and grill, the best things to do in wollongong.

Wollongong is quite small, so a 2-3 day weekend trip from Sydney is perfect. Or you can visit on a day trip.

If you want to take more day trips to the surrounding areas of Wollongong, you could even stay for up to a week and visit nearby areas like the Blue Mountains , the Royal National Park, or the Southern Highlands.

You could also head south on a day trip to enjoy attractions like the Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk, Port Kembla Beach, Lake Illawarra, Budderoo National Park, or Jamberoo Action Park.

So for anyone wondering what to do in Wollongong, Australia, there is no shortage of attractions and activities in this beautiful coastal city of NSW!

Here is our list of the 20 best things to do in Wollongong!

If you’re driving from Sydney to Wollongong, you can do so along the Grand Pacific Drive. This coastal route from Sydney to Kiama is so gorgeous, and you’ll pass lots of scenic lookouts. Bald Hill Lookout is the best one, which overlooks Stanwell Park beach.

After Bald Hill Lookout, continue driving until you reach the famous Sea Cliff Bridge! It’s a massive, white bridge that curves away from the seaside cliffs and sticks out over the Pacific Ocean. So when you drive across it, you feel like you are flying over the sea. 

It’s one of the coolest spots along the Grand Pacific Drive. The Sea Cliff Bridge has a little pedestrian walkway next to the road so you can walk along it as well. 

After passing the bridge, you’ll drive through lots of charming beach towns until you can turn off the Grand Pacific Drive to Wollongong.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or not, visiting the local art gallery is one of the best things to do in Wollongong. 

This small but entertaining art museum is full of paintings, photographs, and other pieces from talented local artists. Lots of the art depicts scenes from the surrounding areas, so it’s a cool insight into the local culture, scenery, and wildlife. 

The Wollongong Art Gallery is located right in the town centre, and only takes about an hour to explore but it’s a fun activity especially for a rainy day. 

One of the best Wollongong attractions is the Botanic Gardens . 

This huge green space is free to enter, so even if you’re not interested in all the plants you can just come relax in the gardens and read or have a picnic. 

There are so many cool things to see at the Wollongong Botanic Garden, including rainforest and desert sections full of native and exotic plants. 

The Wollongong Botanic Garden also has a small pond and stream with an adorable Japanese bridge and a beautifully landscaped rose garden.

Every Friday morning, the main pedestrian street of Wollongong fills up with an incredible local market . 

This is the Forager’s Market, a farmers market where you can shop for fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade pastries, desserts, and bread, trendy clothes and accessories and a whole bunch of other products. 

All the vendors are well-loved locals who run small businesses, so shopping here is a nice way to support the community and pick up some interesting souvenirs. 

So if you’re in town on a Friday, this is one of the top things to do in Wollongong. 

One of the best things to do in Wollongong is going for a bike ride along the Cycleway. This long pedestrian-friendly strip of sidewalk runs from Wollongong Harbour and up the coast all the way to the town of Thirroul. 

The whole trail is 17 km long, so this is a great way to get some exercise and explore the small towns along the coast. 

There are also some nice cafes right on the beach along the cycleway, like the North Break Cafe in Woonona, Olive’s Cafe in Bellambi, and Ruby’s Cafe in Bulli . 

You could also further explore Thirroul when you arrive up there. The Sublime Point Lookout is a steep hike, but it offers a panoramic view of the entire Wollongong area.

For bike rentals in Wollongong, visit Trek Bicycle or Wollongong Bike Hub .

READ MORE: Check out the perfect 1 day in Sydney itinerary !

Wollongong has two beaches right in the city center. 

North Wollongong Beach is an amazing place for swimming, sunbathing, and learning how to surf. 

If you’ve never learned to surf but always wanted to try, the waves here are small and easy so it’s a great place to learn. 

There are a couple of surf schools with experienced local instructors who can teach you the basics. 

Pines Surfing Academy is located right on North Wollongong Beach.

The nearby Mount Kiera is one of the best things to see in Wollongong. 

Incredibly, this seaside city has its own mountain, so hikers and lovers of the outdoors will not be disappointed here!

The Mount Kiera Ring Track is a 5.5km loop that trails around the mountain. The walk takes between 3 and 5 hours depending on your fitness level. 

Visit the official NSW National Parks website for more detailed information.

If you’re not up for hiking, you can also drive to the top of Mount Kiera for an amazing lookout point over the landscape. 

For more hiking opportunities, check out these awesome walks in the Royal National Park just up the road. It’s only a 30-40 minute drive from Wollongong to the Royal National Park, making it an amazing excursion from the city.

Those looking to explore nature without going as far as Mount Kiera can visit Puckey’s Estate, a nature reserve between North Beach and the next town north of Wollongong, Fairy Meadow. 

Mout Kiera is only about a 15-minute drive away from the city centre, but Puckey’s Estate is around 5 minutes away. You can even walk there from central Wollongong, as it lies right on the Cycleway. 

Once you reach Puckey’s Estate, enjoy a couple of hours exploring the bush and walking, running, or biking along the woodland trails. 

You can also emerge from the forest and walk along the inlet, or see the sand dunes that line the ocean. 

What better to enjoy the coastal scenery of Wollongong than by jumping out of a plane? 

Believe it or not, sky diving is actually one of the top things to do in Wollongong. 

There is a very reputable sky diving company in Stuart Park near North Beach, and they are constantly taking adrenaline-seekers on jumps. 

You can fully trust their equipment and their guides, but this activity is definitely not for the faint-hearted!

For a fun and insightful day trip from Wollongong, drive about 20 minutes away to the town of Berkeley, NSW, and check out the Nan Tien Temple . 

This is actually the largest Buddhist Temple in the Southern Hemisphere, which is quite unexpected! Australia isn’t a Buddhist country, but this temple is extraordinary. 

Nan Tien Temple includes a large main temple and courtyard, a towering pagoda, a gift shop, museum, tea room, classrooms and retreat spaces, and a landscaped garden. 

So if you’re looking to see something majestic when you visit Wollongong, the Nan Tien Temple is the perfect place to go. 

Australian summers can be scorching, so you’ll need to cool down on a sunny day. 

After swimming in the sea, head into town and treat yourself to ice cream. 

Here are some delicious ice cream shops in Wollongong that feel like absolute heaven on a hot day. 

• Normie’s Ice Cream and Gelato
• Gelatissimo
• Cold Rock Ice Creamery
• Wendy’s Milk Bar
• C9 Chocolate and Gelato

READ MORE: Check out these great day trips from Sydney !

For more food adventures in addition to ice cream and dumplings, the Eat Street Markets is one of the most enjoyable Wollongong attractions. 

Every Thursday evening, Crown Street fills up with food trucks selling everything from Indian curries to Greek wraps to Ethiopian dishes to handmade pasta to sugary churros and more. 

Tea lights fill the trees along the street, and street musicians serenade you while you eat. This is definitely a must-have experience in Wollongong. 

Another one of the most enjoyable Wollongong activities is going to the cinema. 

Whether you’re looking for entertainment on a rainy day or something fun to do in the evening after dinner, the movie theatre in Wollongong is always showing the best new films. 

Treat yourself to some popcorn and get cozy at Greater Union Cinemas !

The local rock pools are some of the most beautiful things to see when you visit Wollongong. 

Whether you visit a rock pool at low tide to soak in the serenity, or at high tide to witness the wild waves tumbling over the edges of the pool, the rock pools are a truly beautiful addition to the Wollongong coastline. 

You can swim laps if you’re feeling ambitious, or just splash around and dry out on the rocks afterwards. 

There are some small and shallow rock pools up on the headland near the lighthouse, and there are deeper ones called the Gentlemen’s Baths located just to the south of North Beach. There is also an official swimming pool with lanes for swimming laps near Wollongong Harbour.

Both are incredible scenic spots, especially at sunrise or sunset. Visit a rock pool for a quick dip during the day or to just absorb the stunning coastal views. 

Spending some time at City Beach is one of the best things to do in Wollongong. 

This is the city’s biggest beach, stretching for 3.1 kilometers along the coast. There are lots of fun waves here for swimming, bodyboarding and surfing, and the water is a brilliant shade of sapphire on a nice day. 

The sandy portion of the beach is super wide and long, so it’s perfect for lying out in the sun or going for a long walk. 

On weekends, the beach gets quite lively with locals playing sports and blasting music. 

There are also a few cafes and restaurants right next to the beach if you get hungry!

16. Eat Brekkie at a Local Cafe

Cafe culture is strong everywhere in Australia, and Wollongong has some particularly great cafes. 

Most of them open early and close around 2 or 3 pm, so breakfast is the best time to visit. 

Whether you’re in the mood for something savoury, like smashed avo on toast or a bacon and egg roll, or something sweet like an acai bowl, a homemade pastry, or yogurt with muesli and fruit, there is no shortage of delicious food options at the local cafes. 

They all serve incredibly high-quality coffee as well. 

Here are some of the top cafes in Wollongong:

This trendy cafe is located right on the North Beach Pavilion. Grab a smoothie and stroll along the beach!

• Address: 1 Cliff Road
• Website: https://diggies.com.au/wollongong/

This traditional cafe serves its delicious coffee in gorgeous homemade ceramic mugs.

• Address: 118-120 Keira Street
• Website : https://www.opuscoffeebrewers.com/

This health-conscious cafe has lots of vegan and gluten-free breakfast and lunch options.

• Address: 337 Crown Street
• Website: https://lettucebfrank.com.au/

READ MORE: Plan your trip to Australia using our travel guide with everything you need to know!

Believe it or not, there are actually two mountains in Wollongong! This city has it all. 

Mount Kembla is just south of Mount Kiera, and you can see both of them in the distance while driving into Wollongong. 

Mount Kembla is a bit bigger than Mount Kiera, but it’s not as popular to climb. 

However, it also has its own Ring Track that trails around the peak. This trail is marked as a Grade 4, meaning previous bushwalking experience is recommended. 

The loop is 5.3 kilometres long and can take between 2 and 4 hours.

This is an amazing way to immerse yourself in nature and maybe see some local wildlife like echidnas or cockatoos. It’s also free! 

Visit the NSW National Parks website for more information about the hike.

For anyone who likes beer, socializing, and an ocean view, head to the Illawarra Brewery . 

This is the perfect place to come on a weekend afternoon, or on a weekday evening for some casual drinks and hearty pub food. 

There are plenty of craft beers to choose from at the Illawarra Brewery, and they often have happy hours and theme nights on for guests. 

You can also get fancy grazing boards to snack on while you sip. 

In any coastal Australian town, sunrise is one of the most beautiful and pure times of the day. 

The streets are quiet, the sky is colourful, and the atmosphere is promising. 

One of the best things to do in Wollongong is to watch the sunrise at the lighthouse. There are actually two lighthouses in the city, but the biggest one is located on Flagstaff Hill . The smaller one is Wollongong Breakwater Lighthouse, located in Wollongong Harbour.

Up on Flagstaff Hill, you get incredible sweeping views of the entire coastline. You can also see the mountains in the background. The sunrise from Wollongong Harbour isn’t bad either, so you can pick your spot.

This is the best spot to see the sunrise, so try to get up early one day and witness it. 

Wollongong Travel Guide

Now that you know what to do in Wollongong, here are some of the best accommodations and places to eat in the city.

Best Accommodation – Where to Stay in Wollongong, New South Wales

Anyone wondering where to stay in Wollongong will be happy to know, there are lots of options!

There are some lovely hotels in Wollongong located super close to the beach. The budget accommodation options are more limited, but there is at least one great cheap hostel.

This big, cozy backpacker hostel feels more like a home than a hostel!

It has a beachy decor, friendly staff, and is within walking distance to the town centre and to the beach.

Figtree Hotel is an affordable, 3-star hotel that offers everything you need for your stay. From free parking, to excellent staff and a convenient location, you can save money and stay comfortably during your visit to Wollongong!

This four-star hotel is quite affordable, especially when you consider the quality you get. The rooms are crisp and clean with refreshing, modern decoration.

It is close to the train station and town, though it is a little far from the beach so this is an ideal place to stay if you have a car!

For travellers who want their own gorgeous apartment in Wollongong, this is the best place to stay.

Even though this hotel is walking distance from the beach and town, there’s a pool, hot tub, sauna, and restaurant on-site so you have the choice of going out or staying in.

Best Restaurants in Wollongong

Wollongong has so many restaurants of all different price ranges and cuisines. You can splurge on fresh seafood and wine or find a flavorful Thai curry for less than 20 AUD, and both are delicious!

Thai Gong Restaurant is a small and humble local restaurant that sells authentic Thai dishes for under 20 AUD. Visit at lunchtime and the prices will be even cheaper!

For heartwarming food and great wine, head to Kneading Ruby . This place specializes in Italian cuisine, and the homemade pizzas are incredible.

One of the best restaurants in Wollongong is Steamers Bar and Grill . Located right next to City Beach and the Wollongong Harbour, this classy and modern restaurant has ocean views, specialty cocktails, and plenty of mouthwatering dishes and desserts.

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Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort

201 Pioneer Road, Fairy Meadow, 2519 Wollongong, Australia – Excellent location – show map – Train Access

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Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort Reserve now

Lock in a great price for Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort – rated 8.4 by recent guests!

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Value for money

Set on 30 acres of lawns and landscaped gardens, Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort features an indoor heated swimming pool, 1 tennis court and 2 half basket-ball courts. Each apartment includes a fully equipped kitchen. All apartments at Surf Leisure Resort Wollongong include a lounge area with TV and sofa. Some rooms have a private terrace or balcony, while most rooms feature air conditioning. Barbecues with outdoor seating are located around the resort. Guests have access to mini golf. There is also a children’s playground and bicycles are available for hire. Located behind a long stretch of beach between Fairy Meadow and Towradgi Beaches, Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort is a 30-minute drive from Jamberoo Recreation Park. It is less than 10 minutes’ drive to the shops and restaurants in Wollongong city center.

Couples in particular like the location – they rated it 8.8 for a two-person trip.

Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap

• Indoor swimming pool
• Free parking
• Family rooms
• Non-smoking rooms
• Tea/Coffee Maker in All Rooms

Property highlights

Top Location: Highly rated by recent guests (9.1)

Free Parking Available On Site

Activities:

• Golf course (within 2 miles)

Loyal Customers

끖 There are more repeat guests here than most other properties.

Availability

Select dates to see this property's availability and prices

Property practices

Categories:, guests who stayed here loved.

Resort facilities at Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort Great facilities! Review score, 8.6

• Toilet paper
• Bathtub or shower
• Private Bathroom
• Wardrobe or closet
• Alarm clock
• Picnic area
• BBQ facilities Additional charge
• Dining table
• Coffee machine
• Kitchenware
• Electric kettle
• Refrigerator
• Kitchenette
• Socket near the bed
• Bicycle rental Additional charge
• Tennis equipment Additional charge
• Mini golf Additional charge
• Golf course (within 2 miles) Additional charge
• Dining area
• Sitting area
• Flat-screen TV
• Tea/Coffee maker
• Fax/Photocopying Additional charge
• Laundry Additional charge
• Wake-up service/Alarm clock
• Meeting/Banquet facilities Additional charge
• Invoice provided
• Fire extinguishers
• Smoke alarms
• Convenience store on site
• Air conditioning Additional charge
• Tile/Marble floor
• Private entrance
• Ironing facilities
• Entire unit located on ground floor
• Open all year
• All ages welcome
• Heated pool

House rules Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort takes special requests – add in the next step!

Child policies.

Children of all ages are welcome.

Children 3 and above will be charged as adults at this property.

To see correct prices and occupancy info, add the number and ages of children in your group to your search.

Crib and extra bed policies

The number of cribs allowed depends on the option you choose. Check your selected option for more info.

There are no extra beds available at this property.

All cribs are subject to availability.

The fine print Must-know information for guests at this property

Please note that there is a 2.5% charge when you pay with an American Express credit card.

Guests are required to show a photo ID and credit card upon check-in. Please note that all Special Requests are subject to availability and additional charges may apply.

A damage deposit of AUD 200 is required on arrival. This will be collected by credit card. You should be reimbursed on check-out. Your deposit will be refunded in full by credit card, subject to an inspection of the property.

FAQs about Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort

Is wollongong surf leisure resort popular with families.

Yes, Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort is popular with guests booking family stays.

What type of room can I book at Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort?

How close to the beach is wollongong surf leisure resort.

The nearest beach is 1,500 feet from Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort. All distances are measured in straight lines. Actual travel distances may vary.

What is there to do at Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort?

• Bicycle rental
• Tennis equipment
• Swimming pool

How far is Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort from the center of Wollongong?

Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort is 2.5 miles from the center of Wollongong. All distances are measured in straight lines. Actual travel distances may vary.

Does Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort have a pool?

Yes, this hotel has a pool. See details about the pool and other facilities on this page.

What are the check-in and check-out times at Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort?

Check-in at Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort is from 2:00 PM, and check-out is until 10:00 AM.

How much does it cost to stay at Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort?

The prices at Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort may vary depending on your stay (e.g. dates, hotel's policy etc.). To see prices, enter your dates.

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