Things To Do In Wollongong, New South Wales

Wollongong is a coastal town perched in southern New South Wales, about 90 minutes by car from the hustle and bustle that is Sydney. Whilst many tourists spend a few days in Sydney and move on, they forget about the hidden gems that surround the great metropolis. For a much more relaxed atmosphere, which combines scenic views with great food and drink, Wollongong is the place to visit. In fact, if you are pressed for time, you can spend just one night here, or even take a day trip from Sydney, and be back by dusk. Whether you spend one night or a whole week here, you are guaranteed to fall in love!

The great thing about many Australian country towns, and Wollongong is no exception, is that there is something for everyone to do, regardless of age, budget or preference. With many great beaches, cafes, restaurants, bars and outdoor activities, there is always something on in Wollongong, or as the locals call it, the ‘Gong! Let’s take a journey and explore the best things to do here, from the pristine coastline to the lush bushland, and everything in between!

How To Get There?

Before anything else, you’ll need to drive there, so let’s leave our hotel in Sydney behind and embark on our road trip to the ‘Gong. The drive down from Sydney is arguably one of the most scenic you will ever encounter. Sure, you can take the Princes Highway to ut some time, but why not go scenic, via the Bulli Pass. It does take a bit longer, but it will serve as the beginning of what will be an awe-inspiring experience. Rugged coastline, afoot rocky terrain, looking out to the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean, is just a teaser for what you will discover 90 minutes later.

Get That Sand Between Your Toes

The moment you pull in to Wollongong, you will notice its endless coastline. No matter where you go, there is white sand just waiting for you to enjoy the soft touch of each and every grain. North Wollongong and City Beaches are the best places to start with, as they are relaxing, yet hip and happening at the same time. As you are soaking up the rays, the sound of waves crashing, and the soft sand all around you relay a very down to earth feel, and is great for meditating, as well as coming to peace with yourself and the environment around you.

You will also notice the array of skydivers either in the sky, or coming into land! If you want to emerge from your shell, or simply love a dose or two of natural adrenaline, you can head to Sky Dive Australia, in Stuart Park, and you’ll soon realise the true beauty of Wollongong from above!

Grab A Bite To Eat

There is no shortage of mouth-watering restaurants and cafes in Wollongong. From casual pubs, bars, and clubs, to sophisticated dining options, there is something to cover all budgets.

Breakfast

Let’s start with my favourite, Diggies in North Beach.

This is the best place to start your day, as you can have a healthy meal, with sweeping ocean views, and for a fraction of the cost of other joints! Choose from a variety of hot and cold dishes, including fruit bowls, muesli, and pancakes, sip on a freshly brewed coffee, and watch life happen as you indulge in one of the best brekkie’s you have ever had. There is a queue which forms quite early, so get there as early as possible. If this isn’t a sign you should dine here, I’m not sure what is!

If you are in the heart of town, Lee ‘n Me is the place to be. This cafe is somewhat of an institution here in Wollongong, as they have been the inspiration for multiple baristas, who were trained here, to set up their own cafes in the area. And, for those who enjoy dining in historical places, the building which houses the cafe dates back to 1890!

Lunch/Dinner

Bernardis on Crown is a great family owned restaurant on, yep, you guessed it, Crown Street. It is a mid-priced restaurant with an eclectic mix of Greek and Italian cuisine and is owned by a mother and son who put authenticity and quality before anything else. One of the best things about this restaurant is that it encompasses a homey feel that most definitely does not compromise on quality or quantity. My favourite dish here would have to be the twice-cooked pork belly which comes with a side of potato and spinach dumplings, and fennel puree.

If you are a fan of seafood, you’ll likely know that it is difficult to find affordable seafood in a coastal town. Well, now that search is over with Harbourfront Restaurant, situated on the Belmore Basin. To be honest, I had to search a bit to find an affordable seafood restaurant, but I am glad I kept going, as the food served here uses some of the freshest ingredients possible. For a true taste of affordable Australian seafood, opt for the barramundi with pancetta, peas, and mushrooms with a potato puree.

Burger lovers will savour the 11th best burger in Australia at His Boy Elroy, on Globe Lane. A warehouse-style feel, and dare I say it, one of the best burgers I’ve ever had in, let’s say a unique and interesting setting, makes for a great overall experience. Grab yourself a Fat Boy burger, a pint of craft beer, and enjoy each and every bite in a setting that you will never forget.

The final option I would recommend trying out is My Pantry, on Cliff Road in North Wollongong. With a wine list hand-picked by its owners, and a decor that will take you on an adventure around the world, it truly is a one-of-a-kind place. Again, this is a mid-priced restaurant that will leave you wanting more. Its menu is based around seasonal produce, so you know that regardless of what time of year you dine here, there will be fresh ingredients, and we all know what that means! Tasty food year-round.

No matter your budget or taste pallet, there is an option for all to enjoy here in Wollongong. The best thing about it is that being a small town, there is a real focus on supporting local producers, which in my books is just as important as tasty food.

Get Outside

Nantien Temple

For something a little different, visit the Nantien Temple. You must be thinking ‘What? A temple in a country town?’ Well, that’s what I thought too, but after visiting here, I was left speechless. Aside from simply visiting the temple, you can participate in activities such as meditation, art and some retreats. Whatever your motive for visiting the temple, you will always be welcome. Oh, and did I mention that it is the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere? Crazy, right?

Jamberoo Action Park

This park is a must-visit when in the ‘Gong, and is one of the largest of its kind in the state. After trying my hand at mini-golf, I experienced a bumpy ride in the wave pool and then faced my fears on the funnel-web water slide, which in summer here, is the place to be! Jamberoo is about a half an hour drive from the centre of Wollongong and actually takes you by surprise as the water slides come out of nowhere.

Test Your Balance With Stand Up Paddle Boarding

About a 30-minute drive from Wollongong, Killea Beach offers beginner surfers and paddleboarders a great starting point. The crystal clear water is just wavy enough to keep you rolling, without throwing you off. Even if you are aren’t a beginner, the beach has nothing but stunning views and is worth it even if the surf may be a little too calm!

Illawarra Treetop Walk

To take-in the breathtaking views without skydiving or paragliding, a treetop walk through the dense rainforest is an activity to consider. Soaring 50 metres above the ground, you will be gently swayed on the bridge, which adds to the fun! If you are looking for some activities with a bit more of a rush, you can zipline 35 metres above the forest floor. In doing so, you will have the pleasure of panoramic views of the stunning coastline and tree-tops.

Minnamurra Rainforest

For those who enjoy hiking and birdwatching, exploring Minnamurra Rainforest should be on your bucket list. While hiking through the lush rainforest, you will come across some of mother nature’s best work. Magnificent waterfalls and unforgettable views are just some of the natural wonders you will come across! Bring a picnic and grab a bite in a place you will never forget, in the Minnamurra Rainforest Centre. You can also canoe along the Minnamurra River to experience the rainforest from a whole different perspective.

Wollongong Markets

There are a few markets to explore here. One being the Eat Street Markets, and another being the Friday Forage Market. These markets provide a great spectacle for locals and tourists and is a great place to meet some local producers. Taking a wander through both of the markets will provide you with a sense of how passionate the locals take their food and coffee scene, and is an experience you won’t get elsewhere.

Museums Galore

Wollongong, and indeed the whole Illawarra region, is not short on museums by any stretch. Visit the Wollongong Science Centre, Australia’s biggest railway museum, Railworks, Aircraft Restoration Society Museum, and the Australian Motorlife Museum, are just some of the sites you can visit if you love history.

Transport

Getting around Wollongong is easy if you don’t have a car. Public transport is available by means of a bus and train, with the CBD bus free of charge. These are routes 55A and 55C, which travel in a loop around the metro area, and run every 10 minutes on weekdays, and 20 minutes on weekends.

Final Thoughts

All in all, Wollongong is a great city, which is usually overshadowed by its northern counterpart, Sydney. If you love food, coffee, and a relaxed, yet refined ambiance, I would definitely recommend spending at least a few days here. There are so many things to do here that I can’t fit them all on one list! Everywhere you look there is either history or natural beauty, or both, and combined with the local culture, it is a recipe for an awesome time down in the ‘Gong!

I hope you enjoyed reading this article and learned a thing or two! If so, please do not hesitate to reach out to me and let me know some travel-related topics you would like me to write about. Alternatively, let's just have a chat! I am looking forward to reading your messages.