Articles

Looking for things to do in Wollongong tonight, this weekend r the month ahead? Welcome to What’s on in Wollongong & Illawarra Guide! Your insider guide to planning best days and nights out. Find all upcoming events in the Illawarra including Music, Arts & Theatre shows in Wollongong, Our Local Illawarra Markets, Wollongong Sports & […]

Here at What’s on in Wollongong, we’ve found the best Wollongong, Shellharbour and Illawarra School Holiday programs, events, activities & low-cost kids holiday FUN. The school holidays are fast approaching, but don’t worry there are plenty of fun things to do with kids. Read on for the best What’s on for Kids School Holiday Guide. Need […]

Are you googling “Local Markets Near Me“? We have THE best markets in Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama, Nowra and Shoalhaven areas. Here at What’s On in Wollongong, we showcase diverse markets including Food, Artisan, Farmers, Craft and Vintage and more. Here are our top 20 Illawarra markets below. Or, find Illawarra or Wollongong Market today or […]

On the hunt for the ultimate festivals in Wollongong, Shoalhaven and the Illawarra? Well, look no further, baby! What’s on in Wollongong has rounded up the most vibrant and diverse festivals on the South Coast of NSW. From music parties that move your body, to folk gatherings that soothe the soul. From celebrations of Art and […]

Welcome to What’s on in Wollongong for Couples Edition. The best romantic things to do for couples in Wollongong! Here at What’s On In Wollongong we’ve put together some delicious ways to surprise your lover – locally! These unique date ideas represent the best that the South Coast Of NSW has to offer. So whether […]

Find your Illawarra Christmas Carol event near me, with What’s on in Wollongong. Enjoy the best Christmas Carols nearby; we’ve done the research for you! Here are the 2024 Christmas Carols happening in Illawarra suburbs and across Wollongong. We also have the best Christmas lights in the Illawarra and Wollongong areas. Pardon the pun, but here […]

Looking for the best Santa Photos in Wollongong? Let What’s on in Wollongong guide you to your perfect Illawarra Santa photo locations, including Shellharbour. Find various Christmas styled Photo themes, shopping centres offering Santa photo’s, Sensitive Santa options, and even Santa visit viewings! Find more Christmas events, markets and all seasonal what’s on here. Dapto […]

Planning your wedding in the glorious Illawarra or Wollongong? Keen to know our wedding venues, how much weddings cost, best packages and trends? Whether you’re a local or planning a Destination Wedding in South Coast of NSW, welcome to our Wedding Trends article. We’ve referenced the Easy Weddings – Wedding Industry Report for 2024. Plus […]

Find the best Christmas Light Displays in The Illawarra with What’s On in Wollongong There is something truly magical about all those twinkling lights at Christmas time and the Christmas lights in Wollongong are no exception. Check out the list below for some amazing Christmas lights in Wollongong and beyond! If you have an amazing display […]

Hello best things to do in Wollongong, Shellharbour & Illawarra wide over summer. We have found the best ways to stay cool, and do cool stuff! Discover our best swimming spots, fantastic summer events, best local eats and how to keep the kids entertained. Whether you live here and have the whole summer to explore […]

Need a venue for a Wollongong conference, work function, team dinner or seasonal corporate event? Welcome to What’s On in Wollongong’s guide to event and function spaces across the Illawarra. Whether it’s a full corporate conferencing with accommodation and catering, a smaller more intimate space, boardroom meetings or team dinners, we have you covered. Here […]

Uncover the top 20 Christmas gift ideas in Wollongong and the Illawarra! We’ve curated a list of the most popular and unique presents for your family, friends, neighbours, teachers, and colleagues. At What’s On In Wollongong, we believe in the joy of giving, and our gift shopping guide helps you find that perfect Christmas gift […]

Want to hike, walk and explore the stunning Illawarra escarpment? Let us recommend our best Wollongong walking tracks. The stunning and rugged escarpment on NSW’s South Coast, is renowned for its biodiversity, indigenous significance and of course its views and walks. The heavy canopy of rainforest hides many special walking tracks, all of which are […]

Sanctuary By Thrive is Wollongong’s leading Medical Clinic for skin concerns, laser skin treatment & holistic health including weight and Menopause management. The most effective anti-aging skin treatments for lines, wrinkles, acne & rosacea, plus skin laser, is now accessible with local GP and Aesthetic Physician Doctor Jemima Grant. Dr Grant’s new Unanderra rooms – […]

Book your Wollongong & Shellharbour Christmas Day Lunches, Dinners & Events. Whether it’s Christmas Day Seafood Specials, a more casual pub or club lunch, or special Illawarra restaurants open on Christmas Day. What’s on in Wollongong has you covered, read on. Outsource Christmas Day Lunch or Dinner! Or bring Christmas Catering to your home. We cover Christmas […]

Christmas Party Ideas, Venues and Packages in Wollongong / Shellharbour & South Coast of NSW. Get inspired, plan for Christmas Function success. What’s on in Wollongong has researched fantastic ideas for Work, Corporate or Social Christmas Parties across the Illawarra. Whatever your budget, these Christmas party venues, ideas and catering options will make a wonderful […]

Googling ‘Great MTB trails near me’? Wollongong & the Illawarra region is a Mountain Bike Trail Riders paradise. Whether you are starting out and learning mountain bike skills (berm baby, berm!). Or, looking for the ultimate gnarley, steep black-diamond MTB ride, we have the best MTB trail for you. Welcome to What’s on in Wollongong’s […]

The restaurants, cafes and pubs in Thirroul are fantastic and diverse! Whichever you choose, it’s likely to be a delicious meal and a great experience. Here at What’s on in Wollongong’s Things to do in Thirroul, we’ve sampled the best Thirroul food: Contemporary Australian, Japanese, Thai, Mexican, Italian, and popular burger restaurants. We love how […]

Puckeys Estate Nature Reserve, nestled beside Fairy Meadow Beach, is a beautiful walk and place to visit in Wollongong. This What’s on in Wollongong insider guide covers all you need to know about visiting and walking Puckeys Estate. From how to get there, bushwalks and best activities for kids and families. Puckeys Estate is a […]

Planning a micro-wedding, elopement ceremony and celebration? Small and intimate weddings are beautiful. Firstly, congrats! Secondly, we have cherry picked some stunning micro wedding venues Illawarra wide. Get dreamy planning your small wedding around Wollongong / South Coast of NSW. From affordable to luxury small weddings, here’s our What’s on in Wollongong insider guide to […]

Wollongong and its surrounding Illawarra region are a treasure trove of attractions, sites and experiences. If you’re wondering how to spend a day or a weekend in Wollongong, look no further for inspiration! Written by a born and bred ‘Gong local, this guide lists the very best things to do in Wollongong and the Illawarra. […]

Dive into Wollongong’s best waterfalls! What’s On in Wollongong‘s waterfall walks around Wollongong & the Illawarra, plus bushwalks with natural swimming holes. These are some of the loveliest bushland and coastal walks for all ages and fitness levels – its just a bonus that there is a swim waiting for you at the end! Even […]

Your insider guide to Wollongong’s & Illawarra’s best bars, clubs and pubs. Brought to you by the dedicated team at What’s On In Wollongong. We thoroughly enjoyed researching our awesome local venues! Plan the best night out in Wollongong CBD or Shellharbour. Find Illawarra’s small & secret bars, favourite clubs, pubs and cocktail bars, ‘best […]

Are your ears always pricked for the best dog friendly activities in Wollongong? Discover our dog friendly cafes, walks, parks and pubs Illawarra wide. Our little fur babies love to get amongst it. Whether your four-legged-friend loves bushwalking, swimming, digging or even a cheeky puppuccino, we know the perfect spots to take your dog in […]

Live music in Wollongong & Illawarra. Welcome to What’s on in Wollongong’s Gig, Band, Music & Arts Guide. We’ve got wonderful venues for live music in Wollongong, Shellharbour and the Illawarra. Catch beloved local talents and big-name international music acts. Whether you’re in the mood for something mellow or up-tempo, we have you covered. Read […]

Looking for Lunch or Dinner Specials in Wollongong, Illawarra or Shellharbour? Welcome to What’s on in Wollongong’s guide to dining specials at our pubs and local restaurants. Discover bargain dining deals across the Illawarra. We include Wollongong’s best value lunches, dinners, plus fine dining deals too. Discover the best Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday Pub Specials […]

There’s got to be a Happy Hour near me, right? Well, here’s 41 Wollongong, Shellharbour and Kiama pubs and bars with happy hours! Getting a drinks deal on your fave beers, wines and cocktails makes them taste oh so much sweeter. At What’s On In Wollongong, we get it. Whether it’s after work Friday drinks, […]

Bald Hill lookout is one of Illawarra’s top attractions and best lookouts over Wollongong. Visiting Bald Hill is loved by tourists and locals. Perfect for a a day trip, for a catch up, a lunch or a spot of whale / dolphin watching. This What’s on in Wollongong insider guide covers all you need to […]

Looking for amazing cheap eats and best value restaurant offers near me, across the Illawarra and Wollongong? What’s on in Wollongong reveals our best value dining deals on a budget. Grab your mates or family for amazing food deals including $10 Schnitzels and $10 Burgers. Read our top picks for Wollongong / Shellharbour lunch and […]

Picnic locations with ocean views across Wollongong & the Illawarra, what way to enjoy the South Coast of NSW. The native wildflowers are out, the sun is warm and prime picnickin’ season is upon us! Ah, the humble picnic, what is more nourishing than a slow day lazing in the grass together, soaking up some […]

9 Breathtaking Proposal Locations & Ideas on the South Coast of NSW. Planning a marriage proposal? Congratulations! Let What’s On in Wollongong set the scene for some stunning, sweet, romantic locations and ways to get engaged. Create magical ‘Marry Me’ engagement romance and experiences in the Illawarra. With our tree-lined mountains sliding into stunning beaches, […]

Mount Keira is a stunning Illawarra lookout area for a scenic bush walk, a sensational view or a picnic. A chance to admire the sights of Wollongong and sounds of nature at its finest. The lush bush land and iconic views are some of the best in the Illawarra. This What’s on in Wollongong insider […]

Discovering the best things to do in Thirroul, NSW. Thirroul is a treasure trove of goodness, with so much to do and explore. What to do in Thirroul can include sampling day spas, gift shops, Thirroul Restaurants, Cafes, Pubs & Bars, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, glorious beaches and a spectacular theatre. This sunny Northern Illawarra […]

Winter Warmer Pubs, Restaurants and Clubs in Wollongong! Enjoy your beer, vino or dinner fireside in Wollongong and across the Illawarra. Welcome to our insider guide to the best pubs, clubs and dining with fireplaces in Wollongong and the Illawarra. When the temperatures drop and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like cozying up […]

The Illawarra Hawks, our cherished Wollongong team in the National Basketball League (NBL), have a passionate local following. Including us at What’s on in Wollongong! OK, we are somewhat biased but the benefits of Hawks Membership are WAY more than just a guaranteed ticket to each home game at WIN Stadium; it’s a gateway to […]

We have amazing Museums from planes, trains to automobiles, plus science, art and numerous historical societies. Wollongong is even home to Australia’s only Children’s Museum, Early Start Discovery Space! Discover our best museums, top historical attractions and venues in Wollongong. Here at What’s on in Wollongong, we’ll show you the best ways to discover our […]

Wondering where to watch live sport ‘near me’? What’s on in Wollongong shows you our best bars, pubs and clubs with big screens. Grab your fellow sports enthusiasts and watch your team together on the big screen. Relish the atmosphere of our best sports bars. Wollongong and the Illawarra region have fantastic venues to catch […]

Considering a Winter Wedding in the Illawarra or South Coast of NSW? You’ll be delighted to know that Winter Weddings have many advantages. Here at What’s on in Wollongong, we’ve interviewed the wedding event experts at City Beach Function Centre, to get you all the insider knowledge to winter wedding venue planning! After the perfect […]

Relationships breakdown, families separate. Hearts often don’t break evenly.  There is usually significant animosity involved in a relationship breakdown, generally arising from personal behaviours and where assets and lifestyle are at stake. Add to this children’s issues, embarrassment and stress, and it’s a very challenging time for everyone.  There is a wealth of information available […]

If you're a beer lover visiting Wollongong, you're in luck! The city boasts a thriving craft beer scene with plenty of top-notch breweries to explore. To help you plan your next beer tour, we've put together a list of the 10 best breweries in Wollongong. From traditional ales to experimental brews, these breweries offer something for everyone. Whether you prefer a cozy taproom or a sprawling beer garden, you'll find plenty of options on our list. So grab your friends and get ready to discover Wollongong's hidden beer gems.

Where to Whale Watch in Wollongong & NSW South Coast. Each year from May to November, more than 40,000 humpback and southern right whales migrate up and down the NSW South Coast. Let us at What’s on in Wollongong show the best Whale Watching vantage points in Wollongong, Shellharbour, Illawarra and further down NSW South Coast. […]

Treetops Adventure Nowra is an amazing Adventure Park for kids and adults. On the South Coast of NSW, an easy one hour drive from Wollongong, it’s Australia’s first tree ropes, ziplining and cliff edge park. If you’re looking for the best things to do in Nowra, what to do in the school holidays, a great day-trip from Sydney, then look […]

How to make the bride-to-be feel special. Get inspired with our Best of Wollongong’s Hen’s Activities, Bridal Shower celebrations and Hen Night Ideas. Whether you want fun, creative, cost effective or luxury Hen Party options. What’s on in Wollongong has you covered. Here’s our Illawarra and South Coast Guide to the best party celebration with […]

Looking for NSW South Coast best wineries? From sprawling vineyards to boutique wineries tucked away in green valleys, the NSW South Coast boasts a delightful array of wine destinations waiting to be explored. Whether you want a in-depth wine tour or more a fun gathering for wine tasting, we reveal your best tours and options […]

In the heart of Wollongong, where rolling greens slide into the sparkling ocean, lies the Wollongong Golf Club. If you’re looking for the perfect beachside wedding venue in the Illawarra, then welcome! Wollongong Golf Club offers all wedding packages from large and lavish to intimate and affordable. For couples seeking a smaller or elopement-style celebration, […]

Looking for the perfect wedding venue in Wollongong, Illawarra or Shoalhaven? Look no further! Here at What’s On In Wollongong, we have the local insiders’ guide to the best wedding venues in the Illawarra. Whether it’s large and traditional ceremony’s, intimate or elopement style, overlooking the ocean, micro weddings, or weddings on a budget, read […]

The iconic Sublime Point Walking Track in Austinmer has long been a local favourite, and one of the best bushwalks in Wollongong and the Illawarra. Unfortunately this beloved walking trail has been closed due to rockslides for what seems like an eternity. But following an extensive upgrade, the lower section of this amazing bushwalk has […]

With so many unique and brilliant things to do around Wollongong, you’re unlikely to run out of local attractions and things to do. But when that day comes and you feel like discovering different things to do in the Illawarra, we’re on the case. If you fancy a change or you’re tired of sharing Wollongong’s […]

If you are looking for an exceptional Wollongong education and training college, who supports you to learn, develop skills and grow, then welcome to WEA Illawarra. WEA Illawarra offer Educational Courses, Short Courses and Accredited Training to enhance your skills and / or employability. Their adult Wollongong courses like IT skills for seniors, photography classes, art […]

Here in the Illawarra we have some of the most beautiful, accessible and cleanest beaches on the coast. Clear blue waters, incredible escarpment views, golden sands and some very respectable surf breaks make this piece of Dharawal Country a beach lover’s paradise. So whether you’re looking to cool off on a hot day, get in […]

If you’re planning your wedding day in Wollongong or the Illawarra – congratulations! You may be balking at that statement knowing how much weddings can cost. The average cost of a wedding in 2021 was $27,228 – though with rising inflation and cost-of-living increases biting at our heels, even an “average” wedding will end up […]

(above main image courtesy of Kramer Photography) Do you need a little saltwater therapy without the sand or the shories? Our Wollongong and Illawarra region has dozens of tidal rock and swimming pools just waiting to be discovered. These delicious ocean refreshed pools range from rock pool to Olympic in size and design, so you’re […]

What’s on in Wollongong’s local guide to Bars, Pubs and Clubs for Amazing Cocktails. Let us shortcut you to our best cocktails and cocktail happy hours in Wollongong & the Illawarra. Celebrate, unwind and reconnect. Get your mates on board and sample our region’s finest cocktails – we loved researching this article! You may also […]

Because it’s not just Five Barrel Brewing’s divine array of craft beers. It’s reviewed as one of the Illawarra’s best social venues that everyone loves. Why? It’s a number one Wollongong Brewery with great food, live music on Saturdays, family-run welcoming vibes, inside and outside areas, beer tasting and inside and outside areas and tasting paddles. Plus […]

Building a duplex in the Illawarra or Wollongong can be an exciting and rewarding project. A duplex can add significant value to your property, but it’s also daunting. We asked Wollongong’s Multi-Award Winning, Duplex and Building experts at Grand Pacific Homes to share all, so you can consider if this is the right construction project […]

Your Insider’s Guide to Woo-ing in Wollongong! Indulge your senses at Wollongong’s most enchanting romantic restaurants. Explore our curated list of intimate dining destinations, perfect for foodies on the hunt for culinary adventure – or a perfect date night without the kids! From candlelit dinners in our best Illawarra Restaurants to Wollongong fine dining with […]

The majestic Sea Cliff Bridge, Wollongong. It’s one of the most scenic spots on the South Coast NSW Australia, the highlight of the famous Grand Pacific Drive. This top Illawarra tourist attraction is also on my daily commute. Every morning I get to drive the half-kilometre of gently curving bends that hug the sandstone cliffs. […]

Calling all water-babies big and small! We have some glorious warm weather coming our way, so now is the time to explore some of the best swimming pools around Wollongong. We are so lucky to have an abundance of swimming options in our local area, so whether you love to dive in for a few […]

We’ve picked out some of the best beachfront cafes and restaurants perfect for every occasion. Whether you are looking for somewhere to take the kids for a casual lunch or an upscale venue for special occasions, dining with ocean views in Wollongong is a special treat. The Lagoon Seafood Restaurant Stuart Park Grand Pacific Drive […]

Great news for us South Coast foodies! We have a thriving array of dining / drinking options now more than ever! Here are our top 8 choices and why the locals love getting it on with these venues. Please note: book in advance as these venues book up real quick! South Sailor – Thirroul (Northern […]

Check out these 5 best bush walks in Wollongong and the Illawarra. Great local walks for family’s and all ages. Get some bracing fresh air clearing out the lungs, it’s excellent for your immune system and well being. Plan your weekend walk from any one of these faves….(please note – always check first with NSW […]

Author: Joanne Danckwardt of One Agency JD Property Agents Around the family dinner table or at drinks with friends, at some point someone will give their Wollongong property market forecast. Having been in the real estate industry for almost 30 years, I’ve seen how trends have emerged over time. There are cycles where the season […]

Waterfront, Unique, Premier Wedding Venue Illawarra, NSW. City Beach Function Centre offers flexible, affordable, dreamy luxury wedding packages. Here at What’s On In Wollongong, we know why our region is so incredible and offers a stunning and alternative place to get married. We have researched the best wedding venues across the Illawarra. If you are looking […]

Best Outdoor Wedding Places Illawarra & Wollongong to say I Do The trend for outdoor wedding ceremonies is so hot right now. If you are planning an Illawarra wedding, welcome to our insider guide! Here at What’s On In Wollongong, we know our coastline and nature spots make an incredible backdrop for a wedding. If […]

Wollongong Home Builder – Grand Pacific Homes – shares how to avoid the biggest mistakes when building or renovating in the Illawarra  Building Mistakes That Cause Nightmares We’ve all heard the horror stories people share about their nightmare building experience. Be assured, it doesn’t have to be this way. If you plan to build a […]

Welcome to What’s On In Wollongong. We’re dedicated to sharing insider info about our incredible region. We interviewed one of Figtree’s leading real estate agents, Cristian Carvana from The Agency, to get the scoop on living, buying, selling and investing locally. Is Now a Good Time to Sell in Figtree? As of October 2022, Cristian […]

Cyclists are spoilt for choice in Wollongong, where flat coastal routes meet rough mountain terrain ensuring there is something for every kind of cyclist from learner riders right through to old pros. Currently Wollongong offers more than 42km of cycle tracks on shared pathways covering the area between Sandon Point and Lake Illawarra, making Wollongong […]

We all want to feel connected, we all want to belong, we all want a sense of community. We all NEED connection to thrive in life. Fact. We are social creatures. Even introverts have social connection needs. Yet our busy lives, technology and the hangover of the C word (Covid, we mean Covid!), have all […]

Wollongong is known for its great beaches, quality of life and developing culture. Whether you’re moving from a different suburb or you’re selling your home in Wollongong and trying to decide which suburb to move to next, the region offers a range of different options for all different tastes. Mount Pleasant Mount Pleasant is an […]

We’d all love a bit more money at the end of the day – and we can achieve having extra dollars in our pockets by one of two ways – earning more money (easier said than done) or scrutinising our spending. Since we can start on the latter as soon as we’ve finished reading this […]

It’s another edition of The Wollongong Local where we look at some things that make our beautiful city the best place to live. If you missed the introduction to this series, The Wollongong Local: The Beginning, you could find it here. It was a rainy day in Wollongong when I started thinking about how lucky […]

Whether you are a local Wollongong resident searching for a fun weekend activity, or a tourist, looking for the authentic Illawarra experience while on holiday, we’ve got you covered. Check out this list of must-do activities below to enjoy the best our region has to offer. With a combination of indoor and outdoor options, there […]

I promise, not all of my articles will be based on high-end restaurants, but recently we have had a few special occasions, and Debutant wasn’t the only restaurant that impressed. We had been to Steamers Bar & Grill before, and although the entrees were memorable, the rest of the experience wasn’t what we had hoped. […]

For months, I had been reading incredible reviews about a relatively new dining location that had decided to call Wollongong its home, though it was only after a bad experience at my usual special occasion restaurant of choice that I decided to branch out and give it a try. When you’ve been celebrating those anniversaries […]

The warmer months of Spring have hit Wollongong! And with some of our favourite activities and gatherings off the table, it can be hard to get excited. Today I wanted to look at some of the ways you can bring that Spring-fling attitude home and celebrate those rising temperatures. Gardening As my children have grown […]

There is nothing more satisfying than discovering a fantastic new location to have a few drinks or a get together for dinner with friends. This week, we are sharing three fabulous Wollongong locations for you to investigate this weekend. Wondering what else is on in Wollongong? Click Here. Moomin is a fun, quirky little bar […]

Have you ever heard that expression, ‘the grass is always greener on the other side’? Well, this Wollongong local is about to tell you where the grass is the greenest, and the good news is, it is in our own backyards. I didn’t grow up in Wollongong, or even the greater Illawarra area. My younger […]

Two boys, some beers and a heritage building. That’s all it took to make this new addition to the Illawarra brewery scene come to life. Friends and business partners, Stephen House and Brendan Dowd, are the creative team behind the transformation of Bulli’s old guest house near the train station into a Resin Brewing, an […]

Once a petrol station on Port Kembla’s Wentworth Street is now home to the newest kid on the entertainment scene, The Servo – Food Truck Bar. Conceived in 2018, this location has quickly established themselves as one of the most diverse and inclusive live music venues in the Illawarra with an all-ages space that is […]

Travelling with friends and family can be a lot of fun, but it can also be filled with disagreements, opinions and a whole lot of eye-rolling. If you are someone who has discovered the self-satisfying joys of travelling as a party of one, the City of Wollongong would love to host your next adventure. Imagine […]

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Whether you are gearing up for the office or catching up with friends before a weekend event, you might as well be doing it in style. Here is this month’s top three breakfast spots we can’t get enough of. This probably isn’t the first time you […]

We all know that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but sometimes it is also the only meal where you can sit back and enjoy the company of friends or family before the hustle and bustle of the day begins. With just a few weeks left in Summer, we’ve got your Saturday […]

When the weekend rolls around, we all want to make the most of it by spending time with our friends and family. Watching a movie could cost a group of four around $80. Going out for dinner after could easily cost another $60 or so. However, we don’t always want to dish out hundreds of […]

Finding a bush walk that is suitable for everyone to enjoy can be tough but that’s why we love Brokers Nose in Wollongong. Suitable for children, beginners and those with low fitness, the terrain is easy going and you are rewarded with the most amazingly beautiful views views! There is plenty of adventure too with manageable but […]

Explore a natural adventure playground at Macquarie Pass National Park located just 30 minutes from Wollongong. Providing an abundant rainforest you’ll see amazing plant life, birds and native wildlife together with breathtaking views. Conveniently close to both Robertson and the coastal town of Kiama, this is easily a fantastic one day road trip or a chance to […]