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    Bald Hill Lookout. Reviews & All You Need to Know

    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 know about visiting Bald Hill. From how to get there, best walks and best activities for kids and families. Get your selfie stick out and get ready for some insta worthy takes! My kids and I LOVED this trip to Bald Hill, it’s a must do…

    How to Get to Bald Hill Lookout

    View of Stanwell Park from Bald Hill Lookout Image c/o Amanda Dawe from Parents Guide

    Address & Location

    Located on Lawrence Hargrave Drive Otford, it is conveniently accessible by car. From Wollongong’s city center, it’s just a short drive of around 30 minutes. Drive the scenic route via Lawrence Hargreaves drive, stopping the cute and vibrant coastal towns of Thirroul, Austinmer, and Coledale. Ample parking is available.

    Public Transport Options

    For those preferring public transport, Take a train from Wollongong Station heading north on the South Coast Line towards Otford Station (about 45 minutes). From Otford Station, it’s about a 20-30 minute walk (around 2 km) up the hill to Bald Hill Lookout. Buses run along Lawrence Hargrave Drive, but services to Bald Hill can be infrequent. It’s best to check the Transport for NSW website for bus schedules.

    Cycling to Bald Hill

    If you enjoy cycling (and you are fit, it is hilly!) you can follow the Grand Pacific Drive route. It’s about 30 km from Wollongong, and you’ll pass through scenic coastal areas, including the Sea Cliff Bridge. Some road cycling is needed (not ideal for kids), but the cycle path takes you from Wollongong – Thirroul, so some of the way with divine ocean views.

    Stunning view and Mosaic seat Image c/o Amanda Dawe from Parents Guide

    Spectacular Views

    Locals keep coming back because it’s just simply stunning. Avoid the crowds by coming mid week, it never fails to please. Bald Hill Lookout has some of the most sensational views of Wollongong, the coastline, and the surrounding escarpment. It’s a must-visit spot for photographers and nature lovers alike. The lookout is easily accessible from the car park and provides seating areas to relax and take in the scenery.

    Cafe, Toilet & Picnic Facilities

    There is a cafe on site you can view the cafe’s open hours online, there is also toilets. Along to the lookout, you’ll find many seats and tables to have a sit, relax and take the view in. It’s an ideal spot for a play or a snack or lunch, allowing you to enjoy a meal with a view. Pack a picnic basket and make the most of this serene location. The birds will surely wonder over to say hello.

    Cultural Significance of Bald Hill

    Indigenous Heritage

    Bald Hill holds significant cultural importance for the local Dharawal people, the hill is part of their traditional lands, and the nearby coastal areas provided essential resources such as food and shelter.

    Historical Landmarks

    It was on the beach below Bald Hill that Lawrence Hardgrave, an Australian pioneer of flight, made a successful flight on 12 November 1894. A memorial cairn dedicated to him has been erected at the peak of the hill.

    Can You Take Dogs to Bald Hill?

    You will need to keep your dog on a leash at all times and remember to pick up after them. Dogs are not allowed within 10m picnic tables.

    Educational Opportunities

    Teach your kids about the local flora and fauna, the cultural significance of the mountain, and the importance of conservation.

    Walking tracks

    The first of three missing links in the Great Southern Walk has been completed, with a new one-kilometer track featuring more than 400 sandstone steps linking the bush to the beach. This newly opened section from Bald Hill to Stanwell Park connects the Royal National Park to the Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area

    Additional Tips for Visiting Bald Hill

    Accessibility

    Bald Hill lookout is flat and step-free, but there are no pathways. You can see the view directly from the car park, but to get further along the lookout, you’ll have to cross over hard-packed ground which can be rocky in parts.

    Whale watching season

    It’s whale watching season in Wollongong, from May to November more than 40,000 whales migrate along the NSW coastline, this would be one of the best lookouts for whales. Spot the dolphins anytime of year if you get lucky!

    Sustainability Practices

    Help preserve Bald Hill Lookout by following Leave No Trace principles. Take all rubbish with you, respect wildlife, and stick to designated paths. Sustainable tourism ensures that this beautiful location remains pristine for future generations.

    Local Amenities

    Nearby Wollongong offers a range of amenities including restaurants, shops, and accommodation options. It’s convenient to plan a visit to Mount Keira as part of a broader exploration of the Illawarra region.

    Conclusion

    Bald Hill Lookout was absolutely sensation and we picked the most perfect day, it was beautiful and peaceful and worth the drive!

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    We offer our gratitude and deep respect to the lands, waters and skies of Dharawal Country. We stand in solidarity with its traditional custodians, the Dharawal and Wodi Wodi people, whose sovereignty was never ceded.