Best Things To Do in Wollongong & The Illawarra. Get Inspired.

Discover the Best Things to Do in Wollongong & the South Coast

Wollongong and the South Coast region offer a diverse array of attractions, experiences, and natural beauty. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, this comprehensive guide highlights the top activities, dining spots, family-friendly adventures, and upcoming events in the area.

Whilst we’ve got you – If you make your way through this list and are looking for something a bit more unique to do, discover Wollongong & Illawarra’s best kept secrets here.

*Flagstaff Hill, highlight of the famous ‘Blue Mile’ Walk*

Coastal Walks & Scenic Views

Blue Mile Walk & Wollongong Harbour

Experience Wollongong’s stunning coastline on the Blue Mile Walk, a 1.5 km path stretching from Stuart Park to South Beach. Enjoy panoramic ocean and escarpment views, spot marine life from viewing platforms, and explore landmarks like Flagstaff Hill with its two historic lighthouses. Along the way, you can take a dip in the continental pool (which is free). You’ll also find several cafes and restaurants to refresh and refuel.

Sea Cliff Bridge

A highlight of the Grand Pacific Drive, the Sea Cliff Bridge offers a breathtaking drive or walk along its 665-meter span, curving gracefully over the ocean and hugging the sandstone cliffs. It’s a must-see for visitors and a daily delight for locals.

Hill 60 Viewing Platform, Port Kembla

Hill 60 in Port Kembla is one of the Illawarra’s most significant lookouts, offering panoramic views stretching from Wollongong Harbour to the Five Islands and beyond. This culturally important site on Dharawal Country has recently undergone major upgrades, including a new sandstone viewing platform, accessible pathways, and native landscaping. With its rich military history and deep cultural significance, Hill 60 is not only a stunning vantage point but also a place of reflection and connection to Country. It’s a must-visit for locals and visitors alike.

Nature Escapes: From Beaches to Waterfalls

Beaches & Rock Pools

*Take a dip in an ocean Rock Pool up North*

Wollongong boasts some of the best beaches and ocean pools along the South Coast of NSW. From family-friendly rock pools to expansive sandy stretches, there’s a perfect spot for everyone to swim, surf, or simply unwind. If you’re planning a beach day, take a look at our top beach picks across the region for inspiration. And if ocean pools are more your vibe, don’t miss our round-up of the best rock pools to dive into — we’ve tested them ourselves!

Waterfalls & Walks

*Explore the epic Kelly Falls* *waterfall*

The Illawarra escarpment is a natural wonderland of lush rainforests, rugged cliffs, and unforgettable views — and best of all, it’s free to explore. From waterfalls and swimming holes to scenic lookouts and quiet forest trails, there’s something for every kind of adventurer.

Those after a challenge can tackle the steep Sublime Point Track, where panoramic coastal views await at the summit. For a more peaceful experience, wander through fern-filled gullies on the Wodi Wodi Track or soak up the serenity of Macquarie Pass. Post-hike swims don’t get better than at Nellies Glen or Kellys Falls, both local favourites with tranquil cascades and natural pools.

If coastal paths are more your pace, the Kiama Coastal Walk offers over 20km of breathtaking seaside scenery. This iconic track passes the Kiama Blowhole, Bombo Headland, and a string of secluded beaches, perfect for whale watching in season or a relaxed oceanfront stroll.

Need more ideas to fuel your adventure? Don’t miss our insider’s guide to bushwalking this incredible landscape. And if you’re chasing that perfect post-walk plunge, check out our guide to Illawarra walks with swimming holes and waterfalls for the best spots to cool off.

Museums & Historical Attractions

HARS Aviation Museum

Located at Shellharbour Regional Airport in Albion Park, the HARS Aviation Museum provides an immersive experience into Australia’s aviation history. Visitors can explore a vast collection of aircraft, including the opportunity to board some planes and sit in the cockpits. The museum is open daily from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM, with guided tours included in the admission.

We believe this is one of Wollongong best kept secrets! Get all the details here.

Illawarra Light Railway Museum, Albion Park

*All aboard at the Illawarra Light Railway Museum*

Step back in time at the Illawarra Light Railway Museum in Albion Park Rail. Ride restored steam and diesel trains, explore historical carriages, and enjoy the picnic areas and cafe on-site. The museum operates steam train rides on the second Sunday and diesel train rides on the fourth Saturday of each month, from 10 AM to 2 PM.

With a cafe and BBQ picnic areas to enjoy, make a day of it! Click here to plan your next visit.

Adventure Activities

Skydive Australia – get $25 off now!

Wollongong locals, this one’s for you! Get $25 off tandem skydives at Skydive Sydney–Wollongong with code GONGLOCAL25.

Jump from up to 15,000 feet, freefall at over 200km/h for up to 60 seconds, then float under canopy for 5–7 minutes while soaking up breathtaking views of Wollongong, the Illawarra coastline, and Southern Sydney beaches. With our headquarters perfectly positioned in Stuart Park, just 100m from the sand, there’s no better place to take the leap. Don’t miss out – this sky-high special won’t last forever. Book now and let gravity do the rest! Tick it off your bucket list now!

Wollongong’s NEW VR Escape Room Experience is HERE!

Step into another reality with Virtual Reality Escape Rooms at Revolution Laser Arena, Wollongong – where mind-bending adventures meet next-level tech! Book now and get 20% off your first VR session!

Perfect for parties, team events, or a fun family day out (VR Escape Rooms are for ages 15 yrs +)
Fully immersive. Seriously thrilling. Totally unforgettable.
You can also check out their VR Arcade experiences for ages 8 years. Battle zombies, solve puzzles, explore ancient ruins, or float through space! Fun for the whole family.
Age-appropriate options for kids, teens, and adults.
Book now/learn more here & experience the future of fun!

Don’t forget to also check out their exhilarating and adrenaline-packed laser tag action at Revolution Laser Arena.

Barefoot Bowls & Glow Bowls at Wiseman Park Bowling Club

Looking for a unique and lesser-known thing to do in Wollongong? Try Barefoot Bowls at Wiseman Park Bowling Club! Perfect for your next event, celebration, or team-building day, Barefoot Bowls offers a fun and relaxed way to connect with friends or colleagues.

For an even more memorable experience, check out Glow Bowls – bowls after dark with glowing balls and lights, available seven nights a week. Family and kids pricing available too. Book your group online today – fun on the greens awaits!

Wollongong Tennis Club

Looking for a unique and lesser-known activity in Wollongong? Wollongong Tennis Club offers so much more than just tennis! As a relaxed, family-friendly venue, they’re known for excellent courts, expert coaching, and delicious food. Whether you want to hire a hard or grass court for a casual game, join one of their school holiday camps, or take part in elite junior squads, there’s something for every player.

With Tennis Australia-qualified coaches and programs for all ages and skill levels – including the popular ‘Hot Shots’ children’s program – Wollongong Tennis Club is the perfect spot to get active, learn new skills, and have fun. Enquire now and discover all they offer.

Eats and Beats Street Series SPRING – Oak Flats, Saturday 20 September

Spring is blooming in Oak Flats, and the streets are coming alive with flavour, music, and fun! Join Shellharbour City Council for the Eats and Beats Street Series on Central Avenue Oak Flats, where local eats meet live beats in a vibrant celebration for all ages.

Tuck into delicious food from local vendors and food stalls, enjoy live music and roving performers, browse creative market stalls, and keep the kids entertained with free family fun like face painting and circus activities.

Plus, the day gets even bigger with Oak Flats Public School’s Spring Festival – featuring carnival rides, showbags, and non-stop excitement! Don’t miss this epic community day out.

Culture Mix, Saturday 20 September

Culture Mix is a FREE, inclusive celebration open to all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. On Saturday 20 September, 11am–7pm across Wollongong CBD, Crown St Mall, the Arts Precinct, Art Gallery, and Library, enjoy music, dance, workshops, installations, and global food. Sample Chilean street eats, join K-Pop dance classes, take part in a street parade with a Traditional Chinese Lion Dance and samba band, or explore the Cultural Bazaar.

With Culture Kids activities, storytelling, a Quiet Space, accessible parking, and Auslan programs, there’s something for everyone at this vibrant community event. Learn more here.

MS Gong Ride 2025 – Sunday 2 November

Australia’s most epic charity cycling event, the MS Gong Ride, will take place on Sunday, 2 November 2025, in Wollongong. Since 1981, tens of thousands of cyclists have taken part in this iconic ride, raising vital funds to support more than 33,300 Australians living with multiple sclerosis.

Riders will enjoy a scenic journey through the Royal National Park, breathtaking ocean views from Stanwell Tops, and the stunning Sea Cliff Bridge, before crossing the finish line surrounded by surf, sun, and sand. Whether riding solo or as part of a team, participants can experience a fun, safe, and well-supported event while making a real difference for people living with MS. Learn more/register now here.

Just Launched in Wollongong: The Recovery Room at Hangdog!

Wollongong’s coolest (and hottest) new wellness spot is here – featuring a next-gen infrared sauna & ice bath combo. Open to All (no climbing needed). Located inside Hangdog Climbing Gym.

Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or just need a serious reset while the kids climb – this is your go-to recovery zone. Epic value – best bang for your buck in Wollongong – casual visits from $10 & Weekly Memberships from only $20. Unwind. Recover. Recharge. Book your session now

Also – Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned climber, Hangdog Climbing Gym is your go-to indoor climbing centre in the Illawarra. Learn more here!

Hangdog Climbing Gym – Wollongong’s Indoor Climbing HQ

Hangdog Climbing Gym in Wollongong is the Illawarra’s indoor climbing hub. From fully supervised top rope climbing to dynamic bouldering, auto-belays, and unique vertical challenges, there’s something for every age and skill level.

Kids can join term-based Learn to Climb classes, school holiday workshops, or progress to youth climbing squads, while adults can train casually, join social nights, or become part of their friendly climbing community. Ready to take things outside? Try one of their guided outdoor climbing days. Hangdog is your go-to for fitness, fun, and fearless adventure. Get started now.

Community Climb Nights: Looking for something fun and a little different to do on a Friday night? Skip the usual and try an epic evening of climbing, laughs & new friends. Join in every Last Friday of the month from 6pm to close for a social, staff-led night for climbers of all levels. Learn more here.

Don’t forget to check out Hangdog’s new Recovery Room with next-gen ice bath and infared sauna combo – open to all (no climbing needed). Epic value – casual visits from $10 & Weekly Memberships from only $20.

Treetops Adventure Nowra

*Hang out in the Treetops at Treetop Adventure Nowra*

Just under an hours drive from Wollongong, Treetop Adventure Nowra is totally worth the trip.

Kids aged four and up (plus adventurous adults!) can climb, zipline and navigate thrilling tree-top courses, all set beside the beautiful Shoalhaven River. With a secure harness system and a variety of challenges for different ages and abilities, it’s a safe and unforgettable day out.

Bonus? It’s right next to Shoalhaven Zoo, so you’ll catch glimpses of the animals as you zip through the trees—or grab a ticket for the full zoo experience and turn your day in a South Coast adventure!

Family Fun

Northern Bowl

Looking for a fun, family-friendly outing in the Illawarra? Northern Bowl is more than just a bowling alley — it’s a nostalgic entertainment hub packed with good vibes. With classic arcade machines, a cosy café, and plenty of lanes to roll on, it’s perfect for everything from catch-ups with friends to entertaining the kids.

Keep the fun affordable with regular specials like Cheap Tuesdays and League Try-Out Thursdays. Whether you’re chasing strikes or just some quality time, Northern Bowl delivers a relaxed, retro atmosphere that everyone will enjoy. Call (02) 4283 6222 or book online here to get the ball rolling.

Markets & Local Produce

The Illawarra region is home to a vibrant and ever-growing market scene, offering everything from seasonal fresh produce to handmade artisan goods.

You’ll also find beachside stalls in Coledale, monthly village markets in Bulli, and the beloved Kiama Farmers’ Market every Wednesday afternoon.

These markets provide a perfect way to support local makers, discover hidden gems, and enjoy the coastal community spirit. For a full list of upcoming events and hidden market favourites, explore What’s On in Wollongong’s market guide.

Wollongong Makers Market, Saturday 8 November – Sunday 9 November

The Wollongong Makers Market returns for 2025 on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 November, from 9am to 3pm! Save the date now to make sure you don’t miss the Illawarra’s best handmade shopping experience, perfectly timed to help you find one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts.

Held at the UOW Innovation Campus in North Wollongong, this free-entry, biannual artisan market celebrates high-quality handmade creations—from painters and authors to jewellers, ceramicists, and printmakers. Enjoy over 100 stalls across two levels, live jazz, and delicious food, all in a relaxed, scenic setting opposite Puckeys Beach. With free parking, nearby cycleways, and a welcoming community vibe, it’s the perfect weekend outing. Don’t miss this standout event for local creativity and talent!

Eats and Drinks

When it comes to culinary adventures, Wollongong is a food lover’s paradise. Wander the vibrant streets toward the beach and you’ll be greeted by mouthwatering aromas drifting from cosy cafes, bustling restaurants, and hidden gems. From trendy fine dining to flavour-packed cheap eats, there’s something to suit every craving and budget.

Planning a special night out? Check out our romantic dining guide for the most swoon-worthy spots. For those who love seafood, you’re in the right place — Wollongong’s coastal dining scene offers the freshest local catches paired with unbeatable ocean views.

Want to sip and save? Discover the best happy hour deals in Wollongong and the Illawarra — perfect for pre-dinner drinks or a casual catch-up with mates.

And when the sun goes down, the city comes alive. From buzzing pubs to late-night bars, Wollongong’s nightlife is not to be missed.

Breweries

*Always a fun time at Seeker Brewing, Unanderra*

For craft beer lovers, the Illawarra is home to a growing scene of local breweries offering great brews, relaxed vibes, and live music. Whether you’re chasing a weekend hangout or a new spot to unwind, two standout venues are Seeker Brewing in Unanderra—known for its 18 taps, wood-fired pizzas, and live music night – and Five Barrel Brewing in Wollongong – a brewery with a comfortable and relaxed feel with both inside and outside areas, again with a semi industrial feel – love having the tasting paddle as an option if you just can’t decide which beer to embark on. Both spots capture the region’s passion for good beer and community spirit.

Check out our guide to discover your next favourite local spot.

Gardens & Outdoor Cinema

Wollongong Botanic Garden

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Illawarra at the Wollongong Botanic Garden, a 27-hectare oasis of gardens, bushland, and wildlife. Meander through themed collections featuring native and international plants, explore one of Australia’s largest rainforest collections, or relax by the duck pond. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like bowerbirds, kookaburras, ringtail possums, and native bees as you wander the scenic walking trails.

Perfect for families, the Garden also features an all-abilities playground, a nature-themed sculpture walk, and hands-on school holiday activities. With free entry and so much to discover, it’s an ideal spot for a peaceful day out or an educational adventure.

Live Music & Festivals in Wollongong

Wollongong and the Illawarra region are home to a thriving live music and festival scene, with something for everyone throughout the year. The city plays host to major events showcasing top Australian and international talent. These festivals draw crowds from far and wide, offering incredible lineups in stunning outdoor settings.

Locally, venues across Wollongong serve up live music every week, from intimate acoustic performances to high-energy rock bands. Whether you’re after a relaxed night out or an unforgettable concert experience, there’s always something happening. Be sure to check out our Live Music Guide to find out about all the gigs happening in the area.

With year-round events, vibrant atmospheres, and plenty of local talent, Wollongong is a must-visit for anyone passionate about music and festivals

Comedy

Wollongong Comedy have been bringing laughter to the Illawarra since 2006, making it the longest-running comedy club in the region. Known for showcasing the best of Australian stand-up comedy, Wollongong Comedy have hosted top-tier performers with their open mic nights, comedy festivals and monthly showcase nights. Click here for a full list of all upcoming Wollongong Comedy events.

Fun for the Kids

The Illawarra is one of the most beautiful corners of the world to raise kids — with plenty to keep the whole family entertained: Beach days to climbing gyms and kid-friendly museums, there’s something to suit every kind of family adventure.

If your kids love playgrounds, pack the scooters and a picnic and head out to explore one of the many local parks. Our sister site, Parents Guide Illawarra, has put together a fantastic list of Wollongong’s best playgrounds — all tested and approved by local families.

Let them burn off energy scaling the walls at Hangdog, soaring through the treetops at Treetops Adventure Nowra, or rolling into fun at Northern Bowl — all mentioned earlier in this article. Or, for something a little more educational, head to the HARS Aviation Museum at Shellharbour Airport where kids can climb aboard real aircraft and explore Australia’s aviation history up close.

Got a curious little one? Feed their imagination at Science Space in North Wollongong or visit the Early Start Discovery Space — the world’s first dedicated children’s museum based on a university campus, designed to spark creativity and learning through play.

Need more inspiration? Check out the Top 10 + Things to Do with Kids in Wollongong & the Illawarra — your go-to list curated by local families who’ve tested all the fun for you.

*We have weekend fun available for the whole family*

What’s On in Wollongong: Things to do this weekend and beyond!

Keen to try something new this weekend? Wollongong’s buzzing event scene has you covered all year round. Whether you’re into live music, arts and cultural festivals, food truck feasts, or lively community markets — there’s something happening to suit every vibe.

Familes will love the jam-packed line-up of kid-friendly events, especially in the warmer months when outdoor fun is in full swing. From sporty showdowns to beachside gigs, the Gong’s got it going on.

Ready to plan your weekend? Head to our Things To Do in Wollongong This Weekend guide for the latest events and activities happening this week and beyond.

Article update by:

Mikaela San Giorgio, writer for What’s On in Wollongong and content creator at Camperyachties

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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.