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    Best Christmas Gift Ideas around Wollongong and the Illawarra

    At What’s On in Wollongong, we short-cut you to the best ways to shop local this Christmas and make it a Christmas to remember AND support our local business community! Get our top gift-giving picks below.

    What’s On in Wollongong, the Illawarra’s leading guide to the best events, markets, live music, eats & drinks, and family fun.

    After even more Christmas party inspo this merry season?

    Looking to outsource all the cooking and cleaning the dishes this Christmas Day? Check out our local’s guide to the Best Christmas Day Lunches and Dinners in Wollongong & the Illawarra here.

    Planning an office or work Christmas party or end of year get together with friends? Get our Best Christmas Party Ideas, Venues and Packages in Wollongong and Illawarra here

    Check out all the best places to get a photo with Santa including Sensory and Pet Photos here

    Get out Ultimate Guide to the Best Christmas lights and festive displays across the Illawarra here.

    $50 off Tandem Skydives & Gift Vouchers – Skydive Australia – limited time offer!

    $50 off Tandem Skydives & Gift Vouchers offer! Book between *14 Nov – 1 Dec 2025 and travel by 31 Dec 2025 using promo code BLUE50 to claim this sky-high deal.

    Ready to take the leap over Wollongong? Freefall from up to 15,000 feet at 200 km/hr, then float under canopy with breathtaking views of North Wollongong Beach and the Illawarra coastline. Located in Stuart Park, just steps from the sand, this is the ultimate bucket-list adventure led by expert instructors. Book now and let gravity do the rest. *T&Cs apply.

    Sunset Cinema Wollongong is back – grab your Early Bird Pass now & SAVE!

    Get ready for summer movie nights under the stars as Sunset Cinema Wollongong returns 11 Dec 2025 – 28 Mar 2026 to Wollongong Botanic Garden. Early Bird Prices: Adults $18 | Kids $13 – limited time only! Lock in your pass now & SAVE. Don’t miss out – passes sell fast every year. This season they’ve got a blockbuster program of new releases, timeless classics & everything in-between for all ages.

    Bar Lina Gift Voucher

    Inspired by the bustling tabernas of Lisbon, Bar Lina is a cosy, fire-fuelled Iberian bar serving bold Portuguese and Basque flavours with an Australian wine bar twist. Located next door to Restaurant Santino in the heart of Wollongong, it’s the perfect spot for those who love great food, good wine, and a lively atmosphere.

    Surprise a friend or loved one with a Bar Lina dining voucher — the perfect gift for any foodie or wine lover.

    Holiday Haven Gift Voucher

    A Holiday Haven gift voucher makes a fantastic Christmas present for anyone who loves a coastal getaway. With 12 beautiful parks along the NSW South Coast, recipients can choose from stunning beachside, lakeside, or riverside locations.

    The vouchers are flexible and can be used for a range of accommodation options, including cabins, caravan sites, and camping spots — perfect for families, couples, or groups. Each park offers great amenities like pools, playgrounds, and even pet-friendly areas, ensuring a fun and relaxing stay. Gifting a Holiday Haven voucher means giving someone the freedom to plan their own ideal escape, making it a thoughtful and versatile present that’s sure to be appreciated this festive season.

    Illawarra Folk Festival, Bulli Showground, 16-18 January, 2026

    Looking for a unique Christmas gift that’s packed with music, culture, and unforgettable memories? Surprise your loved ones with tickets to the Illawarra Folk Festival 2026, happening 16–18 January at Bulli Showground! With over 80 acts across multiple stages, the festival features folk, indie, world, roots, bluegrass, Balkan and Celtic music – plus poetry, comedy, dance, artisan markets, and delicious international food stalls.

    Whether it’s a single-day pass, a full weekend experience, or a ticket + camping combo, it’s the perfect gift for music lovers, families, and anyone who loves a vibrant, community vibe. Kids under 12 go free, making it ideal for the January school holidays!

    A Gift Voucher to Restaurant Santino

    Recently recognised in both the Good Food Guide Awards 2023 and 2026, Restaurant Santino has once again earned its place among Wollongong’s hat-winning restaurants — and for good reason.

    Tucked away in the corner of a lively laneway in central Wollongong, this Italian-style bistro exudes classic charm and timeless elegance. Think dirty martinis, Nina Simone, and walls adorned with art deco prints that set off a chic, sophisticated space perfect for any occasion.

    Surprise a friend or loved one with a Restaurant Santino dining voucher — the perfect gift for food lovers. Purchase here.

    Revolution Laser Arena – Laser Tag & VR Games

    Looking for a Christmas gift that’s guaranteed to impress? A Revolution Laser Arena or VR Experience is the ultimate present for kids, teens, families, or even your workmates! Give the gift of adrenaline-fueled fun with heart-pounding laser tag battles, immersive VR adventures, and exciting escape room challenges – all under one roof. Whether it’s a solo pass, group experience, or gift voucher, Revolution Laser Arena delivers memories that last long after the wrapping paper’s gone.

    TIP: Purchase online gift cards for all the gamers, kids, adults, and friends you haven’t bought for yet. Gift cards are delivered straight to your inbox and can be for any amount you choose – making it the easiest (and most exciting) last-minute gift ever!

    Kneading Ruby

    Surprise a friend or loved one with a great dining experience at Kneading Ruby.

    Kneading Ruby on Crown Lane is nestled in the heart of Wollongong and part of the town’s cheery dining & cocktail scene.

    Kneading ruby is a casual modern take on a pizzeria, featuring rustic dishes & authentic traditional pizzas made with fresh locally sourced produce, designed to share. The food is accompanied by an impressive wine & cocktail selection complimenting the flavours of the menu.

    Saunaus Wollongong Sauna & Ice Gift Card

    This Christmas, give the gift of wellness! Treat your loved ones to the ultimate relaxation and recovery with Saunaus Wollongong’s Sauna & Ice Gift Cards. Choose from $85 (pay $75), $165 (pay $150), or $275 (pay $250) and make their festive season one of health, balance, and rejuvenation. Learn more/enquire here.

    Steamers Bar & Grill

    Leave the gift giving to Steamers Bar & Grill this Christmas and spoil your loved one with a Steamers Bar and Grill gift card.

    The Steamers Bar & Grill Gift Card allows them to choose exactly what they want, whether that’s a round of cocktails at the bar, a few dozen oysters overlooking the beach and lighthouse or a meat share platter. You can purchase a Steamers Bar & Grill Gift Card for values ranging from $50 to $1,000.

    Hangdog Indoor Climbing Gym

    Stuck on an idea for a Christmas present these holidays? Give the gift of adventure with a Hangdog Climbing Gym Gift Card!

    Perfect for kids, teens, adults, and anyone who loves a challenge — their gift cards can be used for casual climbs, memberships, classes, and more. Redeemable instantly from the time of purchase, they make the perfect stocking filler or last-minute gift for the thrill seekers in your life!

    Quick and easy to buy online! Gift cards are delivered straight to your inbox and can be for any amount you choose. Head to their website now and give the gift of adventure, fitness, and fun this Christmas with Hangdog Climbing Gym.

    The Lagoon Seafood Restaurant

    Located in picturesque Stuart Park in North Wollongong, the Lagoon Restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience. It is open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Gift cards are available in any amount, making them the perfect solution for Christmas. Simply purchase at The Lagoon Seafood Restaurant‘s reception or phone (02) 4226 1677.

    Mobile Revolution Archery Tag

    Give a Gift That’s Anything but Ordinary! Do you have kids who aren’t really kids anymore? Skip the usual presents and give them an experience they’ll never forget with Mobile Archery Tag — a Wollongong-based business that brings the fun straight to you! Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just for fun, this action-packed game uses safe, foam-tipped arrows (no sharp ends!) and is ideal for ages 10+. Each session includes a dedicated host who sets up, explains the rules, and keeps the games running smoothly. To book or learn more, call (02) 4243 7801 or click the link here.

    The Boathouse, North Wollongong E-Gift Card

    This Christmas, treat someone special to a dining experience by the water with a Boathouse North Wollongong Group eGift Card. Available from $50 to $500, it’s the perfect gift for food lovers who enjoy long lunches, sunset dinners, or a simple coffee catch-up. Perched above North Wollongong Surf Life Saving Club, this light-filled bistro and bar offer coastal-inspired dining and casual drinks with unbeatable beach views.

    The e-Gift card balance updates with every meal, making it a flexible and thoughtful present. Delivered instantly by email, each eGift Card includes simple redemption instructions and is valid for 3 years from the date of issue. Learn more here.

    Merrigong Theatre Co Gift Certificates

    Give the Gift of Live Entertainment this Christmas! Looking for the perfect present? With great shows for all tastes, a Merrigong Theatre Co Gift Certificate is a gift that keeps on giving!

    Gift certificates can be used to purchase any show or package at IPAC, Wollongong Town Hall, The Music Lounge, and Spiegeltent Wollongong. From theatre and contemporary dance to ballet, music, stand-up comedy, kids’ shows, and touring acts, there’s something for everyone — and always plenty to choose from! You can purchase gift certificates for any amount at IPAC’s Box Office or over the phone. Certificates are valid for 3 years from the date of purchase.

    Unlike a box of chocolates, the gift of live entertainment will linger in their memory for years to come.

    Andie’s Thirroul

    Looking for the perfect Christmas gift? Give the gift of fresh flavours, vibrant vibes, and unforgettable dining at Andie’s Thirroul.

    Andie’s Gift Cards are now available online — ideal for food lovers, wine sippers, and anyone who enjoys a great local experience. Whether it’s for a festive thank-you, Secret Santa, or a last-minute surprise, Andie’s has you covered.

    With menus featuring small & large share plates, Pasta & Wine Nights, and group-friendly Banquet & Set Menus, there’s something for everyone.

    Treetops Adventure Nowra

    Fly through the treetops at Treetops Adventure Nowra. This is Australia’s first tree ropes and cliff edge park. It is located inside the Shoalhaven Zoo, so the views of the animals below are awesome—a gift anyone, child or adult, would adore.

    Centro CBD

    Buying gifts can be tricky, but with a Centro CBD Restaurant Gift Card you’re giving your friends and family the opportunity to get something they’ll truly enjoy. With live music and amazing food, a gift voucher from Centro CBD is a perfect gift for gourmet foodie adults who love fine dining with a great atmosphere. They have regular bands and artists performing, and their focus on gourmet food makes a night there a memorable experience.

    PLUS – Do you want a FREE Gift Certificate from Centro CBD for you or a friend? Enjoy great VIP benefits when you sign up to their mailing list.

    Treat yourself or a loved one with these amazing deals now here.

    WEA Illawarra

    With a wide range of courses set to impress the teen or young adult in your life, as well as adults. Check out the courses for a great original gift to enhance current skills or learn new ones at WEA Illawarra.

    Twig & Bo Florist

    Twig & Bo Florist is an award-winning florist has incredible posies for your loved ones, but they also have a wide range of beautiful gifts and cards for those who want to buy something unique and special.

    Science Space

    Science Space is a fantastic science museum for kids of all ages. Why not buy an annual pass for your family or the kid in your life (it also gets you access to Questacon in Canberra, too!) or a day visit? Better yet, why not buy one for yourself and go with them? The Planetarium’s magic and science shows are sure to amaze and inspire. They also have an epic gift shop with inspired gifts for your little scientist.

    UOW Early Start Discovery Space

    Great for kids under twelve, the Early Start Discovery Space is an amazing day out with fresh exhibits or zones added regularly, friendly staff, and a great gift store. This museum for young kids is the most impressive one I’ve ever been to. It makes learning effortless and fun, so let the kids explore and see how much fun they have and how much they learn. Annual passes are affordable and an awesome gift for a child or a family.

    Kid’s Classes across the Illawarra

    Buying your niece, nephew, grandchild or child a term of classes is the gift that keeps on giving. With a wide range of kids’ classes available across the Illawarra, there’s sure to be one that your young one will enjoy.

    We hope this guide has inspired you and given you new ideas for buying your Christmas gift. If you’d like to hear more from us, please subscribe below. Also below are some options for reading more of our articles filled with local intel. Thank you so much for your time and reading.

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    About the Author: Lisa Hagan
    Lisa grew up in Thirroul and is a mum of four children. She loves exploring the Illawarra and its surroundings.