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    Social Groups in Wollongong. Best Ways to Meet People & Make Friends

    Want to find your tribe in Wollongong? Looking for ways to meet people in the Illawarra? Whether it’s to find friends or ways to date locally, What’s on in Wollongong has got you covered! Including social sports, to group meet-ups, to singles events. Who needs app’ or more mindless social scrolling? Meet real people in real life instead!

    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. So here are some wonderful ideas and ways to make more friends locally.

    Main title article image c/o Urban Rec Wollongong

    Urban Rec Wollongong’s Social Sports – registrations now open

    This is your sign to get out more in 2026 & 2027 – your social life starts here! Looking for a sport that’s actually social, mixed, fun and beginner-friendly? Urban Rec Wollongong are launching their Social Sports Leagues for ages 18+, and spots sell out every season.

    Join as a team or sign-up solo (the easiest way to make instant mates!) and choose from Volleyball, Basketball, Pickleball, Flag Football, Soccer and more — there’s truly something for everyone. With epic social perks and a buzzing community, this is more than sport — it’s your new social circle. Enquire now and lock your spot in before they’re gone. Not sure what to join? Contact Lindsay on 0478 745 155 or [email protected] and she’ll help you out fast.

    Wollongong City Libraries – FREE Events & Activities for Adults

    Looking for FREE things to do in Wollongong, meet new people or try something new? Wollongong City Libraries offer a fantastic range of FREE activities for adults, including creative workshops, book clubs, author talks, learning sessions and social events! Discover new hobbies, connect with your community and enjoy fun, free outings at libraries across Wollongong and the Illawarra including Corrimal, Dapto, Thirroul, Helensburgh, Unanderra and Warrawong. EXPLORE FREE ADULT EVENTS & ACTIVITIES HERE!

    Miss Zoe’s School of Dance Adult Beginner Dance Classes – SAVE with their 2027 Early Enrolment Offer!

    Always wanted to learn to dance? Now’s your chance! Miss Zoe’s School of Dance is launching brand-new Beginner Adult Dance Classes at its Wollongong studio, with welcoming 8-week courses in Tap, Ballet, Hip Hop and Jazz—no experience required. Whether you’re looking to get active, improve your fitness, learn a new skill or simply try something different, these supportive classes are designed to help you build confidence while having fun. They’re also a fantastic way to meet like-minded people, make new friends and enjoy a regular social activity in a relaxed, encouraging environment. As Miss Zoe’s celebrates 20 years of inspiring Illawarra dancers, there’s never been a better time to join in. FREE trial Tap classes are available, but places are limited, so book your spot today! Learn more and get started here.

    2027 VIP Registrations at Miss Zoe’s School of Dance open 16–30 November – and there are some fantastic perks for getting in early! Open to new and returning students of all ages, from 12 months through to adults, VIP registration includes 5% off Term 1 class fees, 10% off merchandise, 10% off a 2027 birthday party and guaranteed placement in your preferred class! Contact Miss Zoe at [email protected] or 0407 921 054 to register your interest.

    Game Point Pickleball Hub Coniston – Social Sessions

    Meet New People, Get Active & Have Fun at Game Point Pickleball in Coniston! Looking for a fun way to make new friends in Wollongong? Game Point’s friendly Pickleball Social Sessions are perfect for meeting people, getting active and trying something new! With beginner-friendly games, all-skills socials and sessions throughout the week, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re coming solo or with friends. No experience needed, just come along and enjoy a laugh, a rally and some great company! Located at 30 Miller Street, Coniston. Explore weekly social sessions & book here.

    Good Hoops Basketball & Performance Centre

    Looking for fun ways to meet new people in Wollongong? Get social, get active and shoot some hoops at Good Hoops North Wollongong! Whether you’re new to basketball or a regular player, it’s a fantastic way to make friends, connect with other basketball lovers and enjoy some friendly competition. With basketball programs for kids, teens and adults, casual court hire, coaching and memberships from $29 per week, there’s something for all ages and abilities! Find them at 58 Montague Street, North Wollongong. Explore Good Hoops and get involved here!

    Make with Eliza – Sewing & Creative Workshops

    Get Creative with Make with Eliza! Whether you’re a complete beginner, creative kid or adult keen to learn something new, Make with Eliza offers hands-on sewing and creative workshops for both adults and kids across the Illawarra. Led by lifelong sewer, designer, maker and teacher Eliza of Hot Chip the Label, workshops run from Curious Lane Studio in Albion Park Rail and Timbermill Studios in Bulli. Explore upcoming workshops, grab tickets or join the waitlist to hear what’s coming next.

    Spark Gymnastics

    Looking to Meet New People While Trying Something New? Spark Gymnastics Club’s Adult Aerial Classes are a fantastic way to get active, learn new skills and make genuine friendships in a welcoming, supportive environment. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have aerial experience, you’ll build strength, confidence and flexibility while connecting with like-minded adults and having plenty of fun along the way. It’s fitness, friendship and a little “you” time all rolled into one! Free trial available – Saturdays at 9am. Learn more/sign up here now.

    Circus Monoxide Open Training – Teens & Adults

    Looking for a fun way to meet new people, make friends and build your circus skills? Circus Monoxide’s Open Training sessions, held every Wednesday and Friday in Fairy Meadow, are the perfect place to connect with a welcoming community while training at your own pace. Open to ages 13+, you’ll have access to aerial silks, lyra, trapeze, acrobatics, tumbling, juggling and more, with qualified trainers on hand to support you. Whether you’re developing new skills or simply looking for a social hobby, Open Training is a fantastic way to stay active, challenge yourself and become part of Wollongong’s vibrant circus community. Learn more here.

    For The Art of It

    Looking for fun ways to meet new people and make friends in Wollongong and the Illawarra? For The Art Of It offers welcoming paint and sip workshops, perfect for getting out, trying something new and connecting with others over a little creativity! Come along to a public session, enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and share some laughs while you paint, sip and chat. No artistic experience needed, and you don’t need to bring a friend! With friendly guidance and a creative activity to enjoy together, it’s a great way to break the ice, meet like-minded locals and discover a new hobby. Explore upcoming For The Art Of It paint and sip workshops here

    Saunaus Wollongong

    More Than Wellness – A Place to Connect: Saunaus isn’t just a place to recharge your body—it’s a welcoming community where it’s easy to meet like-minded people. Whether you’re unwinding in the recovery lounge with a complimentary herbal tea after your sauna session or chatting between hot and cold rounds, conversations happen naturally. Many first-time visitors leave having made a new connection, and it’s not uncommon for people to swap numbers, organise another session together or simply enjoy sharing their wellness journey. If you’re looking for a relaxed, friendly environment where you can improve your wellbeing and connect with others, Saunaus is well worth a visit. Learn more/plan your visit now here.

    Northern Bowl, Bellambi

    If you’re in the Illawarra and want a fun, low-pressure way to get out and meet people, Northern Bowl in Bellambi is the place to be. It’s not just a classic bowling alley — it’s a laid-back spot where good vibes, arcade games, and great coffee come together. Whether you’re rolling in solo or bringing a few mates, it’s the perfect place to hang out and maybe even make a few new connections.

    Great Bowling Deals at Northern Bowl! Northern Bowl has you covered with $10 Cheap Tuesdays, great-value Family Passes, Unlimited Bowling every Friday & Saturday for just $29 per person (minimum 4 per lane), plus a Social Night Special with 2 games for only $22.

    Ready to roll? Call their friendly team at (02) 4283 6222 or book online here.

    Social Golf Club – North Nowra Tavern

    Looking for a fun and friendly way to spend your weekend? Join the North Nowra Tavern Social Golf Club! This monthly event brings people together from local and surrounding suburbs for a relaxed game of golf and plenty of laughs. It’s a fantastic way to meet new friends, enjoy the outdoors, and share a few stories over a drink afterward. New members are always welcome – just ask at the venue or call 0412 203 702 to get involved.

    Dinners With A Difference

    Dinners with a Difference in Wollongong is AWESOME! Come solo or bring a mate and enjoy facilitated dinners, which avoid the pain of small talk. Each dinner covers a different topic, that encourages the conversations to flow. Confession time, I have been and have made two now dear friends. Highly recommended! Read more about upcoming Illawarra Dinners With a Difference.

    The Rotary Club of Dapto Membership & Volunteering Opportunities

    Are you someone who wants to make positive changes in your local community and the world? The Rotary Club of Dapto members and volunteers are dedicated people who share a passion for community service and friendship – and is an excellent way to make friends with a diverse group of like-minded people who share your drive to give back!

    You just need to be 18 years + and you are welcome to participate in as much or as little as you would like. There is also an engaging mix of social activities, community events, and opportunities for you to discuss how you can give back and contribute to your community. Learn more here about all the different ways you can get involved.

    Parent Groups & Ways to Meet Other Mums / Dads

    We consulted with our sister site, Parents Guide Illawarra on best ways parents can meet in Wollongong. Find Wollongong Mother’s Groups, Dad’s Groups near me here.

    Find what to do with a Baby in Wollongong here. or, read What to do with a Toddler in Illawarra here

    Find Upcoming Events that Interest You

    Meet like minded people with like minded interests at local events. Well, we are What’s on in Wollongong – the ultimate guide to Wollongong & Illawarra events! Find local events based on your interests here, you’re welcome!

    After more events and things to do near you? Never suffer FOMO again with our Weekly Newsletter sent straight to your in-box! Sign up HERE

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