Get Romantic on Valentine’s Day. Wollongong, Shellharbour & Illawarra

Valentine’s Day is fast approaching on Friday 14th February 2025. It’s time to plan the best ways to romance your loved one. We know Wollongong’s and Shellharbour’s most romantic restaurants for lunch or dinner. Best Illawarra romantic places to visit or, just Valentine’s ideas that will light up your lover. What’s on in Wollongong have found some beautiful options for you:

Stunning Sunset River Cruises with Jervis Bay Wild

Nothing is more romantic or relaxing than exploring the rugged cliffs and sea caves of the Beecroft Peninsula, accompanied by the resident dolphins and stunning marine life, crystal blue waters and majestic beauty of Jervis Bay Marine Park. As the sun slowly recedes below the escarpment, tantalise your tastebuds with a selection of fruit and cheese platters. (Warning: Uncontrollable Sighing on board very likely). Sound too good to be true? Well, the awesome team at Jervis Bay Wild can make all of that happen.

Their picturesque Sunset River Cruise (that also takes in the lagoon of Honeymoon Bay) is one of the South Coast’s most romantic things to do with a glass of wine in your hand. Other scenic and fun options are their Kayaking/SUP hire (the perfect ‘couple activity) and their popular Dolphin Watching Cruise. And…..if you really want to pull out all the stops for your beloved, imagine your own private charter with a picnic and bottle of bubbly stowed on board. Whatever your budget, create some lasting and romantic memories with Jervis Bay Wild.

Sunset Cinema Wollongong this Valentine’s Day!

Picture snuggling down with your Number 1 in comfy bean bags, under twinkling stars for a date night to remember at the stunning Wollongong Botanic Garden! Enjoy premium bean lounges, bottomless popcorn, fully licensed snack bar +dinner is sorted with local legends His Boy Elroy.

PLUS – Looking for a unique Valentine’s idea? Give the gift of an outdoor movie experience and some quality time with the one you love with a Sunset Cinema Gift Card!

Learn more/secure your tickets fast here.

Dine In by Brooke Silk

Dine In — Founded by local, award-winning Chef Brooke Silk, is Wollongong’s premier Private Chef service, dedicated to bringing quality dining and food directly to you any time of the year – and is the perfect choice for a hassle-free, incredible feast to spoil your special someone. Perfect for any occasion — from weddings, birthdays, Valentine’s Day, milestone events, even proposals.

Servicing the Illawarra, South Coast, Highlands, and the Greater Sydney area. No matter where you are, enjoy an exclusive, romantic dining experience tailored just for you. Get in touch with Brooke and her team now here.

Best Restaurants. Romantic Lunch & Dinner Deals in Wollongong & Illawarra

If you are looking to go all-out for V-Day this year and would like to have a sneaky romantic dinner up your sleeve, consider booking your special Wollongong & Illawarra restaurant now. Here is a list of romantic restaurants that have fantastic food, the right atmosphere, and are sure to impress:

Altitude 1148

Open for lunch on Valentine’s Day, enjoy the most spectacular views in the Illawarra with the most spectacular person in your life! Enjoy Sweeping Illawarra coastline views at this stunning restaurant. Elevate your Valentine’s Day with a romantic lunch experience surrounded by breathtaking views at Altitude 1148. Indulge in delectable dishes and create unforgettable memories. Book your table now and celebrate love at new heights! Set-menu $99 per couple. View the special Valentine’s Day menu here. Book now: (02) 4267 5443 or go here.

Kneading Ruby

Kneading Ruby has charm and character. It is a sure thing for a memorable Valentine’s celebration. This restaurant has an inviting atmosphere that sets the stage for a perfect romantic evening. The creative menu will delight your taste buds and the food is always paired with the perfect wine. Kneading Ruby is dedicated to ensuring your celebration is special. Given its popularity on this special day, be sure to reserve your table early to secure your spot. Book online or by calling the restaurant.

Wests Illawarra

Wests Illawarra Leagues Club: Whoever said that to love someone is through their stomach, obviously had dined at Wests Illawarra! Wine and dine the special someone in your life with a full rack of ribs served with chips and slaw and an ice-cream sandwich to finish, from $70! To secure your table, book now here.

Steamers Bar & Grill

Steamers Bar & Grill – Enjoy a Valentine’s Dinner with views overlooking the ocean and the most divine cuisine brought to you from all over the globe. In addition to the usual Steamers Bar & Grill menu that offers divine locally sourced produce, take advantage of some sweetheart specials and cocktails as well.

Restaurant Santino

For those of you looking to go the extra mile to spoil their date, you can indulge at Restaurant Santino, with their $90 per head five-course Italian feast for a cozy and memorable Valentine’s dinner. Experience fresh pasta, exquisite entrées, and their signature panna cotta to sweetly conclude your memorable evening. If you haven’t already locked in your V-Day plans you’d better move quick as space is super limited. Secure your table/view the menu now here.

Centro CBD

Celebrate Amore at Centro CBD this Valentine’s Day! Fall in love all over again with their exclusive 3-course set menu, meticulously crafted to enchant your taste buds and your heart. Exquisite 3-Course Set Menu, Exceptional Service and Romantic Ambience: Centro CBD’s relaxing atmosphere sets the perfect mood for love. Reserve Your Table Now – Spots Are Filling Up Fast – Book online here.

The Lagoon Seafood Restaurant

The Lagoon Seafood Restaurant – The Lagoon is one of those places that can really feel like something special. Situated at the north end of Stuart Park overlooking where the ocean meets, this restaurant has a menu that can get anyone excited. Their Valentine’s Day menu will be available from Wednesday 14th February to Saturday 17th February. For Valentine’s Day dinner bookings, only the set menu will be available and there will be no à la carte. $99 per person four-course menu. OR $145 pp for a seafood platter for two including bread & dessert. View the Menu here.

Balgownie Hotel

Celebrate Valentine’s Day in style by booking a table at Balgownie Hotel. The hotel creates a romantic setting with its warm ambience and exceptional service. Making it a truly special evening with your loved one. To secure your spot, it’s wise to make a reservation in advance, as Valentine’s Day can be a bustling time. You can conveniently book through their website, call the hotel, or send an email. Balgownie Hotel is the place for you whether you want a cosy dinner or an extravagant celebration. Its enchanting atmosphere and tasty menu promise to make your Valentine’s Day unforgettable.

The Imperial Hotel

Picture this: a romantic dinner with stunning ocean views as your backdrop. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner, The Imperial at Clifton is serving you deliciousness. There’s also a selection of sweets prepared in-house and picnic hampers available to enjoy at a picnic spot of your choice – double the romance. Just over 500m from the Sea Cliff Bridge, The Imperial at Clifton is perched on a clifftop on the tourist road known as the Grand Pacific Drive and set amongst numerous coastal towns, untouched beaches and must-see landmarks. Whether it’s a picnic for two or ten, their specially prepared gourmet hampers are filled to the brim by their team of chefs. Pick your picnic spot and let The Imperial Express deliver picnic hampers to you at one of our neighbouring coastal picnic spots or drop by to collect your pre-ordered goods. Learn more here.

For more Valentine’s Day Dining Deals & Events, click to read the ultimate local guide with What’s on in Wollongong here

Jump, For My Love – Best Wollongong & Illawarra Skydive deals

And no, I am not just talking about the 1984 Pointer Sisters classic, although that might be worth adding to your playlist when gearing up for this next suggestion. If the two of you are dare-devils at heart, take a chance and face your fears with the adrenaline rush at Shellharbour’s BIGWAVE Skydive. Mention What’s on in Wollongong and they will price match any other Sydney Sky Dive! Thank us later or spend the $ saved on a special meal together. BIGWAVE Skydive lets you share the rush of a lifetime bonding experience you will never forget.

Make an overnight or Weekend of it – Valentine’s Accommodation in Wollongong

What’s better than a day of romance? Make a weekend of it and let your partner feel loved. Wollongong is home to many hotels that offer a complete package of fabulous accommodations, incredible dining options and super close to local beaches. Our favourite? Sage Hotel Wollongong. Start with a suite and add in a reservation at Coldwater Creek downstairs for the perfect weekend getaway.

Five Ways to Get Romantic this Valentine’s Day 2024. Wollongong & Illawarra – Sage Hotel Wollongong

Valentine’s Day Picnic Ideas in Wollongong & Illawarra

Want to Propose on the Most Romantic Day of the Year? Your Own Uniquely Curated Romantic Proposal Picnic for Two in Pony & Wolf’s Signature Rustic Luxe Styling!

We love Wollongong & Illawarra’s Pony & Wolf Pop-Up Picnics. They offer delux grazing picnic cuisine and styling (hint, nudge wink, they also offer proposal packages). Tell them What’s on in Wollongong sent you for the most romantic picnic of your life! Make an enquiry now here.

All you need now is the perfect location to set the scene. Check out our favourite Picnic Locations in the Wollongong area including the fabulous (Number 1 pick!) the Wollongong Botanic Garden.

Five Ways to Get Romantic this Valentine’s Day 2024. Wollongong & Illawarra – Wollongong Botanic Garden

Whether you love the day or curse it as commercialised fiction, keep these V-Day surprises in mind for your next special occasion, whenever it might be, and show the one you care about how much they mean to you when they least expect it.

What about a fun and creative workshop you can do together?

Valentine’s Wax and Wicks Candle Making Workshop at Wests Illawarra! Join in for a hands-on journey into the art of candle making at Wests, on Saturday the 8th of February at 5 pm. Discover the joy of crafting your own unique candles with their expert instructors guiding you every step of the way. All materials are provided – just bring your enthusiasm and a touch of creativity! Perfect for beginners and candle enthusiasts of all ages. No experience is required – just a desire to have fun and learn something new! Book your tickets now here.

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