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    Best Things to do in Wollongong / Illawarra in Spring. What’s on Guide.

    Spring into Wollongong’s best events and what’s on this season! From local markets, festivals, live music, magical bushwalks and food trails. What’s on in Wollongong reveals the best things to do Illawarra wide. It’s the perfect time to explore Illawarra, Shellharbour, Kiama and South Coast NSW and soak up everything Spring has to offer.

    Discover the best things to do, must-see events, and places to be this Spring in Wollongong!

    Main title image c/o Destination NSW

    Spring Events in the Illawarra:

    Greenplan Plant Sales at Wollongong Botanic Garden

    Discover a wide range of native and exotic plants at the Wollongong Botanic Garden’s monthly Greenplan Plant Sales, all grown by our volunteers and perfect for local conditions. With subsidised prices from $3–$45, expert horticulturalists are on hand to help you pick the right plants for your garden. Plus, grab a coffee, tea, or hot chocolate from the on-site van while you browse! On once a month – click here for upcoming dates.

    The Wollongong Botanic Garden is also perfect for exploring winding paths, spotting wildlife, and discovering hidden treasures. Kids will love the all-abilities playground, duck pond, and sustainable garden, while adults can enjoy rainforest walks, diverse plant collections, and the nature wellness trail.

    Eats & Beats, Albion Park, Saturday 1 November

    Albion Park is set to come alive on Saturday 1 November 2025 as the Eats and Beats Street Series transforms Tongarra Road into a vibrant hub of colour, flavour, and entertainment. From 5pm to 9pm, the street will be buzzing with sizzling food trucks, glowing dance floors, movies under the stars, and plenty of family-friendly games and activities.

    Hosted by Shellharbour City Council, this free event promises an unforgettable evening of music, food, and fun for all ages. Don’t miss the chance to experience Albion Park like never before!

    Melbourne Cup 2025 Events across Wollongong, Illawarra & Shoalhaven, Tuesday 4 November

    Famously known as the race that stops the nation, the Melbourne Cup or Cup Day (Tuesday 4 November, 2025) is almost upon us and Wollongong’s finest establishments, restaurants and functions centres are not holding back. Find the best Melbourne Cup event packages and race day experiences Illawarra-wide. Frock up, gather your friends and treat yourself to a day of splendour and fun!

    Wedding Open Evening at the award-winning Figbird Cottage, Saturday 15 November

    Searching for the perfect wedding venue? Figbird Cottage in Terara (just 1 hour from Wollongong) is hosting a Wedding Open Evening. Explore the stunning gardens, boutique accommodation & NEW wedding packages + meet talented local suppliers. Limited spots – RSVP now here.

    The Gong Raceday, Saturday 22 November, Kembla Grange Racecourse

    Get ready for the thrill of the Spring Carnival at The Illawarra Turf Club’s premier race meeting – The Gong! Held every November, this spectacular event combines elite racing with premium hospitality, live music, and a buzzing coastal atmosphere. Off the track, enjoy all-day entertainment on the Public Lawn, a DJ to keep the celebrations going after the last race, and free buses to get you home safely.

    Dress to impress and enter Fashions On The Field for your chance to win fantastic prizes. As the finale of the NSW Spring Carnival, The Gong is a metropolitan standalone meeting that draws Australia’s top horses and jockeys – and it’s fast become one of the region’s must-attend social events. Don’t miss out – get your tickets now.

    Spartan Stadion, WIN Stadium, Saturday 29 November

    Get ready, Wollongong – Spartan is making its long-awaited debut in the Illawarra! This adrenaline-fueled obstacle race is set to take over WIN Stadium, offering an unforgettable experience for elite athletes, fitness enthusiasts, families, and first-time racers alike.

    The Stadion format brings the action indoors with a fast-paced 5km course featuring stairs, sprints, sand, and over 20 obstacles designed to test your grit, speed, and strength. You can join solo, join your gym team, or soak up the festival atmosphere (spectator tickets are FREE!).

    With events for both adults and kids, team waves, a family-friendly festival zone, and meet-and-greets with Spartan athletes, there’s something for everyone. Spectator passes are free, so no one has to miss out on the excitement. Learn more/join in/grab your tickets now!

    Check out more Spring events coming to our region here!

    Spring Outdoor Activities Illawarra:

    Scenic bike rides near me

    Take advantage of the sunny weather and explore Wollongong by bike! From flat coastal paths to mountain trails, there are routes for all ages and skill levels. Perfect for a family outing, a scenic ride with friends, or a solo adventure — get some fresh air, exercise, and enjoy the beautiful spring scenery. Get our Guide to the best bike routes in Wollongong & across the Illawarra here.

    OR – if you are after something a little more challenging and off the traditional bike trails, explore the best MTB bike trails in the Illawarra here.

    Illawarra Markets & Craft Fairs

    Celebrate spring by exploring Wollongong and South Coast markets. Hunt for fresh produce, handmade treasures, and tasty treats, enjoy live entertainment, and soak up the vibrant community atmosphere. Perfect for a sunny weekend outing with family and friends. Get our guide to the best Spring markets & pop ups in the Wollongong & Illawarra region here.

    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!

    Whale watching & takeaway picnic hampers at The Imperial at Clifton

    Perched along the scenic Northern Illawarra escarpment just 500m from the Sea Cliff Bridge, The Imperial at Clifton offers award-winning breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and gourmet picnic hampers. Enjoy stunning coastal views, relax with delicious food, and take in spring whale watching right from your table or nearby spots. Perfect for a scenic spring outing.

    PLUS – you can check out our guide to further whale watching spots across the Illawarra here!

    Wollongong’s Best Barefoot Bowls / Wiso’s

    Kick off your shoes and enjoy a fun, relaxed day on the green! From glow-in-the-dark bowls with friends, to kids’ bowls during school holidays or a casual work party with a beer in hand, the Illawarra has the perfect barefoot bowls venues for everyone. Great value, welcoming vibes, and plenty of laughs guaranteed – time to lose the shoes and roll some bowls. Get our Guide to the Best Barefoot Bowls in Wollongong & the Illawarra. Including Glow Bowls & Bowling Parties here.

    This Spring, get active in the sunshine at Wollongong Tennis Club!

    Wollongong Tennis Club is the perfect spot for a hit, a lesson, or a family day out. With both grass and hard courts, expert coaching for all ages, kids’ holiday camps, and even elite junior squads, there’s something for everyone. After your game, relax with great food in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a beginner, a seasoned player, or just looking for a fun outdoor activity, tennis at Wollongong Tennis Club is a must-do Spring activity this season!

    Kiama Coastal Walk

    Image c/o Destination Kiama

    The Kiama Coastal Walk stretches about 22 km from Minnamurra to Gerringong, offering breathtaking ocean views and diverse coastal scenery. Because the full walk is quite long, families are best off choosing a shorter section like the popular Kiama Blowhole to Easts Beach stretch or the path from Surf Beach to Kendalls Beach. These shorter routes are manageable for kids and perfect for a leisurely picnic stop along the way. With plenty of scenic spots and easy access, the walk is a wonderful way to enjoy Kiama’s stunning coastline without committing to the entire trail.

    Best Illawarra bushwalks with waterfalls

    Minnamurra Falls. Image courtesy of NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service

    Discover some of the Illawarra’s best waterfall walks and natural swimming holes, perfect for all ages and fitness levels. From tranquil bush trails to coastal walks with stunning views, there’s nothing better than cooling off with a dip at the end — or simply soaking up the peace of running water. Many of these beautiful spots are just a short drive from Wollongong, with family-friendly trails (and even some pet-friendly ones!) making them ideal for a spring day out in nature.

    Spring Holiday Deals South Coast NSW:

    Spring Escapes with Holiday Haven Parks – Shoalhaven & South Coast

    Make the most of the sunshine this spring at one of 12 stunning Holiday Haven locations across the Shoalhaven and South Coast. From beachfront cabins to lakefront and riverfront campsites, it’s the perfect way to unwind, explore, and enjoy the great outdoors.

    Getaway Deals with Holiday Haven Parks:

    Wollongong’s Health & Wellbeing / Spring Reset:

    Hangdog Recovery Room – Infrared Sauna & Ice Bath

    Hangdog Climbing Gym has just opened its brand-new Recovery Room, featuring a refreshing ice bath and infrared sauna – and it’s open to everyone (no climbing required).

    Perfect for athletes, weekend warriors, or anyone looking to reset, boost circulation, and reduce muscle soreness. While the kids climb, you can relax, recover, and leave feeling revitalised. Casual sessions from just $10 or weekly memberships from $20. Visit now.

    Sanctuary by Thrive

    Spring Reset for Your Skin at Sanctuary by Thrive, Unanderra! As the seasons change, it’s the perfect time to refresh, rejuvenate, and glow. Shake off winter dullness with treatments that exfoliate, hydrate, and stimulate collagen, from medical-grade peels to advanced laser therapies. Pair it with a holistic approach to hormonal and metabolic health for skin that looks radiant and feels revitalized this spring. Enquire now.

    Unlimited Saunaus Wollongong Memberships open now + get 2 weeks free

    Step into a season of renewal at Saunaus Wollongong, where hot rock saunas, ice baths, and infrared therapy meet total relaxation. Unwind in the recovery lounge, soak up the benefits of contrast therapy, or book a massage for the ultimate reset. Visit here.

    Take advantage of Saunaus Wollongong’s Premium Unlimited Membership for $70 per week and receive 2 weeks FREE, giving you unlimited access to the Traditional Sauna, Ice Baths, and Recovery Lounge with complimentary tea and fruit. Enjoy $0 sign-up or exit fees, the ability to pause your membership up to 4 weeks per year, and a Membership Merch Pack valued at over $110 featuring a tote bag, hooded robe, cap, and insulated water bottle.

    Spaces for unlimited access are limited to ensure availability for general guests, so secure your spot before they fill! Plus, all new memberships come with 2 weeks FREE, starting as low as $27 per week, with weekly, monthly, and couples’ options available. Get onboard now.

    Wollongong Best Spring Dining & Restaurants:

    $12 Chicken Schnitzels + $10 All-Day Cocktails – every Thursday at The Icon

    Imagine a bar where it’s Happy Hour all day long… plus $12 Housemade Chicken Schnitzel with shoestring fries + Gravy? Well, it’s happening every Thursday at The Icon, Wollongong!

    HAPPY THURSDAYS from 11AM till LATE!

    • $6 ALL tap beers
    • $6 ALL wines
    • $10 EVERY cocktail on Earth
    • $12 Housemade Chicken Schnitzel, Fries + Gravy (made fresh – no frozen stuff!)
    • PLUS – Happy Hour Friday, Saturday & Sunday 3–7PM too!
    • Thirsty? Hungry? In the Gong? You know where it’s at. Visit now here

    Breakfast or brunch with a view at Altitude 1148, Bulli Tops

    Enjoy breakfast or brunch high above the Illawarra at Altitude1148, where panoramic views make every meal memorable. From light, fluffy pancakes to hearty options like eggs benedict, paired with expertly brewed coffee and fresh juices and smoothies, it’s the perfect spot to soak up the spring sunshine and start your day relaxed and refreshed over the Illawarra escarpment.

    Altitude 1148’s location also offers an ideal starting point for a scenic bushwalk – check out any of the amazing Illawarra escarpment bushwalks close by here.

    The Boathouse North Wollongong

    Celebrate spring at The Boathouse North Wollongong, perched on the top level of the North Wollongong Surf Life Saving Club with breathtaking ocean views. Enjoy coastal-inspired bistro dishes for lunch and dinner or relax with casual drinks and small bites on the sun-soaked terrace.

    Tacos, Tequila & Good Times at Checho’s Wollongong

    Experience bold flavours, fresh local ingredients, & a seriously tasty Mexican menu at the new Checho’s Wollongong – from tacos and nachos to signature cocktails. Whether it’s Bottomless Brunch or a vibrant Fiesta Package for special occasions, celebrations & groups, put Checho’s Wollongong on your list!

    The Lagoon’s Spring Savours Menu!

    Enjoy The Lagoon’s special mid-week spring offering, including fresh dishes perfect for sunny days and relaxed evenings. Available for lunch & dinner, Monday to Friday.

    Spring Dining & Events at Steamers Bar & Gril

    From fresh spring flavours and vibrant cocktails to unbeatable drink deals, live music by the beach, and our Oktoberfest weekend specials, your spring calendar at Steamers Bar & Grill is looking brighter than ever. Start light with our Tie Downs – tasty bites perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself) – then make the most of Thirsty Thursday, with Happy Hour running all day and live music from 5:30 pm to set the vibe.

    The good times continue every Thursday and Saturday evening, with live performances, ocean views, and cocktails that keep the night rolling. And for food lovers, don’t miss Steamers 45 – your choice of any three chef-curated dishes for just $45pp, available daily for both lunch (11:30 am – 3 pm) and dinner (5:30 – 7 pm).

    NEW Spring Menu at The Lake Illawarra Hotel

    Great news – the new Spring Menu is here at The Lake Illawarra Hotel! They’ve just launched a fresh lineup of pastas to suit every tastebud – from rich and creamy Boscaiola to flavour-packed Prawn & Chorizo and delicious Ravioli (pictured above). No matter what you’re craving, we’ve got something you’ll love. Come in and taste the flavours of Spring at The Lake Illawarra Hotel today!

    Sundowner Sessions & Acoustic Fridays – The Imperial at Clifton

    Perched above the stunning Sea Cliff Bridge, the award-winning and iconic, The Imperial, is your go-to for chill vibes, live tunes & unbeatable views.

    Dolce Domenica – ‘Sweet Sundays’ at Andie’s Thirroul

    Sundays are made for slowing down, gathering with friends, and savouring good food — and now, at Andie’s Thirroul, they last a little longer.

    Join them for Dolce Domenica – “Sweet Sundays”, a relaxed afternoon between lunch and dinner filled with spritzes, shared plates, and sunshine. From 2–4pm, enjoy $12 Spritz Hour featuring Limoncello, Plum & Orange, Watermelon, Aperol, and their Dolce Domenica Special, paired perfectly with Andie’s Graze Menu of marinated olives, stracciatella with garlic honey and rosemary, pane with EVOO, prosciutto di San Daniele, and honeycomb tiramisu. As the courtyard glows into evening and dinner begins from 4pm, linger a little longer – because Sundays are sweeter at Andie’s.

    Bottomless Brunch at ilu ilu Wollongong

    Unwind this spring at ilu ilu Wollongong every Saturday from 2–4 PM with two hours of bottomless drinks, including freshly made cocktails and sangria that rotate monthly for a fresh twist. Pair it with the Dish of the Month, a rotating chef’s special packed with bold, exciting flavors.

    Whether you’re catching up with friends or treating yourself, this is the perfect way to elevate your weekend. Two hours, no rush – just great food, great drinks, and spring vibes. Book your table now.

    For more awesome Bottomless Brunch deals in Wollongong, click on our guide here!

    Spring Sports and Activities:

    Urban Rec Wollongong’s Spring Sport Leagues

    It’s time to warm things up with Urban Rec’s Spring 2025 Priority Registration, running 29 Aug – 5 Sept! Urban Rec is more than just sport – it’s a social club too, with free beers during Pub Week, Saturday burger & beer deals, and more member perks.

    With 17 leagues across 8 sports in Wollongong, there’s something for everyone (18+, all levels, mixed and social), plus 6 chances to win $$$ cashback on your team rego. This is your VIP chance to lock in your crew before spots go public (and sell out fast!), with the season kicking off the weeks of 6 and 13 October. Register as a team or solo – learn more here now.

    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 this spring now!

    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.

    Treetops Adventure Nowra

    Take your spring excitement to new heights just 1 hour south of Wollongong! At Treetops Adventure Nowra, climb, zipline, and navigate your way through the treetops along the Shoalhaven River. Sessions run for 2.5 hours, including gearing up, with courses for all ages from 3+.

    Start small on the beginner 1-metre-high courses, or push your limits up to 35 metres above the ground for a real adrenaline kick. With levels designed for the whole family, it’s the perfect spring activity to explore, challenge yourself, and have fun outdoors. Explore now.

    Spring Picnic Places in Wollongong

    View from Mount Kiera Lookout

    There’s no better way to enjoy the South Coast of NSW than a leisurely picnic with stunning ocean views. The native wildflowers are blooming, the sun is shining, and it’s prime time to laze in the grass, soak up some vitamin D, and munch on your favourite snacks.

    Whether you’re planning a day out with kids, friends, fur babies, or even a spring date, our Top 10 Wollongong & Illawarra Picnic Spots guide has all the insider tips to help you pick the perfect location for a relaxed, scenic, and fun-filled spring day. Discover our Top 10 Wollongong & Illawarra Picnic Spots to Explore here.

    Luxury Spring Picnics with Pony & Wolf

    Celebrate spring with Pony & Wolf Pop-Up Picnics at Wollongong’s most scenic spots. Perfect for couples, groups, proposals, bridal showers, or birthdays, each picnic is styled with plush cushions, blankets, boho teepees, and gourmet grazing platters. Choose your setup, soak up coastal views, and enjoy a stress-free, unforgettable spring celebration. Learn more here.

    Celebrate Spring amongst the vines at Shoalhaven & South Coast wineries

    Photo credit Mountain Ridge Wines

    Soak up the season with a visit to local wineries, where rolling vineyards, mountain-to-ocean views, and golden sunsets set the scene. Enjoy a wine tasting, a leisurely stroll among the vines, or a delicious meal – the perfect way to celebrate spring outdoors. Get our Guide to the Best Local Wineries in the Shoalhaven & South Coast here.

    Spring Wedding Proposal Ideas in Wollongong & the Illawarra

    Did you know spring is the busiest season for wedding proposals? With blooming flowers, warmer days, and longer sunsets, it’s the perfect time to pop the question and create a magical moment. If you are after wedding proposal inspo, check out our 14 Breathtaking Proposal Locations & Ideas on the South Coast in Spring here.

    And now that you’ve popped the question – explore our guide to the best wedding proposal locations – including outdoor wedding locations perfect for spring here!

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

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