South Coast Regional Tourism Organisation

Wollongong destination…

With 17 pristine patrolled beaches gracing its dramatic coastline, your next great experience is in Wollongong. The exhilarating mix of metropolitan style, seaside living and small town charm is hard to resist. Only 80 km's south of Sydney, it's so close, yet a million miles away.

Set against the backdrop of the commanding Illawarra escarpment, Wollongong is NSW's third largest city and has a proudly diverse culture and history. There is something here for everyone looking to escape the everyday. From family getaways to romantic short breaks, there's no shortage of ways to fill your days, and nights.

Where to play?

The unspoilt beaches are just the start. Wollongong offers everything from action adventure parks and wildlife, to horse riding, hang gliding, sky diving and Harley Davidson tours. Visit museums on science, aviation, art, and history. Enjoy cultural events such as viva la gong, theatre performances and widely acclaimed national and international musical acts or visit Nan Tien Temple the largest Buddhist Temple in the Southern Hemisphere.

Enjoy some family fun with a day at Symbio Wildlife Park where you can get up close and personal to some of Australia's most amazing natural wildlife, enjoy the thrill of the Taipan and the other water themed rides at Jamberoo Action Park, or perhaps just enjoy a lazy ride along the cycle way. What ever the desire Wollongong has something to suit everyone.

Take in the natural beauty of the region from any one of the amazing lookouts along the top of the escarpment from Bald Hill, Sublime point and Bulli Scenic reserve in the north to Illawarra Fly Tree Top Walk in the south. Experience the serenity of National Parks from the Royal National Park to Minnamurra Rainforest.

Shop til you drop in Wollongong's City Centre or at one of the regions Stockland Shopping Centres or find something different at one of the vibrant coastal village boutiques and market days.

Home of the Wollongong ahm Hawks basketball team, as well as the St George Illawarra Dragons rugby league team, Wollongong is no stranger to elite sports, and plays host too many premier sporting events. Get along and enjoy a game with the family and be a part of the atmosphere.

Where to stay?

Fresh sea air, sunshine, action, adventure or a day of simple pleasures, your Wollongong getaway will ensure you sleep soundly at each days end. There is an abundance of accommodation styles for you to choose from, be it simple or stunning, five star or under the stars, to suit every whim – and every wallet!

Spoil yourself with a glorious and decadent beachside hotel room, or unwind in the intimate surrounds of a coastal B&B. Relax with the family in a cabin by the beach, or stay right in the thick of it all in Wollongong city. Each perfect day ends with a perfect nights sleep, and you are spoilt for choice when it comes to the ideal place to rest your weary head.

Where to eat?

Wollongong has a dazzling array of restaurants and dining experiences that will leave you wishing there were more meals in the day! Feast your senses at one of the seaside restaurants, with spectacular views and the freshest seafood. Try a new cuisine at one of the international cafes, or head to one of the pubs for some of the best fish and chips you'll find on the coast.

You won't miss your favourite coffee place when you visit Wollongong, you'll find a new one! Whatever your budget or taste there is somewhere to tempt your taste buds, breakfast lunch and dinner, and everything in between!

Tourism Passport for Wollongong and Beyond

Tourism Wollongong has a Tourism Passport for visitors and locals to experience the growing number of holiday attractions in Wollongong and along Grand Pacific Drive.

The handy, pocket-sized free passports are available from Tourism Wollongong at the Southern Gateway Centre at Bulli Tops and offer more than 40 discount coupons, including 25 per cent off spa treatments, 15 per cent off whale and dolphin watching cruises and 20 per cent off hang gliding flights.

Further information about the Tourism Passport and the Wollongong region is available at www.visitwollongong.com.au