Wollongong is a coastal city in Australia, south of Sydney, along the Grand Pacific Drive. Surfing beaches and rock pools line the coastline. Trails encircle the forests and rocky cliffs of Mt. Keira in the Illawarra mountain range, which frames the city. Wollongong is noted for its heavy industry, port activity, and the quality of its physical setting. It occupies a narrow coastal plain between an almost continuous chain of surf beaches. Several things to do in Wollongong keep tourists busy in this beautiful city.
Things To Do In Wollongong
Here is a short guide on things to do in Wollongong for a wonderful and memorable trip to Australia.
1. Museums, Temples and Art
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For a change of mood, head into the quiet lane at the Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere, and explore the Dew Drop Inn Tea House for a refreshing pot of delicious lotus tea. You can also visit Wollongong Botanic Garden, Wollongong Art Gallery, and the gorgeous Illawarra Museum in the former Post and Telegraph Office constructed between 1865 and 1882. Plane enthusiasts and watchers can get together at the HARS Aviation Museum.
The Sri Venkateswara Temple in Helensburgh is another brilliant spot in the Wollongong area. Here, you can try some delectable and authentic South Indian food. The temple is a stunning abode of architecture mixed with religious significance.
Point To Be Noted: Wear appropriate clothing when visiting temples.
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
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2. Nature and Wildlife At Wollongong
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The Wollongong Botanic Garden is a picturesque garden where you can spend several hours and never get bored. It is one of the best things to do here. It provides loads of ways to explore the local and exotic plants and lush vegetation, and it also has a brilliant playground to keep the kids entertained, complete with a climbing net and a maze.
Wollongong Botanic Garden hosts guided walks, workshops, and a sunset cinema over the summer! Be sure to check out the gift shop. If you want to get up close to kangaroos in Sydney or other Aussie wildlife, head to Symbio Wildlife Park. You can cuddle with a koala, feed the kangaroos, and take a selfie with some local wildlife. There’s also the excellent Splash Water Park, which recently opened at Symbio Wildlife Park and will keep the kids entertained during the summer months.
Point To Be Noted: Keep a safe distance from animals and do not expose any food packets near them.
Duration: 2 – 3 hours
3. Adventure Activities
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You can also try paragliding with the HangglideOz tandem jump, which takes you right over Stanwell Tops, an experience that will undoubtedly be memorable. See incredible views of The Royal National Park and the coastal city of Wollongong. For a reason, it always features the best things to do in Wollongong and New South Wales. Sea Cliff Bridge is the second most photographed bridge in New South Wales. Although you can walk and drive across it on the Grand Pacific Drive, there’s also a secret lookout point that gives a different perspective. It’s not a noticeable trodden track; you must find the hidden path to access it.
Jamberoo Action Park is a brilliant day trip from Sydney during the summer for everyone and always makes the list of the best things to do in Wollongong. Set in the country on the outskirts of the Southern Highlands, Jamberoo Action Park is a great day trip for the whole family and is just a 30-minute drive from Wollongong. Bring your swimmers and be prepared to have fun on the water slides here!
Point To Be Noted: Wear safety and equipment gear while performing adventure sports.
Duration: 3 – 4 hours
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4. Food In Wollongong
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Forage Markets hosts Eat Street markets in Wollongong every Thursday and Forage Fridays in Bulli Beach weekly. Support local farmers and vendors while sampling the best street eats or stock up on fresh farm food for the week. Their Sunday forage markets in Bulli (a 10-minute drive away) also showcase the best vintage and homemade craft stalls so you can celebrate local artists and sellers.
Typical Australian food concerns barbecued sausages, meat pies, chicken parmigiana, barramundi, etc. And Sydney is a melting pot of all Aussie classic food. The foodscape of this city is anchored by the chefs offering traditional foods sourced from local farms.
Point To Be Noted: If you want to taste authentic Australian food, spend more time in the street food markets than in high-end restaurants!
Duration: 2 – 3 hours
5. Beach Lounging
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From surfing at beautiful beaches and driving across the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge to attending vibrant cultural events and dining on fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, the Wollongong area is one of those destinations that has something for everyone to enjoy. Find the top things to do below. This Place offers the ultimate seaside escape against the backdrop of the picturesque Illawarra Escarpment.
There are commanding vantage points along the escarpment, such as Bald Hill and Mt Keira, or our iconic Blue Mile walk, taking in Wollongong Harbour and Flagstaff Hill. Or amp up your outdoor adventure by enjoying the thrill of a tandem skydive or touring Sea Cliff Bridge on the back of a Harley Davidson.
Point To Be Noted: Carry enough sunblock and beachwear.
Duration: 2 – 3 hours
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Wollongong is a promising city to visit in the beautiful continent of Australia. Now that you have this helpful guide to plan your holiday, why waste any more time? Book your tickets ASAP for a memorable Trip To Australia!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Wollongong
What is the weather like in Wollongong throughout the year?
Wollongong has an oceanic climate, bordering on humid subtropical climate as its warmest month means 21.9 °C. Hot in the summer but not too cold in the winter makes Wollongong the perfect destination year-round.
How to reach Wollongong?
By Air - Sydney International Airport is about an hour from the city of Wollongong. By Train - Wollongong is located on Sydney Trains South Coast Line. Sydney Trains operate commuter trains at regular intervals to Wollongong. If travelling from domestic or international airports catch a train on the airport line to Wolli Creek Station. Disembark and board the next South Coast Line train to Wollongong. BY Road - If you’re travelling from Sydney to Wollongong by car and you’re looking to experience the best that the journey has to offer, you can’t go past the Grand Pacific Drive.
What is the history of Wollongong?
Wollongong, city, southeastern New South Wales, Australia. It is located on the coast of the Tasman Sea in the Illawarra district. Wollongong was founded as a village in 1816; its name is an Aboriginal word meaning “sound of the sea.” It became a town in 1843, a municipality in 1859, and a city in 1942.
What are the local food delicacies of Wollongong?
Zereshk Polo, Loobia Polo and Fairy Bread are some of the food delicacies that tourists should enjoy in the city of Wollongong in Australia.
What is Wollongong renowned for?
The city is best known for its natural beauty. You can take nature walks though the Illawarra Escarpment or the Royal National Park where you'll see native wildlife, or you can surf or swim at one of the stunning local beaches.
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