Sea Cliff Bridge, CliftonCredit: Destination NSW
Sun rising over the Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton.
#feelnsw #newsouthwales
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. Make the most of this summer by exploring this vibrant city with the following guide.
Eat and Drink
The Scarborough Hotel
With bush-covered escarpments backdropping what must be one of the most spectacularly located beer gardens in Australia, heritage-listed The Scarborough presides over the Pacific Ocean as its patrons sip ice-cold Riesling and peel prawns by the bucketload. As you drive into Wollongong after the Sea Cliff Bridge, this is the perfect pit stop anchored in good times.
Dagwood Bar & Kitchen
Take the greatest menu hits from all corners of Asia, from bao to bulgogi, shake it with some coastal classics and garnish with a Mexican-accented drinks list and you have Dagwood – a neon-lit, shiso-laced feast with a side of chips and edamame. It’s a mix tape of riotous fun and flavour in the city centre.
Juniper Bar
Another small city bar, this one is gin-centric with more than 60 different incarnations of the spirit. You’ll find your own good spirits here as you settle into a holiday state of mind.
Longboard Café
The beachside cafe at City Beach with a philosophy intention to craft food for the soul; made with the freshest local ingredients. Think classic café eats with a focus on whole food, plant-based, vegetarian and vegan options, from the earth, for the soul.
Lee and Me
Lee and me is a cafe operating out of a charming old terrace house. A must visit for breakfast, lunch, specialty coffee and cocktails. Freshly baked goods and takeaway available. Open 7 days a week.
Kneading Ruby
Nestled in the heart of Wollongong and participating in the town’s cheery seaside dining scene is Kneading Ruby on Crown Lane. Imposed from the outside with high brick walls, the inside is unassumingly elegant, with lofty ceilings giving an airy feel to pair with delicate vines draped across timber ceiling beams and polished floors. Naturally lit during the day for a breezy café feel and cast under a soft glow for more ambient evening dining.
Diggies
Perched on the edge of North Beach, Diggies is a bright, casual cafe serving fresh food and great coffee with coastal vibes. Aussie beach culture is brought to life via a seasonal menu sourced from high quality, local ingredients. Soak up the ocean breeze over an all day brunch menu, epic cocktail and wine list, plus a Little One's menu.
The Scarborough Hotel, Scarborough Credit: Destination NSW
Young people having an afternoon drink at The Scarborough Hotel in Scarborough on the Illawarra coast.
#feelnsw #newsouthwales
The Scarborough Hotel, Scarborough Credit: Destination NSW
Young people having an afternoon drink at The Scarborough Hotel in Scarborough on the Illawarra coast.
Main Beach, Wollongong Credit: Destination NSW
People enjoying the sand and surf at Main Beach, Wollongong.
#feelnsw #newsouthwales
Main Beach, Wollongong Credit: Destination NSW
People enjoying the sand and surf at Main Beach, Wollongong.
Play
Symbio Wildlife Park
Say hello to a motley crew of cheetahs, red pandas, lemurs and koalas at Symbio Wildlife Park on the outskirts of Royal National Park home - along with some less cuddle-receptive reptiles. Once you’re done ogling the residents, point the kids in the direction of the Splash Park and let the squeals ensue.
Hang Glide Oz at Bald Hill, Stanwell Park
If you feel inclined to check your adrenaline reserves, place yourself in the reassuring hands of Hang Glide Oz. The almost-theatrical beauty of the Stanwell Tops escarpment may be lost on you as you prepare to launch yourself off the edge, but no doubt, as the wind gently guides your descent and your pounding heart calms, you’ll find a moment to appreciate the landscape and an intoxicating sense of mid-air liberation.
Anita’s Theatre
This iconic Thirroul theatre, built in 1925, spent time as a roller-skating rink in the ’60s after a decline in theatre patronage until it was restored to its designated purpose as a venue and reopened in 2007. Since then, Anita’s Theatre has been the source of all hot tickets in town and surrounds.
Wollongong Art Gallery
Be in awe at one of the largest regional art museums in Australia. The Wollongong Art Gallery presents an exciting range of exhibitions and activities that showcase the energy and creativity of the Illawarra region, as well as touring exhibitions of national and international significance. The diverse and growing permanent Collection features important Australian, Aboriginal, Asian and contemporary art for visitors to really indulge in their creativity.
Explore
Wollongong Botanic Garden
As you tread the well-tended pathways of this half-a-century-old garden, allow your chattering mind to hand the reigns over to your senses. No matter your botanical preferences, there’s a garden here to satisfy your horticultural inclinations, from succulents and palms to natives and rainforest plants. Ascend to the annexed Mount Keira Summit Park to absorb the sweeping vista of Wollongong below.
Grand Pacific Drive
Threading through pins dropped at points of wonder, the Grand Pacific Drive road trip is a pilgrimage of veritable joys. Stretch out the journey for as long as you can to take in the Illawarra’s unrelenting charm. Starting from Sydney, navigate through the waterfalls and white cliffs of the Royal National Park, frolic in the waves of Wollongong’s beaches, ascend to a state of tranquillity in the Minnamurra Rainforest, sip local wines and slurp river-harvested oysters at Crookhaven River and delight in diving dolphins on a Jervis Bay boat cruise.
Symbio Wildlife Park, Helensburgh Credit: Destination NSW
The Symbio Wildlife Park in Helensburgh provided interactive animal experiences and an opportunity to explore the Conservation Splash Park Adventure Playground.
#feelnsw #newsouthwales
Symbio Wildlife Park, Helensburgh Credit: Destination NSW
The Symbio Wildlife Park in Helensburgh provided interactive animal experiences and an opportunity to explore the Conservation Splash Park Adventure Playground.
Stanwell Park, South Coast Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial view of Stanwell Park on NSW's South Coast..
#feelnsw #newsouthwales
Stanwell Park, South Coast Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial view of Stanwell Park on NSW's South Coast..
Stay
Novotel Wollongong Northbeach
Located in a front-row position to take in the ocean’s perpetual show, the Novotel is also close to many of the city’s best-loved attractions, such as restaurants, WIN Stadium and the Botanic Gardens. Hop from beach to bar and back again before returning to roost for the evening.
Headlands Austinmer Beach
Just minutes from Thirroul, Headlands Austinmer Beach features apartments ranging from studio to penthouse, offering gaze-lingering views of the ocean and the city’s protective Illawarra Escarpment. There’s a brasserie and bar, pizza and dumplings dispensed from an airstream caravan, and, of course, the turquoise beach right in front of you.
Hotel TOTTO
Hotel TOTTO is your latest escape smack bang in the centre of Wollongong. Steps away from world-class waves, they're your industrial-style home base for exploring the laidback Wollongong scene. Each of their 150 rooms is ideal for the ultimate chilled-out experience.
Austinmer Beach, Austinmer Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial overlooking Austinmer Ocean Pools, Austinmer Beach.
#feelnsw #newsouthwales
Austinmer Beach, Austinmer Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial overlooking Austinmer Ocean Pools, Austinmer Beach.
Wollongong Botanic Garden, Wollongong Credit: Destination NSW
Wollongong Botanic Garden located in Wollongong is a natural beauty of the botanic garden containing 18 native and exotic collections and home to many native animals.
#feelnsw #newsouthwales
Wollongong Botanic Garden, Wollongong Credit: Destination NSW
Wollongong Botanic Garden located in Wollongong is a natural beauty of the botanic garden containing 18 native and exotic collections and home to many native animals.
More Inspirational Stories
Sydney New Year's Eve, SydneyCredit: Keith McInnes
Spectacular 9pm Welcome to Country fireworks display across Sydney Harbour to celebrate the New Year
#feelnewsydney
The countdown is on for the biggest night of the year. As the clock strikes midnight on 31 December, more than one million people will gather around Sydney Harbour to ring in 2025. This year, experience Sydney at its summer best, spend the biggest night in the city, then wind down out of town.
Where to watch the fireworks
Observatory Hill
One of the highest points in the city, Observatory Hill is on the edge of The Rocks and is positioned straight at the Sydney Harbour Bridge – it’s probably the closest you can get to the bridge without being on it. Sensitive ears? Bring some ear plugs.
Free entry – no tickets required
Mrs Macquarie’s Point
This iconic NYE vantage point just next to the Royal Botanic Garden has spectacular views of Circular Quay, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and the barges that dot the water near the bridge. Here, there’s a real party atmosphere with pop-up bars and food trucks spread out around the point.
Free entry – no tickets required
NYE Pier Party
At Pier One Sydney Harbour‘s exclusive NYE Pier Party, you’ll be almost close enough to touch the fireworks. Tickets include a mouthwatering menu from food stalls along the pier, free flowing drinks and a set from famed Aussie singer-DJ Havana Brown.
Tickets from $549pp
Celebration New Year's Eve
The rooftop Sculpture Terrace at the Museum of Contemporary Art will transform into the city’s most spectacular LGBTQIA+ NYE celebration. From the rooftop setting, you’ll have a front row seat to the biggest night of the year, plus canapes, bottomless drinks, DJs and cabaret acts.
Tickets from $697pp
New Year's Eve Opera Gala at Sydney Opera House
This is a truly iconic Sydney celebration. Start the evening with drinks overlooking the harbour before heading inside for the Opera Gala Concert. Watch the 9pm fireworks during intermission then enjoy the rest of the show before the exclusive Midnight Party kicks off in the Northern Foyer. Expect incredible views of the fireworks, Champagne and a night of dancing.
Tickets from $199pp
Rooftop bars
Ring in the new year at one of Sydney’s glamorous rooftop bars where you can pair breathtaking views with live music, Champagne and a cocktail the colour of the fireworks. Aster at the top of the InterContinental Sydney has some of the best views in the city, looking out over the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. At the Shangri-La Hotel, marvel at the fireworks from the sky-high Altitude restaurant and Blu Bar. For fireworks views from Darling Harbour, get tickets to the festivities at Zephyr (DJ and saxophonist included) at the Hyatt Regency, Untied Barangaroo (featuring flowing frosé and a DJ set) and CIRQ at Crown Sydney (where you’ll join a masquerade soiree).
Tickets required
Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying a picnic in the Royal Botanic Gardens on New Years Eve at the Lawn With A View event
null
Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying a picnic in the Royal Botanic Gardens on New Years Eve at the Lawn With A View event
Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying the fireworks display at the Lawn With A View event on New Years Eve in the Royal Botanic Gardens
null
Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying the fireworks display at the Lawn With A View event on New Years Eve in the Royal Botanic Gardens
Watch the fireworks on the water
Harbour islands
Three of Sydney’s tiny harbour islands are prime vantage points for the NYE fireworks. Clark Island and Shark Island sit either side of Point Piper and have clear views of the harbour and the bridge. Goat Island is close to Balmain on the western side, so you’ll get to see the ‘back’ side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the firework barges. Entry is free though you’ll need to pay for the ferry transfers. You can bring your own food and alcohol.
(Note that these islands are sold out for NYE 2024 – remember to book early for 2025)
Cockatoo Island
Spend the night in the middle of the action on World Heritage-listed Cockatoo Island. Choose a pre-erected tent (or bring your own) on the Eastern Apron for stellar views of the harbour and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. You’ll also be able to see the explosives fire out of a fireworks barge just offshore.
Tickets from 514.42 for a four-person campsite
(Note that a minimum two-night stay applies – NYE guests will stay from Monday 30 December to Wednesday 1 January.)
Harbour cruises
The harbour will be dotted with hundreds of boats during the NYE celebrations, most illuminated with coloured lights and filled with excited revellers. Splash out on an indulgent multi-course dinner, free-flowing drinks and live music aboard the glass-walled Clearview, MV Vagabond Spirit or a Sydney Showboat ferry. Captain Cook Cruises offers a range of cruise options including a more budget-friendly evening where you can bring your own food and drink onboard.
Private charter
For a more exclusive experience, book a private charter boat to enjoy the countdown with your closest friends. Sydney Harbour Escapes, Sydney Harbour Specialists and Eastcoast Sailing have luxurious fleets available for hire. Prices start at around $3,000 and go up well over $100,000 for extra luxury options.
New Year's Eve Fireworks 2020, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Spectacular midnight fireworks display across Sydney Harbour to celebrate the start of 2021.
#feelnewsydney
New Year's Eve Fireworks 2020, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Spectacular midnight fireworks display across Sydney Harbour to celebrate the start of 2021.
New year, new adventures: ultimate summer getaways close to Sydney
When the fireworks have faded and the last Champagne cork has been popped, take the opportunity to discover the wonders that await just a short drive from the city. Get a taste of spectacular scenery on a day trip or stay away a little longer in unique hotels or bush camps on postcard beaches. Sparkling coastline scenes, lush forests, one-of-kind adventures and stylish stays await on the Central Coast, in Kiama and the Shoalhaven, and in the city of Newcastle.
Central Coast | 1 hours’ drive
North of Sydney, a necklace of jewel-like beaches is strung along the coast, backed by the untouched bushland of national parks. It’s a quintessential slice of the Aussie coastal lifestyle with characterful villages packed with waterside eats, world-class surf, and family adventure.
Things to do:
- Take a dip or learn to surf in the gentle waves of Terrigal Beach, follow the new boardwalk around the Haven, and try snorkelling or diving in the crystal clear water.
- Hop between the 41 beaches that stretch along 80 kilometres of coastline. Try Toowoon Bay for families, Soldiers Beach for surfing and North Avoca for dog-friendly adventures.
- Cruise around the oyster leases of the Hawkesbury River with Sydney Oyster Farm Tours, then get your waders on to sample a freshly shucked shellfish from a table in the water.
- Meet Elvis the crocodile and Hugo the Galapagos tortoise, then book in for a behind the scenes encounter at the Australian Reptile Park.
- Discover a new adventure in the lush Glenworth Valley – horse riding, quad biking, kayaking, abseiling, camping and more.
- Enjoy a romantic retreat at the five-star Bells at Killcare, a plush Hamptons-style retreat with private lodges boasting sunny rooftops and room service from Bells’ award-winning restaurant.
Terrigal Beach, Terrigal Credit: Destination Central Coast
Dolphins catching a wave at Terrigal Beach, Terrigal on the Central Coast of NSW.
#feelnsw #newsouthwales
Terrigal Beach, Terrigal Credit: Destination Central Coast
Dolphins catching a wave at Terrigal Beach, Terrigal on the Central Coast of NSW.
Kiama & Shoalhaven | 2 hours’ drive
Part of the spectacular South Coast, these neighbouring regions sit south of Wollongong and promise golden beaches, legendary waves, charming villages and natural wonders. From the historic streets of Kiama – now home to galleries and small bars – to beautiful Huskisson, named Australia’s best Tiny Tourism Town for 2024, these areas made for meandering.
Things to do:
- Cruise alongside the bay’s 100 resident dolphins, on board, or in a boat’s boom net, an ocean adventure with Jervis Bay Wild.
- See ocean water crash through a rocky opening and explode up to 30 metres in the air at the Kiama Blowhole, the largest natural blowhole in the world.
- Savour native ingredients at one-hat restaurant Bangalay Dining, then check in to one of the breezy, luxury villas set among coastal sand forest.
- Sleep in style in the bush in one of Paperbark Camp’s stylish safari tents, where kangaroos and king parrots can be seen from the outdoor bathtubs.
Kiama Blowhole, Kiama Credit: Destination NSW
Water plume spouting from the Kiama blowhole.
#feelnsw #newsouthwales
Kiama Blowhole, Kiama Credit: Destination NSW
Water plume spouting from the Kiama blowhole.
Newcastle | 2 hours’ drive
NSW’s second city, Newcastle was built on steel and shipping but today it’s better known for its thriving arts scene, creative community, delicious dining and photogenic ocean pools. Explore on foot, on two wheels or from the water, uncovering fascinating maritime history, vintage stores, tiny galleries and a buzzy night life.
Things to do:
- Take an adventure cruise with Coast XP, watching dolphins leap in your wake as you pass famed surf beaches, World War II forts and the bustling Newcastle Harbour.
- Join the locals for a beachside breakfast or a woodfired pizza on the rooftop of the always-popular Merewether Surfhouse.
- Toast the day with a drink at the city’s highest bar, Rooftop at QT. Sip unique cocktails or local Hunter wines while you take in the 180-degree views over the city.
- Wake to the sound of the waves at Noah’s on the Beach, a classy beachfront hotel. Choose an ocean facing room for that all important view and head out the front door for a sunrise surf.
- Splash out at Crystalbrook Kingsley, Newcastle’s first five-star hotel that has transformed the historic Council Administration Centre building. Don’t miss dinner with a view at the rooftop Roundhouse restaurant.
Merewether Baths, Newcastle Credit: Destination NSW
Young people enjoying a day at the Merewether Baths in Newcastle.
#feelnsw #newsouthwales
Merewether Baths, Newcastle Credit: Destination NSW
Young people enjoying a day at the Merewether Baths in Newcastle.