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From surf to summit: Nine of Wollongong’s top outdoor adventures
Sea Cliff Bridge, Wollongong
Nestled between the Illawarra Escarpment and the Pacific Ocean, Wollongong on the South Coast of NSW is your next destination for hiking, surfing, biking, hang gliding, swimming, skydiving and more.
- 3 min read
Take a dip in your choice of ocean pools
For a relaxing swim head to one of the region's many rock pools — each have amazing views. Popular options include Bulli Rock Pool, Austinmer Ocean Pool, Coalcliff Rock Pool and Thirroul Ocean Pool.
Austinmer Beach, Austinmer
Go paragliding or hang gliding at Stanwell Tops
For the thrill of a lifetime, try a tandem glide with HangglideOz or SkySurf at Stanwell Park. Take off from Bald Hill, where Australian aeronautical pioneer Lawrence Hargrave first flew in his box kite in 1894, and soar above the Grand Pacific Drive and Pacific Ocean.
HangglideOz, Stanwell Park - Credit: HangglideOz
Tour the Illawarra region on a Harley-Davidson
Feel the wind in your hair, hear the roar of the motor, and see the beauty of the Illawarra region as you tour the area on a Harley-Davidson with Just Cruisin’ Motorcycle Tours. Customise your own tour or enjoy a thrilling ride along the Sea Cliff Bridge with an expert guide, choosing between riding a trike, sidecar or motorcycle.
Harley Davidson Tour, Illawarra - Credit: James Horan
Cycle the Wollongong to Thirroul bike track
Pedal along the Wollongong to Thirroul bike track, a popular coastal route offering scenic views with lots of places to swim and cafés to eat at along the way. Best of all, this 18km track is generally flat and suitable for all fitness levels.
Wollongong Beach, Wollongong - Credit: Tobias Rowles
Hike through rainforest along the Illawarra Escarpment
Nestled between rainforest and the coast, there are no shortage of great walks and views in the region. Hike Forest Walk to Sublime Point, a rewarding 11km trail that threads through cool upland swamps, blackbutt forests and cliff-top rainforests.
For a trail that takes in mining heritage and bushland, try the 5km Mount Kembla Ring Track that takes in Mount Kembla Lookout. Bird watchers will love Mount Keira Ring Track that loops around a mountain full of birdsong and includes Mount Keira Lookout.
Mount Keira Lookout, Wollongong
Brave the highest altitude skydive you can do in Australia
Challenge yourself to complete Australia’s highest altitude skydive with Skydive Sydney – Wollongong. Jump from 15,000 feet and soar over the coastline before landing right next to the beach.
Skydive Sydney - Wollongong, Wollongong - Credit: Skydive Australia
Get a bird’s-eye view of the coastline
Fly over the gorges of the Illawarra Ranges, see sun-kissed beaches from above and take in the beauty of the Seacliff Bridge on a flight with Touchdown Helicopters. With a range of routes on offer, choose between flights that showcase waterfalls, the coastline or drop into one of the regions world-class vineyards for lunch.
Touchdown Helicopters, Sea Cliff Bridge - Credit: Touchdown Helicopters
Learn to surf
Pristine beaches are sprinkled along the coastline, from Stanwell Park Beach in the north to Windang Beach in the south. You can learn to surf in this beautiful part of the world with Pines Surfing Academy and Illawarra Surf Academy.
Thirroul Beach, Wollongong
Go horse riding through native bushland
Horse riding is another great way to explore the area with Otford Farm and Darkes Forest Riding Ranch offering trail rides. There are bushland trail rides designed to suit all skill levels from beginners to advanced riders.
Darkes Forest Riding Ranch, Darkes Forest - Credit: Darkes Forest Riding Ranch
FAQs
What are the best hiking trails near Wollongong?
What are the best hiking trails near Wollongong?
There are lots of great hikes and walks around Wollongong including:
- Forest Walk to Sublime Point: a rewarding 11km trail that threads through cool upland swamps, blackbutt forests and cliff-top rainforests.
- Mount Kembla Ring Track: a 5km trail that takes in mining heritage, bushland and Mount Kembla Lookout.
- Mount Keira Ring Track: a trail that offers great bird watching and includes Mount Keira Lookout.
- Bulli to Wollongong Coastal Track: enjoy stunning ocean views and passes by the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge.
- North Wollongong Foreshore Walk: follow the coastline taking in Wollongong’s harbour and beaches.
- Wodi Wodi Track: a longer walk through the Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation area, known for its diverse flora and coastal views.
What are the top scenic viewpoints and lookouts in Wollongong?
What are the top scenic viewpoints and lookouts in Wollongong?
There are lots of great lookouts and viewpoints around Wollongong including:
- Bald Hill Lookout
- Sublime Point Lookout
- Mount Kembla Lookout
- Mount Keira Lookout
- Southern Gateway Centre Lookout
- Hill 60 Lookout
- Sea Cliff Bridge Lookout
What outdoor activities are suitable for families in Wollongong?
What outdoor activities are suitable for families in Wollongong?
There are lots of things to do with your family in Wollongong including:
- Horse riding: take a lesson or join a trail ride at Otford Farm or Darkes Forest Riding Ranch. There are lots of options for all skill levels and ages.
- Swimming: explore the region’s beaches or splash in one of the many ocean rock pools.
- Surfing: catch waves together or join a surfing lesson with Pines Surfing Academy and Illawarra Surf Academy.
- Hiking: enjoy an easy stroll through rainforest or along the coastline, or challenge yourself with a steep hike up to a lookout.
- Cycling: bike along the scenic 17km Wollongong to Thirroul bike track. Best of all, it’s relatively flat and good for all skill levels.
- Ziplining: visit Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures to zipline above canopies and walk along elevated boardwalks.
- Symbio Wildlife Park: get up close and personal with native and exotic animals.
- Jamberoo Action Park: enjoy thrilling rides and attractions for all ages.
- Wollongong Science Centre and Planetarium: discover interactive exhibits, engage in hands-on experiments, and explore the wonders of the universe.
What are the best camping spots near Wollongong?
What are the best camping spots near Wollongong?
Several great camping options are available near Wollongong, ranging from beachside locations to bushland retreats. For convenient amenities and proximity to the coast, book in to:
- Bulli Beach Tourist Park
- Windang Beach Tourist Park
- Corrimal Beach Tourist Park
- Coledale Camping Reserve
- Killalea Campground
What national parks are near Wollongong?
What national parks are near Wollongong?
There are several national parks near Wollongong, including:
- Royal National Park: an hour's drive from Wollongong and offers diverse landscapes including beaches and rainforests. It's a popular spot for hiking, camping, and scenic drives.
- Budderoo National Park: known for the Minnamurra Rainforest, it offers rainforest walks, waterfalls, and lookouts.
- Macquarie Pass National Park: located close to the Illawarra escarpment, this park features a mix of heathland and rainforest, along with views of the ocean.
- Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area: popular for bush walking and its scenic views.
