Hill 60 Lookout is reached via a narrow but well formed established walking track and offers spectacular views up and down the coast line. A series of post and rail guards can be found at this interesting and spectacular spot. Just below the lookout are beaches fished commercially by local Aboriginal fishermen up until the 1940s. The area has numerous Aboriginal shell middens and artefacts scattered along its shores.
Deep beneath the lookout lies a series of fortifications, established at the beginning of World War II. These fortifications housed large guns which were put in place to protect the vital industrial centre of Port Kembla. Although there are no longer any large guns here the concrete bunkers can be clearly seen.
These bunkers are connected to a series of underground tunnels which honeycomb the entire area. These tunnels are not accessible to the public.
This picturesque beach is 900 metres long, backed by sand dunes and a large parkland area ideal for family picnics and gatherings. This beach proves to be popular as the nearby caravan park houses many visitors all year round. Bulli is located 11 kilometres north of the Wollongong central business district and is accessible via the Wollongong shared Cycle Way.
The Surf Club is located just to the south of the northern rocks. A small creek crosses south of the club house and backs the northern half of the beach. The southern half is more accessible from Woonona.
Bulli Beach is an on-lead dog friendly beach during certain times. Time sharing zone allowing access on the beach on leash at certain times dependent on season.
Bulli Rock Pool and toddlers' pool are overlooked by a stunning headland, with popular beachside cafes nearby. It's also just a short walk from Bulli Tourist Park.
The rockpool dates back to the 1930s and sits against the cliff on the headland with sandy beaches to either side. Waves breaking against the wall of this 50-metre seawater pool make it feel like you're doing laps at the edge of the world.
After a dip, explore the gorgeous seaside town of Bulli.
Sandon Point Beach is extremely popular for surfing and many surfing tournaments have been held at this beach.
There is plenty of parking and open reserve for picnics and gatherings. Sandon Point Beach is located at Bulli, 11 kilometres north of the Wollongong central business district.
This pristine location is ideal for families, with a large reserve for picnicking located right on the beach. Surrounded by bushland, this proves popular for barbecues, and for Sydneysiders on day trips.
Sandon Point Beach is a Dog Friendly beach during certain times of day. Time sharing zone allows access on the beach on leash at certain times dependent on the season.
Thirroul Beach is one kilometre in length and faces east, so it picks up swell from most directions. There's little wind protection at either end, although big southerly swells or southerly winds get slowed up somewhat by the Sandon Point headland.
Thirroul Beach is patrolled September to April and there is a saltwater pool that's great for a swim.
Thirroul Beach is a time share dog zone. Time sharing zone allows access on the beach on leash at certain times dependent on the season. However McCauley's Beach is located directly to the south and an off leash dog friendly beach.
An inclusive and safe space for everyone, Dapto Library is located on level one of the Ribbonwood Centre, in the town centre adjacent to Dapto Showgrounds.
A much-loved community hub, the Library is home to a large collection of books, films, music and magazines, with free technology and internet access, and friendly expert staff on hand.
The Library hosts regular events and programs for all ages, from fun preschool literacy to creative and technology workshops for adults.
Your Library, your place.
The largest library in Wollongong's northern suburbs, the spacious and light-filled Thirroul Library is located with the Thirroul District Community Centre and adjacent to local shops and cafes.
An inclusive and safe space for everyone, the Library is home to an extensive collection of books, films, music and magazines, with free technology and internet access, and friendly expert staff on hand.
The Library hosts regular events and programs for all ages, from fun preschool literacy to creative and technology workshops for adults.
The Library is a short walk from Thirroul Train Station, with free parking available on site.
Bondfire Sauna is the Northern Illawarra's wood-fired communal sauna experience. Located in the heart of Thirroul, NSW, Bondfire offers intimate 50-minute sessions for up to 8 people in a traditional cedar sauna, led by a certified Aufguss master. The experience combines deep heat, cold contrast, and genuine human connection - a ritual designed to restore body and mind. Whether you're a seasoned sauna enthusiast or trying it for the first time, Bondfire offers a unique wellness experience rooted in community, warmth, and the natural beauty of the NSW coast.
Thirroul Pool, nestled between the pristine Thirroul beach and the escapement, is a favourite location to cool off for both locals and visitors.
This idyllic spot boasts a 50-metre salt water lap pool for serious swimmers, as well as a welcoming toddlers' pool for the little ones. The convenience of a beachfront kiosk and kids' playground nearby adds to this seaside haven.
Thirroul Pool offers a refreshing escape for all.
Austinmer Beach is one of Wollongong's most popular beaches, located just 20 minutes north of the central business district.
Austinmer is well set up to cater to large summer crowds being patrolled September to April. It is located off Lawrence Hargrave Drive, with shops lining the western side and a large car park and park between the beach and the Drive. The Surf Club and other amenities occupying the southern half of this 250 metre long beach. Two large rock pools lie on the southern rock platform.
The relatively small beach is wedged between two low headlands and their extensive rock platforms. It receives waves averaging 1.4 metres, which result in two strong permanent rips against the rocks at each end.
Austinmer Beach is not dog friendly. However, Little Austinmer Beach located directly to the north is an off lead dog friendly beach.
You’ll find these twin rock pools at the southern end of Austinmer Beach, overlooked by a historic pavilion. The southernmost pool is narrower and slightly longer than its northern neighbour, and both are popular year-round.
If you’re not comfortable swimming in the ocean surf itself, this ocean water pool is a great testing ground as you swim laps up directly into the waves and back to shore with the waves flowing past you.
Coledale Beach offers a campers haven with a reserve right on the beach edge. There are fantastic views of the waves, and both ends of the beach are closed in with rock formations.
Coledale Beach is located 18 kilometres north of the Wollongong central business district.
This beach is only patrolled from the commencement of the NSW school holidays in September until the end of the NSW April school holidays. North Wollongong Beach is the only beach in the area that is patrolled all year round.
Coledale Beach is not a dog friendly zone, however, Sharkey's Beach located to the south is an off-lead dog friendly beach.
