Illawarra

Stretching south from Sydney’s suburban fringe to the wild cliffs of the Shoalhaven, the Illawarra region is a stunning collision of escarpment, ocean and industry. The escarpment rises abruptly from the coastal plain, cloaked in rainforest and crisscrossed by walking trails, while the coast delivers some of NSW’s best surf beaches. Kiama’s blowhole, Wollongong’s revitalised harbour and the lush hinterland villages give this region a distinct identity that rewards a slow, self-drive exploration.

Highlights & What to See

• Kiama Blowhole & Kiama Coast Walk – The famous blowhole erupts spectacularly on a southerly swell; follow the coastal walk for cliff-top views and hidden coves.
• Sea Cliff Bridge – This dramatic cantilevered road clings to the escarpment north of Wollongong, offering heart-stopping ocean views.
• Nan Tien Temple – Australia’s largest Buddhist temple, in Berkeley, with serene gardens, a vegetarian teahouse and cultural tours.
• Stanwell Park & Bald Hill – The birthplace of Australian hang-gliding; watch flyers soar above the coast from the lookout.
• Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area – Rainforest walks, waterfalls and lookouts like Sublime Point and Minnamurra Rainforest Centre.
• Wollongong City Gallery & Harbour – A strong regional gallery, plus a revamped harbour with seafood restaurants and a lighthouse stroll.

Suggested Time to Spend

Three to four days allow you to cover the highlights at a relaxed pace. Base yourself in Wollongong or Kiama, then spend days exploring the coast, the escarpment and the hinterland villages like Berry. Self-drive is essential for accessing the escarpment walks and the Sea Cliff Bridge; the route from Sydney via the Grand Pacific Drive is part of the experience.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Southern Highlands (Bowral, Berrima) – An hour inland, with cool-climate gardens, antique shops and cosy pubs.
• Jervis Bay – White-sand beaches and clear waters, about 90 minutes south of Kiama.
• Royal National Park – Australia’s oldest national park, on Sydney’s southern edge, with coastal and bush walks.
• Sydney – A day trip north for city sights, or start/end your journey in the Harbour City.

Please check official sources for current details.