Five Islands

Rising from the Tasman Sea just off the coast of Wollongong, the Five Islands are a chain of rocky islets that form the Five Islands Nature Reserve. This protected haven is a crucial seabird breeding site, home to colonies of shearwaters, gannets, and penguins. While landing on the islands is prohibited to preserve the fragile ecosystem, the best way to experience them is by boat—kayak, cruise, or fishing charter—offering close-up views of the dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and abundant marine life. For land-based perspectives, head to the Wollongong Head Lighthouse or the breakwall at Belmore Basin, where interpretive signs explain the islands' significance in local Aboriginal Dreamtime stories.

Highlights & What to See

• Boat tours & kayaking – Guided eco-cruises and kayak trips circle the islands, with chances to spot dolphins, seals, and migrating whales (May–November).
• Wollongong Head Lighthouse – This historic lighthouse offers panoramic views of the islands and the Illawarra coastline, especially at sunset.
• Belmore Basin & breakwall – Stroll along the breakwall for close views of the islands and watch fishing boats come and go.
• Birdwatching – From shore, use binoculars to see nesting seabirds on the islands, including the little penguin colony on the largest island, Big Island.
• Snorkelling & diving – The waters around the islands are a marine protected area, with kelp forests and diverse fish life accessible by boat-based dive trips.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least 2–3 hours for a boat tour, which typically departs from Wollongong Harbour. If you're combining a cruise with a walk to the lighthouse and a stroll along the breakwall, plan for a half-day. For a more relaxed experience, spend a full morning or afternoon on the water, then explore the nearby Wollongong city beaches and cafés.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Sea Cliff Bridge – A spectacular ocean-side drive or walk on the Grand Pacific Drive, just 20 minutes north of Wollongong.
• Nan Tien Temple – Australia's largest Buddhist temple, located in Berkeley, 15 minutes south of the city, with peaceful gardens and a vegetarian restaurant.
• Wollongong Botanic Garden – A lush, free garden with rainforest walks, a cactus house, and a Japanese garden, perfect for a post-cruise picnic.
• Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk – A 45-minute drive south, offering a canopy walkway and zipline through temperate rainforest.

Please check official sources for current details.