With a mountain backdrop, beautiful beaches and the largest Buddhist temple in the southern hemisphere, Wollongong has plenty to offer during a daytrip from Sydney.
Nov 2024 -
3
min readHighlights
Highlights
Morning
Depart Sydney and drive south along the start of the Grand Pacific Drive, crossing the spectacular Sea Cliff Bridge. This isn’t the fastest way to reach Wollongong but it’s the most scenic and worth the detour. Before you hit the bridge, stop at Stanwell Tops Lookout and admire the incredible views of the coastline. It’s common to see hang gliders and paragliders flying here too. You’ll then pass through coastal villages until you reach Wollongong.
Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton
Make your way to North Wollongong Beach for a swim or if you’re more of a pool dipper, check out the Continental Pool between Wollongong Harbour and North Beach, which has a 50-metre and 45-metre saltwater pool, and a toddlers’ pool.
Continental Pool, Wollongong
Afternoon
Eat at Levendi for lunch, a waterside venue serving up delicious fish and chips along with café classics. Afterwards, take a stroll to Wollongong Lighthouse and admire the ocean and harbour views on either side. Then walk back into the city centre to Wollongong Art Gallery, one of the largest regional galleries in Australia. Here you will find a variety of permanent and visiting exhibitions including Australian, Aboriginal, Asian and contemporary art.
Wollongong Head, Wollongong
Hop back in the car and drive south to Nan Tien Temple, the biggest Buddhist temple in the southern hemisphere. Set on 26 acres, there are beautiful shrines, a meditation hall and a tea house serving delicious drinks and vegetarian food. Check the timetable as there are often classes and workshops running, including Tai Chi and meditation. Note: Some parts of the temple require conservative dress.
Nan Tien Temple, Berkeley
Evening
Just across the street from the temple entrance is Seeker Brewing, where you can end your day in Wollongong with a wood fired pizza and a beer from the taproom (for the non-drivers). Or if you’re visiting on a weekend and want something more high-end, drive up to Ruby’s Mount Kembla for their five or seven course degustation menu. On the drive back to Sydney, be sure to stop at Mount Keira Lookout for incredible views of Wollongong and the coastline.
Mount Keira Lookout, Wollongong
Getting there
Getting there
