Beaches · 6 min read
The Best Beaches in Wollongong: A Local's Guide
From patrolled city beaches to sheltered rock pools, here's where to swim, surf and soak up the sun along the Illawarra coast.
North Wollongong Beach
A favourite for families thanks to its gentle curve, patrolled flags in season and easy walk to cafes along Cliff Road. Grab a coffee and walk the foreshore path to the lighthouses.
Wollongong City Beach
Right on the edge of the CBD, City Beach is wide, open and great for an early morning swim before breakfast in town. The Continental and Gentlemen's ocean pools nearby are perfect on calmer days.
Austinmer & Thirroul
Head 20 minutes north for two of the most picturesque beaches in the region. Austinmer's ocean pool is a local institution, and Thirroul's main street is packed with great brunch spots.
Safety tips
Always swim between the red and yellow flags, check conditions before you go and take care on rock platforms. Our guest guide in the house has a list of patrolled beaches and seasons.