New South Wales imposes itself as one of the most beautiful areas in the Southern Hemisphere. While this Australian state is well-known for Sydney and its famous sights, it can offer much more attractions to curious tourists. One of the most interesting destinations in NSW is definitely the town of Wollongong. Situated about 50 miles south of Sydney, this place is a real heaven on the Australian East Coast.

Coastal walks with scenic sights

Almost a part of the Sydney metropolitan area, Royal National Park is a great place to visit when you are driving from Sydney to Wollongong. Allegedly the oldest national park in the world, this place contains an incredible string of breath-taking beaches, amazing white cliffs, incredible walking paths and scenic views of the ocean.

A visit to Royal National Park should be pre-planned, so that you manage to book all the tickets and the guided tours you would like to take.

Jamberoo

The largest of its kind in New South Wales, Jamberoo Action Park is a perfect destination for a pleasant family trip. Visitors can go on more than a dozen of spectacular, adrenaline-pumping rides, or show their skills at a landscape golf course.

The high season here is from February to April and during some public holidays, so it would be smart to buy tickets online if you decide to visit it during this period.

Symbio

No matter if you are an urban guy living in Sydney or a tourist traveling around Australia, Symbio Wildlife Park will sweep you off your feet. Here you can have a close encounter with some authentic animals, such as red pandas and cotton-top tamarin monkeys, as well as Sumatran tigers.

In addition to this, the park offers different interactive learning experiences and even serves as a party venue, and you should not miss it when coming to Wollongong.

Car trip that soothes the soul

When you hit the Grand Pacific Drive, you will see why this part of Australia is so famous for its natural beauties. If you are coming from Sydney, first you will spot the amazing scenes of Royal National Park on your left. You will be driving through lush rainforests and picturesque villages before you see the spectacular construction of Sea Cliff Bridge.

Also, when getting back from Wollongong to Sydney, it would be wise to visit one of the local bottle shops to grab some specials from this region as a souvenir. Besides, if someone can drive you back to Sydney, you can also enjoy the spectacular view of this area while having a drink.  

Craft beer treat

Also, you can try local beers if you spend the night in Wollongong and then drive back to Sydney. So, if you are not driving anywhere on the day of your visit and want to taste a quality craft beer, go and visit the Illawarra Brewery on the Wollongong beach. When paired with a clear view of the ocean and the fresh ocean breeze, Illawarra craft brews will show you Wollongong the way the local people see it.

Gourmet Heaven

As one of Australia’s most culturally diverse places, with over eighty different ethnic groups calling it home, Wollongong wows the palates of dinners as its highly esteemed food culture keeps on evolving, spoiling locals and visitors alike. People who take their food seriously will definitely satisfy their hunger in one of these eating establishments.

When you see Wollongong and its surroundings, you will realize that the traditional attractions tourists are usually offered Down Under have serious rivals in other parts of Australia. Only the drive from Sydney to Wollongong and farther, along the Grand Pacific Drive is spectacular enough, let alone all the other places along the way. Therefore, if you are planning to visit Sydney, rent a free car and come to Wollongong for a couple of days. Explore its brews, beaches and wildlife and enrich your Australian experience.