A laid-back lifestyle with friendly locals are the reasons why Wollongong is often called the “happiest city” in Australia. It boasts of numerous white beaches, a lake, majestic mountains with rain forests, parks, gardens and waterfalls.
The coastal city of Wollongong is the third largest city in New South Wales. It is located on an arrow coastal plain between the sea and mountains. Blessed with an oceanic climate, the city is not as highly urbanized compared to the other cities in Australia, and is inhabited by about 207,000 people. Aside from its numerous attractions, the city is the home of the University of Wollongong, ranked in the top 2% of the best universities in the world. Although the city is served by the Illawarra Regional Airport, it is only 80 kilometers from Sydney, making it very accessible by land travel too.
So what does Wollongong offer travelers? The city has 17 patrolled beaches where you can enjoy water activities. It is also where you will find Nan Tien Buddhist Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the southern hemisphere. The city also features two historic lighthouses, a botanic garden, the Australian Motorlife Museum, Illawarra Museum, the Hill 60 Park, Science Centre and Planetarium, and To Thirroul Bike Track. Wollongong boasts of a vibrant nightlife so you can check out its numerous bars and clubs including The Throsby, Steelers Club, Illawarra Brewing Company, Glasshouse Tavern, Castro’s, and the Red Square Cafe Bar. If you love Rugby, you might be able to catch the St. George Illawarra Dragons Rugby League club play at the WIN Stadium.
Your next destination in Australia must be Wollongong. It will leave you breathless! Consult your travel agent for more details.