Illawarra Playgrounds with Cafes: Wollongong Parks & Coffee Guide!
Looking for Playgrounds or Parks with cafes near me? Outdoor play is essential for kids’ wellbeing and development. And parenting is easier with coffee! Enjoy an Illawarra family outing to a new park and cafe. Parents Guide Illawarra (best things to do with kids in Wollongong) have teamed up with Play Illawarra (inspiring play for kids), to showcase our best outdoor kids’ activities. The Illawarra is home to some fantastic playgrounds that are also located just steps away from great local coffee shops. Hello our 10 best Wollongong playgrounds with coffee shops nearby!
Download Play Illawarra’s ‘Top 10 Playgrounds + Coffee’ Guide at the end of this post. You may also enjoy Parents Guide Illawarra Best Things to do With Kids – plus our Illawarra School Holiday Guide here.
Wisemans Park Playground / by the Gwynneville Bakery / Wiso’s Bowlo
Wisemans Park Playground is a tucked away gem in the heart of Gwynneville, with the delish, friendly Gwynneville Bakery over the road (coffee is fab here) – or family friendly Wiso’s Bowlo next door (amazing $15 lunch deals and kids eat free Sunday!)
The playground has so much natural shade from the surrounding trees, perfect for sitting on a blanket sipping coffee while your kids have so much fun at this gorgeous playground! Find all the details on Wisemans Park Playground here.
Stuart Park Playground, North Wollongong / by The Lagoon Kiosk & Cafe
Stuart Park Playground in Wollongong is great all-ages wonderland that’s packed with fun! Whether you’re a toddler, teen, or just a kid at heart, there’s something here to get you moving, exploring, and smiling.
The playground itself is bursting with cool stuff – slides, swings, zip lines, a scooter area, and (get ready for it)… a brand new giant scooter track, hamster wheels, and even more swings! It’s been freshly updated and it’s better than ever.
Need a break between zip-line races? The Kiosk and The Lagoon Restaurant is right next door, perfect for grabbing an ice-cream, coffee, or a bite to eat. And don’t forget the swimmers! You’ve got both the calm waters of the Lagoon and the beach just a short stroll away.
There’s loads of shady spots, grassy areas for picnics, and plenty of seating for the grown-ups. And if you’re up for a little adventure, Puckey’s Estate Walk is right next to the park – complete with bushland vibes and cool historical info along the way. Read more about visiting Stuart Park Playground here
J J Kelly Park Coniston / by Honey Bee Cafe
This newly upgraded playground is the perfect spot for a coffee catch up! Located right across from Honey Bee Cafe in Swan St, Coniston. It has a fenced playground and ample parking, there’s so much to love! The cafe is open 7 days a week, making this playground a perfect regular spot for your morning treat! Find out more details about J J Kelly Park Coniston Playground here.
Nicholson Park Playground, Woonona / by North Break Cafe
Nicholson Park Playground’s grassy open space right by the beach is right by North Break Cafe, a gem loved by locals in Woonoona! The kiosk is perfect for takeaway food and drinks, which you can bring on over to the playground and sit under the shaded picnic tables! This playground has a learn to ride track, exercise equipment AND water play, making it perfect for the whole family. Find more info about Nicholson Park Playground here
Bulli Beach Reserve Playground / by 34 South Cafe
This bright and colourful playground has so much to do and see! Beloved 34 South Cafe is a short walk from this playground, perfect for a stroll before heading over to the equipment to play! The playground has lots of shaded seating, as well as large grassy areas to spread out for a picnic. Find all the info about Bulli Beach Reserve Playground here.
Thirroul Beach Reserve Playground / by Thirroul Beach Pavilion
Located next to Thirroul Pool and Beach, this playground is great for a range of ages! With a fun history, designed with local children, featuring a stone elephant’s head inspired by the historic Thirroul Circus, this playground has rich character. Thirroul Beach Pavillion in the reserve is ideal for a playground treat, overlooking the water. See all the info about Thirroul Beach Reserve Playground playground here.
Ray Crump Oval Primbee / by Rosy Lea Cafe
This playground situated on Ray Crump Oval caters to children under 5, with seperate equipment for little ones, as well as lots of fun swings, climbing and fitness equipment for the older kids! Right by this playground is Rosy Lea Cafe, known for their wonderful coffee and artisan treats, perfect for a catch up with friends while the kids play! Find more on Ray Crump Oval Playground here.
Bardsley Park Playground / by The Sands Kiosk
This scenic modern playground is a fun playground suited for all ages! Located along the Illawarra Art Trail and featuring artwork by Carla Gottgens, as well as being right by The Sands Kiosk, this playground is perfect for a family day out! The Sands is open until 4pm, seven days a week, making it perfect for those afternoon coffee hits! Find all the info on Bardsley Park Playground here.
Keith Barnes Oval Playground, Albion Park – Blue Jay Cafe
This playground in Albion Park is well-maintained and located on the Keith Barnes Oval, making it ideal for the little ones that want to run around! Just across the road is Blue Jay Cafe, with an extensive kids menu and great coffee! See more info on the Keith Barnes Oval Playground here.
Boongaree Rotary Nature Play Park Berry / by The Berry Donut Van
In the scenic village of Berry is this inclusive playground designed for all ages and abilities. Featuring nature and sensory play areas, this playground is sure to spark imaginative play! A short walk form this playground takes you into the heart of Berry village, with a range of wonderful cafes, as well as the famous Berry Donut Van! See more photos and info on the Boongaree Rotary Nature Play Park Berry here.
Gerringong Old School Park Playground / by all the Gerringong Village treats!
Right in the heart of Gerringong, this fully shaded playground is a great spot for children of all ages! Its central location allows for easy access to local amenities and is in the perfect spot to check out the local cafes and eateries of Gerringong! There are so many to try, giving you an excuse to keep coming back! Find all the info on the Gerringong Old School Park Playground here.
Pairing a great playground with a nearby café is a win-win for families. You get to recharge and catch-up while your kids run, jump, and laugh! Want to keep these spots handy for your next outing?
Download Healthy Cities’ Free “Top 10 Playgrounds + Coffee” guide here! And don’t forget to tag @HealthyCitiesAustralia and @illawarra_parentsguide in on all your local playground & park visits on socials!
What’s on for Kids School Holidays Wollongong & Illawarra
We’ve found the best Wollongong, Shellharbour and Illawarra School Holiday programs, events, activities & low-cost kids holiday FUN. The school holidays come round so quickly, but fun school holiday ideas await! Read on for our best What’s on for Kids School Holiday Guide.
If you are looking for even more kid-friendly, fun (and free) activities to do in the Illawarra, check out our Fun Places To Take Kids in Wollongong & the Illawarra Guide.
Finally, make the most of family life in our stunning Illawarra – Subscribe to the ultimate guide to family living weekly email by Parents Guide. Say NO to bored kids and get inspired! Click and sign up for our Parents Newsletter here. Get all the local inspo!
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