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    Top Things to do with Kids in Wollongong & the Illawarra!

    Top Things to do with Kids in Wollongong & the Illawarra!

    Looking for the best things to do in Wollongong with kids and family? Parents Guide Illawarra is your family friendly guide to what’s on for kids. Find family-friendly attractions, indoor play centres, free outdoor fun and kids activities. Hello amazing things to do for families Illawarra wide…

    We’ve explored all of these family-friendly attractions and reveal the most fun places to take kids. Perfect for family weekends, rainy days and school holidays.

    Best Kids & Family Events Illawarra & Wollongong

    Room on the Broom – Anita’s Theatre, Tuesday 14 July

    Looking for some school holiday magic? Don’t miss Room on the Broom at Anita’s Theatre, Thirroul this July! Based on the much-loved children’s book, this enchanting live stage show follows a kind-hearted witch, her cat and a collection of new animal friends on a fun-filled adventure packed with songs, laughter, surprises and a hungry dragon. Perfect for children aged 3+ and their grown-ups, it’s a wonderful family theatre experience these school holidays. Tuesday 14 July | 11am & 1pm | Anita’s Theatre, Thirroul. Tickets from $39.90 – bookings recommended.

    Stellar Experiences Illawarra Community Day – Saturday 18 July

    Come along to Stellar Experiences’ FREE Community Open Day and celebrate the opening of their new Shellharbour office! Whether you’re a young person aged 16–35 living with a mild to moderate disability, a family member, support coordinator, allied health professional or simply interested in learning more, everyone is welcome. Tour the new space, meet the friendly team, discover their programs and supports, connect with others in the community, and enjoy light refreshments in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. No bookings required—just come along and say hello!

    Eats and Beats – Oak Flats, Saturday 19 September

    Expect a magical evening of food, live music, markets and family fun as Eats & Beats Oak Flats returns on Saturday 19 September 2026 from 4:30pm–8:30pm.

    This vibrant twilight festival celebrates the heart of Oak Flats, bringing the community together with entertainment, local businesses, delicious eats and plenty of FREE activities for all ages. Wander the streets, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy a fun night out close to home. Families can also enjoy carnival rides thanks to Oak Flats Primary School, with ride passes available to purchase on the night to support the school’s fundraising efforts.

    Ride4Rotary, Friday 13 September

    Get the Whole Family Riding at Ride4Rotary! Looking for a fun day out that also gives back? Ride4Rotary on Sunday 13 September is a fantastic family-friendly cycling event with ride options for kids, adults and all abilities—including the popular Loop the Lighthouse ride and a dedicated kids’ course. Best of all, it’s FREE to register! After the ride, stick around for a Family Fun Day at Lang Park featuring a petting zoo, arts and crafts, food vendors, exhibitors and plenty of activities for all ages. Every ride helps raise vital funds for Southern Youth and Family Services (SYFS), supporting vulnerable young people across the Illawarra. It’s a great way to get active, make family memories and support a wonderful local cause. Learn more/register here now.

    Pro Wrestling Australia: Prize Fight! Saturday 26 September, Anita’s Theatre

    If you’ve got a teen aged 16+ looking for an exciting night out, Pro Wrestling Australia: Prize Fight delivers all the action, drama and adrenaline of live professional wrestling. Expect explosive matches, incredible athleticism, larger-than-life personalities and an electric atmosphere as Australia’s top wrestling stars battle it out in the ring. It’s a fun, high-energy live experience that’s perfect for wrestling fans and anyone looking for a unique night out together. Recommended for ages 16+ – book your tickets now.

    The Balgownie Hotel – monthly Family Fun Days

    The Balgownie Hotel’s Monthly Family Fun Days are a hit with Illawarra families! Held once a month on a select date from 12–4pm, these relaxed, community-style afternoons feature live music, outdoor games, table tennis, pool tables and a dedicated kids’ painting station to keep little ones entertained while parents unwind. It’s the perfect excuse to gather the family, enjoy a great meal and settle in for an easy, fun-filled afternoon together. Bookings essential for lunch or dinner. Plan your visit to The Balgownie Hotel here.

    Warilla Hotel – Sunday Fun Days

    Looking for an easy, fun Sunday outing with the kids? Warilla Hotel hosts a Sunday Funday every week – a relaxed, family-friendly afternoon designed just for Illawarra families. From 12pm–3pm, kids can enjoy FREE face painting and family fun, while parents settle in for a laid-back lunch and drinks (cabanas available). With a big outdoor & covered playground, plenty of space to relax and a welcoming local vibe, Sunday Funday is the perfect way to wrap up the weekend together. Plan your visit to the Warilla Hotel here.

    Five Barrel Brewing – Family Fun Day

    Five Barrel Brewing hosts a fantastic Family Fun Day every 2nd Sunday of the month from 12:30pm–2:30pm, bringing together great beer, delicious burgers and relaxed community vibes with free games for all ages. Families can challenge each other to Giant Jenga, Connect Four and Cornhole outdoors (weather permitting), or head inside for card games, chess and checkers — all in a laid-back brewery setting right in the heart of Wollongong. With tasty food and drinks available and plenty of space to unwind, it’s an easy, fun-filled afternoon for the whole crew. Bookings are recommended. Plan your visit to Five Barrel Brewing here.

    Family-Friendly Restaurants, Clubs & Pubs

    Woonona Bulli RSL

    Read our ultimate Kids Friendly Dining Guides below, written by parents at Parents Guide Illawarra!

    Woonona Bulli RSL (pictured above) offers outdoor al-fresco seating, plus an outdoor covered kids’ playground. Open daily, the club offers plenty of space to enjoy a meal together, with regular casual dining specials – like pizza nights, steak or schnitzel deals + more – making it a fun choice for family outings or weekend lunches. Plan your visit to Woonona Bulli RSL here.

    Gelato Emporium, Bulli Tops

    Looking for a fun place to take the kids? The Gelato Emporium at Bulli Tops is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Little ones will love choosing their favourite artisan gelato flavours, while parents can enjoy quality coffee and gourmet treats — all with stunning coastal views as the backdrop. It’s an easy, relaxed outing that feels like a treat for the whole family. Plan your visit to the Gelato Emporium here.

    The Boathouse at North Wollongong presents The Bakehouse

    The Ultimate Sunday Family Treat! The Bakehouse at The Boathouse North Wollongong is on the first Sunday of every month from 8am–11am! Gather the family and enjoy a relaxed morning by the beach with an irresistible selection of fresh sweet and savoury baked treats, quality coffee and beautiful North Beach views. Bookings recommended here.

    Barneys – Kids Eat FREE

    A Family Takeaway Dinner That’s Anything But Ordinary! Looking for somewhere different to grab dinner for the family? Barney’s serves up delicious wood-fired pizzas, exciting flavours and a relaxed family-friendly atmosphere that’s perfect for an easy midweek dinner or weekend treat. Little ones will love the pizzas and indulgent desserts, while adventurous foodies can try Barney’s unique wild game menu featuring venison, boar and wallaby. Even better, Kids Eat FREE every Wednesday with selected pizza orders, and Barney’s now offers home delivery, making family dinner even easier. With seven new pizzas, tasty new menu additions and unforgettable desserts, Barney’s is well worth adding to your family’s must-visit list. View the menu or order online today!

    Family-Friendly Attractions & Kids Play Centres

    Illawarra Fly

    Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures is an epic day out just a short drive from Wollongong, where kids can explore, climb and play in nature. Walk high above the rainforest on the Treetop Walk, tackle the Knights Tower for big views, and let imaginations run wild in the Enchanted Forest with fairy villages and fun photo moments. For older kids and teens, the Zipline Tour adds an extra thrill. It’s the perfect mix of adventure, fresh air and family fun – one of those places kids won’t want to leave. Book your Illawarra Fly adventure here.

    Wisos

    Barefoot Bowls, Glow Bowls & Kids Eat FREE on Sundays! Looking for a fun, affordable family outing these school holidays? Head to Wiso’s, where kids can enjoy a game of Barefoot Bowls, experience the magic of Glow Bowls after dark and refuel with a FREE kids meal every Sunday with any adult main meal at Il Lago. With plenty of open space to play, family-friendly dining, pet-friendly outdoor areas and a relaxed atmosphere just minutes from the Wollongong CBD, Wiso’s is one of those easy family outings that keeps everyone happy. Whether you’re planning a casual lunch, an afternoon on the greens or a fun evening under the lights, Wiso’s offers a unique family experience that’s big on fun and easy on the budget. Plan your visit to Wisos now here.

    Science Space Wollongong

    Science Space is the largest hands-on science centre in NSW! Located at the University of Wollongong’s Innovation Campus in North Wollongong, this iconic venue boasts 100+ interactive STEM exhibits across two floors, explosive live Science Theatre shows, NSW’s largest immersive Planetarium, a fully stocked Science Shop and epic school holiday programs and camps.

    Little ones can join Science Sprouts STEAM playdates (0–5 years) during term, and families can explore the exciting new multi-million new Energy Futures Zone featuring 25 hands-on exhibits on solar, wind, hydrogen and more. Open daily, it’s also one of the BEST spots in Wollongong for unforgettable science-themed birthday parties. Plan your visit to Science Space here.

    Early Start Discovery Space

    Early Start Discovery Space on the University of Wollongong’s main campus is the ultimate learn-through-play destination for children aged birth to 10 and their adults, offering 20+ interactive experiences including loose parts play, a mud kitchen, marketplace, LEGO and block construction, fossil digging, water play, cave exploration, stage performance, train and ship role play, plus two outdoor adventure gardens. As the world’s first dedicated children’s museum on a university campus, every experience is backed by UOW research to support children’s development.

    Open seven days a week, it includes FREE daily programs such as Storytime, Music & Movement, sensory play sessions and creative workshops. It’s a must-visit Wollongong experience for hands-on family fun. Plan your visit to Early Start Discovery Space here.

    Flip Out Albion Park

    Flip Out Albion Park is the ultimate spot for active indoor fun in the Illawarra, open 7 days a week and packed with way more than just trampolines! Get your bounce on in the Main Arena, tackle the Ninja Warrior course, soar onto the Airbag, test your skills on the Parkour and Tumble Track, explore the Junior Arena, then refuel at the café.

    With general admission from $17 (plus $4 grip socks), awesome deals like Manic Monday ($10 per hour) and 2 For 1 Tuesdays, plus weekday Toddler Time/Playgroup sessions (9:30am–12:30pm during term), Ninja Classes for school-aged kids and teens and epic all-inclusive birthday parties, Flip Out Albion Park is the perfect high-energy day out for families, friends and celebrations. Plan your visit to Flip Out Albion Park here.

    Treetops Adventure Nowra

    Just one hour south of Wollongong, Treetops Adventure Nowra is a 2.5-hour treetop experience is packed with 80+ aerial challenges, 15 ziplines and courses ranging from 1 metre high for little adventurers (ages 3+) up to 35 metres for those chasing an adrenaline hit. It’s the perfect mix of fun, challenge and incredible views over the Shoalhaven River. 

    Tabatinga Dapto

    Tabatinga Family Fun & Social Centre at Dapto Leagues Club is an award-winning, affordable and friendly indoor play centre designed for safe, social fun for kids aged 3–12. Open Tuesday–Sunday 10am–2pm, it’s the perfect spot for family playtime, themed birthday parties or their popular Drop & Dine sessions every Friday and Saturday night (5:30pm–9:30pm), where children are fully supervised while parents enjoy dinner in the club (parents must remain onsite; bookings recommended).

    With regular Whacky Wednesdays and plenty of themed events and fun throughout the year, Tabatinga Dapto is a go-to for easy, stress-free kids entertainment in the Illawarra. Plan your visit to Tabatinga Dapto here.

    Northern Bowl, Bellambi

    Northern Bowl is Illawarra’s iconic bowling alley and family entertainment centre, serving up classic tenpin fun alongside arcade games and an onsite café. With great-value deals including Cheap Tuesday $10 sessions, bumper bowling (ramps available), kids’ birthday parties, school group bookings, league bowling and large group events, there’s something for every age and ability. Got a teen keen to try league bowling? Head in Thursday nights from 4pm–8pm to bowl 3 games for just $19.50 and get tips from an experienced league bowler — no commitment, just strikes, skills and fun! Plan your visit to Northern Bowl, Bellambi here.

    Sharky’s Play

    Sharky’s Play is an exciting indoor playcentre located inside Northern Bowl, offering a colourful sensory “under the sea” adventure filled with sea creatures and ocean-themed fun. Kids can explore the multi-level play space featuring a dedicated toddler zone (0–3 years) and a big kids area (4+ years) with slides, obstacles, mazes and soft play activities, while parents relax in the seated café area.

    Perfect for play dates, casual drop-ins or unforgettable parties, Sharky’s also offers exclusive 2-hour private venue hire for kids parties. Walk-ins are welcome, or call (02) 4283 6222 to book in your next play session or party. Plan your visit to Sharky’s Play here.

    Illawarra Light Railway Museum

    Illawarra Light Railway Museum is a must-visit for train-loving kids and families, offering the chance to ride restored steam and diesel trains and miniature railways while discovering the fascinating history of rail transport in the Illawarra. Get up close to historic trams, locomotives and carriages, enjoy lively, history-filled tours, then relax with a café visit or BBQ picnic in the grounds. The venue is open to the public on the second Sunday of each month for Steam Train Rides (10am–2pm), plus special school holiday events. You can also host unforgettable kids’ birthday parties, private functions or corporate events (up to 50 guests, larger groups by arrangement) — enquire via [email protected] or call 0492 267 581. Plan your visit to Illawarra Light Railway here.

    Wollongong Botanic Garden

    Wollongong Botanic Garden (rated #1 on TripAdvisor for things to do in Wollongong) is a must-visit nature escape for families, with winding paths, hidden garden treasures, an all-abilities playground, duck pond, sustainable garden and one of the largest rainforest collections in Australia featuring Illawarra species. Kids will love spotting wildlife like bower birds, native bees, kookaburras and ringtail possums, while adults can unwind on the nature wellness trail or join guided buggy and walking tours.

    With year-round activities including native plant sales, Budding Bookworms storytime, bird-spotting walks, educational excursions and the much-loved Sunset Cinema each summer, plus beautiful outdoor spaces for weddings, ceremonies, picnics and BBQs, it’s an open-daily (from 7am) and completely FREE Wollongong favourite. Plan your visit to Wollongong Botanic Garden here.

    HARS Aviation Museum

    HARS Aviation Museum at Shellharbour Regional Airport is one of the Illawarra’s best-kept secrets for a family day out. Families can board many of the aircraft, walk through working hangars, sit in selected cockpits and enjoy guided tours led by passionate volunteers (general admission includes the full tour; open daily). Don’t miss the monthly Tarmac Days (across the second Friday & weekend each month) where aircraft are displayed outdoors and open for boarding, plus VIP experiences like the B747 Wing Walk and Cockpit Tours — perfect for unforgettable kids’ birthdays or special occasions. With onsite favourite Cafe Connie serving coffee, snacks and a kids’ menu, it’s easy to make a full day of this hands-on aviation adventure. Plan your visit to HARS Aviation Museum here.

    The Shellharbour Club

    The Shellharbour Club offers modern, family-friendly surroundings with standout dining, entertainment and kids’ fun all under one roof. With six delicious dining options + the vibrant Precinct indoor street market, there’s something for every appetite. Families love the Kids Eat Free Tuesdays and the FREE kids entertainment every Friday from 6–8pm in Precinct.

    Little ones can also explore Block House at Precinct, an exciting indoor dockside-themed play space with slides and interactive zones. Planning a celebration? From kids’ parties to birthdays and engagements, The Shellharbour Club offers flexible event spaces. With indoor and outdoor play areas and a buzzing dining scene, it’s a go-to destination for family fun in Shellharbour. Plan your visit to The Shellharbour Club here.

    Wollongong Art Gallery has a variety of fun programs to nurture your child’s curiosity in the arts! Located in the heart of Wollongong CBD with easy access to great cafes, restaurants, public transport, and parking – it’s a wonderful and unique family activity. Entry is free, and there are a range of specialised tours, workshops, and programs for kids to enjoy all year round – this includes free monthly Junior Art Trail for kids aged 3 to 5 years old, as well as After School programs for primary school students! Plan your visit to Wollongong Art Gallery here.

    Wollongong City Libraries

    Discover Wollongong City Libraries with seven locations across the region! Their libraries are more than just places to read—they are inclusive, safe spaces for all ages – and are fun & educational places for families with young children right up to teens.

    Whether you’re looking to learn, play, or connect, they offer a diverse range of free educational, recreational, and social sessions for preschoolers, school-aged kids, and young adults, with programs during the school term and on every school holiday period. From art workshops, to music, to STEM to writing programs and so much more! Simply drop in—no bookings required. Plan your visit to Wollongong City Libraries here.

    Hangdog Indoor Climbing Gym

    Want to climb to the top, race your friends, and try something awesome? At Hangdog Indoor Climbing Gym, there’s a whole world of fun waiting for kids — with towering walls, cool climbing challenges, and even no-rope bouldering! Whether they’re a first-timer or a little monkey on the move, Hangdog have got climbs made just for them. Come with your family, join a school holiday workshop, or be part of their fun climbing squads. So grab your water bottle, bring your energy, and get ready to climb, laugh, and explore! Plan your visit to Hangdog Indoor Climbing Gym here.

    Kids Activities / Outdoor Nature Experiences

    Holiday Haven Parks, Shoalhaven & South Coast

    Looking for best family holiday parks on South Coast NSW with cabins, caravan or camping? With 12 stunning locations across the Shoalhaven and South Coast, Holiday Haven Parks offer something for everyone. Don’t forget that Holiday Haven Parks also have a number of dog & pet-friendly cabins and sites – perfect for when families want to bring their furry companions along for the ride. Check out the current Holiday Haven park offers below (some offers also extend to School Holiday periods). Plan your visit to Holiday Haven Parks here.

    Current 30% Holiday Haven Park offers:

    Book 7 nights, only pay for 5 at the following Holiday Haven Parks (T&Cs apply):

    Bush Magic Adventures

    At Bush Magic Adventures, every child is given the chance to play, explore and learn in nature, guided by a team of skilled educators, counsellors and mentors. Their inclusive, child-led, nature-based, therapeutic programs – from Bush School and after-school nature immersion to school holiday adventures and birthday parties – help children of all abilities, including those supported through NDIS or private funding, build confidence, independence, emotional regulation and social skills.

    With activities like archery, shelter building, fire making, creek play, bushwalking and nature art, kids have so much fun they don’t even realise they’re learning skills that last a lifetime, all while connecting with nature and forming meaningful friendships. Located at Avondale & Keiraville. Plan your visit to Bush Magic Adventures here.

    Game Point Pickleball, Coniston

    Game Point Coniston is Illawarra’s home of indoor pickleball – a welcoming, purpose-built venue with three premium indoor courts, social and competitive sessions for all skill levels, and regular kids & teens programs including school holiday workshops.

    Whether you’re brand new or already hooked, you can join beginner-friendly social play, intro-to-pickleball classes, coaching clinics and friendly competitions, with paddles and balls available to hire so you can simply turn up and play. Game Point offers a fun, community-focused space to play, learn and connect year-round. Find them at 30 Miller Street, Coniston or call 0438 800 250 for more info. Plan your visit it Game Point Pickleball Coniston here.

    Miss Zoe’s School of Dance

    Award Winning Dance Studio in Wollongong, Kiama Coledale and now Calderwood & Tullimbar, Miss Zoe’s School of Dance is a fantastic dance school for families.

    Catering for all ages and abilities, including adults,Miss Zoe’s is welcoming, fun, non-competitive and inclusive – even their mid and end of year concerts are optional. The teachers are kind and genuinely love kids, the classes are of great value for money, and the costumes are modest. With many fantastic dance classes, including Irish dancing, hip hop, ballet, jazz, yoga, tap, line dancing, contemporary, acrobatics, KPop, and musical theatre. (and more!). There are so many amazing classes that no matter what kind of dance you or your child is interested in, you will find it at Miss Zoe’s. The reputation and reviews of Miss Zoe’s School of Dance are impressive!

    NRG Studios Allstars

    Looking for a fun, confidence-building activity for toddlers through to teens? Since 2006, NRG Studios Allstars in Wollongong has helped thousands of Illawarra children build confidence, friendships and skills through dance and cheer in a supportive, encouraging environment. With programs for every age and ability—from Lil Shining Stars (ages 1–6) through to recreational and competitive dance and cheer—there’s a place for every child to shine. Led by internationally accredited coaches in world-class facilities, NRG Allstars combines excellence with kindness, helping every child feel valued while having an incredible amount of fun. Book a trial today and discover why Wollongong families have trusted NRG Allstars for nearly 20 years.

    Wollongong Botanic Garden – Budding Bookworms

    Stories, sing-alongs and fun at Budding Bookworms at the Wollongong Botanic Garden! Join in for this free event of magical and engaging stories, sing-alongs, rhymes, wiggly dances and crafts on Fridays near the Garden’s Japanese Tea House (west of the Rose Garden) from 10am. Lots of fun for you and your pre-school aged children (3-5 years). Bookings not required. Plan your visit to Budding Bookworms at Wollongong Botanic Garden here.

    Circus Monoxide

    Circus Monoxide is a super fun, high-energy place where kids can climb, flip, spin and build confidence in a non-competitive environment. From aerial silks and trapeze to tumbling, juggling and tightrope walking, there’s a class or program for every age and ability – including toddlers, teens and school holiday programs. It’s all about movement, creativity and joy, making it a brilliant option for active kids, ASD and neurodiverse children (and for burning off all that energy!). Plan your visit to Circus Monoxide here.

    Seacliff Bridge & Grand Pacific Drive

    Photo c/o Chilby Photography

    If you have a car (and kids that don’t get car sick on winding roads!), this is a great choice! One of best known Illawarra & Wollongong tourist attractions, but locals love it too. Read our comprehensive Sea Cliff Bridge Guide here.

    Best Family Friendly Offers

    Bostock Pools & Spas

    Build your dream pool and enjoy a Bali Escape for Two with Bostock Pools & Spas! Sign your pool contract by 30 June and you’ll receive an incredible Bali getaway including return flights, 5 nights accommodation, private airport transfers, a 60-minute massage for two, a special lunch or dinner + more. It’s the perfect time to create the family pool you’ve always wanted while also locking in a well-deserved tropical escape. Book your free consultation and quote with Bostock Pools & Spas today and take the first step towards your dream backyard.

    School Holiday Activities & Programs

    Early Start Discovery Space

    Parents Guide Illawarra is your ultimate guide to school holidays in Wollongong and the Illawarra Discover kids events, workshops, holiday programs and family experiences — from nature-based camps to creative workshops and indoor activities. Browse current school holiday activities and kids events here

    Free Things to Do with Kids

    Illawarra & Wollongong’s best playgrounds & parks

     Boongaree Rotary Nature Play Park, Berry

    Looking for the BEST playgrounds and parks in Wollongong, Shellharbour and across the Illawarra, including safe, gated options? We’ve rounded up the top spots where kids can climb, swing, scoot and explore, from epic adventure playgrounds to fully fenced parks perfect for toddlers and peace-of-mind play. Get the BEST Playgrounds & Parks in Wollongong, Shellharbour & Illawarra areas here.

    We have also rounded up even more playground guides for every age & stage here:

    Play Illawarra – find the best playgrounds near you

    Play Illawarra is a FREE playground discovery website helping families explore more than 270 playgrounds and parks across Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama and the Shoalhaven. Easily find a playground near you and check facilities like BBQs, bubblers and toilets, plus browse their ‘What’s On’ calendar packed with free, fun community events.

    Illawarra & Wollongong Best Bike Rides for Families

    The Wollongong and Illawarra region is full of fun and scenic family-friendly bike rides for all ages and abilities. Our Illawarra kid-friendly bikes paths below include paved, shared and mountain bike trails. So, put air in those tyres, pop on your helmet, grab the kids and fam and hit the road. Fresh air, endorphins and exercise are also free with our guide to 10 best bike rides in Wollongong! Discover them all and get planning here.

    Wollongong, Shellharbour & Kiama’s best ocean pools and swimming pools

    The Nun’s Pool, North Wollongong. Photo c/o Jasmine Low

    Looking for the best family-friendly places to swim in the Illawarra? The Parents Guide Illawarra swimming pools & rock pools guide rounds up heated indoor centres, free outdoor council pools like Continental, Port Kembla and Thirroul, plus stunning ocean & rock pools from Austinmer to Woonona – perfect for families wanting everything from toddler-friendly splash zones to scenic ocean swims. Whether you’re chasing a calm lap pool, a shallow beachside swim or a rock pool adventure, this guide makes it easy to plan your next water-fueled family outing.

    Illawarra South Coast NSW beaches for kids & families

    Hyams Beach, South Coast NSW

    Let us short cut you to the best beaches for kids and families in Wollongong and the South Coast of NSW. We are so very blessed to be spoilt in the Illawarra and South Coast with a smorgasboard of beautiful coastline, rock pools and stunning beaches. Seriously, where else can you say you live amongst 17 and counting (yes, 17) beaches ranging from Stanwell Park in the north to Windang in the south alone?

    Illawarra’s Best Family-Friendly Bushwalks

    Being in the bush can be very therapeutic. Pack a scavenger hunt for different leaves or creatures. Take a camera and get them to look for things that interest them and capture their attention. Point out the light in the trees or how the water rushes over the rocks in a rock pool. Please encourage your children to pay attention to their surroundings. They might find an echidna or notice a kookaburra in a tree. Doing this connects them to nature and refreshes their energy.

    More Free Things to do with Kids:

    Things to Do with Kids by Age

    FAQs – Things to Do with Kids in Wollongong

    What are the best rainy-day things to do in Wollongong with kids? Read our rainy & windy day Wollongong & Illawarra guide here

    Where can I find school holiday activities in Wollongong?
    Parents Guide Illawarra lists all school holiday programs, workshops and events across Wollongong, Shellharbour and Kiama.

    What are Wollongong & the Illawarra’s best parks & playgrounds? Read our guide to best local parks and playgrounds here.

    What are the go-to playcentres for kids in the Illawarra? Explore our list of the best playcentres in Wollongong and the Illawarra here.

    What are the favourite, free & low-cost activities to do with kids in Wollongong & Illawarra? Discover the best budget-friendly fun for families here.

    Where are the best family-friendly beaches in Wollongong & the Illawarra? Explore the Illawarra’s ultimate kid-friendly beaches here.

    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!

    Check out these articles below for more ideas on things to do and places to see in Wollongong or the Illawarra (and surrounds):

    About the Author: Lisa Hagan
    Lisa grew up in Thirroul and is a mum of four children. A student to life, Lisa loves learning and searching for the most fun things to do with her kids. She loves exploring the Illawarra and its surroundings. Searching for fun and educational activities is her favourite for her kids whom she homeschools.