At 90 minutes from Sydney, Wollongong is a popular day trip but there is enough to see and do to keep you busy for a longer visit. Start by taking the scenic route from Sydney, the Grand Pacific Drive, rather than the monotonous M1. If you prefer you could take the train to central Wollongong (also taking 90 minutes) and this is a more eco-friendly option where you can leave the car at home and then explore Wollongong on foot. As a university city, Wollongong is bustling with bars, cafes and music venues with regular cultural activities on offer. For a quieter weekend getaway, spend your time relaxing on one of Wollongong’s beautiful city beaches. Alternatively, choose a more active holiday exploring the rainforest trails by bike or foot, do some fishing, scuba diving or surfing.
Boutique Hotels in City
Novotel Wollongong Northbeach
As a large regional centre, Wollongong has plenty of accommodation options but it’s lacking when it comes to boutique hotels. If you’re looking for an independent or family-run hotel or apartment, I’ve listed the best below but when it comes to hotels, the Novotel is the most luxurious you’ll find. Obviously, the Novotel is far from being boutique but they have stylish rooms, high quality beds and finishes and excellent customer service. The Novotel Wollongong is in the north of the city, directly opposite the beach. This is the best hotel in Wollongong. Read more…
Argo Apartments
Although Argo is an apartment hotel rather than a boutique hotel, the accommodation is sleek, modern, new and exceptionally clean. This is a fantastic place to stay if you are arriving by train or simply want to be within walking distance to Wollongong’s main sights, activities and beaches. These are high-end serviced apartments where you’ll find excellent service. This is a great option for a longer stay as you get daily housekeeping but you have privacy and the comfort of your own large space. Read more…
The Beach House North Wollongong
If waking up from a designer studio apartment and strolling across the road to the beach is your idea of a relaxing treat then stay at the Beach House in North Wollongong. These are designated as holiday homes so it’s not the same experience you’ll find in a luxury or boutique hotel but the rooms are cosy, parking is included and there is easy access to the sights in the region or the University of Wollongong. Read more…
Headlands Austinmer Beach
Twenty five minutes north of Wollongong, the Headlands Hotel is ideal if your focus is on exploring the region’s sights, visiting the national parks, beaches or maybe the Nan Tien Buddhist Temple. While this might not be the best choice if you want to enjoy the cultural activities within Wollongong, it’s ideal for a quiet city break. Read more…
Wollongong is lacking a true high-end boutique hotel but there are some really nice apartments and beach houses or choose the Novotel if you are set on staying in a hotel with 24-hour service.