Wollongong isn’t just a city with a beautiful coastline; it’s a hub for diverse tours and experiences that cater to every type of traveler. Whether you’re after a wildlife encounter, a stunning scenic drive, or thrilling adrenaline rushes, Wollongong offers options that showcase its natural beauty and unique character. Our favorites include a Jervis Bay wildlife and beach trip that combines adorable animals and pristine beaches, and the skydive over Shellharbour for those craving an adrenaline boost with unforgettable views. For a full day of dolphin spotting, delicious lunch, and coastal attractions, the Jervis Bay Dolphin Cruise is a clear standout.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we cover seven top tours that highlight Wollongong’s natural beauty, wildlife, and scenic spots. From wildlife encounters and skydiving to deep-sea fishing, private day trips, and coastal explorations, each offers a distinct way to experience the region. Whether you prefer active adventures, relaxing sightseeing, or immersive local experiences, there’s something here for you. Now, let’s explore each of these tours in detail.
- Quick Overview
- 1. From Sydney: Jervis Bay Tour with Beach, Koalas & Kangaroos
- 2. Sydney, Shellharbour: 15,000ft Tandem Beach Skydive
- 3. Jervis Bay Dolphin Cruise, Lunch, Berry & Kiama Blowhole Tour
- 4. Wollongong Deep Sea Fishing Charter with Breakfast – Weekday
- 5. Sydney: Private South Coast, Highlands and Kiama Tour
- 6. Sydney: Kiama Costal Private Day Tour with Local Experiences
- 7. Sydney: Wollongong, Macquarie Pass, and Waterfalls Tour
- How to Choose the Right Tour
1. From Sydney: Jervis Bay Tour with Beach, Koalas & Kangaroos
This day trip from Sydney is perfect for wildlife lovers and beach enthusiasts who want a compact taste of what Wollongong’s nearby natural treasures have to offer. The tour kicks off with a private koala encounter at Symbio Wildlife Park—an intimate setting where you can get up close and personal with Australia’s iconic animals. Afterward, you’ll have the chance to hand-feed kangaroos and explore a variety of native wildlife.
The journey continues with visits to Huskisson, a charming bayside village filled with boutique shops and cafes, and a relaxing stop at Hyams Beach, famous for its stunning white sands and crystal-clear waters. A highlight is the visit to Kiama Blowhole, where the natural spectacle of water shooting high into the air occurs at regular intervals. This tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of coastal beauty, wildlife, and local charm, making it ideal for those with a limited time but a desire for rich experiences.
Bottom Line: This tour combines wildlife, beach relaxation, and scenic views in a manageable day trip, making it great for families or first-time visitors wanting a snapshot of Wollongong’s best.
2. Sydney, Shellharbour: 15,000ft Tandem Beach Skydive
For adrenaline junkies, the 15,000ft tandem skydiving experience over Shellharbour is a top choice. This full-day adventure offers a stunning parachute ride with panoramic views of Bass Point, Bushrangers Bay, and Kiama. With flexible check-in times between 9 am and 3 pm and free train station pickup, it’s designed for easy planning.
What sets this skydive apart is the beachside landing—you can enjoy a gentle touchdown right on the sand, adding to the thrill. The up to 15,000ft altitude ensures an exhilarating free fall, while the overall experience lasts about an hour from start to finish. The company boasts over 500 glowing Google reviews with a 4.8/5 rating, confirming this is a trusted experience.
This is best suited for those comfortable with heights and eager for a once-in-a-lifetime view of the coast. The staff’s professionalism and the safety record make it a reliable option for first-timers and adrenaline lovers alike.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a unique, high-adrenaline experience with easy logistics and stunning scenery, this tandem skydive delivers — just be prepared to get a little adventurous.
3. Jervis Bay Dolphin Cruise, Lunch, Berry & Kiama Blowhole Tour
This full-day tour is a beautifully paced way to enjoy Jervis Bay’s coastal wonders. The highlight is a 1.5-hour dolphin cruise—a chance to spot these playful marine mammals in their natural habitat, which truly is a delight. The tour also includes lunch at Huskisson, offering a chance to sample local cafes while watching boats drift by.
Driving along the iconic Seacliff Bridge, you’ll enjoy some of the best coastal views in the region. After lunch, the trip continues with visits to Berry, famous for the Berry Donut Van, where you can indulge in fresh hot donuts and coffee. The journey wraps up with the spectacular Kiama Blowhole, where sea water erupts through a natural volcanic formation.
The tour is well-suited for travelers wanting a mix of wildlife, scenic drives, and local treats, with a manageable 12-hour schedule. It’s a popular choice for families and couples who want to see the highlights without rushing.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a rich blend of wildlife, scenery, and local flavors, making it a classic day trip that captures the essence of Wollongong’s coastal beauty.
4. Wollongong Deep Sea Fishing Charter with Breakfast – Weekday
A half-day deep-sea fishing trip in Wollongong’s waters is perfect for anglers or those curious about trying their luck at catching dinner. Departing from Wollongong Harbour, this 6-hour shared charter provides top-quality gear, bait, and safety equipment. The crew is friendly and experienced, making novices feel comfortable.
What makes this experience stand out is the included sausage sizzle breakfast—a hearty start before you reel in your catch. After fishing, you’ll have your catch cleaned and ready to take home, making this not just a fun outing but also a practical one for a fresh seafood dinner. The boat features a toilet on board and comfortable seating, ensuring a relaxed experience.
While reviews are not specific, the inclusions like equipment, breakfast, and the chance to fish off Wollongong’s coast make this a good value for outdoor lovers. It suits people looking for a casual, social day at sea with the possibility of catching dinner.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a straightforward, enjoyable fishing experience with a tasty breakfast and the chance to bring home your own seafood—perfect for a laid-back day on the water.
5. Sydney: Private South Coast, Highlands and Kiama Tour
For those wanting a customized experience, this private tour takes you along the South Coast, Highlands, and Kiama. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a flexible itinerary and personalized attention. The guide will take you to key sights like Bald Hill Lookout, known for its sweeping ocean views, and the Seacliff Bridge, where you’ll walk and take photos along this impressive coastal structure.
A special highlight is the Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere, offering a peaceful break and cultural insight. The tour also explores Bombo Headland’s basalt formations and includes stops at Kiama Blowhole. The vehicle can accommodate groups of 4 or fewer with a 5-seater or larger groups with a 7-8 seat vehicle, making it ideal for families or small groups.
The tour is perfect for travelers who want to explore at their own pace and see the southern coastline’s highlights with insider insights. It is a bit more costly but offers highly personalized service.
Bottom Line: This private option suits travelers seeking a tailored experience, with flexibility and exclusive access to key spots along the coast.
6. Sydney: Kiama Costal Private Day Tour with Local Experiences
This private day tour is another excellent choice for those wanting a customized, local-guided experience of Wollongong’s southern coast. The guide takes you to iconic spots like the Kiama Blowhole, Sea Cliff Bridge, and Bombo Headland, all with personalized commentary.
The small vehicle (up to 4 travelers) makes for a relaxed, intimate day, perfect for couples or small groups. Stops include Minnamurra Lookout and the WWII-era Breakwater Battery for a blend of scenic views and historical context. The tour emphasizes local insights and allows for longer visits or extra stops if desired.
This tour is suitable for travelers wanting a more in-depth, flexible itinerary with a focus on photo opportunities and local stories. It’s ideal for those who prefer a quiet, personalized approach to exploring the coast.
Bottom Line: For travelers craving a private, detailed exploration of Wollongong’s coastal and historical sights, this tour offers a tailored experience with attentive guiding.
7. Sydney: Wollongong, Macquarie Pass, and Waterfalls Tour
This tour is a great pick for nature lovers who want more than just coastal scenery. It’s a 10-hour trip that combines rainforest walks, waterfalls, and scenic drives through the Illawarra region. Highlights include Fitzroy Falls and Belmore Falls, both accessible via short walks that reveal stunning cascades and lush surroundings.
The tour also features Macquarie Pass National Park, renowned for its dense rainforest, and a visit to the Robertson Pie Shop, a favorite spot for a tasty lunch. The route covers scenic coastal views from Sublime Point Lookout and passes through Southern Highlands for a varied landscape experience.
This tour suits travelers interested in botanical beauty, waterfalls, and rainforest walks. It’s perfect for active travelers who enjoy short hikes and scenic drives. The tour is also good for those wanting a comprehensive day out that mixes nature with local flavors, like pie.
Bottom Line: This experience offers a mix of rainforest, waterfalls, and coastal views, great for active visitors eager to explore Wollongong’s natural diversity in one day.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your ideal Wollongong experience, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. For wildlife and beach lovers, the Jervis Bay Wildlife Tour balances nature and relaxation. If you’re after thrills, the skydiving offers unforgettable views with an adrenaline rush. Want a custom experience? The private South Coast and Kiama tours or the private coastal tour provide flexibility and personal attention.
For active travelers seeking waterfalls, rainforests, and scenic drives, the Macquarie Pass and Waterfalls Tour is ideal. For those craving adventure and a touch of local flavor, the Deep Sea Fishing Charter combines outdoor fun with a tasty breakfast.
Remember, some tours are better suited for adventure seekers, while others are ideal for relaxation or cultural exploration. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular activities like skydiving and private tours.
Wollongong’s diverse attractions and experiences mean there’s something for all. Whether you want wildlife encounters, scenic drives, adrenaline thrills, or cultural insights, these tours provide a fantastic way to see the region. Think about what excites you most, pick a tour that matches your interests, and don’t hesitate to book early—these experiences fill up fast!
