Hotels in Wollongong

Wollongong: Where Pristine Beaches Embrace Lush Rainforests

Discover the enchanting allure of Wollongong, New South Wales, where pristine beaches meet lush rainforests. This vibrant coastal city is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering stunning views from the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge and the tranquil beauty of the Wollongong Botanic Garden. Indulge in luxury accommodation with ocean vistas and savour fresh local cuisine at charming cafes. Whether it’s unwinding on the golden sands of Wollongong Beach or exploring the scenic trails of the nearby Illawarra Escarpment, Wollongong promises a delightful escape filled with natural beauty and cultural richness.

Discover great hotels in Wollongong

Wollongong offers a variety of accommodation options, from beachfront hotels with stunning ocean views to comfortable budget lodgings. Whether you seek luxury or a charming boutique experience, the city's hotels cater to diverse tastes, making it a delightful destination for any traveller. Here are some of the best hotels in Wollongong that our travellers love:

1. Jamberoo Pub & Saleyard MotelOpens in a new window: This charming 2.5-star hotel offers a comfortable lodging experience, ideal for those seeking a relaxed stay. The property features delightful dining options including a bar and lounge, as well as breakfast selections that cater to various tastes. Frequent travellers appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and convenient amenities that enhance their stay, making it a great choice for those wanting a simple yet enjoyable getaway.
2. Kiama ShoresOpens in a new window: Kiama Shores is a vibrant 3.5-star hotel perfect for adventurous leisure travellers looking for an LGBTQIA welcoming vacation experience. This hotel excels with a range of exciting outdoor activities, including nearby waterskiing, snorkeling, and surfing. Guests rave about the thrilling experiences available right on their doorstep, making it an exceptional choice for those who crave adventure and unique experiences during their travels.
3. The Sebel KiamaOpens in a new window: The Sebel Kiama is another fantastic 3.5-star hotel that offers a unique blend of adventure and business amenities, making it an ideal choice for discerning leisure travellers. With a focus on adventure sports such as windsurfing and skydiving in close proximity, this hotel provides an exhilarating escape. Additionally, the presence of conference space caters to those seeking a balance between work and play, ensuring a distinctive and enjoyable stay.

Top locations to stay in Wollongong

Some great areas to stay in Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia, are Woonona East, Shellharbour, and Wollongong CBD. Woonona East offers beautiful coastal views, while Shellharbour is perfect for nature lovers with its forested areas. Wollongong CBD boasts vibrant nightlife and shopping. For first-time visitors, Wollongong CBD is best suited, providing easy access to local attractions and the stunning beach.

1. Wollongong CBDOpens in a new window: Staying in Wollongong CBD places you at the heart of the action. This vibrant area is filled with a mix of cultural attractions, shopping opportunities, and stunning coastal walks. You can explore the beautiful Wollongong Harbour, check out local galleries, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city centre. The nearby beaches, such as North Beach, are perfect for sunbathing or a refreshing swim. Plus, with an array of shops and cafes, you’ll find plenty of places to relax after a day of exploring.
2. ShellharbourOpens in a new window: Shellharbour offers a delightful coastal experience with its stunning beaches and scenic nature reserves. This area is perfect for those looking to unwind by the ocean while enjoying a range of outdoor activities. You can stroll along the picturesque Shellharbour Village, visit the local markets, or take in the views at the nearby parks. The area is also known for its shopping precinct, providing a variety of retail options and dining experiences, making it a lovely spot for a laid-back stay.
3. Woonona EastOpens in a new window: Woonona East is a charming suburb that combines a relaxed coastal vibe with easy access to nearby attractions. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking a quieter retreat while still being close to the vibrant Wollongong area. With its beautiful beaches and local parks, you can enjoy leisurely walks or picnics. The friendly community atmosphere and proximity to shops make it a comfortable place to stay, perfect for families or those looking to escape the busier tourist spots.

Things to do in Wollongong

Wollongong is a coastal gem where golden beaches meet lush rainforests, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy biking along scenic trails, dive into thrilling water sports, or unwind with a leisurely boat ride. With stunning parks and tranquil lakes nearby, it's an ideal spot for day trips and relaxation.

• North Wollongong BeachOpens in a new window – Dive into the sun at North Wollongong Beach, where golden sands meet the rolling waves. This beach is a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the shoreline. Don’t forget to pack a picnic to savour on the soft sand while soaking up the coastal atmosphere.
• Wollongong HarborOpens in a new window – Explore Wollongong Harbor, a vibrant area filled with charming cafes and stunning views of the boats bobbing in the water. Take a scenic walk along the waterfront, and if you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of dolphins playing in the waves!
• Wollongong Golf ClubOpens in a new window – Tee off at Wollongong Golf Club, renowned for its lush green fairways and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a beginner, enjoy a round of golf surrounded by spectacular views of the coastline and nearby rainforest.
• Nan Tien TempleOpens in a new window – Visit Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. Stroll through its beautifully landscaped gardens and admire the stunning architecture. Take a moment to reflect in the tranquil surroundings or participate in a meditation session for a truly unique experience.
• Wollongong City BeachOpens in a new window – Head to Wollongong City Beach for a lively beach experience. This beach is perfect for families, with its calm waters ideal for children. Enjoy beachside dining at nearby cafes, or try your hand at surfing the gentle waves.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Wollongong

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable times to visit Wollongong are in May, July, and August when hotel prices are typically lower. For those on a budget, staying for at least 2 to 3 days offers great value for money, allowing ample time to explore the city’s key landmarks, historical sites, and cultural attractions. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beaches, delightful cafés, and vibrant shopping areas, as well as take advantage of the friendly atmosphere and lush rainforests. With the possibility that prices may drop during these months, Wollongong presents a fantastic opportunity for a budget-friendly getaway.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: For those seeking affordable accommodation in Wollongong, exploring the DealsOpens in a new window and Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com may lead you to discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, maximising your chances of securing the best prices. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're well-equipped to make an informed decision. This way, you may discover opportunities for cheap Wollongong hotel deals when they arise.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate due to various factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay at a hotel in Wollongong. For those seeking distinctive accommodations, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised experience and can sometimes offer better value. When you make a reservation with Hotels.com, we'll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price leans towards the higher end, we will suggest more economical dates which may help you secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but with Wollongong's excellent public transport links, you may discover more affordable independent hotels a bit further out that remain well connected. For those eager to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often remarkable value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Wollongong

Wollongong experiences its lowest average temperature in July, at 54.7°F (12.6°C), while January is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 71.4°F (21.9°C). March is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Wollongong, January, September, and December are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, May, August, and October are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.