Find hotels in Illawarra from £80

Top reasons to visit Illawarra

• Stunning Beaches: Illawarra boasts beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation and water activities.
• Scenic Hiking Trails: Explore invigorating hikes along picturesque trails that showcase the region's natural beauty.
• Family-Friendly Attractions: Enjoy a variety of activities, including the Illawarra Museum and engaging local parks.
• Whale Watching: Experience thrilling whale watching opportunities during migration seasons.
• Welcoming Atmosphere: The vibrant city of Wollongong offers friendly locals and a charming environment for visitors.

Find great hotels near Illawarra

Discover a range of accommodation options in Illawarra, New South Wales, perfect for every type of traveller. From charming inns to family-friendly motels and hotels by the beach, you'll find the ideal base for your adventure. Whether you're seeking a lakeside retreat at Lake Illawarra or the convenience of select hotels, Illawarra offers a delightful mix of experiences for an unforgettable holiday.

• Sage Hotel Wollongong: A contemporary 4-star hotel with an eco-friendly ethos, Sage Hotel Wollongong is perfect for the environmentally conscious traveller. With a guest rating of 8.4, this hotel offers a unique golf-themed experience, ideal for both leisure and business travellers. Situated 966m from Illawarra, guests can enjoy the scenic golf facilities on-site, enhancing their stay with a touch of sport amid the beautiful surroundings. The hotel's commitment to sustainability is evident in its eco-certification, making it an excellent choice for those looking to minimise their environmental impact during their vacation.
• Novotel Wollongong Northbeach: This 4.5-star beachfront hotel boasts a guest rating of 8.6, making it a top choice for families seeking relaxation and fun. Located 1.3km from Illawarra, Novotel Wollongong Northbeach offers direct access to the beach, ensuring easy enjoyment of sun and surf. Families will appreciate the various child-friendly amenities, including highchairs and complimentary cribs, as well as engaging activities designed to keep younger guests entertained. With its stunning coastal views and family-oriented services, this hotel provides a perfect backdrop for a memorable family getaway.
• Boat Harbour Motel: A charming 3-star motel with a guest rating of 8.2, Boat Harbour Motel is ideal for adventurers and beach lovers alike. Situated 966m from Illawarra, this property offers direct beach access and an array of exciting adventure sports nearby, including windsurfing, snorkelling, and sailing. Guests can immerse themselves in thrilling outdoor activities, making it a fantastic choice for those seeking an active holiday. The relaxed atmosphere and proximity to stunning natural landscapes ensure a refreshing and exhilarating stay.

Where to stay near Illawarra

Illawarra, New South Wales, offers a captivating blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, perfect for a memorable vacation. Explore the vibrant city of Wollongong, where friendly locals create a welcoming atmosphere. Spend your days relaxing on beautiful beaches or hiking along scenic trails. With family-friendly venues and budget-friendly options, Illawarra is ideal for travellers seeking both excitement and relaxation amidst breathtaking landscapes.

• Wollongong: Nestled approximately 644m from Illawarra, Wollongong is a vibrant city that attracts visitors year-round, though the peak seasons are September and December to January. Renowned for its stunning beaches and outdoor activities, Wollongong offers a diverse array of experiences, including a thrilling water park and beautifully maintained golf courses. The city's picturesque landscapes, characterised by sandy beaches and scenic bays, provide a perfect backdrop for family outings and relaxation. With its welcoming atmosphere and recreational options, Wollongong is an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and serenity alike.
• Wollongong CBD: Located a mere 322m from Illawarra, Wollongong CBD is the bustling heart of the city, drawing visitors primarily between November and January. This neighbourhood is celebrated for its lively beach scene and outdoor attractions, making it a hotspot for both locals and tourists. The area features a range of entertainment options, including a prominent arena and multiple golf courses. With its proximity to beautiful beaches and family-friendly bays, Wollongong CBD offers a vibrant urban experience combined with stunning coastal scenery, ensuring a memorable visit.
• North Wollongong: Situated about 1.6km from Illawarra, North Wollongong is a charming suburb that captures the essence of family-friendly outings and outdoor adventures. The suburb experiences peak visitor numbers from November to January, offering a delightful mix of educational and cultural activities, including music concerts and operas. North Wollongong's inviting parks and family beaches make it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy nature and community events. With its relaxed vibe and beautiful coastal views, North Wollongong is a perfect spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Things to do in Illawarra

Illawarra, New South Wales, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers alike, boasting stunning scenery and a variety of activities. Enjoy invigorating hikes on scenic trails, relax in playgrounds, or experience thrilling water rides. Don't miss the opportunity for whale watching and engaging games in local recreation rooms. This region promises an unforgettable vacation filled with adventure and natural beauty.

Shopping

In Illawarra, visit Wollongong Central for a variety of retailers, including fashion and lifestyle shops. For a unique experience, browse the local stalls at the Bulli Farmers Market, where you’ll find handmade crafts and local produce perfect for gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

In Illawarra, indulge in the tranquil atmosphere at the Gerringong Retreat, where you can enjoy yoga sessions and holistic therapies. Alternatively, visit the beautiful Berry Spa for rejuvenating treatments and serene surroundings, perfect for unwinding amidst nature’s splendour.

Adventure

The breathtaking Illawarra Escarpment offers exhilarating bushwalking trails with stunning views and diverse wildlife. For thrill-seekers, try rock climbing at the iconic Mount Keira, or enjoy the rush of hang gliding from Bald Hill, where you can soar above the picturesque coastline.

Nightlife

In Illawarra, the North Wollongong Hotel boasts a vibrant atmosphere with live music and a bustling crowd. Meanwhile, the Illawarra Performing Arts Centre features theatre and comedy shows, perfect for a cultural night out. Don't miss the stunning views from the rooftop bars along the coastline.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Illawarra

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Illawarra are May and July to August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Illawarra is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Illawarra is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you wish to stay in. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Illawarra with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Illawarra

Illawarra, a gem for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers, offers a delightful mix of attractions including picturesque beaches, urban parks, and local temples. Families will appreciate the variety of experiences available, from visiting the Illawarra Museum to exploring the area's natural beauty. For those needing medical assistance, Wollongong Hospital is conveniently located nearby, ensuring a safe and enjoyable stay for all visitors.

• North Wollongong Beach: Enjoy the stunning beach vibes at North Wollongong Beach, located 1.4km from Illawarra. This picturesque spot offers golden sands and clear waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or a leisurely stroll along the shore.
• Wollongong Golf Club: Situated 805m away, Wollongong Golf Club combines lush scenery with a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're an avid golfer or just looking to relax, this club offers a beautiful landscape and friendly locals, making it a delightful stop.
• Nan Tien Temple: Experience the rich culture at Nan Tien Temple, located 6.4km from Illawarra. As the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere, it offers serene gardens, stunning architecture, and opportunities for reflection and meditation.

Best time to go to Illawarra

The best time to visit Illawarra can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Illawarra falls in January, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Illawarra falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Illawarra

When planning your visit to Illawarra, New South Wales, you can fly into two major airports. SYDney Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD) is approximately 59.5km from Illawarra. Nearby luxury accommodations include the 5-star Ace Hotel Sydney and Paradox Sydney, both situated 8.0km from the airport, along with the Shangri-La Sydney, located 9.7km away. Transportation services to the airport are offered by these hotels. Alternatively, Shellharbour Airport (WOL) is about 17.7km from Illawarra, with excellent hotel options such as the 4.5-star Novotel Wollongong Northbeach and Mercure Gerringong Resort, both 19.3km away, and the 4-star Sage Hotel Wollongong, just 17.7km from Shellharbour.