Kiama

To feel the real pulse of Illawarra, pull on some comfortable shoes and explore surrounding areas like Wollongong, Gerringong, and Windang.

To gain a deeper understanding of Illawarra, head to one of its many cultural destinations. To experience Illawarra’s vibrant arts scene, book a show at one of the acclaimed live performance venues such as the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music in Keiraville.

If the sun is shining, follow the locals and make the most of the nearby parks and reserves. Inhale the salty air, play catch with the kids and enjoy some sunshine at nearby the Wollongong South Beach in Wollongong and the Wollongong North Beach. Hit the trail and discover the popular natural parks for which this area is well known, like Mount Keira in Wollongong. Spend a morning in one of the parks and gardens, which include the Wollongong Botanic Garden in Keiraville.

Visitors to Illawarra should not miss out on the Australia's Industry World in Wollongong. Step back in time by checking out nearby historic sites, such as the Flagstaff Hill Fort in Wollongong.

If you could do with a spot of retail therapy, explore the many stores of the Wollongong Fish Market in Wollongong and the Crown Street Mall.

Discover Kiama’s sporting heroes at WIN Stadium, Wollongong. This is home to St. George Illawarra Dragons rugby league team in winter and the South Coast Wolves FC soccer team. Afterwards, retire with local sports obsessives to a nearby pub and relive the match highlights over a few drinks.

At the end of a long day discovering the sights, sounds and smells of Kiama, recharge your batteries at one of the area’s bed-and-breakfasts, hotels or short-stay apartments. Make reservations for the Novotel Wollongong Northbeach, the Adina Apartment Hotel Wollongong, or the Kiama Shores Motel.