Home / New South Wales / Illawarra
The Illawarra region beautifully balances buzzing urban energy with endless coastal, laid back charm.
Wollongong is bustling with its city skyline, beaches, street art and cafe culture. The city’s arts precinct hums with live music, laneway bars and vibrant festivals, while the University and Innovation Campus keep ideas (and careers) on the rise.
Follow Grand Pacific Drive across the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge to charming northern villages which are perfect for whale watching, cliff‑top hang glides and escarpment hikes. Further south, Shellharbour serves up waterfront dining, marina markets and family‑friendly beaches, while Lake Illawarra invites kayakers and kite‑surfers to chase the wind.
Down the coast, Kiama steals the show with its famous Blowhole, coastal walks and regular seaside markets. Inland, Minnamurra Rainforest is perfect for rainforest adventures and stunning views, and when temperatures climb, we all head to Jamberoo Action Park for some water‑slide thrills and action.
Beyond adventurous days and foodie nights, the Illawarra’s tight‑knit communities, great schools and slick rail links to Sydney make relocating here an easy choice.
by Hannah Castelli
We’re big believers in love around here at The Fold, and Valentine’s Day gives us the perfect excuse to lean right into the mushy, starry-eyed stuff. Think shared desserts, long lunches, clinking glasses and that “we should do this more often” feeling. If Cupid’s arrow has well and truly landed, Illawarra is full of ways […]
Celebrate Christmas in the Illawarra Christmas in the Illawarra is one of the most magical times of year! It’s full of fun events, parties, delicious food, and presents! We’ve rounded up festive events, markets, street lights, parties, gifts, and more! Basically everything you need to plan a festive season that’s full of cheer, without the […]
Far out, there are some awesome wineries, breweries and distilleries here in the Illawarra. All of them are kicking some serious goals – whether it be supporting local, focusing on sustainability, or creating some very cool places to hang out – they’re all making and creating some super tasty bevvies for us to partake in. Here’s your […]
Useful phone numbers, resources, mental health professionals and services to support the mental health of Illawarra locals. By Hannah Castelli Our mental health is a vital part of our overall health and wellbeing. We go to the dentist for a check-up, the GP when we have a tummy ache or a sniffle and even the […]