If you liked it and you put a ring on it and are now planning your dream wedding, the Illawarra has a massive range of wedding venue options to suit any style, size, budget, and couple.
And because our local scenery is so varied, there’s no shortage of different backdrop options for your special day. From iconic coastal views to mountain vistas and lakeside locations, it’s easy to see why the Illawarra is an ideal place to get hitched and part-ayyyy afterwards!
Here are some amazing spots you won’t want to miss.
1 :: The Imperial at Clifton
Ever since this historic location reopened its doors in 2021, it’s been firmly on our radar as a dream wedding venue.
Sitting literally on the cliff, there are ocean views as far as the eye can see, and because it’s a fully restored historic building, the venue itself is just as magical.
We love the look of the Draper & Co bespoke event area as well as the other gorge spaces available over the three floors, catering up to 110 peeps.
2 :: Headlands Austinmer Beach
If beachy vibes are what you are looking for, then Headlands delivers. You can get married down on the beach before popping up to the hotel for the reception, or even have the ceremony at the venue.
The Ocean View Function Space has those panoramic ocean views as well as two bars and balconies for some fresh air. There are also 50 apartments onsite, including penthouses for a little pre-/post celebration luxury.
3 :: Panorama House
Long been a favourite with Illawarra locals, it’s easy to see why.
Stunning views of the coastline, a beautiful outdoor gazebo for the ceremony, a range of catering menus for different flavours and cultural needs, AND they can fit up to 550 guests!
Yep, 550!
4 :: Thirroul Surf Club
Right on the beach in Thirroul, this is a cracker place for weddings. They can accommodate up to 300 guests cocktail style or 150 sit down. There’s access to an industrial kitchen plus a separate bar area that even has industrial fridges to keep your drinks nice and chilled.
The hire fee is pretty reasonably priced and does include the use of a PA system and furniture.
5 :: The Lagoon Restaurant
Surrounded by one of the Illawarra’s most famous beaches, The Lagoon isn’t just known for its prime location; it’s also well-loved for its top-notch cuisine.
There are 3 different reception rooms to choose from based on your group size and needs, as well as different dining and beverage packages, ceremony packages and even the option for mid-week micro weddings if you’re looking to go more low-key.
6 :: Novotel Wollongong
With accommodation options, bars, restaurants, loads of different function spaces and a suite room that gives us all the heart eyes, this one really is a one-stop shop kind of venue.
The Deck is fab for an outdoorsy feel, and the Grand Ballroom can fit up to 350 guests, so you can reaaaaally go all out on the guest list.
7 :: Lucia’s By The Sea
The catering options sure sound mighty tasty at this Wollongong restaurant and wedding venue.
With a distinct Italian flair [hello, arancini, lasagne and panna cotta], a good selection of drink packages and most of the extras covered, this could be a great pick for anyone looking to take the stress out of decision making for the big day.
8 :: City Beach Function Centre
You might be hard pressed to find an Illawarra local who hasn’t attended a wedding, event or celebration at this multi-award-winning location.
The popularity lies in the fact that it is well-located on Marine Drive in Wollongong, has large open spaces with wonderful views, offers excellent all-inclusive packages and each booking comes with its own personal wedding coordinator, so good!
9 :: Wollongong Art Gallery
Now this is a funky, fun idea!
Get married amongst the local art and then have your reception in one of the two different function spaces available inside the gallery.
10 :: Mt Keira Scout Camp
A real enchanted escape to the mountains here, especially in The Bush Chapel.
The Lodge reception space can hold up to 100 people and has a commercial fridge, dishwasher and oven. Chairs and tables are also available.
FYI, Mt Keira Scout Camp is currently undergoing some repairs, but you can contact them via email to chat about future plans.
11 :: Ruby’s Mount Kembla
If you and your betrothed are suckers for some fine dining then defo consider Ruby’s. The food here is absolutely divine, and of course, the reception spaces are incredible too!
Intimate weddings of less than 50 can be held inside the restaurant, and for larger groups, there’s a lovely marquee available.
12 :: Illawarra Yacht Club
Swap the beach for the lake and you won’t regret it!
The function rooms open up on the lake, which is just breathtaking and both the bridal suite and groom suites are super duper classy.
There’s onsite parking and it’s in a handy location on Northcliffe Drive.
13 :: Port Kembla Golf Club
We’ve got one thing to say here…. “Just Married” Golf Carts! ADORABLE!
With different packages for the ceremony, reception and even a rehearsal, there’s much to love about this one.
Ooo, and did we mention you can even add on lawn games?!
14 :: The Grange Golf Club
Find this iconic spot in Kembla Grange.
The rooms have oodles of natural lighting, and there are plenty of opportunities to capture one-of-a-kind photos amongst all the greenery outdoors, too.
With space for up to 280 guests, feel free to invite aaaalll the relos.
15 :: Groundz Precinct
Barn style weddings are such a moment, and it’s so cool that you can have one here in the Illawarra.
They’ve got indoor and outdoor ceremony spots, an outdoor stage, and a few different catering options [including a pizza truck], so you can really throw a proper knees-up for your crew
16 :: The Woolshed by Fine Spun Group
Think rustic chic, with exposed beams, corrugated iron, toasty fireplaces and twinkling fairy lights.
If you like the sound of that, then you’ll adore this venue. Add in their friendly staff and fresh, modern dining, and what more could you want?!
They also have the option of weeknight weddings for a lower rate, score.
17 :: Ravensthorpe Estate
A historic house venue + 3 acres of gardens and exclusive use of the property during your big day make this one very special place.
200 guests can fit comfortably here, and there’s accommodation for up to 18 as well, if you’d like to have the bridal party close on hand.
18 :: The Sands Receptions
Head to Shellharbour North Beach for this fully licensed event centre.
They’ve got capacity for 100 guests with seated dining and 140 guests for cocktail style.
The in-house catering looks scrummy.
19 :: The Pavilion Kiama
Kiama is a hot spot for weddings, and The Pavilion is up there on the list of venues.
Being situated on Surf Beach means you get those ocean views. They have a range of excellent package choices, including micro weddings and even elopements.
20 :: The Sebel Kiama
Kick off the day with your ceremony in the Garden Courtyard overlooking the iconic Kiama Harbour, then get the party started in either the Quarry Room with head-swivelling ocean views, the Marquee or the Assembly Hall with marvellous high ceilings and cosy-wosy fireplace.
Whatever you choose, we’re sure it’ll be a hit.
21 :: Greyleigh
You don’t need to travel far to have a countryside wedding in the Illawarra.
Just lay your eyes on Greyleigh.
Rolling hills, homestead accommodation, a reception venue inside an 1800s refurbished dairy shed, firepits, a spa for some pampering AND the option to dine long table dinner style outdoors. OH. EM. GEEEEE!
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