# Norilla Coast: full text > A long-weekend guide to the nine coastal villages of the northern Illawarra, from Stanwell Park to Bulli, an hour south of Sydney. Source: https://norillacoast.com · Reviewed 2026-11-09 --- Stanwell Park → Bulli · NSW # Nine villages. One road. No rush. The northern Illawarra is a strip of coast barely a kilometre wide, an hour south of Sydney. Escarpment on one side, Pacific on the other. Here is how to spend a long weekend in it. [Meet the villages →](#villages) [Plan three days](https://norillacoast.com/weekend/) The short answer ## Where is the northern Illawarra? The northern Illawarra is the stretch of New South Wales coast between Stanwell Park and Bulli, about an hour south of Sydney. Nine villages sit on a strip of land between the Illawarra escarpment and the Pacific Ocean, linked by Lawrence Hargrave Drive and the South Coast train line. The cliffs come right down to the water. The road squeezes between them. Every few kilometres there is a beach, a pool, a pub, a train station, and a village whose residents know exactly how lucky they are. The coast, north to south ## Twenty kilometres. Nine places to stop. 1. [01 Stanwell Park Where the coast road drops off the edge. Start · Station](https://norillacoast.com/villages/stanwell-park/) 2. [02 Coalcliff A rock pool cut into the platform. Not much else, and that is the point. 4 km · Station](https://norillacoast.com/villages/coalcliff/) 3. [03 Clifton The village at the end of the bridge. 7 km](https://norillacoast.com/villages/clifton/) 4. [04 Scarborough Long lunch on a terrace above the sea. 8 km · Station](https://norillacoast.com/villages/scarborough/) 5. [05 Wombarra The quiet one. 9.5 km · Station](https://norillacoast.com/villages/wombarra/) 6. [06 Coledale Fall asleep to the surf. 11 km · Station](https://norillacoast.com/villages/coledale/) 7. [07 Austinmer The postcard. Get there early. 13 km · Station](https://norillacoast.com/villages/austinmer/) 8. [08 Thirroul The village with a main street. 15 km · Station](https://norillacoast.com/villages/thirroul/) 9. [09 Bulli Pass, point, pub. 18 km · Station](https://norillacoast.com/villages/bulli/) Compare ## Which village suits you? | Village | Best for | Ocean pool | Station | From Stanwell Park | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | [Stanwell Park](https://norillacoast.com/villages/stanwell-park/) | Big views, first impressions, people who want to fly | No | Yes | Start | | [Coalcliff](https://norillacoast.com/villages/coalcliff/) | An early swim before the crowds | Yes | Yes | ~4 km | | [Clifton](https://norillacoast.com/villages/clifton/) | The bridge, and a drink after it | No | No | ~7 km | | [Scarborough](https://norillacoast.com/villages/scarborough/) | The long lunch | No | Yes | ~8 km | | [Wombarra](https://norillacoast.com/villages/wombarra/) | Doing nothing, properly | Yes | Yes | ~9.5 km | | [Coledale](https://norillacoast.com/villages/coledale/) | Families and campers | Yes | Yes | ~11 km | | [Austinmer](https://norillacoast.com/villages/austinmer/) | The classic beach day | Yes | Yes | ~13 km | | [Thirroul](https://norillacoast.com/villages/thirroul/) | Dinner, drinks and a walkable base | Yes | Yes | ~15 km | | [Bulli](https://norillacoast.com/villages/bulli/) | Arriving, leaving, and a cheap place to stay | Yes | Yes | ~18 km | ~60 min From Sydney to Bald Hill by car 9 Villages between Stanwell Park and Bulli 665 m Of Sea Cliff Bridge, hanging over the water 8 Train stations on the stretch. Leave the car at home. The drive ## Take the long way down. Skip the motorway. Drive through the Royal National Park, come out at Otford, and pull over at Bald Hill. From there, Lawrence Hargrave Drive winds south along the cliff face. It is part of the Grand Pacific Drive, and the best section of it. You cross the Sea Cliff Bridge between Coalcliff and Clifton, then the road tightens through Scarborough and Wombarra before opening out at Austinmer and Thirroul. It is about twenty kilometres from Stanwell Park to Bulli. Without stopping, that is half an hour. Allow a day. [Train or car? →](https://norillacoast.com/getting-here/) Swim ## Ocean pools, filled by the tide. Concrete walls on the rock shelf, topped up by the swell on every high tide. Free, open all year, and the safest way to swim in the ocean here. 1. 01 ### Coalcliff Cut into the rock shelf below the cliffs. Small, deep, dramatic at high tide. 2. 02 ### Wombarra A locals’ lap pool at the end of a quiet beach. 3. 03 ### Coledale South end of the beach, lawns behind, good for families. 4. 04 ### Austinmer Two pools beside the boat harbour. The most photographed on the coast. 5. 05 ### Thirroul A 50-metre pool next to the surf club. Bring goggles. 6. 06 ### Bulli Out at the point at the north end of the beach. Walk ## Up the escarpment, or along the edge. Easy ### Sea Cliff Bridge Coalcliff to Clifton A footpath on the ocean side of the bridge. Go at sunrise, then swim at Coalcliff. **Distance** ~2 km return **Time** 45 min Moderate ### Wodi Wodi Track Stanwell Park Rainforest gullies and a climb onto the escarpment, starting near Stanwell Park station. **Distance** ~7 km loop **Time** 3 hrs Hard ### Sublime Point Austinmer Straight up the escarpment with ladders near the top. The lookout covers the whole coast. **Distance** Short, steep **Time** 1.5–2 hrs return Easy ### Austi to Bulli Coast path Rock platforms, beaches and Sandon Point. Catch the train back. Check the tide first. **Distance** ~6 km one way **Time** 2 hrs Distances and times are approximate. Escarpment tracks close after heavy rain and landslips, so check NSW National Parks alerts before you go. [ The plan ## FriSatSunMon. A three-night itinerary from Friday train to Monday drive home. → ](https://norillacoast.com/weekend/) Know before you go ## Six things locals wish you knew. 1. 1 ### Go early Bald Hill, Austinmer and the Sea Cliff Bridge are crowded by 10am on a sunny weekend. Sunrise is better anyway. 2. 2 ### Take the train The South Coast Line stops in eight of the nine villages. Tap on with Opal at Central and step off near the beach. 3. 3 ### Swim between the flags Surf clubs patrol the main beaches from spring to autumn. Rips are common, and the ocean pools are the safer swim. 4. 4 ### Watch the rock shelves Waves wash over the platforms without warning. Don’t turn your back on the sea. 5. 5 ### Check pool cleaning days Council drains and scrubs the ocean pools on a roster. Check before you plan a swim around one. 6. 6 ### Book ahead Long weekends book out. Camping at Coledale and cabins at Bulli go months in advance. Questions ## Northern Illawarra FAQs ### How far is the northern Illawarra from Sydney? About an hour by car from the Sydney CBD to Stanwell Park or Bulli, and about an hour to an hour and 20 minutes by train from Central, depending on which village you are going to. ### Which villages are in the northern Illawarra? From north to south: Stanwell Park, Coalcliff, Clifton, Scarborough, Wombarra, Coledale, Austinmer, Thirroul and Bulli. ### Can you visit the northern Illawarra without a car? Yes. The South Coast train line from Sydney stops at eight of the nine villages, and coastal paths link Austinmer, Thirroul and Bulli. Thirroul makes the best car-free base. ### Which village is best for a first visit? Thirroul. It has the most places to eat and stay, a 50-metre ocean pool, a station, and walking access to Austinmer and Bulli. ### Where can you swim safely? In the ocean pools at Coalcliff, Wombarra, Coledale, Austinmer, Thirroul and Bulli, or between the flags on patrolled beaches. Beaches are patrolled from about late September to late April. ### What is the Sea Cliff Bridge? A 665-metre bridge that carries Lawrence Hargrave Drive out over the ocean between Coalcliff and Clifton. It opened in 2005 and has a footpath on the ocean side. --- From Sydney # An hour south, give or take. Three ways down. The train is the most relaxing. The national park drive is the most beautiful. The motorway is the quickest. ## What is the fastest way to get from Sydney to the northern Illawarra? The M1 Princes Motorway, at about an hour from the CBD to Bulli outside peak times. The train takes about the same to Stanwell Park and a little longer to Thirroul and Bulli, with no traffic or parking to deal with. ## Train vs car compared | Route | Time | Best for | Watch out for | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | [Train](#train) | ~1 hr to Stanwell Park, ~1 hr 20 to Bulli | A relaxed weekend, no parking | Less frequent weekend services, trackwork | | [National park drive](#scenic-drive) | ~1 hr 15 to Stanwell Park | The view from Bald Hill | Park fees at some stops, slow traffic | | [M1 motorway](#motorway) | ~1 hr to Bulli | Speed | Friday and holiday Monday traffic | Best for a relaxed weekend ## The train ~1 hr to Stanwell Park - South Coast Line from Central, Redfern or Sutherland. Tap on with Opal or a card. - Stops at Stanwell Park, Coalcliff, Scarborough, Wombarra, Coledale, Austinmer, Thirroul and Bulli. - About an hour to Stanwell Park and closer to an hour and a half to Thirroul, depending on the service. - Sit on the left heading south for the sea views after Otford. - Weekend services are less frequent, so check the timetable for your trip home. The scenic route ## Through the national park ~1 hr 15 to Stanwell Park - Head south to the Royal National Park and follow the road through the forest to Otford. - Stop at Bald Hill for the first view of the coast, then drive down Lawrence Hargrave Drive. - Slower than the motorway, but it is the reason to drive. - Park fees apply at some stopping areas. Check NSW National Parks before you go. Fastest by car ## The motorway ~1 hr to Bulli - M1 Princes Motorway south. Take the exit for Stanwell Park and Bald Hill to start at the north end. - Or carry on to Bulli Tops and come down Bulli Pass, stopping at the lookout at the top. - Expect heavy traffic heading south on Friday afternoon and north on Monday afternoon. Once you’re here ## Getting around. ### Hop the train The stations are only a few minutes apart. Walk one way along the coast and ride back, or use the train to get to dinner in Thirroul without driving. ### Drive the coast road Lawrence Hargrave Drive is narrow and winding between Coalcliff and Coledale. Take it slow, watch for cyclists, and use the marked parking areas at the bridge. ### Walk Austinmer, Thirroul and Bulli are linked by coastal paths and beaches. You can cover the southern half of the stretch on foot in a morning. Travel times are approximate and depend on traffic and timetables. Check Transport for NSW for current train times and trackwork. ## Getting here FAQs ### How long is the train from Sydney to Thirroul? About an hour and a quarter from Central on the South Coast Line, depending on the service. Stanwell Park is about an hour. ### Is the drive through the Royal National Park worth it? Yes, if you are not in a hurry. It takes a little longer than the motorway, but it ends at Bald Hill, the best first view of the coast. ### Do you need an Opal card for the train? No. You can tap on and off with an Opal card or a contactless credit or debit card. ### When is traffic worst? Southbound on Friday afternoon and northbound on Sunday or Monday afternoon of a long weekend. Leave before 3pm to miss the worst of it. --- Guides # Plan it properly, then relax. Planning guides for the coast between Stanwell Park and Bulli: when to go, where to swim, and more. 1. [Swimming ## Northern Illawarra ocean pools compared Every ocean pool between Stanwell Park and Bulli compared, with the best pool for laps, for kids and for the view, and how to swim them safely. Updated 9 November 2026](https://norillacoast.com/guides/ocean-pools/) 2. [Planning ## When to visit the northern Illawarra Season by season, when to go to the coast between Stanwell Park and Bulli for swimming, walking, whale watching and avoiding the crowds. Updated 9 November 2026](https://norillacoast.com/guides/when-to-visit/) --- Swimming # Northern Illawarra ocean pools compared Every ocean pool between Stanwell Park and Bulli compared, with the best pool for laps, for kids and for the view, and how to swim them safely. Ocean pools are concrete or rock-walled pools built on the rock platforms at the ends of beaches. The sea tops them up at high tide and in big swell. They are free, they are open all year, and they are the safest way to swim in the ocean on this coast. Six of the nine villages between Stanwell Park and Bulli have one. Austinmer has two. ## Which villages have an ocean pool? Coalcliff, Wombarra, Coledale, Austinmer, Thirroul and Bulli. Stanwell Park, Clifton and Scarborough do not. ## Ocean pools at a glance | Pool | Village | Setting | Best for | Station nearby | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Coalcliff rock pool | [Coalcliff](https://norillacoast.com/villages/coalcliff/) | Rock shelf below the cliffs | Drama at high tide, early swims | Yes | | Wombarra rock pool | [Wombarra](https://norillacoast.com/villages/wombarra/) | End of a quiet beach | Quiet laps | Yes | | Coledale ocean pool | [Coledale](https://norillacoast.com/villages/coledale/) | South end, lawns behind | Families | Yes | | Austinmer pools (two) | [Austinmer](https://norillacoast.com/villages/austinmer/) | Beside the boat harbour | The view, a classic beach day | Yes | | Thirroul ocean pool | [Thirroul](https://norillacoast.com/villages/thirroul/) | 50 m pool by the surf club | Proper laps | Yes | | Bulli rock pool | [Bulli](https://norillacoast.com/villages/bulli/) | Out at the point | A swim with the surfers | Yes | ## Which pool is best for laps? Thirroul. Its 50-metre pool is the longest on the stretch and the one serious swimmers use. Wombarra is shorter but far quieter. ## Which pool is best for kids? Coledale. It sits at the southern end of a patrolled family beach, with grass for a picnic and shops a short walk away. Austinmer is also good, but much busier. ## Which pool has the best view? Coalcliff, for drama: it sits right on the edge of the rock shelf with the cliffs above, and the swell washes over the wall at high tide. Austinmer, for the postcard: two pools, the harbour and the escarpment behind. ## How do you swim an ocean pool safely? - Check the swell. In big seas, waves break over the walls and can knock you off your feet. Pools may be closed. - Watch your footing. The rock platforms and pool edges are slippery with weed. - Check the cleaning roster. Wollongong City Council drains and cleans each pool on a schedule. - Never turn your back on the ocean when you are on the rock platform. ## Frequently asked questions ### Are the northern Illawarra ocean pools free? Yes. The ocean pools between Coalcliff and Bulli are free to use and open all year, except when they are closed for cleaning or dangerous seas. ### Which ocean pool is best for swimming laps? Thirroul. Its 50-metre pool beside the surf club is the best on this stretch for proper laps. Wombarra is a quieter alternative. ### Which ocean pool is best for children? Coledale. The pool sits at the southern end of a patrolled family beach, with lawns behind it and shops nearby. ### How often are the ocean pools cleaned? Wollongong City Council drains and cleans the ocean pools on a regular roster. Each pool is closed for part of a day while it refills. Check the council's pool cleaning schedule before you go. ### Do Stanwell Park and Clifton have ocean pools? No. Stanwell Park, Clifton and Scarborough have no ocean pool. The nearest are Coalcliff, north of Clifton, and Wombarra, next to Scarborough. --- Planning # When to visit the northern Illawarra Season by season, when to go to the coast between Stanwell Park and Bulli for swimming, walking, whale watching and avoiding the crowds. The northern Illawarra works all year. What changes is the water temperature, the crowds and what you will spend the weekend doing. The short version: come in March for swimming, in winter for walking and whales, and avoid sunny January weekends unless you like company. ## What is the best time of year to visit? Late summer and early autumn, February to April. The sea holds its heat well into autumn, so the water is at its warmest just as school goes back and the crowds thin out. Beaches are still patrolled, the ocean pools are pleasant without a wetsuit, and you can find a table at the Scarborough Hotel without arriving at eleven. If you can only come on a public holiday long weekend, Easter usually lands in this window. ## Summer: December to February Summer is busy. Austinmer, Bald Hill and the Sea Cliff Bridge are crowded by mid-morning on sunny weekends, and accommodation books out well ahead. The water warms through the season. Two things to know. Hot days often end with a southerly change, a sudden cool wind that drops the temperature fast. And north-east winds can blow bluebottles onto the beaches, so check the surf club noticeboards before you swim. ## Autumn: March to May The pick of the year. Warm water, settled weather, quieter beaches and long golden afternoons on the escarpment. Patrols continue into April. By May the water is cooling and the mornings are crisp, but the days are often still and clear. ## Winter: June to August Too cold for most people to swim, but a good time to walk. The escarpment tracks are cooler, the air is clear, and humpback whales pass close to the coast on their way north. Look from Bald Hill or any headland on a calm day. Accommodation is easier to find and cheaper. The King’s Birthday long weekend in June is the main winter break. ## Spring: September to November The water is at its coldest in early spring, even as the days warm up. Whales pass again heading south, and the patrol season starts in late September. The Labour Day long weekend in October is a good time to come for walks and a first cold swim. ## Seasons at a glance | Season | Months | Water | Crowds | Best for | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Summer | Dec to Feb | Warm, warming | Very busy | Beach days, long evenings | | Autumn | Mar to May | Warmest early, then cooling | Moderate | Swimming, everything | | Winter | Jun to Aug | Cold | Quiet | Walking, whales, pubs | | Spring | Sep to Nov | Coldest, then warming | Moderate | Walking, whales heading south | Water temperatures here follow the Sydney pattern: warmest in late summer and early autumn, coldest in late winter and early spring. ## Which long weekends are busiest? The summer school holidays, Australia Day and Easter are the busiest. The October Labour Day long weekend is busy if the weather is warm. The June King’s Birthday weekend is the quietest. Whatever the date, book accommodation early and plan to be at the popular spots before 10am. ## Frequently asked questions ### What is the best month to visit the northern Illawarra? March. The ocean is close to its warmest, the beaches are still patrolled, and the summer crowds have gone home. February and April are close behind. ### Can you see whales from the northern Illawarra? Yes. Humpback whales pass this coast on their migration, heading north in early winter and south again in spring. Bald Hill and the headlands at Austinmer and Sandon Point are good places to look. ### When are the beaches patrolled? Volunteer surf life savers and council lifeguards patrol the main beaches from about late September to late April. Exact dates and hours change each season, so check with Wollongong City Council or Surf Life Saving NSW. ### Is the northern Illawarra worth visiting in winter? Yes, if you are coming to walk rather than swim. Winter days are often clear and still, the escarpment tracks are cooler, whales are passing, and accommodation is easier to book. --- # Austinmer The postcard. Get there early. **Along the coast** ~13 km south of Stanwell Park **Train** Austinmer station, ~73 min from Central **Best for** The classic beach day ## Why visit Austinmer? Austinmer, or Austi, is the beach most Sydney people already know. It has two ocean pools, a grassy park behind the sand and a café strip a block back. On a summer weekend it is packed by ten. It is popular for good reasons. The beach is sheltered, the pools are beautiful, and the escarpment rises straight up behind the village. Come early, swim, eat, and leave the afternoon to the crowds. If you have the legs, the track to Sublime Point climbs from the edge of town to a lookout at the top of the escarpment. It is steep, with ladders near the top, and the view takes in the whole coast you have just driven. ## Things to do in Austinmer 1. ### Austi pools Two ocean pools at the north end beside the boat harbour. 2. ### Sublime Point A short, steep climb to one of the best lookouts on the escarpment. Go up in the morning shade. 3. ### Breakfast The cafés a block back from the beach fill up fast. Order to go and sit on the grass. ## Where to swim in Austinmer Austinmer Beach is sheltered and patrolled in season, with two ocean pools at the northern end. It is the busiest beach on the stretch, so arrive early. **Ocean pool:** Two ocean pools beside the boat harbour at the north end. Swim between the red and yellow flags on patrolled beaches. Ocean pools close on a roster for cleaning, so check Wollongong City Council before you plan a swim around one. ## Where to stay in Austinmer Holiday rentals and a few guesthouses, close to the station and the beach. Book early for summer and long weekends. ## How do you get to Austinmer from Sydney? Trains on the South Coast Line from Sydney's Central station stop at Austinmer. The trip takes about 73 minutes, depending on the service. Weekend trains run less often, so check the timetable for your return. By car, Austinmer is about an hour from the Sydney CBD. Take the M1 Princes Motorway, or drive through the Royal National Park and down Lawrence Hargrave Drive for the scenic route. [Compare train, scenic drive and motorway →](https://norillacoast.com/getting-here/) ## Austinmer at a glance | Detail | Austinmer | | --- | --- | | Distance from Stanwell Park | ~13 km | | Train station | Yes | | Train from Central | ~73 min | | Ocean pool | Yes | | Surf club | Austinmer Surf Life Saving Club | | Best for | The classic beach day | | Neighbours | Coledale (north), Thirroul (south) | ## Austinmer FAQs ### How far is Austinmer from Sydney? Austinmer is about an hour from the Sydney CBD by car and about 73 minutes by train from Central. It is about 13 km south of Stanwell Park along the coast road. ### Is there an ocean pool at Austinmer? Yes. Two ocean pools beside the boat harbour at the north end. ### How do you get to Sublime Point from Austinmer? A steep walking track climbs from the edge of Austinmer to Sublime Point lookout, with ladders near the top. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours return. You can also drive to the lookout from the Princes Highway. ### Where do you park at Austinmer Beach? There is parking behind the beach, but it fills early on sunny weekends. Austinmer station is a short walk from the sand, so the train is often easier. --- # Bulli Pass, point, pub. **Along the coast** ~18 km south of Stanwell Park **Train** Bulli station, ~80 min from Central **Best for** Arriving, leaving, and a cheap place to stay ## Why visit Bulli? Bulli is where many people first meet the coast, coming down Bulli Pass from the motorway with the whole of the Illawarra spread out below. It is also the southern edge of the stretch, and a mix of old mining town and new beach suburb. In 1887 an explosion at the Bulli colliery killed 81 men and boys, one of the worst mining disasters in Australian history. The memorial and the old railway station are a reminder of what built these towns. Today Bulli has a long beach, a rock pool at the point, a council-run tourist park on the beachfront and a main street with pubs and live music. At Bulli Tops, the lookout at the head of the pass shows you everything from Wollongong to Thirroul. ## Things to do in Bulli 1. ### Bulli Lookout At the top of the pass. Stop on the way in or out. 2. ### Bulli Beach Tourist Park Cabins and sites right behind the beach, walking distance to the point. 3. ### Bulli rock pool At the north end, beside the point. 4. ### Main street Old pubs, live music and a handful of good cafés along the highway. ## Where to swim in Bulli Bulli Beach is patrolled in season, with a rock pool out at the point at the northern end. **Ocean pool:** Bulli rock pool, at the point at the north end of the beach. Swim between the red and yellow flags on patrolled beaches. Ocean pools close on a roster for cleaning, so check Wollongong City Council before you plan a swim around one. ## Where to stay in Bulli Bulli Beach Tourist Park has cabins and campsites directly behind the beach. There are also rentals in the streets around the main road. ## How do you get to Bulli from Sydney? Trains on the South Coast Line from Sydney's Central station stop at Bulli. The trip takes about 80 minutes, depending on the service. Weekend trains run less often, so check the timetable for your return. By car, Bulli is about an hour from the Sydney CBD. Take the M1 Princes Motorway, or drive through the Royal National Park and down Lawrence Hargrave Drive for the scenic route. [Compare train, scenic drive and motorway →](https://norillacoast.com/getting-here/) ## Bulli at a glance | Detail | Bulli | | --- | --- | | Distance from Stanwell Park | ~18 km | | Train station | Yes | | Train from Central | ~80 min | | Ocean pool | Yes | | Surf club | Bulli Surf Life Saving Club | | Best for | Arriving, leaving, and a cheap place to stay | | Neighbours | Thirroul (north) | ## Bulli FAQs ### How far is Bulli from Sydney? Bulli is about an hour from the Sydney CBD by car and about 80 minutes by train from Central. It is about 18 km south of Stanwell Park along the coast road. ### Is there an ocean pool at Bulli? Yes. Bulli rock pool, at the point at the north end of the beach. ### Where is Bulli Lookout? Bulli Lookout is at Bulli Tops, at the head of Bulli Pass, just off the Princes Highway. It looks south over Thirroul, Bulli and Wollongong. ### What was the Bulli mining disaster? On 23 March 1887 an explosion at the Bulli colliery killed 81 men and boys. It was one of the worst mining disasters in Australian history. --- # Clifton The village at the end of the bridge. **Along the coast** ~7 km south of Stanwell Park **Train** No station. Use Coalcliff or Scarborough. **Best for** The bridge, and a drink after it ## Why visit Clifton? Clifton is where the Sea Cliff Bridge lands. The 665-metre curve of road was built out over the ocean after rockfalls closed the old cliff road in 2003, and it opened in 2005. Before the bridge, Clifton was a small mining town with a pub and a School of Arts hall. Both are still here, on the cliff above the road. Park at the southern end of the bridge and walk back across it. The footpath sits on the ocean side, so you get the full drop to the water. ## Things to do in Clifton 1. ### Walk the bridge Sunrise is best. It gets busy with photographers on weekends. 2. ### The Imperial An old cliff-top pub. Check opening hours before you plan lunch around it. 3. ### School of Arts The old hall still hosts community events, gigs and markets. ## Where to swim in Clifton Clifton has no swimming beach of its own. Walk north across the Sea Cliff Bridge to Coalcliff rock pool, or drive a few minutes south to Scarborough–Wombarra beach. Swim between the red and yellow flags on patrolled beaches. Ocean pools close on a roster for cleaning, so check Wollongong City Council before you plan a swim around one. ## Where to stay in Clifton A handful of houses and rentals sit along the cliff. Coalcliff, Scarborough and Thirroul are all close by. ## How do you get to Clifton from Sydney? Clifton has no train station. Get off at Coalcliff or Scarborough, both a short walk or drive away. By car, Clifton is about an hour from the Sydney CBD. Take the M1 Princes Motorway, or drive through the Royal National Park and down Lawrence Hargrave Drive for the scenic route, which reaches this end of the coast first. [Compare train, scenic drive and motorway →](https://norillacoast.com/getting-here/) ## Clifton at a glance | Detail | Clifton | | --- | --- | | Distance from Stanwell Park | ~7 km | | Train station | No | | Train from Central | n/a | | Ocean pool | No | | Surf club | None | | Best for | The bridge, and a drink after it | | Neighbours | Coalcliff (north), Scarborough (south) | ## Clifton FAQs ### How far is Clifton from Sydney? Clifton is about an hour from the Sydney CBD by car. It is about 7 km south of Stanwell Park along the coast road. ### Is there an ocean pool at Clifton? No. Clifton has no swimming beach of its own. Walk north across the Sea Cliff Bridge to Coalcliff rock pool, or drive a few minutes south to Scarborough–Wombarra beach. ### How long is the Sea Cliff Bridge? The Sea Cliff Bridge is 665 metres long. It opened in 2005 to replace a section of Lawrence Hargrave Drive that was closed by rockfalls in 2003. ### Can you walk across the Sea Cliff Bridge? Yes. A footpath runs along the ocean side of the bridge between Coalcliff and Clifton. There is parking near both ends. A return walk takes about 45 minutes. --- # Coalcliff A rock pool cut into the platform. Not much else, and that is the point. **Along the coast** ~4 km south of Stanwell Park **Train** Coalcliff station, ~63 min from Central **Best for** An early swim before the crowds ## Why visit Coalcliff? Coalcliff is a handful of streets, a small surf club and one of the best-placed ocean pools on the coast, set right into the rock shelf with the cliffs above it. George Bass recorded coal in these cliffs in 1797, and the seams that made the Illawarra are still visible in the rock face. Mining shaped every village on this stretch, and Coalcliff wears it most openly. Today it is quiet. Swim in the pool at high tide when the swell washes over the wall, then drive or walk south onto the Sea Cliff Bridge. ## Things to do in Coalcliff 1. ### Coalcliff rock pool Small, deep and right on the edge. Best on a calm morning. 2. ### Sea Cliff Bridge Walk the footpath out over the water. It starts just south of the village. 3. ### Look up The coal seams run in dark bands through the cliffs behind the beach. ## Where to swim in Coalcliff The rock pool is the main swim at Coalcliff and the best place for it. The small beach is patrolled in season but takes the swell directly. **Ocean pool:** Coalcliff rock pool, set into the rock platform below the cliffs. Swim between the red and yellow flags on patrolled beaches. Ocean pools close on a roster for cleaning, so check Wollongong City Council before you plan a swim around one. ## Where to stay in Coalcliff There are very few rentals in Coalcliff. Most visitors stay in Stanwell Park or Thirroul and come here for an early swim. ## How do you get to Coalcliff from Sydney? Trains on the South Coast Line from Sydney's Central station stop at Coalcliff. The trip takes about 63 minutes, depending on the service. Weekend trains run less often, so check the timetable for your return. By car, Coalcliff is about an hour from the Sydney CBD. Take the M1 Princes Motorway, or drive through the Royal National Park and down Lawrence Hargrave Drive for the scenic route, which reaches this end of the coast first. [Compare train, scenic drive and motorway →](https://norillacoast.com/getting-here/) ## Coalcliff at a glance | Detail | Coalcliff | | --- | --- | | Distance from Stanwell Park | ~4 km | | Train station | Yes | | Train from Central | ~63 min | | Ocean pool | Yes | | Surf club | Coalcliff Surf Life Saving Club | | Best for | An early swim before the crowds | | Neighbours | Stanwell Park (north), Clifton (south) | ## Coalcliff FAQs ### How far is Coalcliff from Sydney? Coalcliff is about an hour from the Sydney CBD by car and about 63 minutes by train from Central. It is about 4 km south of Stanwell Park along the coast road. ### Is there an ocean pool at Coalcliff? Yes. Coalcliff rock pool, set into the rock platform below the cliffs. ### Is the Sea Cliff Bridge near Coalcliff? Yes. The northern end of the Sea Cliff Bridge is just south of Coalcliff. You can walk from the village onto the bridge footpath. ### Why is it called Coalcliff? Coal seams run through the cliffs behind the beach. George Bass recorded coal here in 1797, and mining shaped the village for more than a century. --- # Coledale Fall asleep to the surf. **Along the coast** ~11 km south of Stanwell Park **Train** Coledale station, ~70 min from Central **Best for** Families and campers ## Why visit Coledale? Coledale has a wide, gentle beach and a camping ground right on the sand. Wake up, unzip the tent, and the ocean is there. The beachfront camping reserve is one of the few on the coast this close to Sydney, so it books out fast for long weekends. Book months ahead if you want a site. The ocean pool is at the south end. It is a good family beach, with a small shopping strip up on the main road for supplies. ## Things to do in Coledale 1. ### Beach camping Coledale Beach Camping Reserve. Book early for long weekends. 2. ### Coledale ocean pool At the southern end of the beach, with lawns for a picnic. 3. ### Sunrise swim The beach faces east, so the sun comes straight up out of the water. ## Where to swim in Coledale Coledale Beach is wide and patrolled in season, with an ocean pool and lawns at the south end. It is a good family beach. **Ocean pool:** Coledale ocean pool, at the southern end of the beach. Swim between the red and yellow flags on patrolled beaches. Ocean pools close on a roster for cleaning, so check Wollongong City Council before you plan a swim around one. ## Where to stay in Coledale Coledale Beach Camping Reserve has sites right behind the sand. It books out early for long weekends. There are also holiday rentals in the streets behind the beach. ## How do you get to Coledale from Sydney? Trains on the South Coast Line from Sydney's Central station stop at Coledale. The trip takes about 70 minutes, depending on the service. Weekend trains run less often, so check the timetable for your return. By car, Coledale is about an hour from the Sydney CBD. Take the M1 Princes Motorway, or drive through the Royal National Park and down Lawrence Hargrave Drive for the scenic route. [Compare train, scenic drive and motorway →](https://norillacoast.com/getting-here/) ## Coledale at a glance | Detail | Coledale | | --- | --- | | Distance from Stanwell Park | ~11 km | | Train station | Yes | | Train from Central | ~70 min | | Ocean pool | Yes | | Surf club | Coledale Surf Life Saving Club | | Best for | Families and campers | | Neighbours | Wombarra (north), Austinmer (south) | ## Coledale FAQs ### How far is Coledale from Sydney? Coledale is about an hour from the Sydney CBD by car and about 70 minutes by train from Central. It is about 11 km south of Stanwell Park along the coast road. ### Is there an ocean pool at Coledale? Yes. Coledale ocean pool, at the southern end of the beach. ### Can you camp on the beach at Coledale? Yes. Coledale Beach Camping Reserve has campsites directly behind the beach. Bookings are required and long weekends fill months ahead. ### Is Coledale good for kids? Yes. It has a patrolled beach in season, an ocean pool, lawns for picnics and shops a short walk away. --- # Scarborough Long lunch on a terrace above the sea. **Along the coast** ~8 km south of Stanwell Park **Train** Scarborough station, ~66 min from Central **Best for** The long lunch ## Why visit Scarborough? Scarborough runs along a strip of the coast road with the escarpment pressing in behind it. Most people come for one reason: the Scarborough Hotel and its beer garden on the cliff. It is an old pub with a lawn that runs to the edge of the cliff. Get a table on the lawn, order something, and watch the swell roll in below. On a sunny Saturday you will want to be there early. Below the road, Scarborough shares a beach and surf club with its neighbour Wombarra. Walk down the steps after lunch. ## Things to do in Scarborough 1. ### Scarborough Hotel The terrace is the draw. Arrive before midday on weekends. 2. ### Scarborough–Wombarra beach A narrower, wilder beach than the ones further south. Swim at the flags. 3. ### Drive slow The road here is tight and winding, and the views are on your left heading south. ## Where to swim in Scarborough Scarborough shares its beach and surf club with Wombarra. It is narrower and wilder than the beaches further south, so swim between the flags. The nearest ocean pool is at Wombarra. Swim between the red and yellow flags on patrolled beaches. Ocean pools close on a roster for cleaning, so check Wollongong City Council before you plan a swim around one. ## Where to stay in Scarborough Holiday rentals line the steep streets above the coast road, many with ocean views. ## How do you get to Scarborough from Sydney? Trains on the South Coast Line from Sydney's Central station stop at Scarborough. The trip takes about 66 minutes, depending on the service. Weekend trains run less often, so check the timetable for your return. By car, Scarborough is about an hour from the Sydney CBD. Take the M1 Princes Motorway, or drive through the Royal National Park and down Lawrence Hargrave Drive for the scenic route, which reaches this end of the coast first. [Compare train, scenic drive and motorway →](https://norillacoast.com/getting-here/) ## Scarborough at a glance | Detail | Scarborough | | --- | --- | | Distance from Stanwell Park | ~8 km | | Train station | Yes | | Train from Central | ~66 min | | Ocean pool | No | | Surf club | Scarborough–Wombarra Surf Life Saving Club | | Best for | The long lunch | | Neighbours | Clifton (north), Wombarra (south) | ## Scarborough FAQs ### How far is Scarborough from Sydney? Scarborough is about an hour from the Sydney CBD by car and about 66 minutes by train from Central. It is about 8 km south of Stanwell Park along the coast road. ### Is there an ocean pool at Scarborough? No. Scarborough shares its beach and surf club with Wombarra. It is narrower and wilder than the beaches further south, so swim between the flags. The nearest ocean pool is at Wombarra. ### When is the best time to visit Scarborough? Weekdays, or before midday on weekends, if you want a terrace table at the Scarborough Hotel. Sunny weekend afternoons are the busiest time on this stretch of road. ### Is there a train station at Scarborough? Yes. Scarborough station is on the South Coast Line, between Coalcliff and Wombarra. --- # Stanwell Park Where the coast road drops off the edge. **Along the coast** Northern start **Train** Stanwell Park station, ~60 min from Central **Best for** Big views, first impressions, people who want to fly ## Why visit Stanwell Park? Your first look at the northern Illawarra comes from Bald Hill, and it is a big one. The escarpment falls away, the beach curves below, and on a good northeasterly the sky fills with hang gliders. Stanwell Park sits in a green bowl between the Royal National Park and the sea. Lawrence Hargrave flew himself a few metres off this beach under a string of box kites in 1894, and people have been launching off the hill above it ever since. The village itself is small and leafy, with a creek lagoon at the north end of the beach and a brick railway viaduct curving through the trees behind it. Come down off the hill, park near the reserve, and walk the length of the sand. ## Things to do in Stanwell Park 1. ### Bald Hill lookout Go at sunrise or late afternoon. The Hargrave memorial is up here too. 2. ### Tandem hang glide Several operators fly tandems off Bald Hill when the wind is right. Book ahead and keep the day flexible. 3. ### Wodi Wodi Track A loop through rainforest gullies and up onto the escarpment, starting near the station. Allow three hours or so. 4. ### Stanwell Park Beach Patrolled in season. The creek mouth at the north end is a calmer spot for small kids. ## Where to swim in Stanwell Park Stanwell Park has no ocean pool. Swim at the patrolled beach in season, or let small children paddle in the calmer water where Stanwell Creek meets the sand at the north end. Check the creek after heavy rain. Swim between the red and yellow flags on patrolled beaches. Ocean pools close on a roster for cleaning, so check Wollongong City Council before you plan a swim around one. ## Where to stay in Stanwell Park Holiday houses fill the bowl and the slopes above it. There are only a couple of cafés and a kiosk, so book ahead and bring supplies if you are self-catering. ## How do you get to Stanwell Park from Sydney? Trains on the South Coast Line from Sydney's Central station stop at Stanwell Park. The trip takes about 60 minutes, depending on the service. Weekend trains run less often, so check the timetable for your return. By car, Stanwell Park is about an hour from the Sydney CBD. Take the M1 Princes Motorway, or drive through the Royal National Park and down Lawrence Hargrave Drive for the scenic route, which reaches this end of the coast first. [Compare train, scenic drive and motorway →](https://norillacoast.com/getting-here/) ## Stanwell Park at a glance | Detail | Stanwell Park | | --- | --- | | Distance from Stanwell Park | Start of the stretch | | Train station | Yes | | Train from Central | ~60 min | | Ocean pool | No | | Surf club | Stanwell Park Surf Life Saving Club | | Best for | Big views, first impressions, people who want to fly | | Neighbours | Coalcliff (south) | ## Stanwell Park FAQs ### How far is Stanwell Park from Sydney? Stanwell Park is about an hour from the Sydney CBD by car and about 60 minutes by train from Central. It is the northernmost village on this stretch of coast. ### Is there an ocean pool at Stanwell Park? No. Stanwell Park has no ocean pool. Swim at the patrolled beach in season, or let small children paddle in the calmer water where Stanwell Creek meets the sand at the north end. Check the creek after heavy rain. ### Can you go hang gliding at Stanwell Park? Yes. Licensed operators fly tandem hang glides and paraglides from Bald Hill above Stanwell Park when the wind allows. Flights depend on the weather, so book ahead and keep the day flexible. ### Where is Bald Hill lookout? Bald Hill lookout is on Lawrence Hargrave Drive at the top of the hill above Stanwell Park, where the road from Otford meets the coast. It has a car park and the Lawrence Hargrave memorial. --- # Thirroul The village with a main street. **Along the coast** ~15 km south of Stanwell Park **Train** Thirroul station, ~76 min from Central **Best for** Dinner, drinks and a walkable base ## Why visit Thirroul? Thirroul is the biggest of the nine and the one that feels most like a town: a proper high street, a cinema, pubs, good restaurants, and a long beach with a 50-metre pool at the end. D.H. Lawrence rented a bungalow here in 1922 and wrote most of his novel Kangaroo in it. The town in the book is barely disguised. The house is still there, privately owned, so look from the street. Base yourself here if you want to walk to dinner. Anita’s Theatre, a 1920s picture palace, runs gigs and films. North of the beach, the coast walk heads up to Austinmer around the rock platforms. ## Things to do in Thirroul 1. ### Thirroul pool A 50-metre ocean pool beside the surf club, good for real laps. 2. ### Dinner in town The best spread of restaurants on this stretch. Book on long weekends. 3. ### Anita’s Theatre A restored 1920s theatre. Check the program before you come down. 4. ### Sandon Point A famous surf break at the south end of town. Good for watching even if you do not surf. ## Where to swim in Thirroul Thirroul Beach is long and patrolled in season, with a 50-metre ocean pool at the surf club. Sandon Point, at the south end, is a surf break rather than a swimming spot. **Ocean pool:** A 50-metre ocean pool beside the surf club. Swim between the red and yellow flags on patrolled beaches. Ocean pools close on a roster for cleaning, so check Wollongong City Council before you plan a swim around one. ## Where to stay in Thirroul The widest choice of rentals and guesthouses on the stretch, most within walking distance of the station, the beach and the main street. ## How do you get to Thirroul from Sydney? Trains on the South Coast Line from Sydney's Central station stop at Thirroul. The trip takes about 76 minutes, depending on the service. Weekend trains run less often, so check the timetable for your return. By car, Thirroul is about an hour from the Sydney CBD. Take the M1 Princes Motorway, or drive through the Royal National Park and down Lawrence Hargrave Drive for the scenic route. [Compare train, scenic drive and motorway →](https://norillacoast.com/getting-here/) ## Thirroul at a glance | Detail | Thirroul | | --- | --- | | Distance from Stanwell Park | ~15 km | | Train station | Yes | | Train from Central | ~76 min | | Ocean pool | Yes | | Surf club | Thirroul Surf Life Saving Club | | Best for | Dinner, drinks and a walkable base | | Neighbours | Austinmer (north), Bulli (south) | ## Thirroul FAQs ### How far is Thirroul from Sydney? Thirroul is about an hour from the Sydney CBD by car and about 76 minutes by train from Central. It is about 15 km south of Stanwell Park along the coast road. ### Is there an ocean pool at Thirroul? Yes. A 50-metre ocean pool beside the surf club. ### Where did D.H. Lawrence stay in Thirroul? D.H. Lawrence rented a bungalow called Wyewurk in Thirroul in 1922 and wrote most of his novel Kangaroo there. The house is privately owned, so view it from the street. ### Can you visit Thirroul without a car? Yes. Thirroul station is a short walk from the main street and the beach, and the coast path links it to Austinmer and Bulli. --- # Wombarra The quiet one. **Along the coast** ~9.5 km south of Stanwell Park **Train** Wombarra station, ~68 min from Central **Best for** Doing nothing, properly ## Why visit Wombarra? Wombarra is almost all houses, trees and steep streets, with a rock pool at the bottom of the hill. If you want a weekend where nothing much happens, rent a place here. There are no cafés to speak of. That keeps the day-trippers away and the streets quiet. Neighbouring Coledale and Scarborough are a few minutes away when you need coffee or a pub. The ocean pool sits at the end of the beach on the rock platform. It is a favourite for locals doing laps, and the water is usually clear. ## Things to do in Wombarra 1. ### Wombarra rock pool Laps, then a lie in the sun on the warm concrete. 2. ### Stay a while Holiday rentals here tend to have big decks and bigger views. 3. ### Train it Wombarra has its own station. Arrive on a Friday night and leave the car in Sydney. ## Where to swim in Wombarra Swim laps in the rock pool, or at the patrolled Scarborough–Wombarra beach in season. **Ocean pool:** Wombarra rock pool, at the end of the beach on the rock platform. Swim between the red and yellow flags on patrolled beaches. Ocean pools close on a roster for cleaning, so check Wollongong City Council before you plan a swim around one. ## Where to stay in Wombarra Mostly holiday houses with big decks. There is no café strip, so Coledale and Scarborough are where you go for coffee or a meal. ## How do you get to Wombarra from Sydney? Trains on the South Coast Line from Sydney's Central station stop at Wombarra. The trip takes about 68 minutes, depending on the service. Weekend trains run less often, so check the timetable for your return. By car, Wombarra is about an hour from the Sydney CBD. Take the M1 Princes Motorway, or drive through the Royal National Park and down Lawrence Hargrave Drive for the scenic route. [Compare train, scenic drive and motorway →](https://norillacoast.com/getting-here/) ## Wombarra at a glance | Detail | Wombarra | | --- | --- | | Distance from Stanwell Park | ~9.5 km | | Train station | Yes | | Train from Central | ~68 min | | Ocean pool | Yes | | Surf club | Scarborough–Wombarra Surf Life Saving Club | | Best for | Doing nothing, properly | | Neighbours | Scarborough (north), Coledale (south) | ## Wombarra FAQs ### How far is Wombarra from Sydney? Wombarra is about an hour from the Sydney CBD by car and about 68 minutes by train from Central. It is about 9.5 km south of Stanwell Park along the coast road. ### Is there an ocean pool at Wombarra? Yes. Wombarra rock pool, at the end of the beach on the rock platform. ### Are there cafés in Wombarra? No. Wombarra is almost entirely residential. Coledale, a few minutes south, has shops, and Scarborough has the pub. ### Is Wombarra good for a quiet weekend? Yes. It is the quietest of the nine villages, with a station, a rock pool and very little through traffic. --- Three nights, nine villages # The long weekend, sorted. Friday train, Monday drive home. A plan that hits every village without rushing any of them. Swap days around to follow the weather. ## How should you spend a long weekend in the northern Illawarra? Base yourself in Thirroul and work outwards: the north end on Saturday, the middle on Sunday, the south end on Monday as you head home. Swim early, eat long lunches, and leave the afternoons loose. ## The weekend at a glance | Day | Area | Highlights | | --- | --- | --- | | [Friday](#friday) | Thirroul | Train down, dinner on the main street | | [Saturday](#saturday) | North end | Sea Cliff Bridge sunrise, Coalcliff pool, Bald Hill, lunch at Scarborough, Wombarra pool | | [Sunday](#sunday) | Middle | Austinmer pools, Sublime Point climb, coast walk to Thirroul, a show at Anita’s | | [Monday](#monday) | South end | Sandon Point, Bulli rock pool, Coledale picnic, Bulli Lookout on the way home | Day 1 ## Friday Get out of the city 1. 4:30pm ### [South Coast Line from Central](https://norillacoast.com/getting-here/) Beat the traffic and take the train. Sit on the left-hand side heading south. After Otford the line comes out of the tunnels onto the cliffs above Stanwell Park. 2. 6:15pm ### [Check in at Thirroul](https://norillacoast.com/villages/thirroul/) The best base for a first visit. You can walk to the beach, the pool, dinner and the station. 3. 7:30pm ### Dinner on the main street Thirroul has the widest choice of restaurants on the stretch. Book ahead on long weekends. Day 2 ## Saturday Up the coast 1. 6:00am ### [Sunrise on the Sea Cliff Bridge](https://norillacoast.com/villages/clifton/) Drive or grab a cab to Clifton and walk out over the water as the sun comes up behind the swell. 2. 7:00am ### [Swim at Coalcliff](https://norillacoast.com/villages/coalcliff/) The rock pool below the cliffs is a short walk from the north end of the bridge. 3. 9:00am ### [Bald Hill, then breakfast](https://norillacoast.com/villages/stanwell-park/) Watch the hang gliders set up, then head down to Stanwell Park for coffee and a walk along the beach. 4. 12:00pm ### [Long lunch at Scarborough](https://norillacoast.com/villages/scarborough/) Get a table on the lawn at the Scarborough Hotel. Stay for a second round. 5. 4:00pm ### [Nap. Then Wombarra pool.](https://norillacoast.com/villages/wombarra/) A late swim in the quietest pool on the coast while the escarpment turns gold. Day 3 ## Sunday Climb, swim, walk 1. 7:00am ### [Austinmer before the crowds](https://norillacoast.com/villages/austinmer/) Swim in the pools by the boat harbour while the car park is still empty. 2. 8:30am ### Climb to Sublime Point Steep, short and in shade in the morning. The lookout shows you every beach you have swum at so far. 3. 11:30am ### [Coast walk to Thirroul](https://norillacoast.com/villages/thirroul/) Follow the path and rock platforms south. Check the tide, and stop at Thirroul pool for laps. 4. 7:00pm ### A show at Anita’s See what is on at the old 1920s theatre on the main street, or find a pub with a band. Day 4 ## Monday Slow drive home 1. 8:00am ### [Walk to Sandon Point and Bulli](https://norillacoast.com/villages/bulli/) Watch the surfers at the point, then carry on to Bulli for a last swim in the rock pool. 2. 11:00am ### [Coledale for a picnic](https://norillacoast.com/villages/coledale/) Lawns behind the pool, and the campers packing up around you. 3. 2:00pm ### Up Bulli Pass and home Stop at the lookout at the top for one more look, then join the motorway. Leave before 3 to miss the worst of the return traffic. Plan B ## If it rains. Storms here roll off the escarpment fast and often clear just as fast. Watch the southerly come up the coast from a pub window in Scarborough or Clifton. The waterfalls on the escarpment run hardest after rain, but tracks get slippery and some close. Stay on the coast and check NSW National Parks alerts before heading up. A matinee at Anita’s, a long breakfast in Thirroul, and a swim anyway. The ocean pools are just as good in the rain. ## Long weekend FAQs ### Is three days enough for the northern Illawarra? Yes. Three days lets you swim at most of the ocean pools, walk the Sea Cliff Bridge and one escarpment track, and eat in every village without rushing. ### Where should you stay for a long weekend? Thirroul, for a first visit. It is central, has the most restaurants, and has a station, so you can do much of the itinerary on foot and by train. ### Do you need a car for this itinerary? Not for most of it. Saturday morning at the north end is easiest with a car or a cab, and the rest works by train and on foot. ### What if it rains? Storms here often clear quickly. Spend the wet spells in a pub in Scarborough or Clifton, catch a film at Anita’s Theatre in Thirroul, and swim anyway: the ocean pools are just as good in the rain.