Best Ceremony Spots - Wollongong + Illawarra
Back in my old stomping ground. Wollongong has really stepped up over the years. It’s a breath of fresh air revealing many hidden gems.
Wollongong, you’ve changed :)
Who’d of thought! After being away from home (aka the Gong) for a good 20+ years, ha I’m back. Having kids, needing the space and more serenity in your life will do that to you. And…weddings are trending here in the South. Teeming with out-of-this-world gorgeous venues.
Being based in my old stomping ground is rather wonderful. I’m pleasantly surprised with how the Gong has been rejuvenated yet at the same time, is so familiar in many ways. It’s a really beautiful part of NSW. A place where the ocean meets the mountains.
It’s got the same uni city vibe, art & live music scene. Public infrastructure has had a revamp, with great cycling and walking tracks. It’s been looked after and there’s plenty of spots for fab coffee, wine, food and views.
So with that, I wanted to cover my picks for anyone wanting to get married in Wollongong, and the Illawarra Coast. Following this, I’ll cover the South Coast and close neighbours, the Southern Highlands.
Wollongong and Illawarra ceremony locations:
Kneading Ruby. Photography: Australian Bartender
Best spots for elopements + intimate ceremonies //
Sandon Point Reserve, Bulli. Photography: Margan Photography
Kneading Ruby Wollongong
Diggies Wollongong
Brighton Beach Wollongong Harbour
Flagstaff Point Lighthouse Wollongong
The Old Courthouse Wollongong
Births + Deaths Bar Wollongong
Mike Dwyer Reserve Coledale
Steamers Wollongong
Best spots for bigger ceremonies //
Project Contemporary Artspace Wollongong (ceremonies only)
Gleniffer Brae Manor House Wollongong (lawn ceremonies + photos only)
Flagstaff Point Lighthouse Wollongong
LevelOne Harbourfront Wollongong
Stuart Park overlooking Puckey’s Estate
Lagoon Restaurant Wollongong
Mt Keira Scout Camp Bush Chapel Mt Keira
Ravensthorpe Albion Park
Killalea State Park (The Farm) Shell Cove
Sandon Point Reserve Bulli
Glastonbury Gardens Austinmer
Headlands Hotel Austinmer
Tumbling Waters Stanwell Tops
Note, some websites don’t do the venue or location justice. I’d recommend going for a visit to see first hand (whether in person or via zoom). You’ll recognise what suits your vibe immediately that way. Otherwise just flick me a message. I’ll be super happy to go through the details with you.
Happy ‘Gong location scouting!