The Ultimate Summer Festival Guide - Australian Traveller

Summer in Australia has arrived, you know what that means – festival season is here!

Aussies love a summer festival; there is just something so iconically Australian about sweltering in the Aussie heat for a good time. As a result, the country’s calendar is absolutely packed full of fun come the warmer weather. This is the ultimate guide to Australia’s hottest (literally) festivals.

Lights of Lobethal

Adelaide, SA: until 22 December

Christmas lights around a house and a garden outside. — Come see the lights this Christmas in Lobethal. (Image: Dylan Sanders)

A beacon of light to the local community and South Australians of all ages, the Lights of Lobethal is a volunteer-run festival and one of the reasons it made our top festive towns list. Throughout its 60-year history, no other calendar event has built more morale, creating happy memories and spreading joy, hope and resilience throughout the community.

Experience the magic of Christmas and ignite your sense of nostalgia by immersing yourself in impressive experiences, from fantastical light installations to traditional festive events. Think carols, nativity plays, markets and the annual Lobethal pageant.

Liquid Light

Darwin, NT: until 25 December

Throughout the month of December, Darwinites meandering along the city’s well-known waterfront will spy a stunning showcase of sound, water and light. The free art installation captives with mesmerising laser projections, water fountains, animations and soundtracks.

Perfectly timed with the festive season, Liquid Light – A Christmas Wonderland is a great night out for the whole family. After admiring the installation, which starts at 7.30pm each evening, hit up one of Darwin’s many divine restaurants for a bite to eat.

Radiance

Rockhampton, Qld: until 24 December

Rockhampton comes alive during December with Radiance in the city’s heritage-listed Botanic Gardens. Wander through 150-year-old trees to discover a variety of stunning light installations, laser effects, enchanting sculptures and interactive projections.

There will also be Christmas-themed art displays, soundscapes and special effects to get you excited for the festive season. For those with sensory needs, an early low-sensory session is available, too.

Woodford Folk Festival

Moreton Bay, Qld: 27 December – 1 January

Welcome 2025 by setting your soul free at the Woodford Folk Festival, a diverse congregation of the creative community that has transformed into a village of music, culture, and colour since its inception in 1887.

The vibrant event is held on the magical lands of Woodfordia by Lake Gkula, around a 1.5-hour drive north of Brisbane. Headlined by local, national and international acts, festival-goers are invited to create, connect, laugh, listen and dance into 2025.

Lost Paradise

Glenworth Valley, NSW: 28 December – 1 January 2024

Lost Paradise returns with an all-star lineup this December, making it one of the best ways you can celebrate New Years Eve this year. Taking over Glenworth Valley in NSW, the mammoth line-up of international superstars and fierce local talent includes Fisher, Tinashe, Royel Otis, Flight Facilities, AJ Tracey, and loads more.

But Lost Paradise offers so much more than its musical line-up. Need a break from the music or keen to try something new? Head to Shambhala Fields for yoga, talks, workshops, healing arts and Indigenous experiences. Or wander a diverse range of markets in the Lost Village. Also, just to add the icing on top, glamping tents are available to book.

Taste of Summer

Hobart, Tas: 28 December – 4 January

Taste of Summer is a week-long festival that celebrates the incredible fresh produce and farm-to-plate practices that Tasmania is known for. This year, over 75 local producers will gather in Hobart to showcase the state’s finest – and of course, there will be fireworks!

Come New Year’s Eve, musical acts such as Hoodoo Gurus, VIXXIN and Hugo Bladel will ring in 2025 with epic live performances on Hobart’s Waterfront. And what’s even better, arrive between 6pm and 7pm and enjoy a complimentary glass of Clover Hill sparkling.

Beyond the Valley

Barunah Plains, Vic: 28 December – 1 January

Beyond The Valley is back for its ninth year and promising a line-up like never before. Witness Fisher, Ice Spice, Sugababes, Chase & Status, Natasha Bedingfield and many more light up the stage and bring in the New Year.

Boogie under the Dance Dome. Join the conversation at the Podcast Stage. Explore Main Street’s food and market stalls. Take a yoga or meditation break at The Sanctuary. Cool off at the Beach Club. Whatever you do, you’ll welcome 2025 feeling oh so happy at Beyond the Valley.

NYE on the Hill

Gippsland, Vic: 30 December– 1 January

Head to The Farm in Victoria’s Gippsland region this December and you’ll find NYE on the Hill. Think good live music, camping with mates, rolling green hills, morning yoga, art installations and curated food trucks.

Now in its 11th year, this three-day rural festival has sold out every single year – and it’s not hard to see why. Between its stellar line-up (Mallrat, Hockey Dad, Rum Jungle and more) and stunning setting, NYE on the Hill has garnered a loyal community. And once you join it, you’ll be keen to come back year after year.

Snack Festival

Perth, WA: 31 December

One of Western Australia’s biggest festivals is back this year, offering the perfect NYE plans for you and your mates. Snack Festival, held at the Claremont Showground in Perth, will have you dancing well into the night.

Across nine epic stages, over 40 DJs will play their best sets to raving crowds. Whether you opt for the silent disco, bush doof paint party or karaoke village, you’ll be having so much fun you won’t even notice the clock striking midnight.

Wildlands Festival

Brisbane, Qld: 31 December
Perth, WA: 4 January 2024
Adelaide, SA: 5 January 2024

Wildlands Festival will return over this New Year’s Eve period, hitting Brisbane before the year rounds out, then hitting Perth and Adelaide in January. With Luude, The Jungle Giants, RÜFÜS DU SOL, Central Cee, Boo Seeka and more taking to the stage, Wildlands is going to be off the charts.

Featuring world-class production, iconic stage design, decor and arts, Wildlands offers attendees a day of immersive music and arts escapism unlike any other. There will also be food trucks and fully stocked bars to keep you fuelled into 2025.

Field Day

Sydney, NSW: 1 January 2024

Field Day is the best way to do New Year’s Day and the antidote to the whole panoply of NYE drawbacks. Picture it: you’re out in the summer sun, your friends are by your side and the best music you’ll hear all year is blasting all around you.

Field Day specialises in party music that’s a high-quality mix of house, hip-hop, indie and electronica. With Chase & Status, RL Grime, Meduza and Sam Alfred all making an appearance, there’s no better way to kick off 2025.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

Summernats

Canberra, ACT: 2–5 January

The annual Summernats Car Festival is Australia’s biggest horsepower party. In 2025, Exhibition Park in Canberra is the place to be among the action.

Check out lawn mower racing, burnout shows, mullet competitions and live performances by Aussie icons Jet, Eskimo Joe, Thirsty Merc and many more. Created by renowned revhead Chic Henry in 1988, the Summernats has become an Aussie favourite.

Sydney Festival

Sydney, NSW: 4–26 January

Sydney Festival is hitting its stride this year as it swings the spotlight across the city for its annual celebration of culture and creativity. The 24-day event will splash colour across the city in immersive live performances of theatre, music, dance and art.

The festival has won acclaim since it first began in 1977 for its inclusive program of free and ticketed events that build on the feelings of community that bind the city together.

Australian Open

Melbourne, Vic: 6–11 January

One of the biggest events on Melbourne’s sporting calendar, the Australian Open sees the world’s best tennis players take to the court across 20 heated days.

Internationally recognised players, such as Novak Djokovic and Australia’s own Alicia Molik, will battle it out across a range of divisions at Melbourne Park. Don’t miss the three-day Finals Festival at John Cain Arena, featuring DMA’s, The Jungle Giants and more.

Elvis Festival

Parkes, NSW: 8–12 January

Elvis impersonators and crowds gather at the annua Street Parade in Parkes. — Elvis impersonators and crowds gather at the annual Street Parade in Parkes.

Celebrate Elvis Presley’s birthday the right way this year at the 2024 Parkes Elvis Festival. If you sport a leather jacket and slick your hair back, you’ll fit right in. The festival invites attendees to dress up accordingly and pay homage to the life and music of the king of rock ‘n’ roll.

This year, the festival’s program is jam-packed with live music performances, line dancing lessons, dragon boating, sky-diving (yes, you read that right!) and more. Tickets are on sale now.

Cygnet Folk Festival

Cygnet, Tas: 10–12 January

Serving as one of Australia’s most iconic folk music festivals, the Cygnet Folk Festival is highly regarded by musicians and festival-goers alike. It showcases eclectic music genres from both local and international talent, along with dancing, poetry and masterclasses.

Browse and indulge in local food, wine, art and crafts, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Tasmania’s Huon Valley. Make a weekend of it by camping out at an additional cost.

Tamworth Country Music Festival

Tamworth, NSW: 17–26 January

Known as one of Australia’s biggest music festivals, the Tamworth Country Music Festival is home to over 2500 free and ticketed gigs across 120 venues. The festival doesn’t have gates, allowing country music lovers free access to live performances, country markets and the annual Golden Guitar Awards.

Buskers, stalls, kids’ activities and street performers are set to bring the streets of Tamworth to life. Pre-purchase tickets are now available for paid events.

Rosé & Dumplings Festival

Adelaide Hills, SA: 25–26 January

Howard Vineyard in South Australia — The kitchen at Howard’s Vineyard has nailed its dumplings. (Image: Ryan Cantwell)

The 2025 Rosé & Dumpling Festival hosted by Howard Vineyard is back again, celebrating all things rosé. Enjoy live music paired with delicious food and divine wine, set against the stunning backdrop of Adelaide Hills.

Get your friends together for all-day rosé paired with a delicious selection of hand-rolled dumplings, along with other foodie favourites. Tickets are on sale now, priced between $15 and $30 per person.

Festivale

Launceston, Tas: 31 January– 2 February

Known as one of Tassie’s premium summer events, Festivale is a three-day community commemoration of Launceston’s incredible foodie scene, paired with epic local entertainment in City Park.

Guests are immersed in a variety of activities, from beverage masterclasses and chef demonstrations to live music and countless stalls. Under historic elm trees decorated with hanging lights, family and friends can relax in the open space and enjoy the festivities.

Perth Festival

Perth, WA: 7 February – 2 March

Perth Festival in the WA capital is jam-packed with plenty for all, with events ranging from performance and music to film, literature and art. With both free and ticketed events, visitors can pull their own unique itinerary together based on not only their interests but their budgets too.

In 2025, the festival will deck out its new home for the first time at the East Perth Power Station. The 8.5-hectare venue on the banks of the Swan River will add an exciting new atmosphere after being revitalised for the event.

Sail GP

Sydney, NSW: 8–9 February

SailGP, one of the world’s biggest sailing events, is heading back to Sydney in February. Get up close and personal to the 50-foot catamarans racing at speeds of 90 kilometres an hour across Sydney Harbour.

Teams from all over the world will be competing for precious points, including Australia, who are currently sitting in fifth place. Spectators can board an official spectator boat or watch from the shore where there will be live commentary, a bar, a fan shop and post-race entertainment.

Laneway Festival

Brisbane, Qld: 8 February
Sydney, NSW: 9 February
Melbourne, Vic: 14 February
Adelaide, SA: 15 February
Perth, WA: 16 February

Laneway Festival is back for its 20th birthday in 2025! The much-loved festival will be hopping from state to state (except Tassie, the NT and ACT – sorry guys!), bringing both famed and emerging artists to your ears.

Spend the day gallivanting in the sun with your besties to a blockbuster line-up featuring Charlie XCX, Clairo, Remi Wolf, Skeggs and so many more incredible artists. Tickets are on sale now and are sure to sell out fast!

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Riverboats Music Festival

Echuca, Vic: 14–16 February

PS Pevensey, Echuca Paddlesteamers, things to do along the Murray River — Jump on a river cruise with the PS Pevensey.

On the banks of the ancient Murray River on Yorta Yorta Country, Riverboats Music Festival entertains all weekend long. The stellar line-up is sure to please, with big names like Bic Runga, The Cruel Sea, Dan Sultan, Emily Wurramara and more taking to the stage.

The festival’s iconic paddle steamer sideshows will also return this year. In partnership with the iconic Echuca Paddlesteamers, attendees can experience a series of intimate sideshows aboard the historic PS Pevensey.

Mardi Gras

Sydney, NSW: 14 February – 2 March

The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is back for another amazing two-week-long celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community. The festival theme for 2025 is Free to Be, which is all about celebrating the community’s fight for equality and individuality, as well as embracing your true self.

The program this year is looking bright, with everything from parades and pool parties to live music performances, theatre, drag shows, comedy acts and more. There truly isn’t an event you want to miss. Tickets are on sale now!

Adelaide Fringe

Adelaide, SA: 21 February – 23 March

This South Aussie spectacular remains one of the defining arts events on the Australian cultural calendar. Every summer, Adelaide Fringe hosts more than 6000 alt-independent acts that transform the state’s laneways, theatres, galleries and gardens into a circus of fun.

This year’s non-curated pay-to-play festival will include acts as diverse as cabaret and circus, magic and music, talks and physical theatre. Guests can expect to see big names like actress Joann Condon (Little Britain), singer Rohan Watts, comedian James Barr, street artist Jimmy C and more.

Royal Canberra Show

Canberra, ACT: 23–25 February

The Royal Canberra Show is the city’s largest all-ages event, event, hosted annually by the Royal National Capital Agricultural Society. While agriculture has remained at its core, the show has expanded to include rides, entertainment, educational features, exhibitions and plenty of food.

There’ll be something for the whole family at the Canberra Show. From the farmyard nursery, dog show and rides to the multitude of eateries offering up delicious local fare, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Noosa Summer Swim Festival

Noosa, Qld: 22–23 February

Grab your togs and get ready for a weekend of sunshine and swimming with the Noosa Summer Swim Festival. Now one of Australia’s most popular summer swimming events, the open-water adventure takes participants along Main Beach in Noosa and through the stunning national park.

Whether you’re an avid aquanaut or simply looking for a break from the heat, there’s room for everyone to participate. Be sure to prepare for the big swim with the new dryland warm-up sessions run by Swimnastics.

Feastival

Falls Creek, Vic: 28 February – 2 March

In the alpine resort town of Falls Creek, you’re invited to Feastival, a three-day celebration of the region’s best food, wine, music and art. This year’s festival activities include a paint and sip brunch, degustation lunch and live comedy.

There will also be live performances from incredible Aussie talents, with the line-up yet to be announced. If you’re visiting the alpine area of Victoria for the event, the cosy town of Bright is only an hour from Falls Creek and is the perfect place to get a real taste of the region.

Enlighten Festival

Canberra, ACT: 28 February – 10 March

Watch Canberra light up with Enlighten Festival, a 17-day event taking over the capital this March. A diverse and exciting program will consume the city under a cloak of culture and creativity. From after-dark activities to film and music events, prepare to be wowed.

Highlights of the festival include Enlighten After Dark, City Illuminations, Symphony in the Park and the Canberra Balloon Spectacular. Enlighten Festival is mostly made up of free events, however, tickets can be purchased now for the few that require them.

Nannup Music Festival

Nannup, WA: 28 February – 3 March

In the centre of WA’s stunning southwest on the banks of the Blackwood River is Nannup, a small timber town known for its local music festival. Held annually, the streets of Nannup come alive with stalls, performances and activities, spearheaded by a community-minded spirit.

Guests can expect an eclectic mix of incredible acts over free and ticketed venues, plus street performances, markets, yoga, workshops and activities for kids.

Yours and Owls

Wollongong, NSW: 1–2 March

Yours & Owls Festival — This year’s festival will be held at the University of Wollongong. (Image: Ian Laidlaw)

Who’s ready for another round of Yours and Owls? We certainly are. This year’s set list, which features local and international acts, is sure to pop off, with Jungle Giants, Denzel Curry, The Kooks, Fontaines D.C. and more all ready to party with you.

Held at South Beach along the Wollongong Foreshore, it’s the perfect spot to party before cooling off at one of Wollongong’s best beaches. If you’re travelling into town for the festival, be sure to book a campsite in advance.

WOMADelaide

Adelaide, SA: 7–10 March

Get excited – the iconic WOMADelaide, which stands for World Of Music, Arts and Dance, is returning to Adelaide this March. The open-air festival is one of the most celebrated annual festivals in the City of Churches, spanning four thrilling days.

This year’s program offers performances from local and international artists, plus street theatre, art, stalls and installations. There will also be plenty of food and beverage offerings for guests to enjoy.

fabALICE Festival

Alice Springs, NT: 27–30 March

Continue the Mardi Gras party in March at fabALICE, a festival of drag and cabaret that celebrates the inclusivity and diversity of Mparntwe/Alice Springs. There is so much to look forward to this year, with the fabALICE program simply bursting at the seams.

From lip sync battles and cabaret to drag queen bingo and fashion shows, your itinerary is set to be jam-packed. Join the community of Alice Springs as it sparkles this March to celebrate pride, love and diversity.

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery. Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda, and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines.

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk, one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines, where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala. Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie, right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk, an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park. Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast, a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery, where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm. Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal, which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores, between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch. Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong. A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery, which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen. It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach, right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.