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Whale Tale - Lake Illawarra Art Trail

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Lake Illawarra Art Trail

Walk or cycle the Lake Illawarra Art Trail to explore local history, Aboriginal heritage, flora and fauna. The artworks were created by local artists in collaboration with the community in response to the lake, its history and its people. The local artists use natural and fabricated objects and various techniques such as woodcarving, painting, mosaic and glass imagery. It involves a series of sculptural totem poles depicting stories of the city at designated parts of the foreshore. The Lake Illawarra Art Trail, along with heritage trails around the area, can be found on the "Tread Shellharbour " App. Download from Apple Store or Google Play Store.

Lake Illawarra NSW

0.0 km away

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Lake Illawarra
Image credit: Kramer Photography

Natural Attractions

Lake Illawarra

The vast waters of Lake Illawarra are perfect for your favourite water sports. Learn to stand-up paddleboard on the calm, flat waters, or head out to the ocean for more challenging waves. If boating is your thing, bring your own vessel — there are plenty of boat ramps for easy access — or hire a boat for a fun day of fishing. The lake is teeming with fish, and there are many great spots to drop a line from breakwalls or jetties. You can even clean and barbecue your fresh catch along the foreshore. The lake's foreshore is ideal for a relaxing day outdoors, with picnic shelters, barbecue facilities, and playgrounds for kids. Little ones will love paddling safely in the calm waters at Reddall Reserve. Explore the Lake Illawarra Art Trail, starting at Reddall Reserve, where striking sculptures celebrate the lake, its history, and the local community. While exploring the foreshore, venture out to Windang Island to see the remnants of rails and wheels from an early attempt to build a breakwall. The shared pathways along the foreshore are perfect for walking or cycling, extending west to Oak Flats or east to Shellharbour Village the choice is yours.

Lake Illawarra NSW

0.6 km away

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Windang Beach NSW
Image credit: Destination Wollongong

Natural Attractions

Windang Beach

Windang Beach is located at the entrance to Lake Illawarra, 15 kilometres south of Wollongong's city centre. It offers spectacular views of the famous Five Islands off the Wollongong coastline. The beach is very popular with families and there is accommodation nearby at the local caravan park, which has views of the lake and the ocean. There is a large foreshore park at Windang Beach with barbecues, sheltered picnic areas, a playground, and a shared cycle path. Windang Beach and Lake Illawarra are good fishing areas. Dogs are banned on Windang Beach however to the north the middle area of the beach is a dog friendly off lead area. Please view Wollongong council dog zoning areas for clarity.

Windang NSW

0.9 km away

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Curvy Closet

Shopping and Markets

Curvy Closet

Curvy Closet Warilla is your go-to boutique for stylish, size-inclusive fashion on the coast! With a focus on great service, this local gem offers a wide selection of day and evening wear starting from sizes 14/16, ensuring every woman finds her perfect fit. Whether you're shopping in-store or online, Curvy Closet has all your wardrobe essentials for a memorable holiday look. Backed by decades of experience, the owner is dedicated to helping you choose pieces that highlight your style and confidence. Visit Curvy Closet Warilla and discover fashion that celebrates every curve!

Warilla NSW

0.9 km away

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Warilla Beach
Image credit: Bizzimages

Natural Attractions

Warilla Beach

Warilla Beach is a well-loved destination for swimming, surfing, and coastal walks, located in Shellharbour just south of Wollongong. Stretching for two kilometres, it runs from the mouth of the Illawarra River down to Elliot Lake—an estuary that separates Warilla Beach from Barrack Point. Lifesavers patrol the beach for seven months of the year, making it a safe spot for swimmers and surfers alike. Anglers also frequent the area, drawn by year-round fishing opportunities. A shared coastal path runs the length of the beach, ideal for walking or cycling. Head south to reach Shellharbour North Beach and the town centre, or north to enjoy the scenic shores of Lake Illawarra. At the southern end of the beach lies Little Lake Park, a favourite for weekend picnics and family barbecues. Overlooking the calm waters of Elliot Lake, it's perfect for young children and beginner swimmers.

Warilla NSW

1.4 km away

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Artemis Woman
Image credit: Artemis Girl

Spas and Retreats

Artemis Woman

Begin your journey of sound and energy healing with Lyndell a transformational sound and energy healing practitioner, trainer and event facilitator. Offering a range of nourishing self-care practices to deeply nurture your mind, body and spirit from one-on-one soulnar sound, healing energy therapy, Reiki healing, group meditation and sound baths. Private sessions are available for couples and group and corporate events. Get ready to step into brilliance

Warilla NSW

1.6 km away

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Illawarra Golf Complex Hitting Bay

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Illawarra Golf Complex and Crazy Putt

Illawarra Golf Complex stands as the premier destination for golf enthusiasts in the Illawarra region. Featuring a top-notch golf driving range, professional lessons from a resident PGA instructor, a fully equipped sales and repairs pro shop, and a family-friendly fun-filled putt putt course, it caters to all levels of golfers, providing hours of entertainment for the whole family. Enjoy special discounted prices on their putt putt course, golf range balls, and club hire. No bookings are required, and kids' clubs are available for hire. With the best prices in the Illawarra on all golf equipment, simply ask for a quote and discover unbeatable deals.

Windang NSW

2.1 km away

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Shellharbour Tenpin Bowl

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Shellharbour Tenpin Bowl

Whether you're celebrating a birthday, planning a family outing, or catching up with friends, Shellharbour Bowl is the perfect place to roll into some fun. Enjoy 12 lanes of tenpin action with automatic scoring, flat-screen monitors, and all the latest music videos setting the vibe. Little bowlers can join in too, with bumper bowling, plus there's a great selection of amusement machines and a café serving up tasty bites and quality coffee. Shellharbour Bowl offers special discounts for kids under 18, tiny tots under five, and pensioners. Looking for something extra? Don't miss Glow Bowling every Friday and Saturday night, when the lights go down and the lanes light up! Check out their latest deals and events to see what's on next. Serious about bowling? League bowlers are well looked after too, with day and night leagues that bring together friendly competition and great community spirit. Affordable, social, and full of energy — Shellharbour Tenpin Bowl guarantees a good time for everyone!

Warilla NSW

2.3 km away

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Shellharbour Beach
Image credit: Tourism Shellharbour

Natural Attractions

Shellharbour North Beach

Shellharbour North Beach is one of the South Coast's favourite seaside escapes, offering a stunning one-kilometre stretch of golden sand, rolling waves and plenty of space to relax and unwind. Nestled between Barrack Point and the picturesque Shellharbour Village, this beautiful east-facing beach is perfect for swimming, surfing, beach walks and family picnics by the ocean. The Sands Café, located beside the beach, is open seven days a week for coffee, lunch or a snack. During the summer months, lifeguards patrol the beach, while drone surveillance operates from dawn to dusk, helping make Shellharbour North Beach a safe and welcoming destination for swimmers and beachgoers. Visitors can enjoy a range of facilities, including public amenities, showers, barbecue areas, a children's playground and ample parking off Junction Road. Accessible facilities include a beach wheelchair, a ramp to the sand and a beach access mat extending to the water's edge, helping visitors with disabilities, older guests and families with strollers enjoy the coastline. The beach wheelchair is available during lifeguard patrol hours. Bookings are not required; however, a combination code is needed for access and can be obtained from an on-duty lifeguard or customer service. Whether you're chasing waves, building sandcastles or simply soaking up the coastal scenery, Shellharbour North Beach is a must-visit during your next Shellharbour holiday.

Shellharbour NSW

3.5 km away

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Braids by Manemerised.

Shopping and Markets

Manemerised | Braid Bar

The Manemerised Braid Bar is where bold style meets confident energy. Designed as a dedicated styling destination, our braid bar specialises in statement braids, sleek ponytails and extension styling that turn everyday moments into something memorable. Whether it's for school holidays, birthday braids, rep games, team bonding, special events or a just-because refresh, our braid bar delivers polished, long-lasting styles in a fun, high-vibe environment. We're known for our signature braids, confidence first experience and flawless finishes that not only look incredible but are designed to last. Fast, professional and experience-driven, the braid bar is more than an appointment — it's a confidence moment. A place where girls sit a little taller, walk out a little prouder and feel completely Manemerised.

Shellharbour City Centre NSW

3.6 km away

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Blackbutt Forests Reserve
Image credit: Destination Shellharbour

Natural Attractions

Blackbutt Forest Reserve

Experience the beauty of Blackbutt Forest Reserve, a family-friendly bushland retreat nestled in Shellharbour. Spanning 250 acres, this treasured reserve protects the last significant remnant of coastal plain forest in the Illawarra region. Explore peaceful walking trails, spot native birdlife around the scenic Blackbutt Dam, and immerse yourself in nature at your own pace. With spacious picnic areas, BBQ facilities, and a playground for the kids, it's the ideal spot for relaxed family outings. Leashed dogs are welcome too – so everyone can enjoy the adventure. Reconnect with nature and make lasting memories at Blackbutt Forest Reserve.

Shellharbour NSW

3.7 km away

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Event Cinemas rows of seats.

Entertainment Venues

Event Cinemas Shellharbour

Event Cinemas Shellharbour delivers the ultimate movie-going experience, offering entertainment for the whole family in a modern, comfortable and accessible setting. With eight cinema screens showcasing the latest blockbuster releases, family favourites and special events, it is the perfect destination for a fun day out or an unforgettable night at the movies. Guests can elevate their cinema experience with a range of premium seating options, including luxurious leather-feel Signature recliners. Designed for exceptional comfort, these deep, extra-wide seats feature fully motorised reclining systems, allowing moviegoers to find their perfect viewing position. For the ultimate indulgence, choose a double daybed and relax in spacious comfort while enjoying the latest films on the big screen. Committed to providing an inclusive experience for all visitors, Event Cinemas Shellharbour also features two cinemas equipped with closed captioning, audio description facilities and hearing loop technology, ensuring greater accessibility and enjoyment for everyone. At the Event Cinema Shellharbour the large foyer overlooks Lake Illawarra which is an ideal space for functions and events. Also available are three large auditoriums all licensed for events, which complements any corporate function or private booking. The candy bar is stacked with all the movie favourites as well as espresso coffee, ice creams and self-serve bulk lollies.

Shellharbour City Centre NSW

3.9 km away

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Contrast Therapy
Image credit: p3 recovery shellharbour

Sports and Recreation Facilities

P3 Recovery Shellharbour

Welcome to P3 Recovery Shellharbour, a premium wellness and recovery destination designed to help you feel your best, recover faster and prioritise your wellbeing. Whether you are an athlete chasing peak performance, a busy professional needing a recharge or simple looking for a moment to slow down and reset, P3 recovery offers a welcoming space for everyone. Their facility combines evidence based recovery therapies including traditional and infrared sauna, compression therapy, contrast therapy, red light therapy, IV Drip, hyperbaric chamber. Every experience is designed to help you move better, recover smarter and leave feeling refreshed and revitalised. Recovery at P3 is not a luxury its an essential part of living well. Come recharge, restore and perform at your best.

Shellharbour City Centre NSW

3.9 km away

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Whale- Play area at the Yirran Maru Aboriginal Interpretive Playspace
Image credit: Shellharbour City Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Yirran muru - Aboriginal Interpretive Playspace

Yirran Muru—meaning "many pathways" in the local Dharawal language—is a vibrant new contemporary play space inspired by the natural landscape and deeply connected to the city's rich Dharawal Aboriginal culture and history. Designed as a journey from the escarpment to the sea, Yirran Muru invites visitors of all ages to explore, learn, and play while following in the footsteps of the region's First Peoples. It offers a unique cultural experience that celebrates place, storytelling, and connection to Country. Discover the area in a new light as you learn about the cultural significance of the historic landscapes that define it.

Shellharbour City Centre NSW

4.1 km away

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Tongarra Bicentennial Museum
Image credit: Tongarra Bicentennial Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Shellharbour City Museum

Shellharbour City Museum is situated within the Shellharbour Civic Centre in Shellharbour City, located on the beautiful south coast of New South Wales. The Museum aims to share stories, past and present of the people, places and events that make this great city what it is today. The collection includes artefacts, photographs, oral histories, maps, lithographs and historic documents that relate to Shellharbour City and its people. Entry is free, and there is a plaza space for groups to gather and enjoy the sunshine or their packed lunch. For schools, a visit to the Museum is a great way for students to learn about the history of their area. Staff and volunteers provide guided tours tailored to your needs. Entry is free. Please contact to arrange a booking. Shellharbour City Museum has launched a new online platform, allowing museum collections to be available online in a one-stop heritage shop. "Discover Shellharbour" includes over 9000 items that can be searched online from home including previously unseen collections, First Nations history, objects, photographs, maps, stories, families and places in Shellharbour, Council archives and digital stories. Go to their website for details. Download the free 'Tread Shellharbour' from the App Store or Google Play and explore the history and heritage of some of the most beautiful spots in Shellharbour City.

Shellharbour City Centre NSW

4.2 km away

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The Birdie Bunker

Sports and Recreation Facilities

The Birdie Bunker - Premium Golf Experience & Lounge

At The Birdie Bunker, they've invested in the most advanced golf simulation technology available, delivering an elite indoor golf experience like no other. Their state-of-the-art 4K systems immerse you in stunningly realistic courses from around the world, so you can tee off at iconic destinations without ever leaving the region. Whether you're a seasoned golfer perfecting your swing or a first-timer just looking for a fun day out, The Birdie Bunker offers something for everyone. Rain, shine, or after dark, their climate-controlled space ensures the perfect conditions every time you play. Perfect for families, groups, corporate events, or a unique day out with friends, The Birdie Bunker blends cutting-edge technology with a relaxed, social atmosphere. Enjoy friendly competition, sharpen your skills, or simply soak up the experience of playing world-class courses in a whole new way. Step inside, swing big, and discover why The Birdie Bunker is quickly becoming a must-visit indoor attraction.

Shellharbour NSW

4.3 km away

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Sway Clothing Boutique

Shopping and Markets

Sway Clothing Boutique

Step into style at Sway Boutique – Shellharbour Village's fashion haven. Nestled in the heart of picturesque Shellharbour Village, Sway Boutique is a must-visit boutique for anyone with a passion for fashion and effortless elegance. Whether you're dressing for a casual coffee catch-up or a glamorous night out, Sway offers a beautifully curated selection of ladies' clothing, jewellery, and accessories that elevate everyday style. What sets Sway Boutique apart is its perfect balance of contemporary fashion and timeless appeal. Featuring a mix of well-loved Australian labels and standout designer pieces, the collection caters to all ages and occasions—making it easy to find something special, no matter your style. Beyond fashion, the boutique also offers a refined range of homewares that echo the same sense of quality and effortless charm. Every piece is handpicked to bring style and warmth into your living space. Step into Sway Boutique and discover a space where fashion meets flair. Be inspired, be stylish—be uniquely you.

Shellharbour NSW

4.4 km away

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Harbour Rose Boutique

Shopping and Markets

Harbour Rose Boutique

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque village of Shellharbour, Harbour Rose is a delightful fashion boutique offering a thoughtfully curated collection of women's clothing, jewellery, accessories, and giftware all inspired by the relaxed elegance of the coastal lifestyle. Whether you're refreshing your wardrobe or searching for the perfect gift, Harbour Rose brings you affordable, on-trend pieces that celebrate feminine style. Discover new arrivals every week, with inclusive sizing from 8 to 20 to suit everybody and style. Shopping is easy and enjoyable with friendly in-store service and convenient gift vouchers – perfect for treating someone special. Step into Harbour Rose Boutique and let your inner girl shine through. Your go-to destination for timeless coastal charm and effortless style.

Shellharbour NSW

4.4 km away

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Crystals at Tranquility in a Jar @Rainbow Healing Rooms

Shopping and Markets

Rainbow Healing Rooms

Looking to uplift the energy of your business, workspace, or home? Visit their new crystal shop and discover a curated collection of healing crystals, each lovingly tuned by their resident medicine woman, Beverley. From salons and retail spaces to offices and homes, their crystals are designed to clear negativity and attract abundance, calm, and flow. They also offer one-on-one consultations and onsite visits to help you select and position crystals to enhance your space with intention and high vibrational energy. Sophie welcomes you to browse, connect, and experience the energy for yourself. Whether you're creating a peaceful home, a productive workspace, or a welcoming business environment, they're there to help you find the perfect energetic support. Make it a day out. Their beautiful beachside street features cozy cafés and boutique shops for friends and family to enjoy. Pop in, say hello, and discover the energy your space has been waiting for.

Shellharbour NSW

4.4 km away

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Life Outdoors Shellharbour

Shopping and Markets

Life Outdoors Shellharbour

Life Outdoors Shellharbour is the local source for all your barbecue, camping, water sport, fishing and outdoor adventure needs. Stocking a huge range of equipment to ensure the success of your next barbecue, paddle or camping trip! They are the area’s only specialty dealer of Weber Barbecues and accessories, and they are very passionate about the brand. Whether you’re in the process of planning a road trip or you would like to enhance your backyard cooking capabilities, just say the word. One of their friendly staff will help you select the perfect product at the perfect price. Stocking a large range of Kayaks, Stand Up Paddleboards and Ocean skis. Even if you're looking for a snorkel and flipper sets for the kids, Life Outdoors Shellharbour has it all.

Shellharbour City Centre NSW

4.4 km away

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Shellharbour Village Thai Massage

Spas and Retreats

Shellharbour Village Thai Massage

Step into a world of calm at Shellharbour Village Thai Massage, where experienced female therapists combine Eastern wisdom with Western techniques to help you unwind, heal, and feel renewed. Whether you're looking to release deep muscle tension or simply relax, there's a treatment for every need. Choose from soothing Relaxation, targeted Remedial, or revitalising Deep Tissue massage. Each session is tailored to restore balance and ease stress from body and mind. Want something a little different? Explore specialised therapies like Hot Stone, Pressure Point, or Cupping—each designed to support circulation, reduce pain, and promote deep well-being. For a truly unique experience, try Traditional Thai Massage. This ancient technique blends stretching, rocking, and rhythmic pressure to release tension, improve flexibility, and restore energy flow. Leave feeling lighter, refreshed, and ready to take on the day.

Shellharbour NSW

4.4 km away

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Soul Brow and Makeup Studio

Shopping and Markets

Soul Brow and Makeup Studio

This salon is a destination for expertly crafted brows, located in the heart of Shellharbour Village. Natural beauty is enhanced with intention and care, and overall wellbeing is always a priority. Every service is designed to help clients feel confident, radiant, and completely comfortable in their own skin. Beyond bespoke brow treatments, the salon offers lip blush cosmetic tattooing to softly define natural features, professional makeup for special occasions, lash services for effortless everyday polish, and infrared sauna sessions that promote deep relaxation and stress relief. At its core, the salon champions self-care, authenticity, and balance—creating a serene, welcoming space where clients feel nurtured, empowered, and truly at ease.

Shellharbour Village NSW

4.5 km away

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Roo Theatre Shellharbour Village

Entertainment Venues

Roo Theatre Company

The Roo Theatre Company, based in Shellharbour Village, is a community-driven, non-profit organisation committed to making theatre accessible and inclusive. Established in 1987, Roo aims to engage the public in the arts by providing affordable performances and opportunities for active involvement. It has grown into a respected arts organisation, known for its professionalism and innovative work, including Broadway musicals, classic drama, and original Australian productions. Roo focuses on both productions and skills development, with many past students advancing to prestigious institutions such as NIDA, Wollongong University, and The Australian Ballet. The company promotes personal growth, offering participants confidence-building, teamwork, and responsibility through its programs. Operating from The Harbour Theatre in Addison Street, Roo runs weekly classes for over 150 students 80% from Shellharbour and the rest from surrounding areas. It stages around six productions per year and supports local schools by hosting their annual performances. Roo Theatre invites the community to explore its offerings and join in celebrating the performing arts.

Shellharbour NSW

4.5 km away

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Shellharbour City Community Church

Landmarks and Buildings

Shellharbour City Community Church

Shellharbour City Community Church offers a regular church service. The church is located close to Shellharbour City and also close to the quant seaside village of Shellharbour. The church has a number of community groups and church services. Please see their website for church times. Parking is available on the grounds.

Shellharbour NSW

4.5 km away

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