Suburb Spotlight – AUSTINMER
Renowned for its spectacular escarpment scenery and sparkling ocean waters, Austinmer is a small beachside village, 15km north of Wollongong and 73km south of the Sydney CBD.
Popular with both tourists and locals, the village has a population of approximately 2,500 residents who are lucky enough to call Austinmer home.
Boasting 2 exquisite beaches, the main beach is patrolled and is home to Austinmer Surf Lifesaving Club which overlooks Austinmer Ocean Pools. The pools provide calm and refreshing seawater for those who prefer to swim a few laps.
Surrounded by beautiful parks and reserves and equipped with toilet and playground facilities, this is a favourite spot amongst families.
Heading north, you’ll stumble upon a second, smaller stretch of beach affectionately known as “Little Austi Beach.” Dog-friendly and brimming with rock pools, kids (and pooches) can spend hours exploring the rocks and pools.
For the ultimate selfie with a panoramic ocean backdrop, take a bushwalk through the stunning Illawarra escarpment.
Accomplished hikers can immerse themselves in this challenging track which starts from Sublime Point, winding through dense rainforest and cliff tops finishing at the lookout. Here, you can catch your breath as you take in some of the best views in the region, making the hike to the lookout well worth the effort.
After a day bushwalking or swimming in the beach, the iconic Headlands Hotel offers stylish, contemporary accommodation and casual dining options. Occupying a commanding presence along the oceanfront, the hotel is a highly sought-after venue for functions and weddings.
Glastonbury Gardens, a gorgeous park bursting with unique plants and rare trees also enjoys sensational ocean views and is a dreamy garden setting for weddings and intimate gatherings.
Austinmer offers a range of amenities including a boat ramp, railway link to Sydney and Wollongong and is home to Austinmer Public School which caters from Kindy to year 6.
There is no shortage of trendy cafes to grab a morning coffee or a late breakfast. Try Austi Beach Café, Moore Street General or Bread Expresso & for a caffeine fix. There’s also plenty of boutique shops and a newsagency.
A relaxed and friendly town, Austinmer offers an unrivaled natural landscape where the tranquil bush meets the glittering sea.