Car Rental Wollongong Downtown

Welcome to Wollongong, the perfect beach escape from the busy and bustling City of Sydney. Located just a hop and a skip away from the world-famous tourist destination, Wollongong is known as a “group hug” of small villages. 

With beautifully sunny summers and a chilled-out beach vibe, you’ll feel totally at home here with the friendly locals and incredible views. You’re going to have an awesome time exploring what Wollongong and its surrounding suburbs have to offer, and hiring a car is the best way to do it. 

Affectionately known as “the Gong” by locals, you’ll learn all the lingo to get around this seaside town. It’s easy to explore the dazzling beaches, cute cafes, and thriving nightlife with your rental car, and you’ll soon see that Wollongong and its surrounding towns create the perfect getaway destination. 

See the Sights of Wollongong with Your Thrifty Rental Car

Wollongong has so much to offer. Geographically unique, this town is home to some iconic sights, all of which you can easily access with your rental car. 

Start with the Grand Pacific Drive, which is a 140-kilometre road full of breathtaking sights. This drive takes you from Wollongong all the way down to Shellharbour and Kiama, where you can find iconic blowholes and incredible beaches along the way. 

At the start of the drive, you have the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge. This bridge is featured on hundreds of Instagram posts every single week, and it’s clear to see why. The view of the Sea Cliff Bridge is world-famous, and you can either drive across it or hike to the viewpoint for a perfect picture. 

Head north of the Grand Pacific Drive, and you’ll find yourself in the Royal National Park, which is the oldest national park in Australia. This naturally beautiful location is home to gorgeous cliff faces, waterfalls, beaches, and famous views, like Wedding Cake Rock. 

If you fancy a day of shorter driving, there are plenty of sights within Wollongong. Simply head to Austinmer Beach, where the locals will always be checking out the surf, or climb high above the ocean, through the lush tropics, and enjoy the breathtaking lookout from Sublime Point. 

Explore Wollongong In Your Rental Car

Wollongong has a thriving social life. Home to some beautiful seaside cafes, restaurants, activities, and bars, you’ll always find something to do here! 

Grab a bite to eat at Mudcat Cafe, POD Emporium & Espresso, and Lee and Me - all hugely popular with locals, you’ll have the brekkie of your dreams! For later in the day, check out Kneading Ruby, Headlands Hotel, and so much more. 

For the thrill-seekers, let’s see the Gong from new heights! Soar high into the sky with Skydive Wollongong and experience the jump of a lifetime. You’ll get incredible views and a rush of adrenaline like no other. 

For those that want to check out the history and culture of Wollongong, head to the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere, Nan Tien. There are plenty of history-based walking tours throughout Wollongong and surrounding towns, too!

If you have a designated driver for the day, why not check out a winery or two? Wollongong is close to some gorgeous wineries along the south coast, like Coolangatta Estate Winery, Silos Estate, Crooked River Winery, and Mountain Ridge Wines. Remember to always drive safely and within the law when checking these places out. 

It’s clear that Wollongong Downtown is a fantastic place to stay and explore. From the beautiful beaches, the laidback lifestyle, and fantastic spots to drive and see, Wollongong has it all. If you’re keen to learn more, check out our destination guides and ‘Places to Visit’ blogs for comprehensive travel insights. Hire a car from Thrifty in Wollongong Downtown today!