Cheap Date Ideas in Wollongong

The Wollongong Botanic Garden is a picturesque location that provides the perfect setting for a romantic date. The immaculately kept gardens are home to a stunning array of plants and flowers, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts. The facilities, including a cafe and playground, make it an excellent location for families, but it's also a great place for couples to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The park is well-signposted and easy to navigate, with friendly staff on hand to guide you through the gardens. While there are restrictions on certain activities like ball games or skating, they are in place to preserve the garden's beauty. The park's cleanliness is also noteworthy, with toilets available throughout the grounds. Overall, the Wollongong Botanic Garden is a fantastic place to spend an afternoon, and its serene beauty makes it an excellent choice for a romantic date.

Photo John Yu

If you're looking for a romantic date idea that offers breathtaking views, Mount Keira Lookout in Wollongong is an excellent choice. This hidden gem provides a panoramic view of the city, harbour, and sea, and the surrounding rainforest adds to the ambiance. The lookout is accessible by car and offers ample parking, making it an easy and convenient option for couples. The public toilet facilities are well-maintained, and there is a cafe on-site, adding to the convenience. It's worth noting that the lookout can get busy on public holidays, so plan accordingly. Overall, Mount Keira Lookout is a must-visit destination for couples seeking a romantic date with a stunning backdrop.

Photo Andrew Baky

Towradgi Beach Park is a picturesque location that provides a scenic backdrop for a romantic date. With a 4.5 km long beach, it offers ample space for a leisurely stroll, a picnic or a swim. The park also boasts a large playground with play equipment for all ages up to 14, making it an ideal location for couples with children. While the beach is great for surfing and bodyboarding, it might not be the best for inexperienced swimmers due to the large waves and rips. The park's ocean pool is a great alternative for those who prefer a more controlled swimming environment. The presence of a permanent fence might detract from the overall ambiance, but it is a necessary safety precaution. The park's historical significance, with a midden that signifies over 50,000 years of residence and history, adds to its appeal as a unique date location.

Illawarra Live Steamers in North Wollongong is a charming and unique destination for a romantic date. The park offers a train ride through beautifully landscaped gardens, making it an ideal place to spend a lovely afternoon with your partner. The park is particularly geared towards younger children, so it may not be the best choice for couples looking for a more serene and intimate experience. The picnic area is spacious and gated, which adds to the overall privacy. The park is also affordable, making it an appealing option for those on a budget. The park has received high ratings and positive reviews, which is a good indication of the quality of the experience.

Port Kembla Lookout Hill 60 is a hidden gem that offers panoramic views of the Illawarra region, beaches and the five islands. This location is perfect for couples who love the great outdoors and are up for a bit of adventure. The historic site with underground tunnels adds an element of mystery and intrigue to the date, but may not be suitable for those who are claustrophobic or afraid of the dark. The climb up the hill can be a bit steep but is worth it for the breathtaking views. The presence of a BBQ/picnic area and well-maintained toilets make it an ideal spot for a romantic picnic with your significant other.

Photo Rizwan F

If you're looking for a unique and romantic date spot, Robertson Lookout in Mount Keira is a must-visit. This hidden gem offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area, making it a perfect spot for a romantic picnic or a leisurely stroll. The lookout is easily accessible from the car park, and the short walk to the lookout point is relatively flat, so it won't be too strenuous. The track is well-maintained and surrounded by lush greenery, adding to the overall ambiance. The lookout can get quite popular, so privacy might be an issue, but the breathtaking views more than make up for it. The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with visitors praising the views, the wildlife, and the walking path. The cost is free, making it a budget-friendly option for couples.

For a picturesque and romantic date, the Wollongong Head Lighthouse Rockpool is an excellent choice. The stunning ocean views and the sound of waves crashing against the rocks make for a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The rockpool itself is a sight to behold, with its unique aquarium-like design. It's a free attraction, making it an affordable option for couples. However, it's important to note that the area can be quite windy, so it may not be ideal for those looking for a warm and cozy date spot. The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, which is a testament to the beauty of this location.

Photo Jason Farlow

Vabys Restaurant in Picton is a romantic and intimate spot for couples who appreciate exceptional dining experiences. With its attentive and professional service, this establishment offers a delectable menu that caters to various palates. The food is fresh, homemade and affordable, which is a rare combination. The ambiance is cozy, with an atmosphere that is perfect for couples seeking privacy. The restaurant has received rave reviews from satisfied customers, which is a testament to its quality and consistency. If you're planning a special function, Vabys Restaurant is an excellent choice. However, it's worth noting that the restaurant's location may not be ideal for some couples.

Stuart Park in North Wollongong is a great option for a romantic date for those who love the outdoors. With its spacious and well-maintained grounds, it offers a perfect setting for a picnic, stroll, or even a bike ride. The park is equipped with an all-ages playground, which includes a large flying fox, slides, swings, and even a swing for children in wheelchairs. The park is situated near the lagoon, which provides a serene and picturesque backdrop for a romantic outing. However, the public toilets are a bit of a walk from the playground, which might be a bit of a hassle. The park is also quite popular, which might make parking a bit of a challenge on busy days.

Pai-Tong Thai Restaurant in Woonona is a great option for couples seeking a cozy and intimate dining experience. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with an authentic decor that transports you to Thailand. The food is fresh, flavorful, and reasonably priced, with a separate gluten-free menu available for those with dietary restrictions. The service, while friendly, can be a bit slow during peak hours, but the overall experience is enjoyable. The positive reviews from satisfied customers attest to the quality of the food and dining experience, making it a great choice for a romantic dinner.

Photo Pai-Tong Thai Restaurant

The Illawarra Rhododendron and Rainforest Gardens in Mount Keira is a picturesque and serene location for a romantic date. This hidden gem offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with a variety of flora and fauna to admire, including rhododendrons, camellias, and daffodils. The gardens are well-maintained by volunteers, which adds to the overall charm of the place. The entry fee of $5 per person is a small price to pay for the upkeep of this beautiful location. The secluded nature of the garden provides ample privacy for couples to enjoy each other's company. The only downside is that it might not be suitable for those who prefer more active date options.

Photo Rebecca Fernandez

Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area in Wollongong offers a unique blend of natural beauty and challenging terrain that might appeal to adventurous couples looking for a hike. The park boasts unspoiled bushland, remnants of old tracks, and cliff edges that offer stunning views. However, the lack of signage and maintenance on the tracks may make it difficult for inexperienced hikers to navigate. It's worth noting that the park may close during poor weather or fire danger. Additionally, recent reviews suggest that there may be issues with access to the park, so it's best to check ahead before planning a date here.

Ted Tobin OAM Observation Deck in Wollongong is a must-visit for couples who love to take in breathtaking views of natural beauty. The deck offers a stunning vista of City Beach, with views extending north to the lighthouse and south to the steelworks. Accessibility is not an issue, with a ramp at one end and seating available. The deck is a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, and provides the perfect spot for a romantic sunrise or sunset. It's a great spot to visit for a quick stop on a walk or bike ride along the Coastal Walk, but may not cater to those seeking a lengthy date experience.

Photo Brenden Wood

Corrimal Beach Tourist Park is a great option for couples who enjoy camping and the outdoors. The park is located in a beautiful area, with plenty of running, walking, and cycling tracks, and backs onto a stunning beach. The staff are friendly and helpful, and the on-site cafe offers good-sized, tasty meals. The modern amenities are a highlight, although they could benefit from more regular cleaning. The location is also convenient, with walking distance to a supermarket and not far from shops, restaurants, and concert grounds. The accommodation options include cabins with washer and dryer facilities, making it a practical choice for couples on a longer trip.

Wollongong Fishing Harbour is a picturesque location that offers a serene and romantic atmosphere for couples. With a stunning view of the ocean and Flagstaff Hill, this spot is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic. The park and lighthouse provide a unique backdrop for a romantic date, and the area is perfect for a dip or fishing. However, the limited activities available might not cater to those seeking a more immersive date experience. The good reviews and high rating of this location make it a must-visit for couples looking for a peaceful and romantic date spot.

Photo Sohrab Tellaie

For couples with a shared interest in science and engineering, the UOW Science Space in North Wollongong is a fascinating date option. This museum is a great value for the money, with interactive exhibits and science shows that cater to all ages. The mini-theater show is a must-see, with high-quality production and entertainment value. The museum's interactive nature makes it an excellent choice for couples who want to engage with each other while learning. However, it may not be the best option for those seeking a quiet or intimate atmosphere, as it can get crowded and noisy with families and children.

Photo Science Space Wollongong