THE GONG

Surf, sand and sea are a winning combination for an adventure-filled weekend, which is why Wollongong sits high on our list of bucks party destinations. Just over an hour’s drive south of Sydney, the ‘Gong’ offers up a tasting plate of natural attractions, picturesque drives, high-adrenaline activities and a vibrant mix of pubs and small bars to wet your whistle. This is a city that loves its sport too. You can catch the Dragons at WIN Stadium, watch the Illawarra Hawks play a home game, or see the Western Sydney Wanderers in action against the visiting A-League team. 

GETTING AROUND

They say the best things in life are free, and we must admit the free Wollongong shuttle bus is pretty dang good. It loops around the CBD every ten minutes during the day, and every 20 minutes between 6pm and 10pm.  Keep in mind the service cuts off at 6pm on weekends, so unless you’re planning a VERY early night, we suggest you look into the other local bus services, train timetables and local cab services. For tripping around during the day, nothing beats your own wheels, so car hire or a minibus should be high on the agenda. If you’d like something a little more VIP, ask our friendly Bucks Co party planners about a private driver or limo service.

CULTURE VULTURE

Situated in the heart of the south coast, Wollongong is home to some of the best surf spots south of Sydney. We recommend Gerringong (Werri Beach) and Bombo Beach for beginners, or head to Mystics Beach (Minnamurra), Killalea Beach (The Farm), or Boneyards Beach (Cathedral Rocks) if you consider yourself more of a pro.

If your crew is up for more adventure, you might like to try your hand at hang gliding, or stand back and watch the pros launching from Bald Hill. 

Then refill the tank at one (or all) of the region’s more than half a dozen breweries including Five Barrel Brewing, Illawarra Brewing Company, Illawarra Brewery, Bulli Brewing Company or the local’s favourite Reub Goldberg Brewing Machine. And for some traditional bucks party fun, there’s go-karting and paintball too.

BABY WHEN THE LIGHTS GO OUT

Wollongong isn’t far from the bright lights of Sydney, but we think the Gong holds its own when it comes to a good night out. And there’s something to suit everyone’s taste in nightlife entertainment. Howlin’ Wolf Whiskey Bar is an Americana themed bar serving up boutique beers, burgers and beats along with over 260 whiskeys from around the world, 18 gins, 13 rums, and an impressive cocktail menu. Births and Deaths is an intriguingly named bar boasting more than 80 gins, an exquisite food menu, and knowledgeable bar staff who take the time to explain everything in detail. Or for something different, drop into the Breakout Bar and Escape Rooms for an adventure-filled evening that combines mystery, time travel and problem solving skills. Once you’ve busted your way out of the escape room, you can belt out some tunes in a private karaoke nook.