New South Wales • Australia

Wollongong to Thirroul

Ebike Ride Guide

Explore one of Australia’s most scenic coastal cycleways.

Explore the route

16 kmDistance

2–4 hoursRide time

EasyDifficulty

Family friendlyRide type

The experience

A coast made to be explored slowly

This easy coastal ride follows shared pathways between Thirroul and Wollongong, linking beaches, rock pools and coastal lookouts along the Illawarra coastline.

If you only have a few hours to explore the Illawarra, this is one of the best ways to experience the region. Rather than viewing the coastline through a car window, you become part of it, breathing fresh sea air, feeling the ocean breeze and discovering places at your own pace.

Interactive route map

Know the route before you ride

Explore the full route and its six numbered highlights. You can ride in either direction. Check the wind forecast before you set off to choose the most comfortable option.

Route HighlightsSix places to pause and explore

Either DirectionStart in Wollongong or Thirroul

Check the WindChoose the most comfortable direction

Mostly Shared PathEasy to follow and mostly flat

View route map

Along the way

Route highlights

These highlights provide a taste of what you can expect. You will also pass beaches, reserves, cafés, lookouts and ocean pools worth exploring at your own pace.

Flagstaff Point Lighthouse

From Flagstaff Point, riders are rewarded with sweeping views of Wollongong Harbour, City Beach and the Illawarra escarpment.

Cyclist riding the shared coastal path between Thirroul and Wollongong with ocean and escarpment views.

Bellambi Beach and Whale Watching Point

Ride beside Bellambi Beach and enjoy sweeping ocean views. During whale season, watch migrating humpback whales from one of the best viewing points on the route.

View of Bellambi Lagoon Bridge and shared cycling path on the Wollongong coastal route.

Bellambi Lagoon and Coastal Pathway

Ride across Bellambi Lagoon and through coastal wetlands as the shared pathway continues south towards Wollongong.

Aerial view of the Woonona coastal cycleway passing through parkland on the Thirroul to Wollongong ebike ride.

Woonona Coastal Pathway

Ride beside the coastline on a wide shared pathway linking Bulli, Woonona and Wollongong, with ocean views and open green spaces along the way.

Sandon Point

Ride around one of the Illawarra’s most iconic headlands, famous for its historic boat sheds, surf break and spectacular coastal views.

Thirroul Beach

A laid back coastal village known for its cafés, surf culture and surfing heritage.

What makes it special

Less about covering distance.
More about discovering the coastline.

“See more of Wollongong in two hours by bike than most visitors see in a full day by car.”

Good to know

Plan your ride

Plan your return

Ride 16 km one way or approximately 32 km return. Prefer a shorter day? Take your ebike on the train from Thirroul or Wollongong, depending on where you started. Stations along the route give you additional flexibility to shorten your ride.

Allow time to stop

Allow around 1 to 2 hours one way, or 2 to 4 hours return, depending on your pace and how often you stop to explore beaches, rock pools, cafés and coastal lookouts.

Choose your direction

Start from Wollongong or Thirroul and ride either way. Check the wind forecast before setting out, as wind direction can influence which direction is more enjoyable.

When to ride

The route can be enjoyed year round. Spring and autumn often provide pleasant conditions, while the annual whale migration from May to November adds another dimension to the experience.

Humpbacks generally travel north from May to July, before mothers and calves begin their journey south from around August to November, often passing closer to the coast.

Pack well

What to bring

Water bottle
Sunscreen
Light layer or windproof jacket
Closed shoes
Swimwear and towel

Local tips

Bring swimmers. There are plenty of opportunities for a swim.
Public gas barbecues are available in several coastal reserves.
Stop at Bulli Beach Cafe at Waniora Point for coffee and sweeping coastal views.
Watch for migrating whales between May and November.
Travelling by train? Check current services and bicycle conditions before you ride. Original manufactured ebikes are permitted on NSW trains when space is available, but converted ebikes are not permitted.

Easy and welcoming