Birding locations in the Illawarra region

The Illawarra region of New South Wales extends from north of Wollongong, through Shellharbour and Kiama south to the Shoalhaven River. Just a 90 minute drive from Sydney, it ranges from the coast to the top of the escarpment. It boasts a wide variety of habitats including ocean and estuaries, coastal dunes, mangroves, freshwater wetlands, coastal littoral forest, dry woodlands, sub-tropical rainforest, some great parks and open farmlands.

Thanks to its diverse habitats, it is home to over 400 bird species, an amazing array in a small area. Below is a just a sample of locations to get you started in birdwatching in the Illawarra area. It includes a selection from some of our local Council areas. Most of these are easy walks and are suitable for families.

For a complete list of birds at these locations, have a look at eBird, a fabulous and free online resource. Under Explore, search the hotspots listed. Many of our members are active eBird users, so the lists are current and many with photos.

For those keen to expand your birding skills beyond the above locations, you are most welcome to join us on an Activity.