Known as the Illawarra, an Aboriginal word meaning "between the high place and the sea", this is a region of coastal sandstone escarpments, rocky headlands, and sheltered beaches complimented by a mountainous backdrop.

The business hub of the Illawarra is Wollongong, which is now New South Wales' third largest city. An easy 80 kilometres south of Sydney, Wollongong once relied heavily on coal and steel industries, eventually turning the nearby suburb of Port Kembla into the largest steelworks in Australia. But a downturn in production forced diversification, and has seen the city rebuild along modern lines, turning to high tech industries and tourism.

Wollongong's location between the dramatic green peaks of the mountains and some superb surf beaches and rock pools create plenty of diversions from the area's industrial stranglehold. The city centre lies on a expanse of broad beaches divided by Flagstaff Point, a headland which creates the pretty sandy harbour of Belmore Basin. Old-time nautical charm stems from the classic Old Lighthouse which peers across the regions fishing fleet and sail boats docked in the sheltered cove. The towering hills and dense escarpment wilderness beyond the urban sprawl, are pieced by several fine walking tracks which provide spectacular views over the coast and city.

In town, there are a number of gardens, galleries, and museums as well as an impressive mall in Crown St complete with soaring steel arches, water displays, good shopping and open air eateries. Tours of Australia's most dynamic industrial area are also available.

North of Wollongong the coastal road winds around small golden beaches nestled within sheer weather beaten sandstone cliffs, providing breathtaking views of some of the most sensational scenery on the entire New South Wales coast. Amid this eye catching beauty, Stanwell Park is a popular spot for holiday makers, surfers, and adrenaline junkies seeking the ultimate hang gliding experience.

To the south of Wollongong, Shellharbour lies on the coast and the banks of Lake Illawarra. Named for the many local Aboriginal shell middens, the town is fast becoming recognised as one of the states best diving and snorkelling locations. The sheltered waters of the harbour are excellent for boating and fishing, while the surrounding beaches attract surfers and sunbathers. On calm days, Lake Illawarra has ideal conditions for watersports and bird watching enthusiasts.

Marking the official beginning of the South Coast, Kiama's superb location has cemented it's popularity as a holiday town. Set along side rugged coastline and pristine surf beaches, Kiama's best known attraction is an amazing natural blowhole which shoots water 60 metres into the air as the waves crash onto the cliffs. So impressive is the spectacle, it is floodlit each evening until 9 o'clock. Three kilometres north, Cathedral Rocks at Jones Beach is another notable attraction and photographers delight.

Attractions within this pretty little town include the beautifully restored quarryman's terrace houses in Collins St. Known as "The Terrace", the circa 1880's homes are now a collection of art, craft, and gift shops. There's also the Pilot's Cottage Museum at Blowhole Point and the fascinating and informative Family History Centre, a vast collection of records enabling visitors to trace their roots. For keen anglers and divers, there is variety of charters which operate off the coast.

Inland from Kiama at 600 metres above sea level, Saddleback Mountain Lookout allows extensive views over lush farming land down to the ocean and it's jagged coastline. The mountain itself can be explored via the one hour Hoddles Track which begins at the lookout.