Thirroul Beach, NSW: Visitor guide

In northern Wollongong, Thirroul Beach offers good surf conditions, an Olympic-sized pool, a beach bar at the Thirroul Beach Pavilion and a grassy reserve with barbecues.

Thirroul Beach, NSW, is one of the best beaches in Wollongong. On the Illawarra coastline, it is between Austinmer Beach to the north and McCauley’s Beach to the south.

How long is Thirroul Beach, NSW

Thirroul Beach, NSW, is approximately one kilometre long. It faces east to south-east.

Is it safe to swim at Thirroul Beach?

Thirroul Beach has several rips along it, which makes swimming potentially hazardous.

However, between September and April, this Wollongong beach is patrolled by surf lifesavers. Patrols operate between 9am and 6pm every day.

The safest place to swim on the beach is between the flags near the Thirroul Surf Life Saving Club in the centre of the beach.

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Thirroul Beach pool

There is also an Olympic-sized saltwater pool next to the Thirroul Beach Pavilion.

The Thirroul Beach pool is open from 6am to 7pm daily. Entry is free. It also has toilets and changing rooms.

Is Thirroul Beach good for surfing?

Thirroul Beach is a usually a fairly good surf beach. There is little protection from headlands, so the swell comes in from most directions.

However, the truly great right hand break is at Sandon Point. This is at the southern end of neighbouring McCauley’s Beach.

6 fantastic Wollongong experiences to book before you arrive

Tandem hang-gliding flight from Bald Hill – float down towards the beach.
One hour private surf lesson in Woonona – learn the basics, and get standing on your board.
Illawarra Fly ziplining course and treetop walk – test your nerves high up in the canopy.
Tandem skydive with beach landing – feel the rush of freefall.
Explore the city on a scavenger hunt – a fun way to get to know Wollongong better.
Half day deep sea fishing adventure – haul in some big boys.

Thirroul Beach Pavilion: Café menu and beach bar

The Thirroul Beach Pavilion has a café which is open for coffee, juice, breakfast and lunch.

Items on the Thirroul Beach Pavilion menu include Moroccan spiced chicken, beef and chicken burgers plus Calabrese pork shoulder.

There is a beach bar at the pavilion. This Wollongong beach bar serves alcoholic drinks including cocktails.

Thirroul Beach Reserve facilities

The Thirroul Beach Reserve is just behind the beach, next to the pool. This Thirroul park has picnic tables, barbecue facilities and a fairly large children’s playground.

There are grassy areas around the reserve, suitable for ball games and letting kids have a runaround.

Are dogs allowed on Thirroul Beach?

Thirroul Beach is only partially dog-friendly. It operates on a timeshare system, with dogs allowed at certain times of day.

However, the dogs must be kept on a lead.

McCauley’s Beach is a better option for dog-owners. This Wollongong beach is fully dog-friendly, and dogs are allowed to run off-leash.

Thirroul Beach and pool from above. Photo by Dee Kramer Photography.

Thirroul Beach accommodation

Thirroul Beach accommodation is available at the Thirroul Beach Motel. Set a block back from the beach, this three star motel has its own restaurant. All rooms come with a microwave, fridge and kettle.

The Thirroul Beach Motel can be booked online.

Other Wollongong beaches in the Australian Beach Guide include Windang Beach, North Wollongong Beach, Corrimal Beach and Stanwell Park Beach.