Is there a direct train?

No, you must change trains in Sydney.

How far is Wollongong from Sydney?

It is about 80 kilometers south of Sydney.

Can I fly to Wollongong?

There is a small airport, but most people fly to Sydney.

Is Wollongong a good place to visit?

Yes, it offers a great mix of beaches and mountain scenery.

What is the best way to get there?

Flying to Sydney and taking the train is the most popular method.

Oakbank

Wollongong

Flight Driving

Oakbank to Wollongong

Updated: 30 May 2026

The route from Oakbank to Wollongong takes you across the Nullarbor or via the southern inland route. Most travelers fly from Adelaide to Sydney and then take the South Coast Line train to Wollongong. Driving involves the M31 Hume Motorway. Wollongong is nestled between the Illawarra Escarpment and the Pacific Ocean.

Total Distance: Driving distance 1,450 km, straight-line air distance 1,150 km.

Fastest Way

Flight to Sydney followed by a train to Wollongong is the fastest.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most economical if you have multiple passengers.

Compare Oakbank to Wollongong Routes

	Flight Connecting via Sydney	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours	16 hours
Avg Price	$200 - $400	$350 - $600
Operator	Qantas or Virgin Australia	Personal Vehicle
Route	Adelaide Airport to Sydney Airport, then train to Wollongong	A83 to M31 Hume Motorway
Tip	The train from Sydney Airport to Wollongong takes about 90 minutes.	The drive through the Southern Highlands is scenic but winding.

Travel Tips

Transport
Use the Opal card for all train and bus travel in the Illawarra region.
Train
The South Coast Line offers beautiful views of the escarpment.
Booking
Book your flight to Sydney well in advance to secure lower fares.
Weather
Wollongong can be humid; pack breathable clothing.
Navigation
Use GPS for navigating the complex road network in Sydney.

Safety Tips

Swimming
Always swim between the flags at patrolled beaches like North Wollongong.
Driving
Be careful on the steep descent from the escarpment into Wollongong.
Walking
Stay on marked trails in the Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area.
Emergency
Dial 000 for emergency services.