Lake Illawarra

Lake Illawarra is shallow, tidal lake covering an area of 36 square kilometres. It is located on the southern edge of Wollongong and northern edge of Shell Harbour, about 75 minutes from Sydney. The lake is bordered by a mixture of housing and bushland. There are several bays and islands within the lake. The lake empties into the sea though a channel with parkland on either side. This channel has strong tidal flows but on the southern side there are several man-made lagoons free of strong currents.

Lake Illawarra includes areas of seagrass, mangroves, saltmarsh sands and mudflats. Its creeks are lined with sedges, rushes and grassy banks.  These areas attract some of the best variety of waterfowl you will find around Sydney. Pelicans, Black Swans, Spoonbills, Herons, Egrets, and Sea Eagles are likely to be encountered.

There are many good launch spots around the lake including public boat ramps. Whilst power boats use the lake, there are large areas where the water is too shallow for them and hence, they are easily avoided for a quiet and relaxed paddle.

Owing to its shallow water and openness the lake is prone to choppy water in even moderate winds. Typically, the water can be still and mirror-like in the early morning before the wind picks up producing chop and small waves. The lake can become challenging to paddle in higher winds.