A vast stretch of waterfront in the Illawarra could soon be transformed into one of the region’s most ambitious public spaces, with plans unveiled for a sprawling new lakeside park just south of Sydney. Perched along the shores of Lake Illawarra in Warrawong, the proposed redevelopment would reshape an underused section of foreshore into a vibrant and accessible community destination, complete with a massive skatepark, sports fields, cycle trails and incredible views. Here’s everything you need to know about the 32-hectare space.
The Warrawong Parklands
Long considered something of a hidden gem despite its stellar views and tranquil lakeside setting, the area has remained surprisingly under-the-radar compared to other parts of the region. That could soon change, with the newly finalised master plan outlining a vision to turn the site into a more active destination for locals — and a compelling day trip for those keen to escape Sydney.
At the heart of the proposal is an extensive network of new walking and cycling paths, designed to run through the parklands and trace the edge of the lake. These routes are expected to connect key areas across the site while making it much easier for visitors to explore the site on foot or by bike. One of the standout highlights is a planned 320-metre boardwalk winding through the wetlands, offering an elevated pathway through the landscape and uninterrupted views over Lake Illawarra. The structure is designed to seamlessly connect different sections of the park while opening up parts of the foreshore that are currently difficult to access.
Highlights and more
A major highlight of the plan is an Olympic-standard skatepark, which would make it one of the most significant skate facilities in the region. Designed to meet competition-level standards, the space is expected to cater to everyone from beginners to experienced skaters.
Plans also include steps for casual fishing and an accessible launch area for kayaks and paddleboards. Beyond recreation, the parklands are also set to include dedicated spaces for community events, outdoor gatherings and potential lakeside dining, positioning the site as more than just a daytime destination. Environmental restoration is central to the plan, with broader commitments to protect and rehabilitate the surrounding wetlands while improving biodiversity across the site. The project also ties into an upgrade of the Warrawong seawall, which will be redesigned to better support marine life.
There’s currently no confirmed timeline for when the parklands will open, with the project still subject to approvals and staged delivery. Read more about the Warrawong Parklands here.
