Scarborough: Coast, Cliffs and Local History

Scarborough combines ocean views with coastal and cliff scenery and a rich local history. At Scarborough Beach, the views take in the coast and the cliffs above it; the hotel and railway station each reflect different aspects of local history. There is also lunch with views of the Pacific. If you are looking for a destination whose appeal brings together landscape, history and food in different ways, Scarborough offers practical starting points for planning your trip.

Coast, Cliffs and Picnics

Scarborough sits on a steep escarpment overlooking the ocean. Scarborough Beach offers views of the coast and the cliffs above it. Together, they create a landscape that combines ocean views in town with coastal and cliff scenery along the beach. If landscape is your first consideration when planning a trip, these offer two distinct perspectives on Scarborough rather than a single beach scene.

The parklands near Scarborough Beach offer space for picnics, including for families. This adds another way to spend time outdoors alongside views of the water and cliffs: enjoying a picnic together in the nearby parklands. For families, it’s a practical reason to combine coastal scenery with outdoor dining.

Plan a Beach Visit with Your Dog

Scarborough Beach is an Orange Zone, or time-restricted, dog beach. Depending on the season, dogs are allowed on the beach on a leash at certain times. So, if you’re planning a beach visit with your dog, the season and permitted times matter—not just the view you’re hoping for. Check the current permitted times before your visit if you plan to bring your dog to the beach.

The Hotel and Railway Station Tell the Story of the Town

Scarborough Hotel was built in 1886 in the Victorian Free Classical style and is considered the oldest licensed hotel in Wollongong. Scarborough railway station opened as Clifton Station in 1887 and was renamed Scarborough in 1903. Its historical significance as a transport hub for the village of Scarborough dates back to 1915; it is also linked to Scarborough’s development as a tourist destination from the early 20th century.

The hotel and railway station point to different aspects of the town’s history: the hotel is defined by its year of construction and style, while the station’s story is shaped by its opening, renaming and historical role in transport. One topic leads to the architecture of the late 19th century, the other to the development of the village and tourism in the early 20th century. This contrast offers a way to explore Scarborough beyond its coastline.

Lunch with Views of the Pacific

Scarborough Hotel adds a culinary highlight to its historical associations: it offers lawn seating and leisurely lunches with views of the Pacific. If you enjoy a long lunch, you can pair your meal with coastal views and give it a place of its own in your trip plans. This combination appeals to travellers for whom a meal with a view is part of the holiday experience.

Choose Scarborough as a Place to Stay

If you’re looking for accommodation for your stay, you can start by choosing the focus of your trip: coastal views, local history or lunch with views of the Pacific. Those who place greater importance on history can consider the hotel and railway station as two distinct points of interest, while the views of the ocean, coast and cliffs offer a guide for landscape enthusiasts.

More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Shellharbour City, Berkeley, Windang, Spring Hill, Primbee, Flinders.

Return to the main travel overview: Wollongong.