Lake Illawarra (Warra in Aboriginal, meaning ‘pleasant place near the sea’) is just over an hour’s drive south of Sydney. This beautiful body of water covers nearly 36 square kms gathers water from the Illawarra escarpment as well as a narrow tidal entrance at Windang. There’s various entry and exit points around the lake, but a favourite amongst locals is Reddall Reserve, Lake Illawarra.

If you’re travelling south from Sydney, you’ll drive across Windang bridge and take in your first view of the water both east and west of the bridge. You’ll be mapping out your route and unpacking your SUP as you pull into the car park backing onto a small sandy shoreline. There’s a small kiosk, water station, kids playground, coastal bike track, outdoor exercise equipment, BBQ facilities and plenty to do for the whole family. This area is incredible at all times of the day, and it’s extra amazing at night.

We recommend joining Stand Up Paddle Boarding Shellharbour, for a night SUP. They'll provide you with a Red Paddle Co inflatable SUP to cruise around the small sand island under the stars. Keep your eyes peeled for the local sting rays, crabs, fish and jellyfish that appear to glow from underneath.