Nowra

Nowra, the bustling hub of the Shoalhaven region, sits on the banks of the Shoalhaven River, just a two-hour drive south of Sydney. This friendly country town is a gateway to some of the New South Wales South Coast's finest natural attractions, from pristine beaches and national parks to the dramatic peaks of the Budawang Range. Nowra itself offers a relaxed riverfront, a thriving arts scene, and excellent local produce, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding wilderness and coastal villages.

Highlights & What to See

• Shoalhaven River: Kayak, paddleboard, or cruise along the wide, calm river; spot pelicans and black swans, and picnic at the scenic riverfront parks.
• Booderee National Park: Just east of Nowra, this Aboriginal-owned park boasts stunning white-sand beaches (like Murrays and Caves Beach), coastal walks, and the historic Cape St George Lighthouse.
• Jervis Bay: Famous for its crystal-clear waters and dolphins, Jervis Bay offers whale-watching (May–November), snorkelling, and the white sands of Hyams Beach – often touted as the whitest in the world.
• Shoalhaven Zoo: A hands-on native wildlife experience set in a rainforest garden; hand-feed kangaroos, meet koalas, and see crocodiles and dingoes.
• Fitzroy Falls: In Morton National Park, a spectacular 81-metre waterfall plunging into a lush gorge; easy walking trails lead to multiple lookout points.
• Nowra's Art & Culture: The Shoalhaven Regional Gallery showcases local and touring exhibitions, while the Meroogal historic house museum offers a glimpse into 19th-century life.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two to three days is ideal to experience Nowra's highlights and explore the nearby coast and national parks. Spend your first day on the river and in town, then dedicate a full day to Jervis Bay and Booderee National Park. If you have a third day, head into Morton National Park for bushwalking and waterfalls. Nowra works perfectly as a stopover on a Sydney-to-Melbourne road trip or as a weekend getaway from the capital.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Berry – A charming historic village with antique shops, cafés, and the famous Berry Donut Van.
• Kangaroo Valley – A scenic valley with the historic Hampden Bridge, walking trails, and canoeing on the Kangaroo River.
• Ulladulla – A coastal town with a working harbour, rock pools, and the nearby Bawley Point beaches.
• Milton – A quaint village with boutique shops, galleries, and the popular Milton Theatre.
• Batemans Bay – The gateway to the Eurobodalla Coast, known for oysters, beaches, and the Clyde River.

Please check official sources for current details.