· AU

Nowra

Nowra, New South Wales, Australia

Nowra, located in New South Wales, Australia, is a charming town that offers a delightful mix of natural beauty, history, and modern amenities. Nestled between the stunning Shoalhaven River and the picturesque Shoalhaven…

#Nowra#New South Wales#Australia#Coastal town#Shoalhaven River

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Nowra.

Top Hotels in Nowra

Top Flights to Nowra

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Nowra.

Tours

Explore Shoalhaven Zoo

Visit the largest native animal park on the South Coast of New South Wales, housing over 100 species of mammals, birds, and reptiles.

Shopping

Shopping at Stockland Nowra

Discover a variety of shops, from fashion to electronics, in this modern shopping center.

Outdoor

Bushwalking at Ben's Walk

Enjoy a scenic bushwalk along the Shoalhaven River with views of the gorge and iconic suspension bridge.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Nowra.

Currency

$ | AUD | Australian Dollar

Population

21,000

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Nowra

Jan

27°16°

Feb

27°16°

Mar

25°15°

Apr

23°12°

May

20°9°

Jun

17°7°

Jul

16°6°

Aug

18°7°

Sep

21°9°

Oct

23°11°

Nov

25°13°

Dec

26°15°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Nowra.

What people love

Nowra, located in New South Wales, Australia, offers a variety of attractions and activities for travelers to enjoy. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Nowra:

Beautiful Beaches: Nowra is located near stunning beaches such as Jervis Bay and Shoalhaven Heads. Visitors can relax on the pristine white sand, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoy water sports like snorkeling, diving, and kayaking.
Outdoor Adventures: Nowra is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including national parks, rivers, and bushwalking trails. Travelers can go hiking, birdwatching, fishing, or even take a scenic cruise along the Shoalhaven River.
Wineries and Breweries: Nowra is part of the Shoalhaven wine region, known for its award-winning wineries and craft breweries. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting tours, sample local produce, and savor delicious meals at vineyard restaurants.
Cultural Attractions: Nowra has a rich cultural heritage, with historic sites, art galleries, and museums to explore. The Fleet Air Arm Museum, Nowra Museum, and Meroogal historic house offer insights into the region's history and traditions.
Farm Fresh Produce: Nowra is surrounded by fertile farmland, producing a wide range of fresh produce. Travelers can visit local markets, pick their own fruit at orchards, or dine at farm-to-table restaurants showcasing the region's bounty.

Overall, traveling to Nowra offers a mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and culinary delights, making it a great destination for those seeking a diverse and enriching travel experience.

What to know

There are some potential cons to traveling to Nowra, New South Wales, Australia that you may want to consider:

Limited public transportation: Nowra is a regional area, so public transportation options may be limited compared to larger cities. Renting a car may be necessary to get around effectively.
Weather conditions: Nowra can experience hot summers and cool winters, so it's important to pack accordingly and be prepared for varying weather conditions.
Limited nightlife and entertainment options: Nowra is a smaller town, so if you are looking for a vibrant nightlife scene or a wide range of entertainment options, you may find the choices limited.
Distance from major cities: Nowra is located about 160 kilometers south of Sydney, so if you are looking to visit major cities or attractions further north, be prepared for a bit of travel time.
Limited dining options: While there are some great cafes and restaurants in Nowra, the dining scene may not be as varied or extensive as in larger cities.
Potential for bushfires: Like many parts of Australia, Nowra is at risk for bushfires, especially during the hotter months. It's important to stay informed about fire conditions and be prepared to evacuate if necessary.

Overall, Nowra offers a peaceful and scenic setting, but it may not have the same amenities or conveniences as larger urban areas.

Nowra is a town in the South Coast region of New South Wales, Australia, located approximately 160 kilometers south of Sydney. It serves as a major regional center for the Shoalhaven area. Here is a detailed history of Nowra, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Early History and Establishment

Indigenous Heritage: The area around Nowra has been inhabited by the Indigenous people of the Yuin nation for thousands of years. The name "Nowra" is believed to be derived from an Aboriginal word meaning "black cockatoo."
European Settlement: European exploration of the Shoalhaven area began in the early 19th century. Alexander Berry, a Scottish-born Australian landowner, was one of the first Europeans to settle in the region. He established a settlement on the Shoalhaven River in the 1820s.
Founding of Nowra: Nowra was officially established in the mid-19th century, with the township being laid out in 1852. The town grew as a service center for the surrounding agricultural area.

Development and Growth

Municipal Status: Nowra was proclaimed a municipality in 1871, reflecting its growing importance as a regional center.
Railway Connection: The arrival of the railway in 1893 significantly boosted Nowra's growth, linking it to Sydney and facilitating the transport of goods and people.

20th Century

Military Influence: During World War II, Nowra became strategically important due to its proximity to the naval base at Jervis Bay. The Royal Australian Navy established HMAS Albatross, an air station, which continues to operate today and contributes to the local economy.
Post-War Expansion: After the war, Nowra continued to expand, with developments in infrastructure and housing to accommodate a growing population.

Significant Figures

Alexander Berry: One of the early European pioneers in the Shoalhaven region, Berry's influence on the area was significant, establishing agriculture and trade routes.
David Berry: The brother of Alexander Berry, he played a crucial role in the development of the area, including donating land for public use.

Landmarks and Attractions

Nowra Bridge: The historic Nowra Bridge over the Shoalhaven River, originally opened in 1881, is an iconic structure and has been a vital transportation link for over a century.
Shoalhaven River: The river is a central feature of the area, providing opportunities for recreation and tourism.
Nowra Museum: Housed in a heritage-listed building, the museum showcases the history of Nowra and the surrounding region.
HMAS Albatross: The naval air station remains a significant military facility and contributes to the town's economy.
Nowra Wildlife Park (Nowra Zoo): A popular attraction for locals and tourists, offering a chance to see native Australian animals.

Recent Developments

Urban Growth: Nowra continues to grow as a regional center, with ongoing developments in housing, commercial facilities, and infrastructure projects.
Cultural and Community Events: The town hosts various cultural and community events, celebrating its diverse heritage and vibrant community life.

Nowra is a town with a rich history and a significant role as a service center for the surrounding region. Its development has been shaped by its strategic location, agricultural heritage, and military presence.