Nowra with Kids: The Best Family Activities in the Shoalhaven
Most visitors to Jervis Bay pass through Nowra on their way to the bay without stopping — which is understandable but a missed opportunity. Nowra, the administrative centre of the Shoalhaven, has some genuinely excellent family activities and is the best place within practical distance of Jervis Bay for rainy day alternatives, shopping, dining, and various experiences not available in the smaller bay-side towns.
| Distance from Huskisson | Approximately 25 minutes by car |
|---|---|
| Key Attractions | Shoalhaven Zoo, HMAS Albatross, farmers markets, Nowra Adventure Playground |
| Shopping | Stockland Nowra — main shopping centre for the region |
| Supermarkets | Woolworths and Coles — stock up here before heading to the bay |
| Best For | Rainy days, shopping, dining, alternative activities |
Shoalhaven Zoo
Shoalhaven Zoo is one of the most popular family attractions in the Shoalhaven — a well-maintained private zoo housing a good range of native and exotic animals. Children can often interact with animals more closely than at larger city zoos, and the smaller scale makes it easy to see everything in a manageable visit. Check current opening hours and admission prices before visiting as these change. The zoo is particularly popular during school holidays and on rainy days when beach activities aren't possible. Located on the outskirts of Nowra, it's accessible by car and well-signposted from the main highway.
HMAS Albatross Aviation Museum
The Fleet Air Arm Museum at HMAS Albatross (Australia's naval air station near Nowra) houses an impressive collection of historic naval aircraft and is fascinating for children interested in aviation and military history. Access is subject to security clearance procedures — check current visitor requirements on the museum website before visiting. The collection includes rare examples of early naval aircraft and provides excellent context for Australia's naval aviation history. Combined with the nearby historical sites of the Shoalhaven, it provides a good full-day inland itinerary for families looking for alternatives to beach activities.
Nowra for Supplies and Shopping
Nowra's practical value for Jervis Bay visitors cannot be overstated. The Stockland Nowra shopping centre has major supermarkets (Woolworths and Coles), a large pharmacy, outdoor goods stores, and various other retailers. Filling up on groceries and supplies in Nowra before heading to Jervis Bay saves significant money compared to the smaller IGA in Huskisson, and ensures you have everything you need without making return trips. Petrol in Nowra is consistently cheaper than at Huskisson. If you've forgotten something important — camping gear, children's medication, beach equipment — Nowra is where to find it.
Nowra's Dining and Cafes
Nowra's dining scene has improved significantly in recent years, with good cafes, restaurants, and the excellent Merchant's Guild Brewery among the options. For families, the Nowra Showground Farmers Markets (typically held monthly on weekends) offer excellent local produce and food stalls. Several cafes around Junction Street and the nearby shopping precinct provide reliable breakfast and lunch options. On rainy days when Jervis Bay activities are curtailed, a morning in Nowra — markets, coffee, grocery run — followed by an afternoon waiting for the weather to clear is a practical and enjoyable plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Nowra worth visiting on a Jervis Bay holiday?
- Yes — particularly for rainy days, shopping, and family activities not available in the smaller bay towns. Plan at least half a day in Nowra to stock up on supplies and explore the town.
- What is there to do in Nowra with young children?
- Shoalhaven Zoo is the most popular option for young children. The Nowra Adventure Playground is excellent for 3–10 year olds. On rainy days, the Nowra Library has children's activities and the shopping centre provides indoor entertainment.
- How far is Nowra from Huskisson?
- Nowra is approximately 25 minutes drive from Huskisson on the Princes Highway, making it a practical and quick detour for supplies, activities, or rainy day options.