Nowra to Wollongong road trip: Distance, drive time & stops
The best road trips on the drive from Nowra to Wollongong include Berry, Gerringong and Kiama. The distance from Nowra to Wollongong is 81km, with the drive taking around an hour.
The Nowra to Wollongong drive connects the administrative centre of the Shoalhaven region to the biggest city on NSW’s Illawarra coast. By Australian standards, this is a short drive easily tackled in one stint. But there is plenty to keep you entertained along the way if you want to turn it into a road trip itinerary.
6 fantastic Wollongong experiences to book before you arrive
- Tandem hang-gliding flight from Bald Hill – float down towards the beach.
- One hour private surf lesson in Woonona – learn the basics, and get standing on your board.
- Illawarra Fly ziplining course and treetop walk – test your nerves high up in the canopy.
- Tandem skydive with beach landing – feel the rush of freefall.
- Explore the city on a scavenger hunt – a fun way to get to know Wollongong better.
- Half day deep sea fishing adventure – haul in some big boys.
Nowra to Wollongong distance and driving time
By car, the distance from Nowra to Wollongong is 81km. That makes for a driving time of around an hour, almost entirely along the Pacific Highway.
Best Nowra accommodation options
The best places to stay in Nowra are:
- For solid quality, cheap rates and an outdoor pool: Parkhaven.
- For business-friendly apartments: Quest Nowra.
- For something plusher, with a big pool and 18 hole golf course: Springs Shoalhaven Nowra.
The first recommendable stop after crossing the Shoalhaven River into Bomaderry is Berry.
This historic town veers heavily into fudge shop chintz – it’s a popular weekend getaway from Sydney. However, there are several good pubs and places to eat in Berry. And Woodhill Mountain Wines is a decent spot to go wine-tasting.
Click through to the next section: Gerroa, Gerringong and Kiama.