Lykkers, picture sandstone bluffs glowing at dusk, a calm river underfoot, and beaches with powdery sand minutes away.

Bomaderry sits just north of the Shoalhaven River, paired with Nowra for museums, markets, and family-friendly adventures. Here's a practical plan—costs, times, and routes—to turn a quick stop into an easy-going escape.

Getting There

From Sydney, trains on the South Coast Line reach Bomaderry (Nowra) in about 3.5 hours (from $7–18, Opal off-peak cheaper). Driving via Princes Hwy takes roughly 2.5 hours. Local buses and rideshares link the station to sights ($3–6 per hop). Parking is free at most trailheads and beaches; arrive before 10:30 on sunny weekends.

Where to Stay

Expect motels and riverside apartments in Bomaderry and Nowra from $95–160 per night; family suites and cottages run $160–280. Look for free parking and kitchenettes to cut meal costs. If beach time is the focus, base in Huskisson or Callala (20–30 minutes; $150–300 in high season). Book early for school holidays.

River Cruise

Shoalhaven River Cruise departures (Nowra public wharf, opposite Bomaderry) run short scenic loops to gorges or east to coastal villages. Fares $30–55, $15–30 children, lasting 1.5–3 hours. Multi-deck boats offer shaded seating; bring a hat and a light layer. Afternoon sailings give warm cliff light for photos.

Shoalhaven Zoo

Five minutes from town, this bushland zoo lines the river cliffs with kangaroos, wombats, echidnas, emus, koalas, and select exotic species. Daily keeper talks run 11:00–15:00. Tickets $25–40, $15–25 children; family bundles reduce costs. Wear comfortable shoes—paths roll over natural terrain.

High Ropes

Next to the zoo, Treetops Adventure Nowra weaves rope bridges, ziplines, and cliff-edge views. Sessions last about 2.5 hours, briefing included. Prices range $35–65 per person, graded from kids' yellow courses to high black challenges. Closed shoes required; gloves help on cooler days.

Fleet Air Arm

Ten minutes' drive away, the Fleet Air Arm Museum showcases naval aviation with jets, prop aircraft, and classic helicopters in a two-level hall. Plan 60–90 minutes. Entry $10–20, $5–10 children; family tickets available. Don't miss the observation deck over the active air station.

Meroogal House

In nearby Nowra, Meroogal preserves late-19th-century domestic life through four generations of women. Guided tours (check day and time sessions) cover rooms, diaries, and spring-bloom gardens restored to a 1920s plan. Expect $8–18 per person; allow 45–60 minutes. Strollers can manage the garden; interiors have narrow stairs.

Grotto Walk

On the north bank, a 2 km return track leads through spotted gum to a dramatic rock overhang—the Grotto—above the Shoalhaven. Short but punchy, with stone steps, uneven surfaces, and occasional hand-over-rock moves. Free entry; 45–70 minutes round trip. Sunrise or late afternoon brings softer cliff color and shade.

Hanging Rock

Join Ben's Walk from the south side for a 5.5 km circuit past Nowra Creek to Hanging Rock, a natural ledge about 50 m above the river. Allow 1.5–2 hours with photo stops. Free parking near the bridge. A narrow rock corridor just before the lookout makes the approach memorable.

Callala Beach

Twenty minutes' drive, Callala Beach stretches long and gentle with bright sand and typically calm water, especially near the northern inlet. Facilities include toilets, picnic tables, and a nearby boat ramp in Callala Bay. Free access and parking; arrive early in summer. Pack a sun tent and wide-brim hats—shade is limited.

Jervis Bay National Park

South-east of Bomaderry, Jervis Bay National Park protects rainforest pockets, eucalypt woodland, mangroves, wetlands, and famous white-sand shores. Day use usually $8–12 per vehicle (some areas free). Activities include signed walks, guided cultural excursions, and snorkel-friendly bays. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a light long-sleeve top.

Maritime Museum

In Huskisson, the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum holds the historic MV Lady Denman ferry under cover, with local shipbuilding exhibits, models, and photo archives. Plan 45–60 minutes. Admission often $8–14, $4–8 children. Combine with a creekside stroll and playgrounds for an easy half-day.

Drawing Room Rocks

For hikers, Berry's Drawing Room Rocks form sandstone "tables and chairs" on a cliff-edge balcony. The 4.5 km out-and-back takes 2–2.5 hours with steep sections. Free, but parking is limited—arrive early. Keep well back from edges, especially after rain, and wear grippy shoes.

Seafood and Produce

Across the bridge, Nowra Fresh Fish and Meat Market displays fillets, prawns, oysters, and ready-to-eat sushi or rolls. Oyster shucking is done to order—perfect for riverside picnics. Next door, the Nowra Farmers Market stocks seasonal fruit, vegetables, breads, dairy, olives, spices, and condiments. Picnic for two runs $18–35.

Entertainment Centre

Near the river, the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre hosts touring dance, music, comedy, family theatre, and workshops. Tickets typically $20–70; balcony seats offer solid sightlines and value. Arrive 30 minutes early for parking and a relaxed foyer bite at the on-site café.

Scenic Country

North and west of Bomaderry, rolling farmland and neat rows of grapes frame picnic spots and back-road photography. Aim for late afternoon when paddocks glow and roadside lookouts face west. Keep speeds down—wildlife can cross at dusk. Many cafés close by 15:00–16:00, so plan snack stops earlier.

Budget and Tips

A comfortable day: cruise $40, museum $15, lunch picnic $15, coffee or gelato $6, ropes course $55, fuel or transport $10—about $141 total. Swap ropes for coastal walks and the total drops near $70–85. Summer UV is strong; carry water, sun protection, and a light long sleeve even on breezy days.

Conclusion

Bomaderry shines when you mix river time with one focused activity—an air museum morning, a cliff-top walk, or a calm-water beach hour—then slow down for a picnic. What two simple moves will shape your first day: a deck view from the boat, or a sandstone lookout at golden light?