Is Nowra a good place to visit?

Yes, it is a gateway to the beautiful Shoalhaven coast and Jervis Bay.

How far is Nowra from Sydney?

It is approximately 160 kilometers, taking about 2.5 hours by car.

Are there trains to Nowra?

Yes, you can take a train from Sydney to Bomaderry, which is across the river from Nowra.

Is the drive from Alice Springs safe?

Yes, but it requires careful planning for fuel and water in remote areas.

What is the best time to visit?

Spring and Autumn offer the most pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities.

Alice Springs

Nowra

Flight Driving

Alice Springs to Nowra

Updated: 27 May 2026

The route from Alice Springs to Nowra takes you from the heart of the Australian desert to the coastal Shoalhaven region. The most practical way to travel is to fly from Alice Springs to Sydney, then rent a car or take a bus for the 160-kilometer drive south. If driving the entire way, you will traverse the Stuart Highway and the M31 Hume Motorway before heading toward the coast via the Illawarra region. This trip covers over 2,600 kilometers and showcases the incredible diversity of the Australian landscape.

Total Distance: 2,650 km driving distance; 2,080 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight to Sydney followed by a 2.5-hour drive to Nowra takes about 6 hours total.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most economical for groups, while flying is the most time-efficient.

Compare Alice Springs to Nowra Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	6 hours	29 hours
Avg Price	$450 - $900	$650 - $850 in fuel
Operator	Qantas	Private Vehicle
Route	Alice Springs to Sydney, then drive or bus to Nowra.	Stuart Highway to Port Augusta, A32, M31, and A1 Princes Highway.
Tip	The Premier Illawarra bus service connects Sydney to Nowra if you prefer not to drive.	The Princes Highway (A1) can be busy; allow extra time for coastal traffic.

Travel Tips

Coastal Traffic
The Princes Highway can experience heavy traffic on weekends and holidays.
Bus Services
Check the Premier Motor Service schedule for connections from Sydney to Nowra.
Sun Protection
The coastal sun is strong; wear SPF 50+ sunscreen even on cloudy days.
Accommodation
Nowra has many motels; book ahead during summer school holidays.
Local Markets
Check out the local farmers' markets for fresh produce from the Shoalhaven region.

Safety Tips

Road Conditions
Be cautious of winding roads when descending the Illawarra Escarpment.
Wildlife
Watch for kangaroos and wombats on the roads near Booderee National Park at night.
Emergency
Keep a first aid kit in your vehicle for long-distance travel.
Fatigue
Take regular breaks when driving the long stretches of the Stuart Highway.