Perhaps the most widely recognised landmark of the Nowra area is the beautiful Shoalhven River. This unspoilt and natural wonder forms a boundary for the northern areas of  North Nowra and  Bomaderry and is linked by the Shoalhaven River bridges to other parts of the Nowra urban area.

Nowra is the main centre for shopping and business in Shoalhaven City. The Nowra Urban area population is 32,000. Nowra has all the major stores and a abundant speciality shops.

There is ample parking, pleasant streetscapes and delightful parks for the children to play or for picnics.

The rail terminus operates between Bomaderry and Sydney via Wollongong. Local buses service the area from the Nowra bus terminus in the centre of the CBD.

Nowra urban area offers all the usual services of a large country town as well as many attractions. These attractions include Nowra Wildlife Park, Meroogal Historic House, Australia's Museum of Flight at H.M.A.S. Albatross and Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre offering concerts/shows on a regular basis.

There are many activities to do in the area with numerous sporting facilities all around the area (indoor stadiums, pools, ten pin bowling, golf, lawn bowls, tennis courts, sporting fields and more). There are bush walks such as Ben’s walk or Bomaderry Creek walk.

Nowra urban area also boasts many restaurants, cafes, clubs and specialty shops/businesses that have achieved awards and recognition on many levels.