Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary

In the heart of the Nelson Bay peninsula, Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary offers an intimate encounter with Australia’s most beloved marsupial. This conservation-focused sanctuary is home to a thriving colony of koalas, many rescued or born on site, and provides a rare chance to see them up close in a natural bushland setting. Beyond the koalas, the sanctuary also houses wallabies, wombats, and a walk-through aviary, making it a delightful stop for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike. The sanctuary’s commitment to rehabilitation and education adds a meaningful layer to your visit.

Highlights & What to See

• Koala Boardwalk – Stroll along raised walkways through eucalypt forest, where koalas snooze and munch in the branches just metres away.
• Guided Koala Talks – Join the daily keeper presentations to learn about koala behaviour, diet, and the sanctuary’s rescue efforts.
• Walk-through Aviary – Step inside a netted enclosure filled with colourful lorikeets, rosellas, and other native birds that may land on your hand.
• Nocturnal House – Peek into the dimly lit habitat of bilbies, quolls, and other shy night-time creatures.
• Bush Tucker Garden – Discover native plants used by Aboriginal communities for food and medicine, with interpretive signs.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow around 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the sanctuary, including the boardwalk, aviary, and a keeper talk. If you have children or are particularly keen on photography, budget an extra 30 minutes. The sanctuary is compact but well laid out, so it fits easily into a half-day itinerary when combined with other Port Stephens attractions like the dunes or dolphin cruises.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nelson Bay – The lively harbour town offers dolphin-watching cruises, seaside dining, and the picturesque Nelson Head Lighthouse Reserve.
• Stockton Beach – Just a short drive away, this 32-kilometre stretch of sand is famous for its towering dunes and 4WD adventures.
• Tomaree National Park – Hike to the summit of Tomaree Head for panoramic views of the bay and offshore islands – a must-do for hikers.
• Gan Gan Lookout – A quick detour on the way in or out, offering sweeping views over Port Stephens and the surrounding coastline.
• Fingal Bay – A quieter beach with a scenic coastal walk to the lighthouse and a blowhole at high tide.

Please check official sources for current details.