Port Macquarie Koala Sanctuary

Nestled in the lush coastal hinterland of Port Macquarie, the Koala Sanctuary is one of Australia’s most beloved wildlife experiences. This not-for-profit sanctuary has been caring for koalas since the 1960s, and today it’s a vital rehabilitation centre and a must-visit for anyone wanting to get up close with these iconic marsupials in a natural, ethical setting.

Highlights & What to See

• Koala Encounters – Walk the boardwalks through eucalypt forests where rescued koalas live in spacious enclosures. You can book a ‘Koala Encounter’ to pat one (with a keeper present) and learn about their care.
• Nocturnal House – Step into the dimly lit house to see possums, gliders, and bandicoots active at night – a fascinating glimpse into Australian bush life after dark.
• Free Flight Bird Aviary – Stroll through a walk-in aviary where rainbow lorikeets, king parrots, and other native birds swoop around; you can buy nectar to feed them.
• Wombat & Kangaroo Areas – Meet the sanctuary’s resident wombats and hand-feed friendly kangaroos in a large, grassy enclosure.
• Reptile & Dingo Displays – See goannas, pythons, and the sanctuary’s dingoes – all part of educational talks about Australia’s unique fauna.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for at least 2–3 hours to explore the sanctuary at a relaxed pace. The site is compact but packed with animals and keeper talks (check the daily schedule on arrival). If you have kids, add an extra hour for the playground and picnic area. Morning visits are quieter, and the animals are more active. You can easily combine this with a morning at the beach and an afternoon drive to the hinterland.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie Beaches – Town Beach, Flynns Beach, and Lighthouse Beach are all within 10 minutes’ drive, great for a swim or coastal walk.
• Sea Acres Rainforest Centre – A stunning boardwalk through coastal rainforest, just 5 km south – perfect for a short hike and to see more wildlife.
• Tacking Point Lighthouse – Historic lighthouse on a headland with whale-watching views (May–November) and a short coastal walk.
• Billabong Zoo – Another wildlife park, about 10 km west, with koalas, crocodiles, and a zip-line – good for a longer day out.
• Port Macquarie Historic Courthouse & Settlement – Explore the town’s convict-era history, just a few minutes’ drive from the sanctuary.

Please check official sources for current details.