| Attraction type | Ecology & conservation |
| Tour types | None |
It will be recommend to bring binoculars to help with koala spotting
Do not disturb koalas when taking photographs, flash photography is not allowed
Guests should not reach over any fence enclosures, glass, or walls
Smoking is prohibited in the sanctuary, it is only allowed in the car park area
Monday 09:00–17:00 (Last Entry Time: 16:00)
Tuesday 09:00–17:00 (Last Entry Time: 16:00)
Wednesday 09:00–17:00 (Last Entry Time: 16:00)
Thursday 09:00–17:00 (Last Entry Time: 16:00)
Friday 09:00–17:00 (Last Entry Time: 16:00)
Saturday 09:00–17:00 (Last Entry Time: 16:00)
Sunday 09:00–17:00 (Last Entry Time: 16:00)
During spring and summer:
During autumn and winter:
Due to strict wildlife protection policies and for the welfare of the koalas, direct interaction such as holding or petting is not permitted at the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary. Visitors can observe koalas from a safe distance, including from the elevated treetop canopy boardwalk, which provides excellent viewing and photography opportunities while respecting the animals' natural behavior.
Tickets for the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary can typically be purchased online in advance or directly at the sanctuary's entrance. Booking through KKday offers convenience, allowing you to secure your entry ahead of time and plan your visit seamlessly. It ensures a smooth entry experience without the need to queue for tickets upon arrival.
The Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary offers several unique experiences. You can walk along an elevated treetop canopy boardwalk for up-close viewing and photo opportunities of koalas in their natural habitat. Explore the Sanctuary Story Walk to learn about koala conservation and the efforts to protect them. Additionally, visitors may observe veterinarians and volunteers caring for injured koalas at the Koala Hospital.
The Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary is located in Port Stephens, an area primarily accessed by car. Without a private vehicle, you can take an intercity bus service to Port Stephens (e.g., to Nelson Bay), and from there, use local taxi services or ride-sharing apps to reach the sanctuary. It's advisable to check local bus schedules and taxi availability in advance, especially outside peak tourist times.
Most visitors find that two to three hours is sufficient for a comprehensive visit to the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary. This allows ample time to explore the elevated treetop canopy boardwalk, enjoy the Sanctuary Story Walk, and potentially observe activities at the Koala Hospital. The pace can be adjusted based on your interest level in koala observation and learning.
During your visit to the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary, you can gain significant insight into koala preservation through the Sanctuary Story Walk, which details the challenges koalas face and conservation efforts. You can also witness the dedicated work of veterinarians and volunteers at the Koala Hospital, learning about rescue, rehabilitation, and release programs for injured and sick koalas. Educational signage throughout the sanctuary provides further information.
Yes, the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary features an elevated treetop canopy boardwalk specifically designed for optimal viewing and photography of koalas. This unique vantage point allows visitors to observe koalas from above, often at eye level, in their natural eucalyptus tree habitat. Throughout the sanctuary, there are various viewing platforms and designated areas that facilitate respectful observation of these marsupials.
Koalas are naturally crepuscular and nocturnal, meaning they are most active during dawn, dusk, and nighttime. While the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary operates during daytime hours, visiting earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon can often increase your chances of seeing koalas more active, feeding, or moving between branches. During the middle of the day, koalas tend to sleep for extended periods.