New South Wales · Attraction
Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary
Wild koalas, sky-high walkways
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
Opened in 2020 on the edge of Tomaree National Park, Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary combines a working koala hospital with an immersive visitor experience. A treetop SKYwalk lets guests observe koalas resting and feeding in the canopy at eye level, while the sanctuary's educational programs explain the challenges facing this vulnerable species across the Hunter region.
The sanctuary sits on Gan Gan Road in One Mile, surrounded by the eucalypt bushland that supports one of the largest koala populations remaining on the NSW coast. The SKYwalk and ground-level boardwalks allow visitors to spot resident koalas in a genuinely wild setting rather than behind enclosure fencing, making each visit different depending on where the animals choose to rest that day.
Behind the scenes, a hospital facility treats injured and sick koalas rescued from across Port Stephens, and interpretive displays explain koala ecology, the threats from habitat loss, disease, and traffic, and the conservation work being done locally. The sanctuary is managed by Port Stephens Council and reinvests entry revenue into ongoing koala care.
The site is open daily, closing for Christmas Day and New Year's Day. A 3 Day Pass is available at no extra cost for those who want to return across consecutive days.
Where to stay
Holiday parks near Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary.
5 options via our booking partner
Halifax Holiday Park
2.6km away
Shoal Bay Holiday Park
2.9km away
Reflections Jimmy's Beach Holiday Park
Hawks Nest
·6.7km away
Reflections Hawks Nest Holiday Park
7.3km away
Thou Walla Sunset Retreat
8km away
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Scenic views
