Port Hughes

SA 5558 • South Australia

647
Population (2021)
N/A
Median Income
5.56 km²
Area
N/A
Median Rent
CoastalBeachsideRetiree-HavenQuietRemote

About Port Hughes

Port Hughes is a small coastal town on the eastern shore of the Yorke Peninsula in South Australia, located approximately 135 kilometres north-west of Adelaide and 3 kilometres west of the historic copper mining town of Moonta. Governed by the Copper Coast Council, the town covers approximately 5.6 square kilometres and has a population of around 647 residents, with a median household income of 6,523 that reflects its character as a quiet coastal community popular with retirees and holiday home owners. First established as a town in 1863, Port Hughes sits on the sheltered waters of Spencer Gulf.

Port Hughes is a popular holiday and fishing destination, known for its calm beaches, boat ramp, and relaxed seaside atmosphere that draws visitors from Adelaide and regional South Australia throughout the year. The town has a general store and local tavern serving the community, while the nearby township of Moonta provides a broader range of shops, services, and the heritage attractions of the Moonta Mines Museum and Moonta Heritage Railway. The broader Copper Coast region, encompassing Moonta, Wallaroo, and Kadina, offers hospitals, schools, and commercial services within a short drive.

Port Hughes falls under postcode 5558 and is governed by the local council Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Narungga electorate.

📍 Location

Postcode
5558
Urban Area
N/A
LGA / Council
N/A
Federal Electorate
State Electorate
Type
Locality
Timezone
Adelaide (UTC+9:30)
Coordinates
-34.11°, 137.60°
Statistical Area
N/A
Area
5.56 km²
Elevation
0m

🚌 Transport & Commute

Bus Services

  • Limited regional coaches — Kadina / Adelaide 2-2.5 hrs to Adelaide

Commute to Adelaide CBD

Distance
135 km
By Train
No rail service; no practical rail commute available
By Car (Peak)
1.75-2 hrs
By Car (Off-Peak)
1.5-1.75 hrs

🛣️ Main road is via Kadina and the Augusta Highway; a private vehicle is essential for all travel

Walkability Almost All Errands Require a Car

Port Hughes has a local general store and tavern, but most shopping, medical, and service needs require driving to Moonta or the broader Copper Coast towns

🛒 Supermarkets Nearby

No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.

🎓 Schools

  • 🏫
    Blanche Terrace
    GovernmentPrimary/Secondary CombinedCoedNon-Denominational

👥 Demographics

Census 2016
0
Census 2021
647
0% growth

Population Growth

Gender Distribution (Census 2021)

Income 2016
N/A
Income 2021
N/A
0% increase

Income Comparison

📊 Population: ABS Census 2021
💰 Income: ABS Census 2021

Nearby Suburbs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Port Hughes known for? +

Port Hughes is known for its calm beaches, boat ramp, and excellent fishing on Spencer Gulf, making it a popular holiday and retirement destination on the Yorke Peninsula. The nearby Moonta Mines Museum and Moonta Heritage Railway add historical interest to the region.

How far is Port Hughes from Adelaide? +

Port Hughes is approximately 135 kilometres north-west of the Adelaide city centre, typically a drive of around 1.5 to 2 hours via the Augusta Highway through Kadina.

Does Port Hughes have public transport? +

Port Hughes has no rail or regular bus services. There is no passenger rail on the Yorke Peninsula, and a private vehicle is essential for all travel including commuting to Moonta (3 km) and the broader Copper Coast towns.

What is the population of Port Hughes? +

According to the 2021 Census, Port Hughes has a population of approximately 647 residents, though the community swells considerably during school holidays and summer when holiday home owners and visitors arrive.

Is Port Hughes a good place to live? +

Port Hughes is well suited to retirees, holiday home owners, and those seeking a quiet, affordable coastal lifestyle away from the city. The calm beaches, fishing, and friendly community atmosphere are strong drawcards, though residents must be comfortable with car dependence and limited local services.

What is the postcode for Port Hughes? +

The postcode for Port Hughes, South Australia is 5558.