Port Hope Simpson is located on the south side of the Alexis River. It was founded in 1934 and named for Sir John Hope Simpson, an English Commissioner. Port Hope Simpson boasts a population of 535 and includes regular retail and public services including an airstrip and deep water port.

There are several government services available as well as many non-profit organizations and tourist activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, angling, snowmobiling, whale watching and icebergs. The main industries of the community have traditionally been the fishery and forestry. There is also a local pottery studio and various types of adventure tourism operations.