Anna Bay

Anna Bay is a coastal village on the southern edge of the Port Stephens estuary, famous for its towering sand dunes that roll right into the Tasman Sea. This is where the desert meets the ocean – a surreal landscape of golden sand, crashing waves, and endless sky. It’s a prime spot for adventure seekers and nature lovers, offering everything from camel rides to whale watching, all within a laid-back beachside setting.

Highlights & What to See

• Stockton Beach Sand Dunes – The main draw: 32 km of massive, shifting dunes that are among the highest in the Southern Hemisphere. You can 4WD, sandboard, or take a guided quad bike tour across this otherworldly terrain.
• Worimi Conservation Lands – A protected area co-managed with the Worimi people, offering cultural tours that explain the deep Indigenous history of the dunes. Look for ancient middens and learn about traditional land use.
• Birubi Beach – The northern end of Stockton Beach, where you can swim, surf, or simply watch the sunset over the dunes. It’s also the launch point for camel rides along the shore.
• Tomaree National Park – A short drive away, hike to the summit of Tomaree Head for panoramic views of Port Stephens, the offshore islands, and the endless dune system. Whale watching from here in winter is spectacular.
• Gan Gan Lookout – For a quick but rewarding view, drive up to this lookout for a sweeping vista of Anna Bay, Nelson Bay, and the surrounding waterways.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give Anna Bay at least a full day – two if you want to truly explore the dunes and national park. Start with a morning sandboarding session on the dunes, then spend the afternoon at Birubi Beach or hiking in Tomaree National Park. If you have a second day, add a cultural tour with the Worimi people or a boat cruise to spot dolphins and whales. The area is also perfect for a longer self-drive stop between Sydney and the north coast.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nelson Bay – Just 10 minutes away, this bustling harbour town offers dolphin-watching cruises, seafood restaurants, and the d’Albora Marinas.
• Shoal Bay – A quieter beachside suburb with calm waters, ideal for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, plus the Tomaree Head walk.
• Port Stephens – The entire region is a marine playground; combine Anna Bay with a day trip to the Myall Lakes National Park or the coastal villages of Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest.
• Newcastle – About 45 minutes south, Newcastle has a vibrant arts scene, excellent surf beaches, and historic architecture – a good contrast to the natural dunes.

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