Worimi Conservation Lands

Stretching along the Stockton Bight north of Newcastle, the Worimi Conservation Lands are a stunning expanse of sand dunes, beaches, and coastal heath co-managed by the Worimi people and the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service. This living landscape is not only a haven for nature lovers but also a profound cultural site, offering a rare chance to experience Aboriginal heritage through guided tours, sandboarding, and four-wheel driving on the largest moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere.

Highlights & What to See

• Stockton Bight Sand Dunes – These towering white dunes (up to 30 metres high) are the star attraction. Go sandboarding, take a 4WD tour, or simply hike across the surreal, desert-like landscape.
• Worimi Aboriginal Cultural Tours – Join a local Worimi guide to learn about bush tucker, traditional hunting practices, and the deep spiritual connection to this land. The stories of the Birabahn (eagle) and other creation beings are unforgettable.
• Birubi Beach – A patrolled swimming beach at the southern end, perfect for a cool-down after the dunes. Keep an eye out for dolphins and migrating whales (May–November).
• Lavis Lane Sand Dune Lookout – A short walk leads to panoramic views of the dune system and the Tasman Sea; especially magical at sunrise or sunset.
• Quays Reserve – A peaceful spot on the Myall River with picnic tables and a boat ramp, ideal for kayaking or birdwatching among the mangroves.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend half a day (3–4 hours) exploring the dunes and taking a cultural tour. If you’re keen on sandboarding or a longer 4WD adventure, allocate a full day. Combine with a morning at Birubi Beach and finish with a sunset walk at Lavis Lane Lookout – you’ll leave with a sense of the land’s ancient rhythm.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Stephens – Just 20 minutes north, this aquatic playground offers dolphin cruises, Tomaree Headland walks, and the pristine beaches of Nelson Bay.
• Newcastle – A 40-minute drive south brings you to this revitalised harbour city with its renowned surf breaks, heritage architecture, and thriving café culture.
• Myall Lakes National Park – Head north for 30 minutes to explore the largest coastal lake system in NSW – perfect for canoeing, fishing, and camping among paperbark forests.
• Anna Bay – Adjacent to the conservation lands, this village is the launch point for sandboarding and quad-bike tours; also has a great fish-and-chip shop.
• Tea Gardens & Hawks Nest – Charming seaside towns 15 minutes north, with calm beaches, a historic ferry, and the chance to spot koalas in the wild.

Please check official sources for current details.