Sand Dunes Adventure

Just south of Port Macquarie, the Stockton Bight Sand Dunes stretch for 32 kilometres along the coast, forming the largest moving sand dune system in the Southern Hemisphere. This remarkable landscape of white silica sand, sculpted by wind and sea, offers an exhilarating playground for adventure seekers and a surreal contrast to the lush hinterland. Whether you're sandboarding down steep slopes, riding a quad bike across the dunes, or simply marvelling at the vastness, the sense of space and freedom is unforgettable.

Highlights & What to See

• Sandboarding – Rent a sandboard and carve down the towering dunes; it's like snowboarding on warm, soft sand. Beginners can start on gentler slopes, while experienced riders tackle the steep faces.
• Quad bike tours – Guided tours let you roar across the dunes on a four-wheel motorbike, with stops at lookout points for panoramic views of the coastline and hinterland.
• Stockton Bight beaches – The dunes meet pristine, uncrowded beaches perfect for a post-adventure swim or a beachside picnic. Keep an eye out for dolphins and whales during migration season.
• Aboriginal heritage – The Worimi people have lived here for millennia; guided cultural tours explain the significance of the dunes and the ancient middens found in the area.
• Sunset photography – The dunes glow gold and pink as the sun sets, with the shadows of the sand ridges creating dramatic landscapes for photographers.

Suggested Time to Spend

For a quick thrill, half a day (3–4 hours) is enough for a sandboarding session or a quad bike tour. To fully explore the dune system and combine with beach time, allow a full day. If you're keen on a guided cultural walk or want to hike to the northern end of the dunes, an overnight stay in nearby Port Macquarie or Anna Bay makes sense, splitting the experience over two days.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie – Just 20 minutes north, this coastal town offers the Koala Hospital, the historic Gaol, and a lively waterfront dining scene. Perfect for a meal after a sandy day.
• Tomaree National Park – Southeast of the dunes, this park features the Tomaree Head Summit Walk with 360-degree views of the coast and the islands offshore.
• Myall Lakes National Park – West of the dunes, a vast system of freshwater lakes and rainforest walks. Great for kayaking, canoeing, and spotting birdlife.
• Anna Bay – The southern gateway to the dunes, where you can also ride camels on the beach or explore the Worimi Conservation Lands.
• Nelson Bay – A 30-minute drive south, this hub for dolphin watching cruises and whale watching (May–November) adds a marine wildlife dimension to your trip.

Please check official sources for current details.