Anna Bay Sand Dunes

Rising dramatically from the shores of Stockton Beach, the Anna Bay Sand Dunes form one of the largest moving coastal dune systems in the southern hemisphere. This surreal landscape of golden sand stretches for 32 kilometres, offering a stark contrast to the turquoise waters of the Tasman Sea. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or a nature lover, these dunes deliver an unforgettable Australian outback-meets-beach experience, just a short drive north of Newcastle.

Highlights & What to See

• Quad biking and sandboarding: The dunes are a playground for thrill-seekers. Several tour operators offer guided quad-bike adventures or you can rent a sandboard and carve down the steep slopes—a rush like no other.
• Stockton Beach 4WD tours: Hop into a 4WD vehicle and traverse the soft sand to explore the wreck of the Sybilla (a 1901 steamship) and the historic Tin City, a cluster of fishermen’s shacks built in the 1930s.
• Camel rides at sunset: For a more leisurely pace, a camel ride along the beach at sunset is a surreal, almost cinematic way to take in the dunes and ocean views.
• Horse riding on the beach: Local outfitters offer guided horseback rides that canter along the water’s edge and into the dunes, blending adventure with serenity.
• Birdwatching and native flora: The dune system is a habitat for rare birds like the beach stone-curlew and plants adapted to the shifting sands—bring binoculars and a field guide.

Suggested Time to Spend

A half-day is enough to get a taste of the dunes—try sandboarding or a camel ride—but to fully appreciate the scale and combine activities, plan a full day. Start early with a 4WD tour or quad biking, take a break for lunch at a nearby café in Anna Bay or Nelson Bay, and finish with a sunset camel ride. If you’re a photographer, the golden hour light on the dunes is magical, so allow extra time for shooting.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nelson Bay: The hub of Port Stephens, offering dolphin-watching cruises, waterfront dining, and the Tomaree Headland walk with panoramic views.
• Shoal Bay: A quieter beachside village with calm waters perfect for swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.
• Port Stephens – Myall Lakes National Park: A vast wilderness of lakes, forests, and wetlands ideal for kayaking, fishing, and bushwalking.
• Worimi Conservation Lands: The Aboriginal-owned land that encompasses the dunes; take a cultural tour to learn about its Indigenous significance.
• Newcastle: Just 45 minutes south, this vibrant city boasts a thriving café scene, the Newcastle Memorial Walk, and historic architecture.

Please check official sources for current details.