Port Stephens Dunes

Stretching for 32 kilometres along the coast of Port Stephens, the Stockton Bight Sand Dunes form the largest moving sand dune system in the Southern Hemisphere. These colossal, wind-sculpted dunes – some rising to 40 metres – create a surreal, almost lunar landscape that feels a world away from the nearby beaches and bays. The dunes are a playground for adventure, a haven for wildlife, and a place of profound natural beauty.

Highlights & What to See

• Quad bike and 4WD tours: The most exhilarating way to explore the dunes is on a guided quad bike or 4WD tour, racing across the soft sand and cresting ridges for panoramic views of the coast.
• Sandboarding: Grab a board and slide down the steep slopes – a thrilling, family-friendly activity that’s the dunes’ signature experience.
• Stockton Beach Shipwrecks: The beach is littered with the rusting remains of historic shipwrecks, including the Sygnus and the Maitland, visible at low tide.
• Worimi Conservation Lands: Aboriginal heritage tours offer insight into the cultural significance of the area, with stories of the Worimi people and their connection to the land.
• Horse riding along the beach: Saddle up for a guided ride through the dunes and along the shoreline, especially magical at sunset.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least half a day to truly experience the dunes. A 2–3 hour quad bike or sandboarding tour covers the highlights, but if you want to combine it with a beach walk, shipwreck spotting, and a cultural tour, plan for a full day. The best light for photography is early morning or late afternoon, when the dunes cast long shadows and the colours deepen. Most tours depart from Anna Bay or Nelson Bay.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nelson Bay – the hub of Port Stephens, with dolphin-watching cruises, restaurants, and the Tomaree Head Summit walk for coastal views.
• Anna Bay – the main access point for the dunes, with a lovely patrolled beach and the Birubi Beach Café.
• Tomaree National Park – home to the iconic Tomaree Head summit walk (1.2 km return) offering 360-degree views of the bay and dunes.
• Myall Lakes National Park – a short drive north, with pristine lakes, forests, and the Mungo Brush Rainforest Walk.
• Port Stephens Winery – a boutique vineyard in nearby Bobs Farm, perfect for a relaxed tasting afternoon.

Please check official sources for current details.