Sandboarding on moving dunes feels seriously big. In Port Stephens, you ride up the dunes in off-road 4WD, then slide down giant slopes about 40 meters high, with instruction and supervision plus unlimited sandboarding time. One thing to plan for: there is no hotel pickup, so you’ll start at Anna Bay Lower Carpark.

I really like how the experience is run for real families and first-timers, with guides like Mick and Josh keeping things moving and answering questions on the sand. Water is provided, and there are several departure times throughout the day, so you can pick a slot that fits your trip.

There’s also one strict rule to know up front: they do not allow standing on the sandboards. If you hate rules, this might feel annoying, but it also helps keep the experience safe and controlled for everyone.

Key Things You Should Know Before You Go

• Largest moving dunes in the Southern Hemisphere: you’re not doing a tiny sand hill run.
• Unlimited sandboarding time: you spend your time sliding, not just watching.
• 4WD up, sandboarding down: the climb is part of the fun, and it saves your legs.
• Safety briefing and supervision: especially helpful if you’ve never sandboarded.
• Max 20 travelers: smaller groups mean more attention and less waiting.
• No standing on the boards: you’ll ride seated or in the position they instruct.

Stockton Beach Dunes, Built for Big Slides

Port Stephens is one of those places where the scenery feels like it was made for play. The sand here is shaped into some of the largest moving coastal dunes in the Southern Hemisphere, and the route you ride is designed to give you proper downhill momentum, not just a casual glide.

The headline for this experience is the dune size. The slide reaches about 40 meters (131 feet) high, which is enormous for sand. Even if you’re taking it easy, you still get that “wow, the dune is actually steep” moment.

I also like that the setup is practical. You get sandboard hire, water, and a guided structure that keeps you from spending your time figuring things out. This is an adventure that works for a wide range of ages, not just adrenaline junkies.

4WD Pickup at Anna Bay, Then Straight to the Sand

You meet at Anna Bay Lower Carpark, James Paterson St, Anna Bay NSW 2316. The tour ends back at the meeting point, so you’re not dealing with a mysterious drop-off or adding extra transport steps.

From there, you ride in off-road 4WD to reach the dunes you’ll board. This matters more than it sounds, because sandboarding is harder when you have to climb everything yourself. The 4WD return transfers mean you spend more time on your board and less time pushing through deep sand.

And because there are multiple departure times, you’re not stuck with one awkward slot. Pick the one that matches the weather and your day plan, then show up ready to move. The experience is limited to a maximum of 20 travelers, which usually translates to quicker organization once you’re at the dunes.

The Core Experience: Guided Sandboarding Runs (Unlimited Time)

The heart of the tour is simple: ride down one of the largest moving coastal sand dunes on Stockton Beach. You start with a safety briefing and instructions, then you practice good form before you go for longer, more fun slides.

The big advantage is unlimited sandboarding time. That doesn’t mean you’ll have all day on the sand, but it does mean you’re not cut off after a couple runs. With a 1 to 2 hour session and continuous supervision, you can rack up plenty of descents as the day allows.

This is also where the “guided” part earns its keep. When you’re on a slope that’s moving and changing, it helps to have someone show you how to stay stable and how to control your run. You don’t need advanced skills, but you do benefit from direction right when you’re learning.

The Safety Rules Matter More Than You Think

One rule you should take seriously right away: they strictly do not allow standing up on the sandboards. If you’re imagining a surf-style stance, adjust that expectation before you arrive.

Why does this help? Standing tends to put your weight higher and makes it easier to lose balance on uneven sand. Seated or controlled positions are usually safer and more consistent for beginners and families. The supervision and instruction are there to make sure everyone gets a shot at the fun while staying within the rules.

You’ll also notice the vibe is controlled, not chaotic. There’s a safety briefing first, and the guides are focused on keeping the flow moving. In practice, that means less time waiting around and more time actually sliding.

If you’re traveling with kids, this is a plus. You want an activity that feels energetic but not reckless, and this one is clearly set up that way.

What That Dune Height Means for Your Body

A 40 meter dune (131 feet) is not just marketing. On sand, height plus steepness equals speed, and speed equals impact when you stop. Even if you ride gently, your legs and core do some work, just not the grueling uphill kind.

Here’s what you can realistically expect to feel:

• Your calves and thighs may work a bit during your setup and getting off the board.
• Your balance will matter, especially if the sand is dry and a bit soft.
• You’ll want to pay attention to how the guide directs you to sit or move.

The good news is that this is designed as an activity for all ages, not a technical competition. The instruction and supervision are meant to help you find a comfortable rhythm quickly.

Also, because there are several departure times and the tour is capped at 20 travelers, the session doesn’t feel like a giant crowd on the dunes. That helps you stay focused and enjoy your runs instead of waiting for turns forever.

Water, Sandboard Hire, and What’s Included for $31.20

At $31.20 per person, the value is strong because the cost covers the stuff you’d otherwise have to pay for or figure out yourself. Included items are:

• Sandboard hire
• Instruction and supervision
• Complimentary bottle of water
• 4WD return transfers
• National Parks levy
• Unlimited sandboarding time

For me, the best value pieces are the sandboard hire and 4WD return transfers. If you had to bring gear and handle transport, the price would jump fast. Here, you show up, get kitted out, and focus on the fun.

Also, a national parks levy being included is a small detail that matters. These tours often add fees later, so it’s nice when the full experience costs you one clear amount up front.

Only one standard “not included” item is called out: hotel pickup and drop-off. That’s the tradeoff for keeping the price low and the tour simple.

How Long It Takes, and How to Plan Your Day

The tour runs about 1 to 2 hours. That’s a perfect length for a vacation plan because it’s enough time to get real sliding time, but short enough that you can still do other Port Stephens activities afterward.

If you’re doing it as part of a beach day, you can treat it like an anchor activity. Pick a departure time that gives you buffer time before you need to catch food, head back to your base, or drive to the next stop.

Because the tour operates in all weather conditions, you should still think weather. Dress appropriately for wind and sand, and bring gear that you can shake out later. Sandy shoes and a change of clothes can make the rest of your day feel easier, even if the tour itself provides the essentials.

Who This Sandboarding Tour Fits Best

This is a good fit for families, and it’s also a smart choice for adults who want a high-adrenaline activity without needing technical training.

You’ll likely enjoy this if:

• You’re sandboarding for the first time and want instruction right away
• You want a guided, supervised experience rather than DIY
• You’re traveling with kids or mixed skill levels
• You want plenty of runs within a short time window

It may be less ideal if you want long hikes or a slow, scenic nature walk style outing. This is about speed, sand slides, and getting on the board as often as the session allows.

Small Group Size and Real Guide Energy

With a maximum of 20 travelers, your odds of getting quick attention are better than in larger tours. When the group is small, you’re not stuck waiting while someone else takes forever to get ready.

In the overall vibe, guides like Mick and Josh are often highlighted for being helpful and accommodating. That kind of guide energy matters on sand, because small coaching moments can mean a big difference in how fun your ride feels.

You also get that “everyone is doing the same thing” flow. After the safety briefing, the group keeps moving through boarding and sliding. That helps your motivation too. You’re not hyped up for one quick run, then stuck for ages afterward.

Weather Rules and What to Wear So You Actually Enjoy It

The tour operates in all weather conditions, which means you shouldn’t count on a perfect sky. That’s also why dressing for sand, wind, and getting a little messy is key.

A few practical ideas that work well for this kind of outing:

• Wear clothes you do not mind getting sandy
• Choose footwear that won’t be ruined by sand
• Bring something you can wipe down or change into afterward
• Bring a water plan for after the tour, since you’ll be spending time outside

One more weather note: this experience requires good weather. If it gets canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. That gives you flexibility without feeling like you just lost money if conditions turn.

Should You Book Unlimited Sandboarding at Port Stephens?

If you want a short, high-impact activity with real structure, I’d book it. The price is low enough that it feels accessible, and the included sandboard hire, supervision, and 4WD transfers make it feel like a complete package rather than a pay-to-enter setup.

I also like that the experience is designed to work for a range of ages and skill levels. The unlimited sandboarding time means you’re not stuck with a token ride. You get a chance to learn, adjust, and slide again.

Your main reason to pause is the strict no-standing rule, plus the fact that there’s no hotel pickup. If you’re okay riding in the instructed position and you can get to Anna Bay Lower Carpark, this is a great value way to experience Stockton Beach dunes at their best.

FAQ

How much does the unlimited sandboarding adventure cost?

It costs $31.20 per person.

Where do I meet for the tour?

You meet at Anna Bay Lower Carpark, James Paterson St, Anna Bay NSW 2316, Australia.

How long is the sandboarding experience?

It runs about 1 to 2 hours (approx.).

What’s included in the price?

Included are sandboard hire, instruction and supervision, complimentary bottled water, 4WD return transfers, a national parks levy, and unlimited sandboarding time.

Is hotel pickup or drop-off included?

No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

Are there multiple departure times during the day?

Yes, there are several departure times available throughout the day.

What are the sandboarding rules?

They strictly do not allow standing up on the sandboards.

Does the tour run in bad weather?

It operates in all weather conditions. If it is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What is the cancellation policy?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, the amount paid is not refunded.