Port Stephens Sandboarding Tour: 4WD Transfers & Guide

Summary

Sandboard down stockton dunes with 4wd transfers and local tips

You’ll ride a 4WD out to Port Stephens’ Stockton Sand Dunes for unlimited sandboarding with all gear provided. A local guide gives tips and stories as you slide down shifting hills of sand at your own pace. Expect laughter, sandy shoes, and a view you’ll remember long after the tour ends.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the crunch — that gritty, squeaky sound your shoes make when you step off the 4WD onto Stockton’s sand. Our guide, Mark, grinned as he handed out boards and pointed to a dune that looked way taller up close than it did from the road. The wind whipped around, carrying this salty tang from the ocean mixed with something dry and sunbaked. I remember thinking, “Okay, here goes nothing.”

Mark gave us a quick demo (sitting only — apparently standing is a no-go here), then we just… went for it. The first slide down was faster than I expected. Sand sprayed everywhere — got some in my mouth (tastes like… well, sand). Everyone laughed at my face; I probably looked shocked but couldn’t stop grinning. There’s this weird silence at the top of the dunes except for distant gulls and people’s shouts echoing across the hills. You don’t really notice how big this place is until you’re halfway up again, legs burning a bit from climbing.

We had as much time as we wanted — nobody rushed us. Some families were there too; one little kid kept waving at me every time she zoomed past. Mark wandered around giving tips (“lean back more!”), and at one point he told us about how these dunes are always shifting — like they’ll look different next year. That stuck with me for some reason.

I still think about that last run before we left — sun starting to dip, sand cooling under my hands while I sat catching my breath. It’s not fancy or anything, but there’s something about being out there with just sky and sand and a bunch of strangers laughing together that feels kind of rare now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sandboarding at Stockton Beach

• Sandboarding down coastal sand dunes

Top questions

Is pickup included for the Port Stephens sandboarding tour?

No hotel pickup is included; 4WD transfers are provided from the meeting point to the dunes.

How long can I sandboard on the Stockton Sand Dunes?

You get unlimited sandboarding time during your visit.

Is standing allowed on the sandboards?

No, standing on the sandboards is strictly not allowed for safety reasons.

Are guides present during the tour?

Yes, a local guide provides instruction and supervision throughout.

What should I wear for sandboarding in Port Stephens?

Dress appropriately for weather conditions; it operates rain or shine.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers.

Are all fitness levels welcome on this tour?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels.

Is water provided during the tour?

Yes, you’ll receive a complimentary bottle of water.

What’s included

Your day includes return 4WD transfers to Stockton Sand Dunes, unlimited use of a hired sandboard with full instruction and supervision from a local guide, entry fees covered by the National Parks levy, plus a complimentary bottle of water to keep you going between runs before heading back together at your own pace.