Culture and Adventure: 7 Ways to Explore Stockton Bight Sand Dunes

There are so many reasons to love Port Stephens, and the incredible Stockton Bight sand dunes are right up there.  

Stockton Bight sand dunes are the largest moving coastal dunes in the Southern Hemisphere and a place of cultural significance to the Worimi Aboriginal people. 

Towering up to 30 metres above sea level, the dunes are home to the Worimi Conservation Lands which cover 4,200 hectares of land, and Stockton Beach which curves 32 kilometres from the Hunter River at Newcastle to Birubi Point in Anna Bay. 

As you might have guessed there is a lot to explore, so we’ve pulled together 7 amazing ways to explore Stockton Bight sand dunes - a truly breathtaking experience! 

Take a stroll you’ll never forget 

Forget about a visit to the Sahara Desert, riding on the back of a camel across never-ending sand dunes can be done right here in beautiful Port Stephens. 

Oakfield Ranch was founded by long-time camel and animal trainer, Rod Sansom, and offers walk-in camel rides over Stockton Bight sand dunes between 10am and 3.30pm every day of the week except Wednesdays. Oakfield Ranch is also open every day during School and Public Holidays. 

Starting from beautiful Birubi Beach at Anna Bay, you’ll have the option of a 20-minute or a one-hour camel ride allowing you to take in this unique landscape. For something truly special, join Rod and his camels for a one-hour sunset ride that goes higher into the Stockton Bight sand dunes and back along the beachfront (Fridays and Saturdays only). 

Saddle-up for an experience like no other 

If a horse is your preferred transport of choice, Sahara Trails offers fun horse-riding experiences for the whole family. Take an unforgettable ride along the pristine Port Stephens coastline and the base of the Stockton Bight sand dunes where you can immerse yourself in the ever-changing environment. 

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, Sahara Trails has an adventure to suit all levels. The 30-minute First Taste of Horse-Riding Experience caters for all riders and is a great confidence builder for beginners, while the 50-minute Beginner Bush Trail Ride offers a longer experience where you can relax and take in the tranquil surroundings.  

For those who are more confident, the one-hour Intermediate Beach Ride is a great way to explore Stockton Bight sand dunes with your friendly guide.  

Fly like the wind 

We can’t think of a better place to try sandboarding than Stockton Bight sand dunes. Sandboarding is a unique sport that involves riding across or down a sand dune while standing, sitting or lying on a board, and there are a few operators in Port Stephens who offer this fun experience.  

Sand Dune Safaris are a small family-run business offering several adventure tours on Stockton Bight sand dunes. Take a 4WD trip over the dunes to a private sandboarding area in the heart of the dunes where you can test your sandboarding skills or relax in the shaded picnic area with tables and chairs. The tour also includes a visit to the hidden outpost of Tin City, digging for pipis and visiting Aboriginal cultural and World War Two sites. 

4WD Tours R Us is another family-owned and operated business offering 4WD and sandboarding experiences on Stockton Bight sand dunes. 

Thrill ride 

Another great way to experience Stockton Bight sand dunes is from the seat of a quad bike and Sand Dune Adventures offers an exclusive cultural quad bike riding experience like no other.  

Whether you want to get the adrenalin pumping, or cruise at your own pace, a quad bike tour with Sand Dune Adventures caters for all levels of rider with no experience necessary. 

Starting in the bush, you’ll ride to the beach on a 400cc quad bike before hitting the Stockton Bight sand dunes where you’ll experience the thrill of climbing as high as 30 metres! 

A highlight of the tour is the hands-on introductions to authentic Aboriginal culture and history, visiting ancient campsites and learning about the local bush foods, medicines and the secrets of finding fresh water in Stockton Bight sand dunes.  

If you’re looking for something less adrenalin-fueled you can opt to fly down the sand dunes on a sand board. Top tip: finish off your day with a Cultural Tour of Murrook Cultural Centre to discover the history of the Worimi people. 

Take a walk to another world 

If you want to explore Stockton Bight sand dunes at your own pace, why not take a leisurely stroll? With so much to see and discover, it’s certainly a walk that is out of this world.  

For a true beach adventure start at the southern end of Stockton Beach and head north or kick off from Birubi Beach at Anna Bay. After a long walk along the beach taking in the sights and sounds, treat yourself to a swim and maybe even a drink or meal at a local cafe in either of these quaint seaside villages.  

From Nelson Bay Road there are multiple access points to Stockton Bight sand dunes, including Fern Bay and Salt Ash. Check out Google Maps to view all the trails you’ll want to add to your hiking wish list. 

Explore untouched beaches 

At 32 kilometres long, it won’t be hard to find yourself an uninterrupted patch of sand along Stockton Beach. Nestled between the blue of the South Pacific Ocean and the Stockton Bight sand dunes, Stockton Beach is the perfect spot to kick back and relax with a book or some beach games. 

If you’re keen for a dip, it’s always advisable to swim at a lifeguard-patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags. The beach within Worimi Conservation Lands isn’t patrolled so it’s advised you don’t swim in this area.  

However, there are plenty of safe beaches nearby to cool off. Head to the popular hubs of Stockton or Anna Bay for safe swimming spots, or for more patrolled beaches in the area check out our insiders guide to the best beaches in and around Port Stephens. 

Drive on nature’s most incredible canvas 

Beach and dune driving is without a doubt one of the most popular ways to explore Stockton Bight sand dunes and surrounds. The Worimi Conservation Lands provides 4WD access to more than 22 kilometres of beachfront and more than 350 hectares of dunes to drive across, making it the perfect way to explore at your own pace. 

Entry points can be found at Lavis Lane at Williamtown, Gan Gan Road at Anna Bay, or via the Fern Bay 4WD access track. You’ll need to buy a special beach permit, available from various locations across Port Stephens including the Visitor Information Centre. A three-day permit will set you back just $33, while an annual permit costs $88. 

Once you’ve got your permit, you’re ready to make your way onto the sandy stretch and explore Stockton Bight sand dunes until your heart's content. Why not pack a fishing rod and picnic to make the most of your time in this awe-inspiring landscape? 

Summary

Whether it’s on the back of a camel, quad bike or in a 4WD, Stockton Bight sand dunes is an adventure playground ready to be explored. 

Book your sand dunes adventure with one of the many tour operators listed above, or choose your own adventure on foot or by car.  No matter your choice, we guarantee this incredible landscape will be a highlight of your visit to Port Stephens.