If you’re after an adrenaline-filled day that combines adventure, stunning scenery, and a dash of sand-dusted fun, the Unlimited Sandboarding Adventure in Port Stephens might just be your perfect fit. While we haven’t personally strapped into a sandboard, reviews and tour details paint a picture of a lively, well-organized experience packed with excitement for all ages.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the guided 4WD ride up the sprawling coastal dunes offers fantastic views and a sense of anticipation. Then, the unlimited sliding down the towering sands—sometimes reaching 131 feet (40 meters)—makes for a genuinely exhilarating experience. Plus, the family-friendly atmosphere and helpful guides make it accessible to everyone, from first-timers to seasoned sandboarders.
The only caveat? It’s a weather-dependent activity, so if storms roll in, your plans might need to shift. Still, with flexible rescheduling and a reasonable price point, this adventure offers excellent value for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. If you enjoy outdoor activities that combine scenic beauty with a splash of fun, this tour is worth considering.
Key Points
- Accessible for all ages with guided instruction and supervision.
- Unbeatable views of the Southern Hemisphere’s largest moving dunes.
- Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Value for money at just under $30, including equipment, transfers, and water.
- Weather-dependent activity, so check the forecast before booking.
- Multiple departure times throughout the day for convenience.
An In-Depth Look at the Sandboarding Experience
Looking for more options in Port Stephens? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
What the Tour Includes and Excludes
This tour offers a comprehensive package: sandboard hire, guided instruction, return 4WD transfers, and a national parks levy—all for just around $29.49 per person. The inclusion of unlimited sandboarding time is especially appealing, allowing you to enjoy multiple runs down the dunes without feeling rushed.
What’s not included? The most notable is hotel pickup and drop-off—so you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point at Anna Bay Lower Carpark on James Paterson Street. The meeting point is convenient and easy to find, but it does mean you should plan your transport accordingly.
The Itinerary and What to Expect
The tour kicks off at the designated meeting point, where you’ll meet your guides and get a safety briefing. The guides—praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude—will demonstrate how to use the sandboards properly, emphasizing that standing up on the boards is not allowed for safety reasons. This restriction is worth noting, especially if you’re hoping for high-flying tricks; instead, you’ll be sliding lying down or sitting, which remains just as fun.
After the briefing, your group will hop into off-road 4WD vehicles to ascend the massive coastal dunes. These rides are a highlight, offering scenic views of the dunes and surrounding landscape, with some reviewers mentioning how helpful and accommodating the guides are during the ascent.
Once at the top, you’ll be given plenty of time to slide down the dunes, which reach impressive heights of 131 feet (40 meters). Several reviews mention how mildly challenging the dunes are, making it suitable for children and beginners, yet still offering enough thrill for more experienced riders. One reviewer noted, “There are choices for all levels of experience and thrills,” which speaks to the inclusive nature of the activity.
The Dunes: A Natural Playground
The dunes themselves are the star of the show. Known as the largest moving coastal dunes in the Southern Hemisphere, they shift constantly, creating fresh slopes and new routes. This makes each slide a slightly different experience, and it adds an element of unpredictability and adventure.
Several reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides like Mick and Josh kept the group safe while making sure everyone had fun. They also provided supervision and instruction, which means even nervous first-timers or children can enjoy the activity with confidence.
Comfort and Practicalities
Water is provided, so staying hydrated is straightforward, especially on hot days. The activity operates in all weather conditions, but it’s wise to dress appropriately—think hats, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, and closed-toe shoes.
The tour lasts approximately 1 to 2 hours, depending on how many times you want to slide and how long you spend at the top of the dunes. The group size is capped at 20, creating a friendly, intimate environment that allows guides to give personalized attention.
Review Insights and Real Experiences
Reviewers consistently mention the helpfulness of the guides. Antonietta from January 2025 praised the staff’s flexibility and the guides’ expertise, saying, “The guides on the dunes were great.” Cara from June 2024 shared how Mick and Josh went above and beyond to ensure everyone had a good time, making multiple slides and creating a welcoming atmosphere.
Many describe the activity as “absolute fun” and “something I’d do again”, emphasizing that the unlimited slides meant the kids and adults alike could enjoy multiple runs without feeling rushed.
Cost and Value
For $29.49 per person, this experience delivers a lot: insurance of safety, instruction, equipment, transfers, and the thrill of sliding down the dunes. Compared to other adventure activities, this offers high value, especially given the positive reviews about guide professionalism and the quality of the experience.
Who is This Tour Best Suited For?
This activity is perfect for families with children, groups of friends, or even solo travelers looking for a unique outdoor thrill. Its accessible nature and guided supervision make it suitable for all ages, and the unlimited sliding provides a generous window for fun.
If you’re someone who loves scenic outdoor activities with a mix of adventure and scenic views, this tour ticks all boxes. However, if you’re highly competitive or want to try tricks like standing on the board, you might find the restrictions limiting.
The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Experience?
The Unlimited Sandboarding Adventure offers a fantastic blend of adrenaline, scenery, and ease of access. It’s a great choice for families wanting a safe, guided experience or for thrill-seekers eager to conquer the massive dunes that are a natural playground. The knowledgeable guides, flexible scheduling, and inclusive approach make it a reliable and enjoyable option.
The price point makes it an affordable way to enjoy a unique natural environment, and the multiple slides ensure you get maximum value. If you’re after a fun, memorable outdoor activity that combines scenery with a splash of excitement, this tour is worth considering.
The activity’s weather reliance is a small consideration, but with its flexible cancellation policy, it’s easy to reschedule if needed. In sum, this tour offers genuine fun, great value, and the chance to make lasting memories on one of Australia’s most impressive natural features.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
No, this activity requires you to meet at the Anna Bay Lower Carpark on James Paterson Street.
How long does the tour last?
The activity takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how many times you want to slide and the group’s pace.
Are children allowed?
Yes, the tour is suitable for all ages, and guides provide supervision and instruction to ensure safety.
What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for outdoor activity in all weather conditions—think hats, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and closed-toe shoes.
Is water provided?
Yes, a complimentary bottle of water is included, which helps stay hydrated during the activity.
Can I stand up on the sandboards?
No, the tour explicitly states that standing up on the boards is not permitted for safety reasons.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, but if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.
How many people are in each group?
Groups are capped at 20 travelers, ensuring plenty of space and personal attention from guides.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead guarantees your spot, especially since the activity is popular and has multiple departure times daily.
Ready to take on the dunes? The Unlimited Sandboarding Adventure promises a day of fun, scenic views, and plenty of slides—perfect for making the most of your Port Stephens trip.