Port Stephens is a standout destination in New South Wales for those craving a mix of adventure, scenery, and wildlife. With its vast sand dunes and pristine beaches, the area offers an array of guided tours that showcase its natural beauty. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker eager for adrenaline-pumping activities like sandboarding or a nature lover interested in wildlife sightings, Port Stephens has a lot to offer. We particularly enjoy the combination of 4WD excursions and scenic beaches, which give you a genuine taste of this coastal wonderland. For example, the Port Stephens: Unlimited Sandboarding & 4WD Sand Dune Tour offers the perfect mix of excitement and scenic views in just 1.5 hours.
If you’re looking for in-depth exploration, the Port Stephens, Beach and Sand Dune 4WD Tag-Along Tour provides a guided self-drive experience that takes you through wildflower meadows, beaches, and national parks, all while spotting wildlife like whales and koalas. For a more relaxed, but equally engaging experience, the Port Stephens, Beach and Sand Dune 4WD Passenger Tour offers a scenic ride in an air-conditioned 7-seat vehicle. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour to help you pick the best fit for your adventure style.
1. Port Stephens: Unlimited Sandboarding & 4WD Sand Dune Tour
This tour is all about adrenaline and blowing off steam on Stockton Beach’s massive sand dunes. For just 1.5 hours, you’ll hop into a 4WD vehicle with air conditioning and climb some of the largest mobile sand dunes in the southern hemisphere. Once at the top, the fun begins — you get up to unlimited sandboarding, sliding down the dunes as often as you like. It’s an active, exhilarating option perfect for families or groups looking for quick yet memorable fun.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of a scenic 4WD journey and the pure joy of sandboarding. The guides are experienced, ensuring safety and fun, while the air-conditioned vehicles provide comfort during the dune climbs. With a solid 4.5/5 rating from over 500 reviews, most travelers praise the upfront excitement and the friendly guides. This is a great choice if you want a short, action-packed experience that leaves you with a big smile.
Bottom line: Ideal for thrill-seekers and families who want a quick dose of adventure on impressive dunes, with the added bonus of unlimited sandboarding.
2. Port Stephens, Beach and Sand Dune 4WD Tag-Along Tour
At number two, this guided self-drive tour allows you to explore Port Stephens at your own pace, following a knowledgeable guide in your own 4WD vehicle. You’ll visit stunning beaches like Birubi, wildflower meadows, and the Tomaree National Park, where you might see whales, koalas, or wallabies. The tour lasts about three hours and offers the flexibility of choosing a morning or afternoon departure, making it convenient for most schedules.
The highlight here is the personalized experience—you get to drive your own 4WD, making it more interactive than a standard tour. Many reviews emphasize the expertise of Bruce and Nicole, who make navigation easy with clear instructions and plenty of humor. Guests appreciate the diverse scenery, from wild coastlines to lush bushlands, and the opportunity to spot wildlife. With a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 88 reviews, this tour is often described as fun, informative, and well-organized.
The tour’s value lies in its combination of self-drive freedom and guided expertise, making it perfect for those who want to control their pace while exploring. It’s best suited for adventurous travelers who are comfortable in a 4WD and eager to get off the beaten path.
Bottom line: A fantastic choice for solo explorers, couples, or families wanting a flexible, wildlife-rich tour that combines scenic drives with active exploration.
3. Port Stephens, Beach and Sand Dune 4WD Passenger Tour
This tour offers a relaxed, guided ride in a comfortable, air-conditioned 7-seat 4WD vehicle. Lasting around three hours, it takes you from Stockton Sand Dunes to beaches like Birubi and Samurai, offering stunning coastal views and the chance to see whales and koalas along the way. Unlike the self-drive option, here you sit back and enjoy the scenery while the guide narrates the highlights.
Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guide, Bruce, who shares his insights about the area and its wildlife. The tour is praised for its ease and comfort, making it suitable for those who prefer a more laid-back experience or have limited driving experience. With a 5.0/5 rating from 30 reviews, many mention how fun and informative the trip was, particularly noting the opportunity to see wildlife and enjoy iconic beaches.
It’s a good balance of scenic beauty and wildlife sightings, without the need to drive yourself. It’s especially suited for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a guided, no-fuss adventure.
Bottom line: Perfect for families or older travelers wanting a scenic, wildlife-focused tour with minimal effort.
How to Choose
When deciding among these tours, consider your budget, comfort level, and interest in active participation. The sandboarding tour is best for thrill-seekers looking for a quick, high-energy experience. If you prefer more control and a personalized exploration, the self-drive tag-along offers flexibility and interaction. For those who want a comfortable, guided ride with wildlife and scenery, the passenger tour is ideal.
If you’re traveling with kids or in a group, the sandboarding or passenger tour provides a more relaxed pace, while the self-drive suits adventure-minded travelers who enjoy a bit of independence. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure the best times and ensure availability.
Port Stephens offers a variety of exciting and scenic tours that showcase its dunes, beaches, and wildlife. Whether you’re after adrenaline, exploration, or relaxed sightseeing, there’s a perfect trip waiting. For a quick dose of action, the Port Stephens: Unlimited Sandboarding & 4WD Sand Dune Tour is hard to beat. If you prefer a more hands-on experience, the Port Stephens, Beach and Sand Dune 4WD Tag-Along Tour offers personalized exploration. And for a comfortable, wildlife-focused ride, the Port Stephens, Beach and Sand Dune 4WD Passenger Tour provides a relaxing way to enjoy the scenery.
No matter which you choose, booking early will help you enjoy the best of Port Stephens in comfort and style.