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Sydney: Port Stephens Sandboarding, Dunes & Dolphin Cruise option

5 Reviews 3.40 out of 5 stars Based on 5 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor | Sydney, Australia

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On average, this is booked 28 (0) days in advance.

10 to 12 hours (approx.)
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Offered in: English

Overview

Escape to Port Stephens on this unforgettable day tour from Sydney. Journey north to NSW's blue-water paradise, where golden sand dunes meet turquoise coastal waters.

Experience the thrill of a 4WD sand safari across the largest moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere. Feel the adrenaline rush of sandboarding down towering golden slopes. Alternatively, soak in the otherworldly beauty and capture incredible photos.

Explore charming Nelson Bay during lunch. Browse waterfront shops, savour fresh seafood at harbour cafés, or grab fish and chips (lunch at own expense).

Then, choose your own adventure:

Dolphin Cruise: Watch resident bottlenose dolphins play & leap in their natural habitat. Expert crew provides marine insights while cruising past stunning beaches.

Summit Hike: conquer Mount Tomaree's guided hike (25-30 min each way) for spectacular 360° views of Port Stephens harbour, rugged headlands, & dolphins from above.

Small groups, expert guides, licensed Eco Pass operators.

What's Included

  • Return transportation from Sydney Central in comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
  • Dolphin-watching cruise with marine commentary (option)
  • Sandboarding equipment and instruction
  • Lunch bring a packed lunch or grab lunch at one of the Nelson Bay cafes
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

812 George Street
Haymarket NSW 2000, Australia

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

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Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Safe & secure • Easy breezy • Hassle-free

Sydney

Meet your passionate local guide and fellow adventurers (maximum 26 guests). Board your comfortable air-conditioned vehicle and begin your coastal escape to NSW's blue-water paradise. Your guide shares fascinating stories about Port Stephens' natural wonders, the unique sand dune ecosystem, dolphin habitat, and local secrets during the scenic drive north.
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15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Anna Bay

Welcome to the largest moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere! Enter this 32-kilometer coastal desert and feel the thrill of a 4WD sand safari across towering golden dunes. Experience the otherworldly landscape as your driver navigates the massive sandy peaks and valleys.Then it's time for heart-racing sandboarding - carve down golden slopes and feel the adrenaline rush of this unique Australian adventure. Your guide provides instruction and safety tips. For those that prefer to sit back and relax, soak in the stunning dune landscapes and capture incredible photos of this natural wonder. The contrast of golden sand against blue ocean creates unforgettable imagery.
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1 hour 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Nelson Bay

Arrive in picturesque Nelson Bay, the heart of Port Stephens. This charming bayside village offers free time for lunch and exploration. From casual fish & chips enjoyed harbourside to cosy waterfront cafés serving fresh local seafood, you can choose your perfect seaside bite (at your own expense). Browse local boutique shops, stroll along the marina, or simply relax and soak in the coastal atmosphere. Your guide recommends the best spots for all tastes and budgets.After lunch, choose your own adventure: dolphin cruise OR Mount Tomaree Hike (select option during checkout).
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1 hour 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Port Stephens - Great Lakes Marine Park

OPTION 1: Board your comfortable cruise vessel at Nelson Bay marina and set sail into the sparkling turquoise waters of Port Stephens Marine Park. Feel the excitement as resident bottlenose dolphins swim, play, and leap around the boat. Watch them race to surf the bow wave, showing off their incredible speed and agility.Your expert crew shares fascinating insights about dolphin behavior, the marine park ecosystem, and Port Stephens' role as a protected dolphin habitat. Cruise past stunning white sand beaches, dramatic coastal cliffs, and rocky headlands while keeping your eyes peeled for other marine life including seals, sea birds, and during migration season (May-November), you might even spot whales!Covered seating areas and restrooms are available onboard. The sheltered bay creates calm water conditions ideal for comfortable cruising and wildlife encounters.
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1 hour 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Tomaree National Park

OPTION 2: Enter Tomaree National Park and lace up for a guided hike to the summit of Mount Tomaree. At 25-30 minutes walk each way, the trail features steps and pathways winding up through native bushland to the peak.The panoramic views from the top are nothing short of spectacular - sweeping 360-degree vistas encompassing Port Stephens harbour's turquoise waters, rugged headlands stretching into the distance, offshore islands, and the Pacific Ocean meeting the horizon. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins playing in the bay below, boats dotting the harbour, and during migration season (May-November) - you might even spot whales! The afternoon timing provides beautiful natural lighting perfect for photography.Your guide shares insights about the region's natural history, points out geographical features, and helps you capture those perfect shots. Take your time at the summit soaking in the breathtaking views before descending back through the coastal bushland.
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1 hour 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Port Stephens

Both groups reunite at the designated meeting point and board the vehicle together. We'll wrap up the day with a comfortable drive back to Sydney. Relax and reflect on your adventure-filled day as you travel south. Share stories and photos with your fellow travelers about your different experiences - compare dolphin encounters with summit views! Ask your guide final questions about Sydney attractions, or simply rest after conquering sand dunes and your chosen adventure. Your guide provides insider recommendations for other NSW coastal destinations and Sydney hidden gems.
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15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Sydney Central Plaza

Return to the original meeting point - memories and sand souvenirs in tow. Your guide bids you farewell with recommendations for your remaining time in Sydney, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Port Stephens' natural beauty and adventure.
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10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Please keep in mind that the bus journey to Port Stephens takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes each way
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 26 travelers

Frequently Asked Questions

(7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Sydney: Port Stephens Sandboarding, Dunes & Dolphin Cruise option?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (AEST).This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-287850P7

Reviews

3.40
5 reviews

Average 3.40 out of 5 stars based on 5 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and partner sites such as Trustpilot, Viator, and TripAdvisor

5 stars
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3 stars
2
2 stars
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1 star
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Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 28 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Return transportation from Sydney Central in comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
  • Dolphin-watching cruise with marine commentary (option)
  • Sandboarding equipment and instruction
  • All national park and marine park entry fees
  • Licensed Eco Pass operator certification
  • 4WD sand safari through the largest moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere
  • Guided Mount Tomaree summit hike with panoramic views (option)
  • Expert driver/guide passionate about Australian adventure
  • Lunchbring a packed lunch or grab lunch at one of the Nelson Bay cafes

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Please keep in mind that the bus journey to Port Stephens takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes each way
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 26 travelers
  • Operated by a business

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Free Cancellation

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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (AEST).
  • This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
  • This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

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