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Offered languages
- Portuguese
- English
- Spanish
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
Meeting and pickup
Please wait for your tour Guide/Driver on the dedicated BUS/COACH pickup and dropoff area in front of the St Laurence Church, you will receive a detailed map in your Booking confirmation e-mail
Itinerary
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1Sydney
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.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2Anna 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.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3Nelson 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).
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4
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.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket included -
5
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.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket included -
6Port 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.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
7Sydney 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.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please keep in mind that the bus journey to Port Stephens takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes each way
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience 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.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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