
moderate
1–1.5 hours (most visitors)
Moderate fitness — expect repeated climbs of steep, loose sand and short bursts of effort
Slide down 40–50 meter faces of shifting sand on the Stockton Sand Dunes at Birubi Beach. This guided, 4WD-accessed experience includes equipment, instruction, and unlimited runs — ideal for adventurers looking for fast, low-tech thrills near Port Stephens.
The first thing that hits you is the sound: soft, granular, a thousand tiny avalanches underfoot. At the edge of Birubi Beach the Stockton Sand Dunes rise like a shifting city of gold — faces of sand sunlit and sharp, slopes that drop 40–50 meters and dare you to launch. Guests gather at the green-and-black trailer in the lower car park; instructors hand out boards, demonstrate a low, seated stance, and the 4WD rattles off across the dune field toward the largest moving sand mass in the southern hemisphere.

Temperatures and exertion on the dunes dehydrate quickly; carry a refillable bottle and drink before and after runs.
Wide-brim hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses protect you from reflective sand and open sky.
Use a seated sliding position as instructed to reduce strain; avoid participation if you have spinal or serious cardiac issues.
Walk the slope before you ride to check for wind-blown ripples, hidden debris, or steep drop-offs.
The Worimi people are the traditional custodians of these lands; dunes and coastal paths hold cultural significance and traditional knowledge.
The dunes are actively managed to balance recreation with habitat protection — follow marked tracks and avoid trampling fragile vegetation to reduce erosion.
Staying hydrated is crucial in open, sun-exposed dune fields.
summer specific
Helps when climbing dunes and protects feet from hot sand and hidden shells.
Sand reflects sunlight strongly—UV protection matters year-round.
spring specific
Provides a clean, comfortable place to sit between runs and protects clothing from sand.