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Stockton Sand Dunes (Worimi Conservation Lands)

Natural Landmark in New South Wales

Ben ColeWritten by Ben Cole· Updated Apr 2026

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About Stockton Sand Dunes (Worimi Conservation Lands)

The Stockton Sand Dunes form the largest moving coastal sand dune system in the Southern Hemisphere, stretching 32 km from Anna Bay to Stockton along the southern shore of Port Stephens. The dunes are managed as the Worimi Conservation Lands under Worimi Aboriginal Land Council and rise to 40 m in height. They are a spectacular and dynamic landscape used for quad biking, sandboarding, and 4WD adventures.

About

The Stockton Sand Dunes form the largest moving coastal sand dune system in the Southern Hemisphere, stretching 32 km from Anna Bay to Stockton along the southern shore of Port Stephens. The dunes are managed as the Worimi Conservation Lands under Worimi Aboriginal Land Council and rise to 40 m in height. They are a spectacular and dynamic landscape used for quad biking, sandboarding, and 4WD adventures.

History & Significance

The Stockton Sand Dunes are the largest moving coastal sand dune system in the Southern Hemisphere, stretching 32 km along Port Stephens' southern shore. The dunes are managed as Worimi Conservation Lands under the Worimi Aboriginal Land Council, recognising the cultural significance of the country to the Worimi people. The landscape is dynamic and actively shaped by coastal processes, rising to 40 metres in height.

Sources & References

Warnings

Soft Sand Can Bog Conventional Vehicles — 4WD Essential For Beach AccessDeflate Tyres Before Driving On BeachExtreme Heat In Summer On DunesSandstorms Possible In Strong Northerly Wind

Getting There

Map of Stockton Sand Dunes (Worimi Conservation Lands)

Drive 230 km north of Sydney via Pacific Highway to Newcastle, then onto Port Stephens. Anna Bay is 30 km northeast of Williamtown. Access the dunes via Birubi Point, Anna Bay.

Parking

Free parking at Birubi Point carpark. Vehicle access permit required ($15 per day from Worimi Land Council) for driving on dunes and beach. 4WD essential for beach access; conventional vehicles will bog in soft sand. Deflate tyres before driving on beach. Capacity not specified but carpark serves as main access point.

Visitor Tips

  • The best dune viewing is from the Anna Bay access point at Birubi Point (walking access, no vehicle needed). Sunset over the dunes is spectacular. Sandboarding hire is available from operators on site.

Quick Facts

At a Glance

The Place

Significance
National

Plan Your Visit

Entry
Paid
Duration
2–4 hours to full day
Best Time
Year-round; avoid strong northerly winds that create sandstorm conditions

Location

Region
Hunter / Port Stephens
State
New South Wales

Good to Know

All ages with supervision; quad biking and sandboarding best for ages 8+

Highlights

Largest Moving Sand Dunes In Southern HemisphereAnna Bay Sunset Over DunesQuad Biking And SandboardingWild Horses (Brumbies) In Dune SystemWhale Watching From Elevated Dune Crests

Activities

SandboardingQuad Biking4WD DrivingCamel RidesPhotographyWhale Watching From Dunes (May–November)

Family & Visitor Info

Ages
All ages with supervision; quad biking and sandboarding best for ages 8+
Shade/Cover
No shade
Pram Friendly
No

Food & Drink

Picnic AreaBYO Food OK

No on-site food outlets. BYO food and water essential, especially in summer. Bring plenty of water for heat management on dunes.

Features

Not available:Wheelchair Accessible
Not available:Dog Friendly
Not available:Pram/Stroller Friendly
Not available:Camping Available
Not available:Tours Available
Not available:Guided Walks
Not available:Swimming Allowed
Not available:Lockers Available

Facilities

Birubi Point Carpark (Free)Quad Bike Hire OperatorsSandboard HireCamel Tours4WD Access Tracks

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