Small Group Port Stephens + Dolphins + 4WD/sandboarding ex Sydney
Active
11h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
With a maximum of 24 travellers, enjoy a carbon neutral, personalised day tour to the blue water paradise of Port Stephens. With crystal clear waters, Port Stephens boasts over 26 pristine beaches, National Parks and diverse marine life.
The action starts with a visit to Birubi Point with the majestic 30km long Stockton Beach and the Southern Hemisphere's biggest sand dunes!
Take a 4WD over the dunes to sandboard down the huge slopes – lots of laughs and hard work walking back up! Walk along the beach and in the warmer months (conditions permitting) you can swim.
At Nelson Bay we have free time for lunch (own expense) with plenty of venues and shops to wander and find what you like.
It’s then onto a fun dolphin watching cruise to get up close to the local population of bottle nose dolphins that call this paradise home. Jump in the boom net (warmer months) or stay dry on deck seeing these wonderful animals in the wild.
Grab an ice cream or drink before our return to Sydney
Available options
Pick up near Circular Quay
Macquarie Place Park: Departs 7.45am The Obelisk, Macquarie Place Park, cnr Loftus & Bridge St. Please arrive 10 minutes before departure<br/>Starting point:<br/>Macquarie Place Park, 36 Bridge St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Pick up near Central Station
St Laurence Church: Departs 7.15am St Laurence Church, 812 George St, Haymarket. Please arrive 10 minutes before departure.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Christ Church St Laurence, 812 George St, Haymarket NSW 2000, Australia
Pick up near Sydney Town Hall
St Andrew's Cathedral: Departs 7.30am St Andrew’s Cathedral, 78 Bathurst St next to Sydney Town Hall. Please arrive 10 minutes before departure
What's included
Carbon neutral with all vehicle emissions offset
4WD transfer + sandboarding
Explore local shops on the marina
30km long Stockton Beach
All transport with professional driver/guide
1.5 hour dolphin watching cruise
Detailed itinerary
1
Gateway to the blue water paradise, Nelson Bay is where we board our cruise to get up close to the local bottlenose dolphins on a 1.5 dolphin watch cruise.
2
Free time to have some lunch, wander the shops and listen to local entertainment next to the bay
3
Port Stephens is home to over 160 resident bottlenose dolphins and is called the Dolphin Capital of Australia!
The 1.5 hour dolphin watching tours have a high success rate of dolphin sightings, boom net rides, inside and outside viewing areas, licensed bar and snack food available and entertaining commentary.
4
The gateway to the spectacular Stockton Bight Sand Dunes in the Worimi Conservation Lands, Anna Bay is ideal for outdoor adventures.
5
4WD buses will transport you over the dunes to the sandboarding instructors who will teach you how to safely sandboard on the largest coastal sand dune system in the Southern hemisphere.
Stay and slide for as long as you like and return on one of the 4WD shuttle buses back to the departure point whenever you’re ready.
6
Free time to swim (weather permitting) or walk along this 30km long glorious beach
What's not included
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.3
10 reviews
5★
8
4★
0
3★
0
2★
1
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.6
8 reviews
5★
6
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
We do not accept children under 8 years old, including infants
No hot drinks or food are allowed on the bus
Meeting point
Please wait at the corner of Loftus St and Bridge St at least 10 minutes before the 7.45 AM departure. You must go to the pick-up location you selected at the time of booking unless a change request is made 24 hours before departure
Important notes
For any special instructions / requests, please kindly call our office at +61 2 9318 0853
About Port Stephens
Port Stephens is a stunning coastal region known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. It's a haven for water sports, wildlife encounters, and relaxation, offering a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.
Top Attractions
Dolphin Watch Cruises
Experience the thrill of swimming with wild dolphins in their natural habitat. This eco-certified tour offers an unforgettable wildlife encounter.
Nature/Adventure
3-4 hours
AUD 100-150
Stockton Sand Dunes
The largest moving coastal sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere, offering activities like sandboarding, quad biking, and camel rides.
Nature/Adventure
Half day to full day
AUD 20-100 depending on the activity
Tomaree Head Summit Walk
A scenic walking trail leading to a lookout point with panoramic views of the coastline, including Shoal Bay and Zenith Beach.
Nature/Adventure
1-2 hours
Free
Port Stephens Farmers Market
A vibrant market showcasing local produce, artisanal goods, and delicious food. A great place to experience the region's flavors and support local businesses.
Cultural/Food
2-3 hours
Free entry, prices vary for goods
Zenith Beach
A beautiful, secluded beach known for its clear waters, soft sand, and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fresh Oysters
Port Stephens is famous for its fresh oysters, often served with lemon, tabasco, and other condiments.
Appetizer
Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Prawns
Locally caught prawns are a must-try, often served grilled, fried, or in seafood platters.
Main Course
Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Fish and Chips
A classic Australian dish, featuring fresh local fish in crispy batter, served with chips.
Main Course
Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Modern Australian Cuisine
Many restaurants in Port Stephens offer modern Australian cuisine, featuring local ingredients and innovative dishes.
Main Course
Varies by dish, options for vegetarians and vegans available.
Popular Activities
Dolphin watching
Sandboarding
Quad biking
Kayaking
Hiking
Beach relaxation
Picnicking
Spa and wellness
Best Time to Visit
December to February
This is the summer season, perfect for beach activities, water sports, and outdoor adventures. The weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for exploring the natural beauty of Port Stephens.
20-28°C
68-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Australian Dollar (AUD)
Time Zone
AEST (GMT+10) or AEDT (GMT+11) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Port Stephens is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited services or assistance.
Getting there
By air
- Newcastle Airport • 45 km from Port Stephens
By train
Newcastle Interchange
By bus
Newcastle Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Port Stephens, offering regular services throughout the region.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Nelson Bay
Shoal Bay
Fingal Bay
Salamander Bay
Anna Bay
Day trips
Hunter Valley
60 km from Port Stephens • Full day
The Hunter Valley is Australia's oldest wine region, known for its award-winning wines, gourmet food, and beautiful landscapes.
Myall Lakes National Park
50 km from Port Stephens • Full day
A beautiful national park featuring lakes, forests, and wildlife, offering activities like hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking.
Barry Park
15 km from Port Stephens • Half day
A scenic park with picnic areas, walking trails, and a beautiful lake, perfect for a relaxing day out.
Festivals
Port Stephens Festival • Annual, typically held in October
Nelson Bay Surf Classic • Annual, typically held in March
Port Stephens Oyster Festival • Annual, typically held in May
Pro tips
- Visit during the shoulder seasons (March to May, September to November) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Book accommodations, tours, and activities in advance, especially during peak season.
- Explore the region's diverse attractions, including beaches, national parks, and wildlife encounters.
- Support local businesses and buy locally made products to contribute to the local economy.
- Be respectful of the environment and follow Leave No Trace principles when exploring nature.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
