THE ULTIMATE PORT STEPHENS DAY OUT: DUNES, DOLPHINS AND WHALES
If you have only got one day to experience Port Stephens, we have figured out how to make it count. Our new combo packages bring together two of the best things about this place: the incredible marine life and those massive sand dunes that look like they belong in the Sahara.
Two packages, one epic day
We have put together two options depending on when you are visiting. Both follow the same concept: spend your morning or early afternoon out on the water, then head inland to tear down some serious sand dunes.
The Dolphin + Sandboarding package runs all year and is perfect if you want to see Port Stephens’ cheeky resident bottlenose dolphins. You will cruise the calm waters with guides who know exactly where to find them, and in the warmer months, you can even jump in the boom net for a swim alongside them.
If you are here between May and November, the Whale + Sandboarding package is where it is at. This is when the humpback whales migrate along the coast, and getting up close to these giants is something else. The cruise heads further out to sea and runs a bit longer so you get proper time with the whales.
Then it is time to hit the sand
After your time on the water, we switch it up completely. Our 4WD convoy takes you into the Worimi Conservation Lands at Stockton Beach, home to some of the largest coastal sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere. These things are huge, constantly shifting with the wind, and absolutely perfect for sandboarding.
Our guides walk you through the technique (it is easier than it looks) and then you are off. Multiple runs, different slopes, and views that stretch from the dunes right out to the ocean. Whether you nail it first go or spend half the time laughing at yourself tumbling down, it is a blast.
Who is this for?
Honestly, most people. Families love it because you get variety without rushing around. Couples find it is a good mix of relaxed and active. Solo travellers join others and usually end up with a crew by the end of the sandboarding session.
You do not need to be super fit or an adventure junkie, but you should be ready to get sand everywhere. Everywhere.
The practical bits
Packages run daily, which means you can slot them into your Port Stephens itinerary pretty easily. The dolphin cruise (departs all year round) goes at 10:30am or 1:30pm, while the whale cruise departs (May – November) at 10:00am or 1:30pm. Sandboarding runs every day and fits around your cruise time.
The dolphin cruise is 1.5 hours, the whale cruise is 2.5-3 hours, and sandboarding takes around an hour (though you will wish it was longer).
Bring your swimmers and towel for the cruise, sunscreen for everything, and maybe a warm jacket for whale season. Your camera will earn its keep on this one.
Why these packages work
Port Stephens has this rare combination of pristine water and wild landscape sitting right next to each other. Most visitors end up choosing between marine activities or land adventures. These packages let you do both without the hassle of booking separately or coordinating timing.
Plus, the contrast is part of the experience. Going from the tranquil rhythm of a cruise to the adrenaline of flying down a sand dune makes both feel more intense.
If you are planning a trip to Port Stephens and want to pack in the highlights without feeling rushed, this is your answer. Sea and sand, dolphins or whales, all wrapped up in one memorable day.
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