• Sydney - Join your enthusiastic local guide and fellow travelers (up to 26 guests) as you embark on a coastal journey to New South Wales’ blue-water paradise. Settle into your comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and listen as your guide shares intriguing tales about Port Stephens’ natural marvels, the distinctive sand dune ecosystem, dolphin habitats, and local secrets during the scenic drive north.
• Anna Bay - Welcome to the largest moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere! Enter this 32-kilometer coastal desert and experience the excitement of a 4WD sand safari across towering golden dunes. Marvel at the otherworldly landscape as your driver expertly maneuvers through the massive sandy peaks and valleys.

Next, get ready for the exhilarating experience of sandboarding - glide down golden slopes and feel the adrenaline rush of this unique Australian adventure. Your guide offers instructions and safety tips. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, enjoy the stunning dune landscapes and capture incredible photos of this natural wonder. The contrast of golden sand against the blue ocean creates unforgettable imagery.

• Nelson Bay - Arrive in the picturesque Nelson Bay, the heart of Port Stephens. This charming bayside village offers free time for lunch and exploration. From casual fish & chips enjoyed harborside to cozy waterfront cafés serving fresh local seafood, you can choose your perfect seaside meal (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).

• Port Stephens - Great Lakes Marine Park - 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 thrill as resident bottlenose dolphins swim, play, and leap around the boat. Watch them race to surf the bow wave, showcasing 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 an eye out 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.

• Tomaree National Park - 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 harbor’s turquoise waters, rugged headlands stretching into the distance, offshore islands, and the Pacific Ocean meeting the horizon. Keep an eye out for dolphins playing in the bay below, boats dotting the harbor, 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.

• Port Stephens - Both groups reunite at the designated meeting point and board the vehicle together. We’ll conclude 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.
• Sydney 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.

• Expert driver/guide passionate about Australian adventure
• Return transportation from Sydney Central in comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
• Dolphin-watching cruise with marine commentary (option)
• Sandboarding equipment and instruction
• All national park and marine park entry fees
• Licensed Eco Pass operator certification
• 4WD sand safari through the largest moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere
• Guided Mount Tomaree summit hike with panoramic views (option)

• Lunch

Embark on an unforgettable day tour from Sydney to Port Stephens, a stunning blue-water haven in NSW. Travel north to where golden sand dunes meet the turquoise coastal waters.

Experience the excitement of a 4WD sand safari across the largest moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere. Feel the thrill of sandboarding down the towering golden slopes, or simply enjoy the breathtaking scenery and capture amazing photos.

Discover the charm of Nelson Bay during lunch. Explore waterfront shops, enjoy fresh seafood at harbour cafés, or opt for fish and chips (lunch at your own expense).

Next, choose your adventure:

Dolphin Cruise: Observe playful bottlenose dolphins in their natural environment. The expert crew shares marine insights while cruising past beautiful beaches.

Summit Hike: Tackle the guided hike up Mount Tomaree (25-30 minutes each way) for breathtaking 360° views of Port Stephens harbour, rugged headlands, and dolphins from above.

Enjoy small groups, expert guides, and licensed Eco Pass operators.

• Please keep in mind that the bus journey to Port Stephens takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes each way

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.