From Sydney: Port Stephens Dolphin, Koalas, 4WD & Sandboarding
4.8 / 5 · 281 traveler reviews
Experience nature at its best on this full day tour to picturesque Port Stephens, a coastal paradise known for its stunning beaches, pristine waters and incredible wildlife, just 2.5 hours north of Sydney’s CBD. Be immersed in nature up close as you join a dolphin watching cruise, see wild Koalas in their natural habitat. Next take part in a 4WD and sandboarding adventure on the largest mobile sand dune system in the Southern Hemisphere. After a perfect day mixing nature in the wild with incredible adventure you will return knowing you have witnessed something truly unique.
Your experience
Stop 1
Enjoy a 90-minute Dolphin Discovery Cruise with Moonshadow Cruises on the turquoise blue waters of Port Stephens, a veritable marine wonderland. This extraordinary natural harbour is home to some 140 bottle nose dolphins who will entrance you by their playful and intelligent nature as they frolic around the boat or surf the bow waves. Be mindful to also look out for other wildlife including pelicans, sea eagles, the occasional seal and of course humpback whales during the winter months. In the warmer months you might want to bring a swimming costume to take a plunge in the boom net at the rear of the boat - just make sure you have a change of clothes. Enjoy the lunch on cruise with beautiful surroundings. Vegetarian option available.
Stop 2
Lunch will be at your own expense in Nelson Bay, allowing you the flexibility to choose from a variety of local dining options.
Stop 3
Visit the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary which supports the long-term rehabilitation, preservation and conservation of koala in the wild. This $ 10 million project is jointly funded by the NSW State Government and the Port Stephens council to provide care for sick, injured or orphaned Koalas with the aim of releasing them back into the wild. After lunch accompany your guide on the Sanctuary Story Walk, a flat 250m pathway, with large Koala sculptures that educate about Koala and its natural habitat. Marvel at the $ 5 million Koala Hospital which directly contributes to the long-term survivability of the wild Koala population in the Port Stephens region. The final attraction is the Sanctuary SKYwalk a 225mtr elevated pathway with viewing platforms in the tree top canopy where you have the rare opportunity of seeing one of Australia's most iconic marsupials in the wild.
Stop 4
Our final stop is at the world-renowned Stockton sand dunes, a coastal desert 32km long and the largest mobile sand dune system in the southern hemisphere. Meet your friendly drivers from Port Stephens 4WD Tours, and board a 19-seater 4WD red bus for the 2km drive to “The Dunes”. Now it’s time for Adventure as you sand board down the huge sand dunes that make up this idyllic setting. Your sandboarding guide will give you safety instructions and tips on techniques on how to sandboard successfully. Sandboarding is suitable for toddlers to grandparents and very safe. Sandboarding is referred to as ‘soft adventure’ however it is hard core family fun.
Stop 5
Arrive back at Sydney. Drop off at Central Train Station or Furama Darling Harbour
What’s included
- Dolphin Discovery Cruise with Moonshadow Cruises on Port Stephens Marine Park
- Return Coach Transport from Sydney to Port Stephens
- Bottled water
- Sandboards are provided at the Stockton Beach Sand Dunes.
- Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary admission
- 4WD experience on Birubi Beach
- Sand Boarding on Stocktons sand Dunes
- Snacks
Not included
- Personal Expenses
- Travel Insurance
- Lunch
Meeting and pickup
Address: 68 Harbour Street Haymarket Must depart at 7am SHARP. Please be waiting when the bus arrives. Guide name & contact number sent 1day before departure
Sydney Central Railway Station Western forecourt bus parking area Bay 8 across from to the clock tower. Meet at the bus station outside platform No 1 at Central Station. The bus will be waiting at 6.30am for a 6.45 am departure. Guide name & contact number sent the day before departure
Before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please note that when passenger numbers are low, the tour may operate as a bilingual tour.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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