A New Way of Surfing

in Port Stephens, NSW Australia

If you’re an adrenaline junkie or just like to experience unique activities when traveling, then sand surfing is for you. I think the first time I heard of it was when we were planning our Australian itinerary. It was our first time to this massive island continent and we found so many incredible things to do and see. As soon as our family saw the pictures and videos of surfing on sand dunes, we were in.

History of Sand Surfing
Supposedly, the sport of sand surfing (also called sandboarding) began in Ancient Egypt when Pharaohs would slide down the dunes on pieces of wood or hardened clay. There are even ancient hieroglyphics depicting people going down dunes. It doesn't get much older than that.

Where it’s Popular Around the Globe
Anyplace around the world where you find massive dunes, chances are, you're also going to find people surfing down them. Some of the most popular tourist destinations are Peru, South Africa, Nicaragua, Chile, Japan, Israel and Oregon, USA. Check out this article with videos from Rad Season for the top spots in the world.

How to Sand Surf
If you're a snowboarder, then you've already got a good idea what to do. Anyone who skateboards or surfs will also have an advantage over those who don't. You may want to begin with the "sit and slide" method. Then eventually graduate to the "stand and surf" posture when you're ready. Most places that offer sandboarding for tourists, will provide flexible boards that have a raised edge to keep your foot or feet in place. Those who are taking this sport more seriously, have their own boards with lock-in systems similar to snowboards.

Sand Dune Safaris
There are many companies to choose from in the Port Stephens area of New South Wales. We went with Sand Dune Safaris and were glad we did.  

After we checked in, we boarded one of their 4WD vehicles and departed for a 10-minute ride. 

Their friendly instructors met us and gave us instructions. We learned the safe method of sandboarding for both the sit-down and stand-up methods. There were several different sized dunes to choose from so we could start small and get bigger as our confidence grew.

Location and Pricing
Sand Dune Safari is located in the lower parking lot of Anna Bay.  Although the 4WD vehicle takes a new group out to the dunes every 30 minutes, guests are welcome to stay out on the dunes as long as they'd like. Prices are 20 Australian Dollars for children and 25 for adults, with discounts available for families and groups of 10 or more.

Have you tried sand surfing (or sandboarding) before? Share the location and how you liked it in the comment section below! And if you're in the Port Stephens area, check out San Dune Safaris. You'll love it!

 

PIN FOR LATER


We would like to thank Sand Dune Safari for inviting our family to enjoy the activity free of charge. As always, all opinions expressed are our own and if we didn't love it, we won't recommend it.

 


Add Comment
Marcie says... (Reply)
"Oh how fun! I forgot all about sand surfing until your post! What a fun adventure!" (7/8/19)
Jody Robbins says... (Reply)
"I've always wondered what this is like. I do worry I'd fall and that kind of sand burn would be nasty. Still, I'd try it and NSW looks like a great spot." (7/8/19)
Jen Brommer says... (Reply)
"Awesome! I had some friends do this awhile back and they too loved it!" (7/9/19)
Diana says... (Reply)
"This is so much fun! We've done this in Colorado at the Great Sand Dunes National Park & Reserve. I will totally add this Australia destination to our family bucket list" (7/10/19)