Newcastle is surrounded by some of New South Wales' best coastal and outdoor destinations, making it an excellent base for day trips and weekend adventures. From adrenaline-pumping quad biking experiences to relaxing coastal walks and world-class wineries, there's something for everyone within an hour's drive of the city.
Quad Biking on the Sand Dunes
Just 35 minutes from Newcastle CBD, the Stockton sand dunes offer one of the most unique outdoor experiences on the east coast of Australia. This isn't your typical Newcastle day trip — it's a full-throttle adventure across over 20km of beach, dunes and open sand terrain.
Quad biking near Newcastle has become the go-to activity for locals and visitors looking for something different. You'll ride powerful 350cc Yamaha Grizzly quad bikes on a fully guided safari tour that adapts to your group's skill level. Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced rider, the guides tailor the pace and route to match your confidence.
The experience is hands-on and thrilling — this is a driving adventure, not a slow sightseeing tour. You'll cross vast sand dunes, ride along Stockton Beach, and tackle terrain that changes with the tides and weather. No two rides are the same, which is why so many Newcastle groups keep coming back.
Tours run daily, and the short travel time from Newcastle makes it easy to book a morning or afternoon session and still have time for lunch in Nelson Bay or exploring Port Stephens afterward.
Getting There from Newcastle
The drive from Newcastle to the Stockton sand dunes is straightforward — head north on the Pacific Highway through Hexham and Williamtown, then follow signs to Anna Bay and Stockton Beach. The meeting point is at Gan Gan Road, near Nelson Bay, with plenty of free parking on site. Exact directions are sent with your booking confirmation.
The proximity makes this one of the easiest adventure activities to access from Newcastle. You can leave the city, complete a full 1-hour quad bike safari, and be back in Newcastle within 3 hours — perfect for a morning or afternoon escape.
Other Day Trip Ideas from Newcastle
If you're planning a full day out, Port Stephens offers more than just quad biking. Combine your sand dune adventure with lunch at one of Nelson Bay's waterfront restaurants, take a dolphin cruise, or explore the coastal walking trails around Tomaree Head. The views from the summit are among the best in the region.
The Hunter Valley is another popular option for Newcastle day trippers, offering world-class wineries, gourmet dining, and scenic countryside — all within an hour's drive. For those who prefer to stay coastal, the beaches around Anna Bay, Fingal Bay, and Shoal Bay are ideal for swimming, surfing, and relaxed beachside picnics.
However, for those looking for an adrenaline-filled experience that doesn't require extensive travel or planning, the Port Stephens quad bike safari stands out. It's accessible, exhilarating, and unlike anything else within easy reach of Newcastle.
Groups, Bucks Parties & Corporate Events
Newcastle groups love the sand dunes for celebrations and team-building events. Whether you're organising a bucks party, hens party, birthday celebration, or corporate outing, quad biking offers something that gets everyone involved.
Large groups are split by pace so that confident riders can go fast while beginners take it steady. Families with teens (16+) can ride together, and couples often book for special occasions. The flexibility means everyone gets the experience they want, without holding anyone back.
Many Newcastle groups combine the quad biking with a pub lunch in Nelson Bay or a stop at one of the local breweries. It's become a favourite alternative to the usual Hunter Valley winery tour — especially for groups looking for action rather than just food and wine.
Coming from Sydney? Newcastle Makes a Great Stopover
If you're driving to Port Stephens from Sydney, you'll pass through or near Newcastle along the way. Many Sydney visitors use Newcastle as a stopover point — grab breakfast at one of the city's cafes, explore the beaches and coastal walks, then continue north to the sand dunes for an afternoon quad bike tour.
The total drive from Sydney to the dunes is around 2.5 hours, making it an achievable day trip or an easy weekend getaway. For Sydney-based groups, combining Newcastle exploration with quad biking in Port Stephens creates a well-rounded adventure day.