I cannot, for the life of me, put into words why sand boarding is so fun. It’s literally just sliding down a sand dune. But it’s truly one of life’s most pure joys. Kind of like jumping on a trampoline.
It’s also a fun thing to do if you love the beach but you’ve either been surfed out, or you’ve never surfed in your life and learning seems like a bit much for your mini getaway. And yeah, ok, legit sand boarding involves standing up but sitting down on a board is just as fun.
It’s no secret Queensland gives good ocean surf, but these four spots will prove it’s a pretty fun place to ride the sand too.
Birdsville
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Surprise! First up on the list is actually far from the coast and deep into the outback. Birdsville is a small town with a population of just over 100 people sitting on the eastern edge of the famous Simpson Desert.
Just 40km from town, in Munga-Thirri National Park, sits the first and largest sand dune of the desert, with the VERY Aussie name of Big Red. You’ll need a 4WD to get there (or jump on a tour), but there are pretty spectacular views of a truly unique landscape up the top to make the climb worth it, and you can just boogie board your way back down.
Just be aware the park is closed from 1 December to 15 March every year, so plan your trip accordingly.
Moreton Island
Speaking of cool things, Moreton Island is the third largest sand island in the whole world and plays host to one of the largest sand dunes in the world. Yup, Mt Tempest is a whopping 280m high. So please hike up that bad boy and enjoy the panoramic ocean views, but save the surfing for the tons of other sand dunes that make up this super pretty island.
The experts say there’s a centre just off to the west side of the island called The Desert, as well as dunes named Big and Little Sand Hills off to the south side that are all perfect for beginners. Adrenaline junkies with a need for speed should check out the area known as The Big Sand Hills for dunes of around 90-metres tall.
North Stradbroke Island
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Thought the third largest sand island was cool? Well, prepare yourselves because this is the second largest sand island in the world. That’s a lot of sand folks.
The locals on Straddie Island just off the Brisbane coastline know what’s up. Sand boarding is such a way of life here they even have tours specifically for it. But honestly, you can’t NOT run into a sand dune that’s straight up perfect for sliding down so feel free to byo board and get slipping on your own schedule.
Fraser Island
Strap right in mates, because *drum roll* Queensland is also home to the largest sand island in the world, Fraser Island. Did I not tell you this is the place you want to go for sand boarding?
Those in the know would point you towards Waddy Point and Orchid Beach on the eastern side of the island. If you’re willing to explore the island slightly deeper, head over to the Sandy Cape and get surfing. You’ll need a 4WD for all of these spots, just fyi.
