BEACH BOUND: Sandy Adventures

Got a hankering to get some sand under your tyres? Here are 6 NSW beaches to explore in your 4×4!
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of cruising down an untouched coastline with your 4×4, feeling the ocean breeze and the sun on your face. With that in mind, here are 6 incredible NSW beaches where your 4WD skills and sense of adventure can really shine this summer.

1. PEBBLY BEACH – YURAYGIR NATIONAL PARK
Location: Near Grafton, Northern NSW
This is one of the few beaches in NSW where you can literally camp right on the sand’s doorstep. Yep, Pebbly Beach is a 4×4 paradise being accessible by 4WD only with a stretch of sand to traverse and by crossing Station Creek at low tide, so timing your trip is essential. Once you’re there, you’ll enjoy pristine, isolated coastline and excellent fishing, swimming, and beachcombing.
Where to Camp: The Pebbly Beach campground is your go-to spot, offering designated beachside camping with basic facilities. It’s a fantastic option for a quiet escape into nature.
Permit Info: 4WD beach driving permit required. You can obtain a permit from Clarence Valley Council or the Yuraygir NP visitor centre.

2. MYALL LAKES NP
Location: Mid-North Coast, NSW
This beach is famous for its diverse landscapes, offering a mix of coastal dunes and serene lake views. It’s the perfect spot for those who enjoy a blend of beach driving and freshwater activities like kayaking or paddleboarding on the Myall Lakes! It’s also home to a population of wild Dingoes, so keep your rubbish, tucker and shoes out of reach!
Where to Camp: Set up camp at Mungo Brush Campground or Boomeri Campground, both offering lakeside spots with easy beach access. However, there are plenty more campsites available!
Permit Info: Purchase a 4WD access permit through Great Lakes Council or online from NSW National Parks.

3. STOCKTON BEACH
Location: Near Newcastle, NSW
Stockton Beach is a 4WD icon. Known for its towering sand dunes (some reaching up to 30m), it offers one of the most exhilarating beach driving experiences in the state. Whether you’re sandboarding, fishing, or just cruising the expansive coastline, Stockton Beach delivers. Keep an eye out for WWII relics buried in the sand and respect the sacred Aboriginal sites along the dunes.
Where to Camp: You can camp on the beach at Ganyamalbaa Camping Area, located at the southern end of Stockton Beach, but it’s best to book early as spots are limited.
Permit Info: You’ll need a Worimi Conservation Lands permit, which can be purchased online or at service stations in Anna Bay.

4. NORTH BEACH, PORT MACQUARIE
Location: 15 minutes north of Port Macquarie
North Beach is a stretch of beautiful coastline that’s perfect for both relaxed beach driving and more adventurous off-road challenges thanks to the super soft sand. It’s a top spot for fishing, especially for whiting and flathead, and a renowned spot for surfing, too. The soft sand and long stretches make it an ideal spot to test your 4WD’s capabilities, and it’s rarely crowded.
Where to Camp: Delicate Nobby Campground is nearby and offers bush camping with direct beach access, perfect for those wanting a peaceful coastal escape.
Permit Info: You’ll need a Hastings Council beach vehicle permit, available from the council office or select service stations.

BLACKSMITHS BEACH – LAKE MACQUARIE
Location: Just south of Newcastle, NSW
Although soft sand is a given here, Blacksmiths Beach offers a relatively easy 4WD experience, making it a great choice for beginners. It’s also well-known and quite popular, so help is never far away if you’re new to sand driving. Its wide sandy stretches, and proven fishing ground make it a real hit. It’s also very family-friendly, so if you’re taking the kids on their first 4WD beach adventure, this is a great spot to do it.
Where to Camp: Check out Belmont Lakeside Holiday Park, which offers lakeside camping with modern amenities and is only a short drive from the beach.
Permit Info: A Lake Macquarie beach driving permit is required, available online from the Lake Macquarie City Council website.

6. LIGHTHOUSE BEACH – BALLINA
Location: Ballina, Northern NSW
Lighthouse Beach is a dream for 4WD enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The beach stretches for kilometres, offering great views of the lighthouse and is an excellent spot for beach fishing. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, which are often spotted playing in the surf. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a migrating whale in the distance during the warmer months.
Where to Camp: Flat Rock Tent Park is nearby, offering a peaceful camping experience with ocean views. It’s an ideal spot for campers looking for basic facilities and a relaxed vibe.
Permit Info: Ballina Shire Council offers 4WD beach permits, available online or from local outlets.
PARTING WORDS
Whether you’re after an adventurous beach drive or a relaxing getaway by the ocean, these NSW beaches have something for every 4×4 enthusiast. Remember to check tides, reduce your tyre pressure, and always have your permits handy before heading out.