After departing our accommodation at Soldiers Point, we took a moment to visit Port Stephens Great Lakes Marine Park, the on-lead dog exercise area at George Reserve and Tomaree Head Summit Walk. Our next stop was Birubi Point Lookout in Anna Bay to see the sand dunes, by the time we got there it was really windy so it made it harder to take photos and videos and we didn’t stay long because we wanted to see others places along the coast before reaching our next accomodation stop for the night. I would love to come back here to check out the sand dunes and properly check out this area. The wind didn’t stop people from being on the beach and swimming because it was still warm.
Discover Birubi Point Lookout: A Coastal Treasure in New South Wales
Nestled on the northern edge of Anna Bay in New South Wales, Birubi Point Lookout is a breathtaking destination that promises stunning views and unforgettable experiences. Known as the gateway to the iconic Stockton Sand Dunes, this picturesque spot offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure, making it a must-visit location for travelers exploring the Port Stephens region.
We parked on Ocean Avenue, its just after Morna Point Road which is on the right hand side, there is a small side street on the left hand side that we parked in and walked down to Birubi Point Lookout.
When you see the concrete house in the photos below that is on the corner there is a small parking area where you can acess Blanch Reserve with a couple of paths that you can follow to the right hand side where you cross over a couple of big boulder rocks that leads to a steel mesh boardwalk with a seat to enjoy the views
These are the amazing views of Blanch Reserve.
In the photos below are the boulders that are easy to walk over when they are dry, be careful when walking over the boulders when they are wet because they will be slippery and its easy to slip and hurt yourself. Follow the steel mesh boardwalk until it meets up with the paved footpath.
I loved the views of the coastline it made for interesting photos.
This is the start of the path that we walked along from Blanch Reserve to Birubi Point Lookout in the photos below and the viewing platform
From Google Maps it looks like you can park right next to the lookout on James Peterson Street with a car park on the right hand side called “Upper Carpark”
Spectacular Views
From Birubi Point Lookout, you can enjoy panoramic views of the pristine Birubi Beach stretching along the coastline. The expansive golden sands and sparkling turquoise waters create a striking contrast against the rugged headlands. It’s a perfect place to soak in the beauty of the Pacific Ocean, watch the waves roll in, or marvel at the vastness of the nearby Stockton Sand Dunes—the largest moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere.
Tomaree Head Walk
Start at Zenith Beach and follow the path to Tomaree Head. This 15-hour return walk offers incredible 360-degree views, including vistas of Cabbage Tree and Boondelbah Islands, two of only three globally recognized natural reserves. Keep an eye out for Gould’s Petrels and migrating whales. Don’t forget to bring water for the journey.
The lower trails of Tomaree Head are paved and perfect for a relaxing walk, offering glimpses of the coast and native flora.
Tomaree Coastal Walk
From Shoal Bay to Fingal Bay, this Grade 4 walk offers access to Zenith Beach, Wreck Beach, Box Beach, and Fingal Bay. The route weaves through diverse vegetation, including coastal scrub and forested areas. Continue through Fingal Bay beach, a patrolled area with visitor amenities and refreshments. From there, the walk extends to Boulder Bay, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the coastline, Fingal Island, and the lighthouse.
Big Rocky
Accessible via Gan Gan Road, Big Rocky is a Grade 3, 200m return walk. A perfect spot for a picnic and fishing, especially during low tide. You can also reach it via the Tomaree Coastal Walk from Boulder Bay or One Mile Beach.
Kingsley & Little Kingsley Beaches
Grade 4, 45-minute return walk. Follow the coastal path south along Kingsley Beach, across rock platforms, with views of the ocean. You might spot white-bellied sea eagles and migrating humpback whales (May–October). Continue to Little Kingsley Beach through Angophora forests. Both beaches are unpatrolled, so swimming is not recommended.
Birubi Gateway
Located within the Birubi Point Aboriginal Place, this short 200m walk (Grade 2) offers iconic views of the Worimi Conservation Lands and Newcastle on a clear day. Learn about the cultural significance of the area through interpretation panels.
Boat Harbour to One Mile Beach (including slot canyon)
A 5km return walk (Grade 4, 3-hour return) with varied landscapes, including rock shelves and coastal heath. This section is known for its unique geological formations, such as slot canyons. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including threatened species like Sooty Oystercatchers and migrating humpback whales.
Tomaree National Park – Worimi Country
Welcome to Worimi Country, always. While you explore the Tomaree Coastal Walk, you are walking on land that has been cared for by the Worimi people for thousands of years. Please tread lightly and respect this cultural landscape by refraining from removing or damaging plants, trees, rocks, or any other natural items. When taking photos, be mindful of the significance of the areas you are in.
Birubi Headland Birubi is a place of cultural significance to the Worimi people, where ceremonies have taken place for generations. This headland holds a deep connection to the Southern Cross, and when it rose in the eastern sky, the Worimi people from across Port Stephens would gather here for ceremonies.
Garuwa (Sea Country) As a coastal people, the Worimi have a special bond with the sea. The Port Stephens area is a vital space for trade, fishing, and cultural practices. Generations of knowledge have been passed down about local fish species, migrations, whales, and dolphins, all tied to the rhythms of the ocean.
Health Warning Please do not consume any plants while exploring this area, as some may be harmful.
Respecting Tomaree National Park
- No Domestic Pets: Pets can disrupt the natural environment and wildlife.
- No Mountain Bikes or Trailbikes: These are not permitted to protect the park’s integrity.
- Safety First: Beaches in this park can have strong currents and dangerous rocks. Always check tide schedules, weather forecasts, and park alerts before heading out.
- Plan Your Walk: Know the difficulty level of your route and carry a map or use a navigation app.
- Wear Appropriate Clothing: Protect yourself with suitable clothing, shoes, a hat, and sunscreen.
- Bring Essentials: Always carry water, snacks, and a bag to pack out your waste.
Enjoy the Tomaree Coastal Walk and explore its diverse landscapes, from estuaries and islands to granite formations and rich plant life.
Place of the Southern Cross
The Worimi people named this headland “Southern Cross.” Birubi Headland served as a lookout for approaching boats and as a vantage point to observe migrating schools of fish traveling north. Due to its abundant food sources, Birubi was a significant area for food gathering for the Worimi people, with evidence of middens, campsites, and stone tools that mark the region’s deep cultural history.
When the Southern Cross appeared in the eastern sky, Worimi people from across Port Stephens would gather here to participate in ceremonial practices.
“When you walk on this land, you walk with us. We walk together.” — Worimi Traditional Owner, Lenny Anderson
The great spirit, Bayami, descended from the sky to create the land, rivers, and all living things. He remained to ensure that everything he created—plants, animals, and the land—functioned in harmony. Once his work was complete, Bayami returned to the sky, where he continues to watch over his people, ensuring they live in harmony with his law.
This is a Cultural Landscape
“We maintain our cultural heritage by passing down our knowledge, stories, and significant sites from one generation to the next.” — Worimi Conservation Lands NPWS
The Worimi people have walked these lands since time immemorial and continue to care for them today. We ask that as you journey along the Tomaree Coastal Walk, you honor and respect this Country, which will protect you along the way.
“We are not just a part of a textbook; we are still here today, thriving and teaching the next generations about our Culture. We are connected to these lands through our stories and our Culture, and we always will be. It is our shared responsibility to tread lightly and care for these lands.” — Worimi Traditional Owner, Nadine Russell
“Land is the lifeline of existence. Without it, no community can survive. It is the starting point of everything, like picking up a piece of dirt and saying, ‘This is where I began, and this is where I will go.'” — Traditional Worimi Owner, Uncle Graeme Russell
Worimi Country
Birubi Point, a place of deep cultural significance to the Worimi people, is part of the Birubi Point Aboriginal Place, which was gazetted in 2007. This area, including parts of Tomaree National Park, is managed in collaboration with Worimi Traditional Owners, the Worimi Local Aboriginal Land Council, National Parks & Wildlife Service, and Port Stephens Council.
Looking south from this Aboriginal Place, you’ll see the Worimi Conservation Lands. The 4,200-hectare Worimi Conservation Lands (WCL) consist of a National Park, State Conservation Area, and Regional Park. These lands were returned to the Worimi Traditional Owners and officially gazetted on February 1, 2007. Managed by a Board of Management that includes Worimi Traditional Owners and the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service, the board works to protect the natural and cultural values of the Stockton Bight landscape.
“Culture remains…” Within these lands lies the largest moving sand dunes in the southern hemisphere. These majestic dunes hold the secrets of the local Worimi people and their cultural practices. As the sands shift, these secrets are sometimes revealed, only to be covered and protected once more.
The Worimi people have walked these lands since time immemorial and continue to care for them today. We ask that you tread lightly on your journey.
Please connect with, protect, and respect Worimi Country. In return, our Country will protect you as you walk the Tomaree Coastal Walk.
Whale Watching and Wildlife
Birubi Point Lookout is also an excellent spot for wildlife enthusiasts. During the annual migration season, visitors can often spot majestic humpback whales breaching in the distance, while pods of dolphins are a frequent sight year-round. The lookout is also home to diverse birdlife, adding a touch of natural wonder to your visit.
Gateway to the Stockton Sand Dunes
Anna Bay serves as the gateway to the Stockton Beach Sand Dunes, a haven for four-wheel driving and fishing enthusiasts. The village offers a convenient shopping centre for all your basic needs.
Birubi Point marks the northernmost tip of the 32-kilometre stretch of Stockton Beach. It’s a favorite among surfers and the starting point for sandboarding adventures and 4WD tours of the extensive dune system—renowned as the largest moving coastal sand mass in the Southern Hemisphere.
The Worimi Conservation Lands (Stockton Bight Sand Dunes) span 4,200 hectares, including 1,800 hectares of forest and the impressive 32-kilometre sand dunes. Towering over 30 metres high with slopes as steep as 60 degrees, these awe-inspiring dunes create a surreal, moon-like landscape.
One of the standout attractions near Birubi Point Lookout is the Stockton Sand Dunes. These ever-shifting dunes offer a unique desert-like landscape perfect for adventure seekers. From camel rides and sandboarding to four-wheel-drive tours, there’s no shortage of thrilling activities to try. The dunes are also culturally significant, with guided tours available that share the history and stories of the Worimi people, the traditional custodians of the land.
Relaxation and Amenities
For those seeking a more laid-back experience, Birubi Beach offers plenty of space to unwind, whether you prefer strolling along the shore, enjoying a picnic, or simply basking in the sun. The nearby facilities, including a café and restrooms, ensure a comfortable visit. The café, with its relaxed atmosphere and coastal views, is an ideal spot to savor a meal or a coffee while enjoying the scenery.
Tips for Visiting
- Best Time to Visit: The lookout is stunning year-round, but visiting during sunrise or sunset adds a magical glow to the landscape.
- Getting There: Birubi Point Lookout is easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. It’s approximately a 40-minute drive from Newcastle and just over two hours from Sydney.
- What to Bring: Don’t forget your camera to capture the incredible views, sunscreen for sun protection, and binoculars if you plan to spot whales or dolphins.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of New South Wales, Birubi Point Lookout is a destination that won’t disappoint. Its stunning vistas, rich wildlife, and proximity to the remarkable Stockton Sand Dunes make it an essential stop on any coastal itinerary.
Top Nearby Attractions to Explore Around Birubi Point Lookout
Birubi Point Lookout, located at Anna Bay in New South Wales, is a popular destination for its stunning coastal views and access to the expansive Stockton Sand Dunes. Here are some nearby attractions to explore:
1. Stockton Sand Dunes
Distance: At Birubi Point
These are the largest moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere, perfect for sandboarding, camel rides, quad biking, or guided 4WD tours.
2. One Mile Beach
Distance: ~3 km
A picturesque beach popular for swimming, surfing, and picnics. The surrounding area has BBQ facilities and walking tracks.
3. Tomaree National Park
Distance: ~12 km
Home to scenic trails, including the Tomaree Head Summit Walk, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Port Stephens and its surroundings.
4. Worimi Conservation Lands
Distance: ~5 km
Known for cultural tours that explore the Aboriginal heritage of the area, particularly the significance of the sand dunes.
5. Nelson Bay
Distance: ~14 km
A bustling coastal town offering dolphin-watching cruises, snorkeling, scuba diving, and waterfront dining.
6. Gan Gan Lookout
Distance: ~11 km
A lookout with panoramic views of Port Stephens, including the sand dunes, ocean, and surrounding greenery.
7. Anna Bay Rock Pools
Distance: ~1 km
Explore these natural rock pools at low tide, ideal for kids and families to discover marine life.
8. Fingal Bay
Distance: ~17 km
A serene bay with calm waters, perfect for swimming and paddleboarding, with walking trails leading to scenic views.
9. Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters
Distance: ~20 km
An interactive aquarium experience where you can wade in shallow pools and interact with rays and sharks in a safe environment.
10. Oakvale Wildlife Park
Distance: ~22 km
A family-friendly destination to interact with Australian wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and farm animals.
These attractions make Birubi Point Lookout an excellent base for exploring the natural and cultural highlights of the Port Stephens area.
Nearby Towns to Explore Around Birubi Point Lookout
The nearest towns to Birubi Point Lookout are:
1. Anna Bay
Distance: ~1 km
A small coastal town, home to the Birubi Point Lookout, known for its beaches, sand dunes, and relaxed vibe.
2. Nelson Bay
Distance: ~14 km
A popular holiday town offering a range of activities such as dolphin-watching cruises, beaches, restaurants, and shopping.
3. Soldiers Point
Distance: ~16 km
A quiet suburb with a lovely marina, offering great waterfront dining and access to beaches and nature reserves.
4. Fingal Bay
Distance: ~17 km
A scenic coastal village with beautiful beaches, walking trails, and a more laid-back atmosphere.
5. Medowie
Distance: ~25 km
A small town offering a more rural feel, with local shops, parks, and easy access to the nearby Williamtown Airport.
6. Raymond Terrace
Distance: ~25 km
A historic town with charming shops, cafes, and historical landmarks, located along the Hunter River.
These towns provide various amenities and activities, making them ideal stops for exploring the region around Birubi Point.
Tours and Activities:
- Unlimited Sandboarding
- Unlimited Sandboarding Adventure
- Port Stephens 4WD Beach Sand Dune Adventure
- Port Stephens, Beach and Sand Dune 4WD Passenger Tour
- Port Stephens, Beach and Sand Dune 4WD Tag-Along Tour
Places To Get Food
Accommodation
- The Retreat Port Stephens
- Absolute Oceanfront Portovenere
- Elanora Ocean St No 8
- Birubi Beach Holiday Park
- Pacific Paradise No 28 Anna Bay
- So close to Birubi Beach
- Anna Bay Aqua
- Oceans Edge Retreat
- Deja Blue
- Hidden Oasis Pet Friendly In Anna Bay
- Ocean Views 41
- BIG4 Bays Holiday Park
- Kingsley Beach House Boat Harbour
- Scott Street Couples Getaway
- 3 Davidson St – pool , air con, Wi-Fi and pet friendly
- Walking Distance to Birubi Beach
- Birubi Beach House
- 50a Ocean Ave – air con, wi-fi 1 bedroom apartment
- Ohana at the Bay
- Bel Air, 8A Ocean Ave – pet friendly, water views and air con
- Fishie – 8a Pacific Street Fisherman Bay
- Birubi Beach getaway at Anna Bay
- Five Pines Beach House at Birubi 20 Robinson St pet friendly aircon and WiFi
- Ocean Views air conditioned luxury with beautiful ocean views
- Sahara Trails Cabin 1 WiFi Air Conditioning Horse Riding and much more
- 70 Pacific Avenue – Saltwater Pool, Air Con and Wi-Fi
- Birubi House 1919
- The Birubi Beach House 11 Campbell Ave Close to the beach pet friendly holiday home
- The Verandah fantastic child friendly home
- The Pacific Pearl,16 Pacific Avenue, Anna Bay – pet friendly, air con
- Sandcastles 11-23 Robinson St
- Seas the Day 41A
- Beach View At One Mile 8 infinity complex pool and WI FI
- Nelson Bay Rd 4296 Cheeky Tiki
- Birubi Beach Waterfront
- 13 Morna Point Rd pet friendly boat parking house on one level
- Sahara Trails Studio WiFi Air Conditioning Horse Riding and much more
- Sahara Trails Cabin 3 WiFi Air Conditioning Horse Riding and much more
- Ocean View Anna Bay
- Sahara Trails House WiFi Air Conditioning Horse Riding and much more
- Anna Bay Beach Shack 44 Ocean Avenue fantastic 2 storey house with spectacular views
- Birubi Breezes 2 Large Duplex with Air Conditioning WI FI and only 5 minute walk to the beach
- Sahara Trails Cabin 2 WiFi Air Conditioning Horse Riding and much more
- Birubi Point House, 56 Ocean Ave – stunning water views, ducted air con
- Ocean Palms 11 Prentice Place with a private pool
- Ocean on the Rocks, 1,21 Ocean Ave – waterfront, Wi-Fi, Ducted Air Conditioning
- Sahara Trails Complex Sleeping groups WiFi Air Conditioning Horse Riding and much more
- Beach House 7 26 One Mile Close air conditioned wifi foxtel linen
The Essential Packing Guide: Everything You Need for Your Next Adventure
Click on this link to see my packing list
Frequently Asked Questions
What does birubi mean in Aboriginal?
Birubi translates to ‘Place of the Southern Cross,’ and one of its unique features is the sweeping view it provides of the sea and sky, where the Southern Cross can be seen.
Where is the Birubi point?
Situated in Tomaree National Park near Port Stephens, this trail passes through charming coastal villages equipped with convenient amenities. Perfect for those seeking salty sea air, sprawling sand dunes, rich Aboriginal culture, and excellent swimming spots, this day walk is a must-do in Tomaree National Park.
Is Birubi Beach patrolled?
Professional lifeguards and dedicated volunteers patrol our surf beaches to ensure your safety. One Mile Beach is patrolled year-round, while Fingal and Birubi beaches are patrolled daily from September to the end of April, between 9 am and 4 pm, with extended hours during the summer peak season.
Are dogs allowed at Birubi Beach?
Dogs are welcome on a lead year-round, but from October to April, they can only be off-leash between 5 pm and 9 am.
What is the history of Anna Bay?
Anna Bay was originally known as Hannah Bay, reportedly named after the vessel Hannah, which, according to legend, was wrecked at One Mile Beach during the early settlement of Port Stephens. While records do mention a schooner named Hanna that wrecked along the NSW North Coast in 1851, its exact identity remains unconfirmed.
Where is Birubi Beach?
Birubi Beach, situated at Anna Bay, marks the northernmost stretch of the ‘Golden Bight’—a vast expanse of coastline that stretches from Stockton near Newcastle to Port Stephens
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Reaching New Heights: Tomaree Head Summit Walk, New South Wales
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