Lancelin is a small fishing town on the Coral Coast, roughly 130 kilometres north of Perth, and it is known for the huge white sand dunes that rise just behind the town. The dunes are bright, soft and steep, and they shift with the wind, so the landscape is slightly different every season. Visitors come to sandboard down the slopes, ride in a four-wheel drive across the dunes or simply climb to the top for a view over the ocean and the surrounding scrub. The town also has a calm beach, a jetty and a reputation for windsurfing and kitesurfing, and it is a source of fresh rock lobster, which is often served at local cafes. As a destination it is more about fun and open space than about sights, which makes it an easy day out for active travellers and families.
What to do
The signature activity is sandboarding, where you ride a waxed board down the steep face of a dune, and beginners usually learn in a few runs. Many operators also offer 4WD tours that drive over the dunes and give a thrilling, bumpy ride, and some add quad bikes for an extra fee.
The ride and the board hire can be done independently or as part of a guided session. Between runs, climb back up, watch the changing light and enjoy the view of the ocean. Afterward, head into town for a lobster roll or a coffee, or stop at the beach for a swim.
Planning
The activity linked here is a 4WD and sandboarding session that starts from Lancelin itself, so you need your own transport or a day tour from Perth that includes the town. The drive takes about an hour and a half to two hours each way. Bring sun protection, a hat, sunglasses and closed shoes, because the sand gets very hot, and take plenty of water.
Wind can blow sand across the dunes, so protect your camera and eyes, and be aware that summer midday temperatures can be intense, so morning or late afternoon sessions are more comfortable.
Fitting it in
Many visitors combine Lancelin with the Pinnacles Desert, which lies roughly an hour further north, and some day tours also stop at a koala park or a lobster lunch. If you have already booked the Pinnacles sunset tour, the dunes may not be needed, but if you want an active alternative they make a fun contrast. Families with older children and groups of friends enjoy the sandboarding most, and the town is small enough to explore in an hour. Check wind and weather on the day, since conditions can change the experience.
Good to know
Sand gets everywhere, so wear clothes you do not mind washing and keep electronics in a zip bag. Some operators provide boards and wax, while others expect you to hire them separately, so confirm what is included. The dunes are a protected landscape in places, so stay on permitted areas and follow the operator's instructions.
If you are driving, fill up the tank before leaving the city, and keep an eye on the weather, because strong winds can make conditions uncomfortable. A shower or a swim afterwards is a good way to reset before the drive back.
What to expect
The experience
A 4WD and sandboarding session on large white dunes, usually starting in the town of Lancelin.
Best time
Morning or late afternoon, when the sand is cooler and the light is softer.
How long
Two to three hours for the activity, plus the drive from Perth.
Tips
Wear closed shoes, sun protection and sunglasses, bring water, and check the wind before you go.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active travellers and families with older children who want a fun, hands-on outing.
- Families
- Children usually love the sandboarding, but check any age and height rules with the operator.
- Couples
- Go late in the day for the light, then have a lobster dinner in town.
- Pair with
- The Pinnacles Desert, a koala park stop or a lobster lunch in Lancelin.
- Time needed
- Half a day, or a full day with the drive and a combined tour.
Good questions
Where is Lancelin?+
It is a small coastal town about 130 kilometres north of Perth, on the Coral Coast. The drive takes about an hour and a half to two hours.
Do I need to be fit to sandboard?+
Not especially, though climbing back up the dune is tiring. Beginners usually pick it up in a few runs, and the soft sand is forgiving.
Can I combine it with the Pinnacles?+
Yes, many day tours from Perth combine the dunes, a lobster lunch and the Pinnacles Desert. Check the itinerary before you book.
What should I wear?+
Wear light clothing, sun protection, sunglasses and closed shoes. Sand can be very hot underfoot in summer.
Is it suitable for children?+
Often, yes, but age, height and safety rules vary by operator. Check them when you book and supervise young children closely.
