Last Updated on 23 February 2024 by Ariana Svenson
The Lancelin Sand Dunes are a hidden treasure on the Western Australian coast, beckoning thrill-seekers and nature lovers.
If you’re looking for the best places to visit around Perth, the Lancelin Dunes should be on your list.
You can experience one of the best sandboarding destinations in Australia in a breathtaking natural setting and enjoy many other fun outdoor activities during your visit.
Join us as we take you through everything you need to know about Lancelin sand dunes and spending some time sandboarding. The beautiful dunes stretch as far as the eye can see.
Welcome to Lancelin
Lancelin is a small fishing town (famous for crayfish) and a popular Western Australia bucket list destination where you can combine adrenalin rushes and relaxation.
Lancelin boasts incredible white sand dunes (part of the Pinnacles Desert) stretching for 2km, ideal for sandboarding. However, there is much more to explore! Check out our guide on things to do in Lancelin for more details.
Aside from the fantastic sand dune system, there are also beautiful beaches, spectacular sunsets, and sunrises.
The area is also known for its delicious, locally sourced seafood.
You can read more things to do in Lancelin here.
When is the Best Time of year to Visit Lancelin?
Just 120km north of Perth, or about a 1.5-hour drive, considering there is some traffic in the northern suburbs of Perth, Lancelin effectively enjoys the same weather as Perth.
This means a hot and scorching summer from December through to February when temperatures frequently reach the mid-30s or even several days in a row over 40 degrees.
While summer mornings and evenings are balmy and enjoyable, much of the day is so hot that being outside is uncomfortable.
That said, Lancelin is most popular in the summer as a weekend getaway from Perth. Expect the town to be very busy on weekends during the summer.
Personally, we think the shoulder months are best, late Spring when the temperatures are warm but not too hot, or early Autumn when things are starting to cool down. Keep in mind that the area is very busy during the school holidays.
We last visited Lancelin on a winter morning, and it was spectacular – and there was hardly anyone on the Sand Dunes.
Oh – and in keeping with somewhere that claims to be the kitesurfing capital of WA (or Australia), Lancelin is windy for a lot of the year. Wind + sand can be unpleasant!
Visiting Lancelin Sand Dunes in winter
We were heading home from our weekend in Jurien Bay. The voice in my head was saying, “You don’t want to go the sand dunes at Lancelin; it’s going to be full of Instagrammers and people in general… “
Anyway – guess what – my voice was totally wrong! A Monday morning in the middle of winter, and there was only one other group in sight. My kids slid down the dunes on their bums, rolled around like maniacs and generally had a GREAT time. It made the perfect break because after climbing up those dunes a few times, they were quiet all the way back to Perth!
Best Time of Day to Visit Lancelin Sand Dunes
The best time of day to visit Lancelin sand dunes is the morning. You will find fewer crowds, so you can enjoy the landscape in peace.
If you plan to take amazing photos, consider visiting for sunrise. You’ll find calm sand and a pastel-coloured sky. After 10 am, the light can be too harsh for good quality photography.
As the day progresses towards the afternoon, especially in the peak of summer, you’ll encounter stronger winds that can whip up the sand, and the heat intensifies, which might make sandboarding a bit of a struggle. It can also get hot and dry in the summer towards midday.
Another good time to visit Lancelin sand dunes is in the evening. You can watch the sunset and take amazing photos without getting too hot.
How to get to Lancelin Sand Dunes, Perth
The Lancelin sand dunes are a popular day trip from Perth or even better, a weekend getaway from Perth. If you’re planning a road trip, the dunes are also a popular stop on many Perth road trips, including the Perth to Kalbarri road trip.
The best way to get from Perth to Lancelin is to drive on the Mitchell Freeway North until you get to Indian Ocean Drive.
Lancelin is 6 km off the Indian Ocean Drive and is a sleepy village with a range of old fishermen’s shacks through to spectacular two-storey modern homes overlooking the ocean.
You can also book guided tours from Perth to Lancelin. If you require a car, there are many hire car companies at Perth Airport.
Parking at Lancelin WA Sand Dunes and Entering
If you are concerned that you only have a 2-wheel drive vehicle, you will be fine. Just stop at the sign for the Sandboarding Car Park. You can leave your vehicle safely at Bootoo Street and enjoy a leisurely stroll to the dunes.
Alternatively, a parking clearing is situated to the left of the track, a mere 20 meters from Bootoo Street, offering easy access to the sand.
From this point, a brief 300-meter walk across a mix of soft sand and solid rock leads you straight to the dunes.
Please note that access to Lancelin Sand Dunes is carefully regulated. Visitors are granted permission to explore the designated off-road area, which spans the middle section of the dunes. Please note that there is only one entry point to the dunes.
As you approach, make sure you read the signs which mark the boundaries. Respecting these boundaries is essential, not only for your safety but also to preserve the pristine beauty of the dunes.
Lancelin WA Sand Dunes Entry Fee and Opening Hours
There is no entry fee for the Lancelin Dunes. However, you have to enter at the entry point. The dunes are open from 8:00-19:00 every day of the year. You can collect your board rental from 7:00 am.
Where to Hire a Sandboard in Lancelin
If you look online at other blogs, they will tell you to book ahead by Viator or other online platforms. Certainly, this will mean it is guaranteed you will have a sandboard waiting when you arrive in Lancelin. But….
If you aren’t sure of your plans, there are at least 4 places in town where you can hire a sandboard.
Lancelin Surf
Situated in the Lancelin Shops, the Lancelin Surf and Sandboard hire shop offers a whole range of outdoor items, incluidn surfboards, body boards, and surf clothing.
Open Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm Saturdays and 10am to 3pm Sundays.
Lancelin Gull Roadhouse /the Petrol Station
The only Petrol Station in Lancelin, the Gull Roadhouse is pretty typical of a country fuel stop and restaurant. You can get your fuel here, as well as takeaway food like coffee or fish n chips and a range of other essentials for any road trip. There are also restrooms, should you need them. However – in Lancelin, you can also hire your sandboard!!!
“Have a Chat” General Store and Butcher’s shop
If you miss all of the others mentioned above your last spot for Lancelin sandboardin hire is the General Store and Butchers shop! This general store is a cute old fashioned shop like you encounter in many country towns, selling a small range of essential goods, fishing tackle, hats, sunscreen. They also have a takeaway food section – why not munch on a ham & cheese toastie before heading out to the dunes.
Tips for Sand Dune Boarding in Lancelin
Make sure you make a note of these tips to ensure an enjoyable sandboarding experience.
- Come Prepared: Remember that there are no water sources or restroom facilities at the site, so make sure you arrive well-prepared. Pack a good supply of water so you can stay hydrated.
- Sandboard Options: At the different shops around town, you’ll find two types of sandboards: sitting and standing. It’s advisable to rent a sitting sandboard because these can also be used for standing. If you’re new to standing on a sandboard, it’s a better idea to start with a sitting one and give standing a try before considering the standing option for the future.
- Board No No’s: Forget boogie boards and surfboards. These won’t slide down the dunes.
- Board Selection: You can also choose between a double or single board.
- Wax Application: Remember to apply the wax provided by the rental company. To maintain optimal performance, keep your board properly waxed, typically after every three trips down the dunes.
- Prepare for Sand: Before sandboarding, remove your shoes and loose jewellery.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear clothes that allow you to move freely. Be aware that sand may find its way into unexpected places.
- Capture the Moments: Instead of exposing your phone to sand or potential damage, consider bringing an action camera to record your sandboarding adventures. You can check out our recommendations for GoPros here.
- Sunscreen Protection: Apply a lightweight, non-sticky sunscreen at least half an hour before hitting the dunes. This simple step will help prevent sand from sticking to your skin in case of any tumbles (and its pretty likely you will come off once… or twice!)
- Eye Shield: Wear sunglasses to shield your eyes from the intense sunlight reflected off the sand. It’s a small but vital addition to your gear.
- Beginner-Friendly: If you’re new to sandboarding, don’t be daunted; it’s not as challenging as it may initially appear. Those with prior experience in skateboarding or snowboarding will find it particularly manageable.
- Practice Makes Perfect: I recommend locating areas with steep dunes and a clear absence of rocks for newcomers. Start by sliding down the dunes while seated on the sandboard a few times. This practice will help you establish your rhythm, refine your ability to judge angles and improve your balance.
- Embrace the Tumbles: It’s normal to experience a few falls while honing your balance. Rest assured, the worst-case scenario is emerging a sandy from head to toe.
- Physical Endurance: Be prepared for a physical challenge; walking up the dunes on foot can be quite demanding and may leave your thigh muscles feeling the burn.
Other Things to Do at The Lancelin Sand Dunes
Walk and take pictures in the Dunes.
You don’t need to go sandboarding to enjoy the Lancelin sand dunes; you can just take a walk instead. There are few places in the world as unique as these dunes, so make sure you take the time to snap some pictures.
My kids were aged 4, 9 and 12, and they were very happy to just run up and down the dunes when we visited in winter.
Remember that the dunes are part of a vast desert, so make sure you bring comfortable shoes and lots of water.
Quad Bike Tour in Lancelin
If quad biking sounds better than sandboarding, you can also explore the Lancelin dunes by quad bike. If you are not confident about driving in the dunes or don’t have a 4WD, then taking a 4WD tour is an excellent option!
You can book some fantastic ATV/UTV adventure tours around the Lancelin sand dunes. No prior experience is needed to take part, and various options are available to suit your needs. You will receive a comprehensive safety briefing before you start the tour for your safety and peace of mind.
If you’re travelling with kids, 8-13-year-olds must book a single-seat kid quad bike. Kids must be AT LEAST 6 to take part. If you have teens looking to drive their own bike, you must be 14 to drive a solo bike and 16 to drive a duo bike.
Dirt bike tours are also available.
Lancelin Quad Bike Hire
There are a couple places in town you can get your Lancelin Sand Dunes Quad Bike Hire. Reviews indicate both places are pretty similar, and have insider knowledge about getting around the dunes.
Lancelin ATV, Buggy, Motocross Tours – Beacon Rd
Mr. Xtreme – Corner of Beacon & Desert Roads
Alternatively you can book through Viator or Get your guide.
Other Outdoor Adventure Activities
Beyond sandboarding, there are ample outdoor activities on offer in Lancelin. You can try a variety of watersports thanks to the clear water and consistent winds. Try stand-up paddleboarding on a calm day (or a good spot). For more adrenaline, kite-surfing and wind-surfing are popular picks. Surfing is also a popular option. You can rent all these things in the rental shops in Lancelin. Guided tours and experiences are also available.
Discover More Things to Do in Lancelin, Western Australia
For a complete guide to the best things to do in Lancelin, read our Lancelin guide, which covers the best things to do, where to stay, day trips and the best places to eat in the area.
The Verdict: Sandboarding Lancelin
Sandboarding at Lancelin Sand Dunes will give you the adrenaline rush you’re craving while enjoying nature’s beauty.
Whether carving your path down the steep sandy slopes, capturing the perfect sunset photograph, or going on a quad bike tour, the dunes offer something for everyone. With easy accessibility from Perth, Lancelin sand dunes are an essential addition to any Western Australia itinerary.
FAQs: Sandboarding in Lancelin
Is Lancelin worth a visit?
Without a doubt, Lancelin is a destination that should be on your travel list, especially if you’re a nature lover or/an adventure seeker. The Lancelin sand dunes offer a one-of-a-kind experience, and there are plenty of other things to do, too, from world-class food to beaches and other outdoor adventures.
Are dogs allowed at Lancelin Sand Dunes?
Yes, you can take your dog on the Lancelin sand dunes. However, remember that there will be lots of 4-wheelers, dirt bikes, sandboarders and off-road vehicles there, too. We took a dog to the Lancelin dunes and had a great time.
What is the history of the Lancelin sand dunes?
The Lancelin sand dunes have a fascinating history deeply rooted in the coastal geography of the area. Over countless years, wind-blown sand from the nearby Indian Ocean has sculpted these dunes into the natural wonder we see today.
Can you 4WD on Lancelin dunes?
Yes, it is possible to 4WD on the Lancelin dunes. It’s best to book a tour to do this and read up on the rules and regulations to keep you safe and preserve the area’s natural beauty. Access for 4WD vehicles is in the middle section of the dunes. Make sure you read the signs and respect the boundaries.
Can you walk at the Lancelin sand dunes?
You don’t need to sandboard or book a 4WD tour to enjoy the dunes. My kids were aged 4, 9 and 12, and they were very happy to just run up and down the dunes when we visited last year.
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