Last Updated on April 16, 2023
Sandboarding is a sport that has gained popularity in recent years due to its combination of the excitement of snowboarding and surfing, with the added bonus of sunny weather. It is a sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to sandboarding, you’ll find that there are plenty of unique destinations around the world that are perfect for this thrilling activity.
Unique Sandboarding Destinations in the World
1. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, Utah
Nestled in the heart of southwestern Utah lies Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, a breathtaking sandboarding destination in the United States. The warm and sunny weather makes it a great place to visit year-round, and visitors can also enjoy hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. But it’s the red-tinted sand dunes that make Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park truly special. These dunes are perfect for sandboarding enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. With a variety of terrain and steep drops, riders can test their skills and feel the rush of adrenaline as they carve down the sandy slopes.
But sandboarding is not the only thing to do at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park. Visitors can also explore the park’s hiking trails and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Camping is also available, allowing visitors to experience the park’s natural beauty at night. Whether you’re an experienced sandboarder or a beginner looking for a new adventure, Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is a must-visit destination.
2. Coca Cola Lake, Salinópolis, Brazil
For a truly unique sandboarding experience, head to Coca Cola Lake in the province of Belem in Brazil. The lake gets its name from the distinctive brown color of its waters, and the surrounding sand dunes are perfect for sandboarding. This popular spot draws both locals and tourists seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
But what makes Coca Cola Lake truly special is the stunning landscape that surrounds it. Visitors can explore the nearby forest and enjoy the sounds and sights of the local wildlife. And if you’re looking for a break from sandboarding, the lake is perfect for swimming and fishing. With its unique landscape and variety of activities, Coca Cola Lake is a must-visit destination for any sandboarding enthusiast.
3. Duna Toro Mata, Peru
Located in the beautiful country of Peru lies Duna Toro Mata, a picturesque sandboarding destination surrounded by lush green vegetation and rolling hills. This stunning location is ideal for sandboarding and other outdoor activities, and visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
But it’s the variety of terrain that makes Duna Toro Mata truly special. From steep drops to gentle slopes, riders of all skill levels can find something to challenge them. And if you’re looking for a break from sandboarding, there are plenty of hiking trails to explore and wildlife to observe. With its stunning landscape and variety of activities, Duna Toro Mata is a must-visit destination for any sandboarding enthusiast.
4. Skeleton Coast – Namibia
Namibia’s Skeleton Coast is a unique and unforgettable sandboarding destination that boasts towering dunes and breathtaking vistas. The coast gets its name from the many shipwrecks that litter its shores, and the stark and rugged landscape is unlike anything else on earth.
Sandboarding on the Skeleton Coast is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, and visitors can also explore the area’s unique wildlife, including desert elephants, lions, and seals.
5. Mount Mayhem, Johannesburg, South Africa
Located in Johannesburg, South Africa, Mount Mayhem is a popular sandboarding destination that offers challenging terrain and stunning views. The sand dunes range in height from 10 to 30 meters, and the area is known for its steep drops and rolling hills.
Visitors can rent sandboards on-site and explore the dunes on their own or take a guided tour. The area is also popular for hiking and other outdoor activities, making it a great destination for adventure-seekers.
6. Cerro Negro, Leon, Nicaragua
Cerro Negro is a must-visit sandboarding destination located in the beautiful country of Nicaragua. With its unique, black-colored sand and challenging terrain, Cerro Negro offers an unforgettable experience for adventure seekers and sandboarding enthusiasts.
This active volcano offers a thrilling experience for visitors who want to try volcano boarding, a popular activity where visitors slide down the steep slopes of the volcano on a specially designed board. The slopes of Cerro Negro can reach up to 45 degrees, providing a challenging but exciting ride for thrill-seekers.
For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, visitors can hike up the volcano and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The view from the top is truly worth the effort, with stunning vistas of the countryside and the Pacific Ocean.
7. Monte Kaolino, Hirschau, Germany
Monte Kaolino, located in Hirschau, Germany, is a popular sandboarding destination surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills. The dunes, which were formed by mining kaolin, offer a unique and picturesque environment for sandboarding and other outdoor activities.
The slopes of Monte Kaolino are suitable for sandboarders of all levels, from beginners to experienced riders. Visitors can rent equipment on site and receive instructions on how to sandboard safely and effectively.
In addition to sandboarding, Monte Kaolino offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and mountain biking. Visitors can also enjoy the local cuisine and culture, with many restaurants and shops located nearby.
8. Death Valley – San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
Death Valley, located in the San Pedro de Atacama region of Chile, is a stunning sandboarding destination with towering dunes and unique rock formations. The valley offers a surreal and otherworldly environment for sandboarding enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.
Visitors can experience the thrill of sandboarding on the steep slopes of the dunes, which can reach heights of up to 120 meters. The sand is perfect for sandboarding, providing a smooth and fast ride for visitors.
In addition to sandboarding, visitors can explore the unique landscapes and rock formations of Death Valley, which have been formed by years of erosion and volcanic activity. The valley is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, including cacti, lizards, and birds.
Overall, Death Valley is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable sandboarding experience.
9. Stockton Sand Dunes, New South Wales, Australia
The Stockton Sand Dunes, located just north of Newcastle in New South Wales, Australia, are the largest moving sand dunes in the southern hemisphere. They stretch for over 32 kilometers and cover an area of over 2,500 hectares, providing visitors with a unique and exciting sandboarding experience. The dunes are constantly shifting and changing shape due to the wind, making it a dynamic and ever-changing landscape.
One of the most popular activities at the Stockton Sand Dunes is sandboarding down the steep slopes of the dunes. The dunes range in height from small rolling hills to towering peaks that reach over 30 meters high, providing visitors with a range of options for sandboarding. The sand is soft and powdery, making it easy to slide down the dunes at high speeds. The experience is thrilling, and the views from the top of the dunes are simply breathtaking.
Aside from sandboarding, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy at the Stockton Sand Dunes. Visitors can go on guided tours to learn about the history and ecology of the dunes, take a 4WD tour to explore the dunes further, or even go on a camel ride. The area is also a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and picnicking, making it a great destination for families and groups.
10. Te Paki Sand Dunes, Bethells Beach, New Zealand
Located just 30 minutes west of Auckland, Te Paki Sand Dunes are one of New Zealand’s most popular sandboarding destinations. The dunes are situated in Bethells Beach, a picturesque location with stunning views of the coastline and the Tasman Sea. The dunes themselves are vast, with rolling hills of soft sand that provide visitors with a thrilling sandboarding experience.
Te Paki Sand Dunes are a popular destination for sandboarding enthusiasts of all levels, with different slopes and heights to suit all abilities. The dunes range in height from small hills to towering peaks that reach over 150 meters high. Visitors can choose to sandboard solo or take a guided tour with an experienced local operator who can provide equipment and show you the best spots to sandboard.
One of the unique aspects of sandboarding at Te Paki Sand Dunes is the opportunity to enjoy the stunning views from the top of the dunes. From the top, visitors can see the rugged coastline, the nearby Waitakere Ranges, and the sparkling Tasman Sea. The experience is both exhilarating and awe-inspiring, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to New Zealand.
11. Mui Ne, Vietnam
Mui Ne is a coastal fishing town located in the southeastern part of Vietnam, about a 4-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City. It is a popular destination for travelers seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, and a perfect place for sandboarding and other outdoor activities.
One of the most popular sandboarding spots in Mui Ne is the Red Sand Dunes. These dunes, as the name suggests, have a reddish hue and are constantly changing shape due to the wind. Visitors can rent sandboards from local vendors and glide down the steep slopes of the dunes while enjoying the stunning views of the coastline and nearby mountains.
Another popular spot for sandboarding in Mui Ne is the White Sand Dunes, located about 30 minutes from the town center. The White Sand Dunes are larger than the Red Sand Dunes and offer a more challenging experience for sandboarders. Visitors can rent sandboards or take a jeep tour of the dunes, which includes sandboarding, ATV rides, and visits to nearby attractions such as the Fairy Stream.
12. Dune du Pilat, La Teste-de-Buch, France
Dune du Pilat, located in La Teste-de-Buch, France, is the tallest sand dune in Europe and a popular destination for sandboarding enthusiasts. The dune stands at a height of over 100 meters and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding forest.
Visitors can rent sandboards from local vendors and ride down the steep slopes of the dune, enjoying the adrenaline rush and the breathtaking views. The dune is constantly changing shape due to the wind and weather conditions, so no two sandboarding experiences are the same.
Aside from sandboarding, visitors can also take a leisurely stroll on the top of the dune and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The dune is also a popular spot for paragliding and hang gliding, with experienced pilots taking visitors on tandem flights over the dune and the nearby coastline.
Dune du Pilat is easily accessible by car or public transportation from Bordeaux, a major city in southwestern France. The dune is open year-round, although the best time to visit is in the spring and summer when the weather is warm and sunny. Visitors should also be aware of the environmental impact of sandboarding and follow the rules and regulations set by local authorities to preserve the delicate ecosystem of the dune.
13. Parangkusumo Sand Dunes, Bantul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Parangkusumo Sand Dunes are a unique sandboarding destination located in Bantul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. These sand dunes are an attractive and relatively unknown destination for those seeking an adventurous sandboarding experience. This location is known for its stunning views of the surrounding coastline and lush vegetation. Parangkusumo Sand Dunes provides a refreshing break from the bustling city life, and visitors can enjoy the thrill of sandboarding in this beautiful environment.
Visitors can take a hike up the sand dunes and enjoy the stunning scenery that awaits them. These sand dunes offer an ideal sandboarding environment, with the perfect combination of steep and gentle slopes. The location’s lush vegetation provides a serene environment that visitors will appreciate. Moreover, the location is not overcrowded, which makes it a peaceful and relaxing place to spend the day.
In addition to sandboarding, visitors can participate in other outdoor activities, such as hiking and trekking, which are popular activities in this area. This destination is also known for its picturesque sunsets, which provide visitors with the perfect photo opportunity. Overall, Parangkusumo Sand Dunes is a great destination for sandboarding enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
14. Duna del Mogote, La Paz, Baja California, Mexico
Duna del Mogote is a stunning sandboarding destination located in La Paz, Baja California, Mexico. This destination is known for its beautiful towering dunes and breathtaking scenery. The location’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean and its stunning coastline provides visitors with a unique sandboarding experience, where they can enjoy sandboarding in the midst of scenic landscapes.
Duna del Mogote provides a perfect sandboarding environment, with a combination of gentle and steep slopes, making it an ideal destination for beginners and experienced sandboarders. Moreover, the dunes’ towering height provides an adrenaline-pumping experience for thrill-seekers. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, which is visible from the top of the dunes.
Apart from sandboarding, visitors can also enjoy other outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving, in the nearby ocean. The nearby city of La Paz is also worth exploring, with its rich culture and history. Duna del Mogote is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an exhilarating sandboarding experience and a chance to explore the natural beauty of Mexico.
15. Khongor Els Sand Dunes – Gobi Desert, Mongolia
Khongor Els Sand Dunes are located in the Gobi Desert in Mongolia and are considered one of the most beautiful sand dunes in the world. The dunes are a perfect destination for sandboarding enthusiasts, with a combination of gentle and steep slopes that provide an exciting and challenging sandboarding experience.
The location is surrounded by stunning desert landscapes, and visitors can explore the nearby Gobi Desert and its rich history and culture. Moreover, visitors can enjoy a camel ride and experience the traditional Mongolian way of life. The sand dunes are also known for their stunning sunrises and sunsets, making it a popular destination for photographers.
Khongor Els Sand Dunes provide an unforgettable sandboarding experience, with the perfect combination of stunning landscapes, challenging slopes, and cultural experiences. This destination is perfect for adventurous travelers looking for a unique and authentic experience in Mongolia.
16. Erg Chigaga Dunes, Ouarzazate, Morocco
Erg Chigaga Dunes are located in Ouarzazate, Morocco, and are considered some of the tallest and most impressive sand dunes in the world. The dunes are created by the wind and are in constant motion, making them a unique and constantly changing environment. The Erg Chigaga Dunes are a great destination for sandboarding enthusiasts, as the steep slopes provide a thrilling and challenging experience. The surrounding desert landscapes are stunning and provide visitors with a sense of serenity and tranquility.
Located in the southeastern part of Morocco, Erg Chigaga Dunes are part of the Sahara Desert. The dunes stretch over 40 kilometers and can reach up to 300 meters in height. These towering sand dunes are constantly shifting, creating a unique and dynamic landscape that is perfect for sandboarding enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy the thrill of sliding down the steep slopes of the dunes, feeling the rush of wind in their face and the sand beneath their feet.
Visitors to Erg Chigaga Dunes can also enjoy other outdoor activities, such as camel riding and desert camping. The area is known for its stunning sunsets and star-filled skies, making it a popular destination for stargazers and photographers. The surrounding desert landscapes are rich with cultural and historical significance, and visitors can explore the nearby towns and villages to learn more about the local Berber culture.
17. Tottori Sand Dunes, Japan
Located in the Tottori Prefecture in Japan, the Tottori Sand Dunes are a unique and beautiful destination for sandboarding enthusiasts. These dunes, which are the largest in Japan, are known for their stunning beauty and unique landscapes. They are also famous for their unique sound, known as “singing sand,” which is produced when the wind passes over the sand.
The Tottori Sand Dunes provide a great environment for sandboarding and other outdoor activities, with a variety of slopes and terrains to suit riders of all skill levels. Visitors can enjoy sandboarding down the dunes, while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the nearby Sea of Japan.
In addition to sandboarding, visitors can also explore the nearby Tottori Sand Sculptures Museum, which houses an impressive collection of sand sculptures created by local artists. Visitors can also explore the historic city of Tottori, which is home to numerous traditional Japanese buildings and historic sites.
18. Liwa Oasis Dunes, United Arab Emirates
Liwa Oasis Dunes, located in the United Arab Emirates, are a beautiful and unique destination for sandboarding enthusiasts. These dunes are part of the Rub’ al Khali desert, also known as the “Empty Quarter,” and are surrounded by stunning desert landscapes. Visitors can enjoy sandboarding down the dunes, while taking in the stunning views of the desert, and explore the nearby Liwa Oasis.
The Liwa Oasis is a traditional oasis town and provides a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region. Visitors can explore the traditional buildings and markets, and learn about the unique agricultural practices that have sustained the oasis for centuries.
The Liwa Oasis Dunes provide a great environment for sandboarding and other outdoor activities, with a variety of slopes and terrains to suit riders of all skill levels. Experienced sandboarders can enjoy the challenge of riding down the steep slopes and high ridges of the dunes, while beginners can enjoy the gentle slopes and softer sand. The Liwa Oasis Dunes are a truly unique and unforgettable destination for anyone seeking a desert adventure.
19. Merthyr Mawr Sand Dunes, Bridgend, United Kingdom
Merthyr Mawr Sand Dunes, located in Bridgend, Wales, are a unique and beautiful destination for sandboarding enthusiasts. The dunes are known for their stunning landscapes and provide a perfect environment for outdoor activities.
Visitors can enjoy the thrill of sandboarding while taking in the stunning views of the nearby coast and the surrounding Welsh countryside. In addition to sandboarding, visitors can explore the nearby town of Bridgend, which is steeped in history and culture, and features many local attractions and landmarks.
20. Dunas de Corralejo, Fuerteventura, Spain
The Dunas de Corralejo are a natural wonder located on the island of Fuerteventura, Spain, and offer an unforgettable sandboarding experience. These magnificent sand dunes are one of the largest in Europe, with heights of up to 50 meters. The dunes are surrounded by stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, providing the perfect backdrop for a sandboarding adventure.
The sandboarding conditions at Dunas de Corralejo are ideal for both beginners and experienced riders. The dunes offer a variety of slopes and terrains, providing endless opportunities for sandboarding enthusiasts. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of other outdoor activities, such as hiking and surfing.
The town of Corralejo is located nearby, offering a wide range of accommodation and dining options for visitors. The town is also home to a vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars and clubs to choose from. The Dunas de Corralejo are the perfect place to experience the natural beauty of Fuerteventura and enjoy an unforgettable sandboarding adventure.
Your n°1 source of information on the world of sandsports and desert adventure travel. Our articles are the result of extensive research, personal experience, and knowledge-sharing within the global sandboarding community.
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