Nine Mile Beach - Image 1
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Nine Mile Beach

4.8
·28 reviews·, Australia

Vast 4WD beach paradise offering secluded camping and endless driving adventures along the coast.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Low tide

Easier driving and more space

CrowdMedium
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Nine Mile Beach - Image 1

Nine Mile Beach

Best Time

Low tide

Easier driving and more space

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Vast 4WD beach paradise offering secluded camping and endless driving adventures along the coast.

4.8
(28 reviews)

"Great for a day out of beach driving. The beach is vast and there is always free space to pull up."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 4WD & Permit Required

A 4WD is essential. Purchase your permit ($45/week or $120/year) before heading out.

⬇️ Lower Tire Pressure

Drop tire pressures significantly for soft sand. Consider bringing recovery boards.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Expansive Beach Driving

Expansive Beach Driving

Entire length of the beach

Vast, flat sand stretches perfect for 4WD adventures and a day of beachside relaxation.

Secluded Beach Camping

Secluded Beach Camping

Designated beach camping areas

Camp under the stars with forest at your back and ocean views. Not permitted on sand dunes.

Picnic and Family Fun

Picnic and Family Fun

Various pull-up spots along the beach

Ideal for a leisurely day out with the family, offering space for kids to roam and enjoy the beach.

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Planning Your Visit

4WD Essential for Beach Access

Accessing Nine Mile Beach requires a 4WD vehicle. Permits are mandatory, costing around $45/week or $120/year. Lower tire pressures and consider recovery gear for soft sand.

Tides and Swimming Safety

Check tide times before visiting, especially for beach driving. Swimming is not recommended after rain due to the nearby wastewater treatment works. Be aware of potential rips.

Best Times

When
Low tide
Why
Easier driving and more space
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds for a peaceful escape
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Add this to your list for your next #eastcoast #roadtrip Pandanus Campground - Nine Mile Beach, Stockyard QLD For only a small #qldnationalpark fee of $7.50 per night you’ll have a large camp spot for yourself. There are 4 campgrounds along beautiful Nine Mile Beach all set up in the sand dunes. *no toilets, facilities or bins* #4wd only accessible. You will have to travel up #bigsandy in #byfiel...
@sophieeeee198
104 likes • 1.4K views

🚗 4WD & Permit Required

A 4WD is essential. Purchase your permit ($45/week or $120/year) before heading out. Reddit

⬇️ Lower Tire Pressure

Drop tire pressures significantly for soft sand. Consider bringing recovery boards. Reddit

Hands down one of the best beaches in QLD 🙌 . #ninemile #ninemilebeach #stockyard #byfieldnationalpark #9mile #9milebeach #qldbeaches #beachlife #4wd #landcruiser #toyota #toyotalandcruiser #79 #79serieslandcruiser #79tub #landcruiser70 #dji #maxtrax #rhinorack #rhinorackaustralia #explore
@offgridexplorerss
77 likes • 2.5K views
Drowned surfers, dune shadows, and the 3 a.m. knocker #HauntedBlacksmiths #LakeMacquarieGhosts #NineMileBeach #AustralianHauntings #fyp
@natureactive
424 likes • 9.5K views

🌊 Check Tides & Swim Safely

Visit at low tide. Avoid swimming after rain and be aware of rips. Reddit

📏 Respect Speed Limits

Rangers patrol with radar guns. Adhere to the 30km/h speed limit to avoid fines. Reddit

#campingqld #ninemilebeach #centralqld #thebushcompany #bt50 #ocean #campfire #howstheserenity
@ellieday91
111 likes • 6.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 4WD & Permit Required

A 4WD is essential. Purchase your permit ($45/week or $120/year) before heading out. Reddit

⬇️ Lower Tire Pressure

Drop tire pressures significantly for soft sand. Consider bringing recovery boards. Reddit

🌊 Check Tides & Swim Safely

Visit at low tide. Avoid swimming after rain and be aware of rips. Reddit

📏 Respect Speed Limits

Rangers patrol with radar guns. Adhere to the 30km/h speed limit to avoid fines. Reddit

🏕️ Beach Camping Rules

Camping is allowed on the beach, not on dunes. Enjoy the isolated atmosphere. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(28 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Nine Mile Beach is lauded for its vastness and excellent 4WD driving opportunities, offering a secluded escape for camping and day trips. Visitors appreciate the open space and natural beauty, though the need for a 4WD, permit, and awareness of tides and swimming safety are crucial considerations.

"Pretty tough train. Essential to have a 4WD or an AWD with diff lock. Needs a permit to go to the beach which is about 45 dollars for a week or 120 for a year"

Aman

"Can access by 4WD (entry at south and north ends of beach) or from the Fernleigh Track via a hiking trail over the sand dunes. Camping permitted along the beach (not on sand dunes). Avoid swimming after rain due to proximity of Belmont Wastewater Treatment Works."

Oliver Descoeudres

"Great for a day out of beach driving. The beach is vast and there is always free space to pull up and make a day of it.

Best access is from Kalaroo Rd in Jewells

Make sure you go on low tide though and drop those tire pressures. Do not attempt in anything less than a 4x4 or AWD.

9 mile is notorious for having extremely soft sand so it wouldn't hurt to take some recovery gear or recovery boards either just in case you get stuck. The beach UHF channel is 21.

Rangers patrol the beach so ensure you are doing the 30km speed limit as they have radar guns and will fine you for speeding."

MountainScape Creative.

What People Like

Expansive beach driving
Secluded camping
Natural beauty

What People Dislike

Requires 4WD
Soft sand
Swimming risks

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Access is typically via 4WD from the south and north ends of the beach. Another option is the Fernleigh Track, followed by a hike over the sand dunes. Reddit

Many suggest Kalaroo Rd in Jewells as a good access point. Reddit

No, a regular car is not suitable. You absolutely need a 4WD or an AWD with a diff lock due to the extremely soft sand. Reddit

Public transport is not a viable option for reaching Nine Mile Beach, as it's primarily accessed by 4WD. Planning a trip with a suitable vehicle is necessary.

The sand is notoriously soft, making it essential to lower tire pressures and drive cautiously. Rangers patrol and enforce speed limits. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, a permit is mandatory for beach access. You can purchase a weekly permit for approximately $45 or an annual permit for $120. Reddit

Permits are typically available for purchase online or from designated local outlets. It's best to check with local authorities or park rangers for the most current purchasing information.

While there's no specific parking fee for beach access itself (beyond the permit), if you access via a track that has a separate parking area, there might be associated costs. The primary cost is the beach driving permit. Reddit

Nine Mile Beach is generally accessible 24/7 for permitted vehicles, but it's always wise to check local advisories for any temporary closures or restrictions, especially concerning tides or weather.

Yes, rangers patrol the beach and issue fines for driving without a valid permit. Ensure you have yours displayed correctly. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Swimming is not recommended after rain due to the proximity of the Belmont Wastewater Treatment Works. Be aware of potential rips and the absence of lifeguards. Reddit

Yes, camping is permitted along the beach itself, but not on the sand dunes. It offers an isolated and scenic experience. Reddit

The speed limit is strictly 30km/h. Rangers use radar guns, so be mindful to avoid fines. Reddit

If you get stuck in the soft sand, use your recovery gear or boards. Having a UHF radio tuned to channel 21 can be helpful for communication. Reddit

Facilities are minimal, emphasizing the natural and isolated feel. It's best to come prepared with everything you need, including food, water, and any camping gear.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

No, Nine Mile Beach is a natural, undeveloped area. You'll need to bring all your own food and drinks for a picnic or camping trip. Reddit

Pack plenty of water, snacks, and a picnic lunch. Consider a cooler to keep items fresh, especially on a warm day. Reddit

The nearest amenities for purchasing food would be in nearby towns like Belmont or Redhead, so it's best to stock up before you head to the beach. Reddit

While there are no designated BBQ facilities, if you bring your own portable BBQ and use it responsibly, it's generally acceptable. Ensure you clean up thoroughly afterward.

Prepare sandwiches, wraps, and pre-cut fruits and vegetables. Pack easy-to-eat items that don't require much preparation on-site. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vastness of the beach, the 4WD tracks, and the scenic coastal landscape. Sunrises and sunsets can be particularly stunning. Instagram

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with local authorities or park management regarding any restrictions on drone operation before flying. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the sky and reduce glare on the water. TikTok

The long, uninterrupted stretches of sand, the transition from beach to forest, and the ocean itself are the main photographic subjects. Look for interesting patterns in the sand or waves. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Nine Mile Beach is a fantastic spot for families looking for an adventurous day out. The vast, open space allows children plenty of room to run and play. Beach driving itself can be an exciting experience for kids, provided it's done safely. Pack a generous picnic and plenty of snacks, as there are no food facilities. Reddit

When it comes to swimming, exercise caution. Lifeguards are not always present, and rips can form. It's best to supervise children very closely or opt for playing in the shallow water. Avoid swimming after heavy rain. Consider bringing beach toys, buckets, and spades for sandcastle building to keep the little ones entertained. Reddit

🚗 4WD Enthusiasts

For those who love off-roading, Nine Mile Beach is a must-visit. The extensive beach driving opportunities are a major draw. However, it's crucial to be well-prepared. Ensure your vehicle is a capable 4WD, and always lower your tire pressures significantly to navigate the soft sand. Reddit

Carrying essential recovery gear like sand ladders or a snatch strap is highly recommended. Familiarize yourself with the beach's UHF channel (21) for communication. Remember to purchase your beach driving permit and adhere to the 30km/h speed limit to avoid fines from patrolling rangers. Reddit

🏕️ Campers Seeking Solitude

If you're looking for a peaceful camping experience away from crowds, Nine Mile Beach delivers. Camping directly on the beach offers a unique connection with nature, with the sound of the waves as your lullaby. It's an ideal spot for stargazing due to the minimal light pollution. Reddit

Remember that this is a primitive camping experience. You must be entirely self-sufficient, bringing all your food, water, and camping equipment. Pack out everything you bring in to maintain the pristine environment. Be mindful of the tides when setting up camp and ensure you are in a designated camping area, not on the dunes. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Nine Mile Beach: The 4WD Experience

Nine Mile Beach is a paradise for 4WD enthusiasts, offering miles of driving along the sand. However, it's crucial to be prepared. A 4WD vehicle is non-negotiable, and even then, low tire pressures are essential to prevent getting bogged in the notoriously soft sand. Many visitors recommend carrying recovery gear, such as sand ladders or a winch, just in case. Remember that a permit is required for beach access, with options for weekly or annual passes, and rangers actively patrol to enforce speed limits and permit compliance. Reddit

Driving on the beach requires constant vigilance. Always check the tide times before you go, as high tide significantly reduces the available driving space and can make certain areas impassable. Aim for low tide for the most comfortable and safest driving experience. Be aware of the terrain; while much of the beach is flat, there can be soft patches and washouts. If you're new to beach driving, consider going with someone experienced or practicing in a less challenging environment first. Reddit

Beyond the driving, Nine Mile Beach offers a sense of isolation and natural beauty. The vastness of the beach, with the forest at your back and the ocean stretching out before you, makes it a perfect spot for a long, relaxing day. It's an ideal location for a picnic, beachcombing, or simply enjoying the open space. Reddit

Camping and Safety at Nine Mile Beach

For those seeking an escape, camping on Nine Mile Beach offers a unique experience. Designated camping areas allow you to set up camp directly on the sand, providing a front-row seat to the ocean and a sky full of stars. It's important to note that camping is not permitted on the sand dunes, so ensure you adhere to the marked areas. The isolation is a major draw, offering a chance to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. Reddit

Safety is paramount when camping here. Due to the beach's natural state, lifeguards are often not on duty, so swimming requires extra caution. Be aware of potential rips and always supervise children closely. As mentioned, avoid swimming after rain due to the proximity of the Belmont Wastewater Treatment Works, as this can affect water quality. Reddit

When camping, come fully prepared. There are no facilities, so you'll need to bring all your own supplies, including food, water, and waste disposal bags. Leave no trace and ensure you pack out everything you pack in to preserve the pristine environment. Reddit

Photography Opportunities

Nine Mile Beach presents a photographer's dream with its expansive landscapes and natural beauty. The long, uninterrupted stretches of sand are perfect for capturing wide-angle shots that emphasize the sheer scale of the coastline. The interplay of light and shadow on the sand, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, can create dramatic and breathtaking images. TikTokInstagram

Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to fully encompass the vastness of the beach and ocean. A polarizing filter can be invaluable for cutting glare on the water and enhancing the colors of the sky. Experiment with different angles and perspectives; the transition from the sandy beach to the bordering forest offers a unique contrast. Drone photography can also yield spectacular aerial views, but always check local regulations before flying. TikTok

Beyond the grand vistas, look for smaller details: the patterns left by the waves on the sand, interesting driftwood, or the textures of the dunes. The natural, undeveloped character of Nine Mile Beach means you're capturing raw, untamed coastal scenery. Instagram

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