I've ridden in the sand once and it was a blast. Even though I don't know from experience but my guess is a paddle tire is nice. I don't have anything to compare to, but I did put on a paddle tire (8) and it hooked up awesome w/ the 250.
Anyways, for the tips. While turning lean back just a little; just a tad behind center of seat. This helps alot in powersliding. If you sit up front then the front end will want to tuck in or wash out. Transferring weight back really helps out quite a bit. Sadly I found out after a couple hours of riding.\
Have fun. It's a blast. Where you goin?