Wattamolla – one of the best waterfalls in Australia

Australia is known for many things – its wildlife, beaches, Red Centre, national parks and now add waterfalls. There are some pretty amazing waterfalls in Australia, many are some iconic waterfalls that take your breath away.

I’ve been lucky to visit quite a few Australian waterfalls and I have included them in this roundup of best waterfalls in Australia. In this post, I’ve had help from other travel bloggers who have visited some of these most amazing waterfalls to provide a great roundup of some of the best waterfalls to visit while travelling around Australia.

Are you ready to get wet, chasing Australian waterfalls?

Best Waterfalls in Australia

It was hard to work out which waterfall should go first, so waterfalls are listed under each state in alphabetical order – no favouritism here! 

Best Waterfalls in New South

Fitzroy Falls, Southern Highlands

Best waterfall in NSW by Sharyn of Travellers-Fare

looking down on Fitzroy Falls from the viewing platform

Located in the New South Wales Southern Highlands is Fitzroy Falls. You wouldn’t know it existed if you didn’t see the sign because you are driving along the road that takes you through Kangaroo Valley to the Hume Highway and other Southern Highland towns. 

If you take the signed turnoff you are immediately in the carpark. Then it is an easy 500m from the carpark to the falls which you view from a viewing platform next to the falls. Fitzroy Falls water cascades down the sheer rock face of some 82 metres. 

Making it spectacular is being able to see across the valley. 

Recap:
Where: in Southern Highlands
Walk from carpark to waterfall: 500m
Can you swim: no
Where to stay to see the falls: click here to check out accommodation in Kangaroo Valley

Minnehaha Falls, Katoomba

Best waterfall in Australia of Shandos of Travelnuity

Minnehaha Waterfall

The Blue Mountains region is home to many beautiful waterfalls, but one of my favourites is Minnehaha Falls. This 20m-high waterfall is located on the northern side of Katoomba surrounded by eucalypt forest. It’s away from the crowds and expensive parking at Echo Point Lookout, plus you can enjoy a swim during summer.

To reach Minnehaha Falls, you’ll need to hike for 1.3km each way from the Minnehaha Reserve Carpark, where parking is free. The walking track to the top of the falls is relatively flat and easy, although avoid the old fenced off look-out area which is now dangerous due to erosion. Along the way there are a couple of picnic areas next to the creek, which are great for a paddle.

It’s a steep ascent to the bottom of the falls, with a number of steep metal stairs. Take your time, especially if you have children. While it’s a dog-friendly hike, carefully consider whether your dog can handle the stairs or if you can carry them.

The most spectacular views of Minnehaha Falls are from its base, where there’s a great swimming hole. Outside of summer the water is freezing cold, but it’s a refreshing and popular spot for a swim on hot days. Just keep in mind you’ve still got to climb back up to the carpark!

Recap:
Where: in Blue Mountains
Walk from carpark to waterfall: 2.6km roundtrip hike
Can you swim: yes
Where to stay to see the falls: click here to check out accommodation in Katoomba, Blue Mountains

Wattamolla, Royal National Park, NSW

Favourite waterfall and swimming spot of Sharyn of Live Work Play Travel

bring your swimmers to cool off in the lagoon or beach

The Royal National Park is around an hour from Sydney by car. There are plenty of wonderful places to visit while in the ‘Nasho’ as us locals call it. One such place is Wattamolla Beach, lagoon and waterfall.

Wattamolla is an Aboriginal word meaning ‘place near running water’ and there is plenty of water here. In fact Wattamolla is a small lagoon, with sheer cliff faces and a beach with waters sheltered from the ocean.

There is a great family friendly picnic area near the car park to enjoy and then it is a short walk to the waterfall and beach. The calm waters of the Wattamolla Lagoon are safe for swimming and is separated from the beach by a sand bar. Thus you get the best of many worlds at Wattamolla – beach, lagoon and waterfall!

Recap:
Where: in Royal National Park
Walk from carpark to waterfall: short stroll
Can you swim: yes
Where to stay to see the falls: click here to check out accommodation in Sydney or Sutherland

Wentworth Falls

One of the best waterfalls in Australia by Holly from Best of The Blue Mountains

Wentworth Falls

Located in the picturesque Blue Mountains town of Wentworth Falls, Wentworth Falls is undoubtedly one of the best waterfalls in the Blue Mountains. Tourists flock to see these spectacular falls tumbling 187 metres into the Jamison Valley below, especially after a good period of rain.

There are a number of ways to see the falls, offering views from different vantage points. The most easily accessible is Princes Rock Lookout which offers an almost straight view and is a short walk from the carpark at the picnic area.

For the slightly more adventurous, Rocket Point Lookout is almost directly across the valley from Princes Rock and is accessible after a bushwalk of approximately 30 minutes. It offers a much closer, side on view of the falls. From there you can carry on to walk across the top of the cliff the falls spill over and admire the cascades before it.

The really adventurous can carry on from here to descend the Grand Stairway, a long set of stairs cut into the sandstone cliffs to reach the bottom of the falls. This was built by hand in the early 1900’s. During the usual flow of the falls you are able to stand on the rocks at the bottom, but this isn’t advisable after heavy rains when the water will be flowing faster and the rocks will likely be underwater. Be prepared for a challenging walk out, as the Grand Stairway is steep and narrow.

Recap:
Where: in Blue Mountains
Walk from carpark to waterfall: 30 minute walk
Can you swim: yes, but you need to scramble over boulders to access a shallow pool
Where to stay to see the falls: click here to check out accommodation in Katoomba, Blue Mountains

Best Waterfalls in the Northern Territory

Jim Jim Falls, Kakadu National Park

Favourite waterfall of Sue Louise of Nigel and Sue Adventures

You can only get to the Jim Jim Falls during the dry season – so why not fly over them!

Jim Jim Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls you’ll ever see.  Located in the UNESCO World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park, Jim Jim is a seasonal waterfall that slows to a trickle in the dry winter season.  To see this waterfall in its true majesty, you’ll need to visit in the tropical summer (wet season), and ideally take a helicopter flight.

From above you get the full perspective of the power of nature, as the water cascades down from the Arnhem Land Escarpment to a plunge pool below.  Jim Jim Falls thunders almost 200m down sheer cliffs.

During the dry season you can drive to Jim Jim Falls along a 60km gravel road from the Kakadu Highway.  This road can be very rough, and the last 10km are designated 4×4 only.  The road is closed during the wet season from around November to June.  The road only opens when the roads are safe and rangers have removed any estuarine crocodiles.

You can hike to the waterfall from the carpark.  The walk is 2.6km out and back, and is moderately challenging, with rock-hopping across big boulders at the end.  You can swim in the plunge pool at the base of the falls.

The closest accommodation to Jim Jim Falls is at Cooinda or Jabiru.  There are National Park campgrounds throughout Kakadu.

Jim Jim Falls is in the traditional lands of the Binninj and Mungguy people.  

Recap:
Where: in Kakadu NP and only accessible during dry season
Walk from carpark to waterfall: 2.6km
Can you swim: yes
Where to stay to see the falls: camp in Kakadu. Where to stay to see the falls: click here to check out accommodation in Jabiru, Kakadu

Edith Falls, Nitmiluk National Park

Favourite waterfall in the Northern Territory of Dotti @ Explore Travel Oasis

Edith Falls

Edith Falls (also known as Leliyn Falls), in Nitmiluk National Park in the Northern Territory, is one of the most magical waterfalls in Australia. Located on the western side of the park, around 60 km north of Katherine, Edith Falls is a picturesque waterfall that features multiple pristine swimming pools.

Because of this, Edith Falls is one of the most popular swimming spots in the Top End. Although it’s popular, the swimming area is very big so you don’t have to worry about space. Do note that it may be closed to swimming at times between November to April (during the rainy season).

From the carpark, it’s a short and easy walk to the first plunge pool. If you’d like to make a day of it and picnic, there’s a lovely grass area nearby. Otherwise, there’s a kiosk near the parking area if you want to purchase food.

There are some great walks within the area. The 2.6 km Leliyn Trail is a moderate loop that features 3 different pools. This goes through the Edith Falls Upper Pool – a real highlight! You can also walk to Sweetwater Pool, 9 km return.

For avid hikers, Edith Falls also marks the end of the Jatbula Trail, easily one of Australia’s best multi-day hikes.

If you’re going to do any walking, visit early in the day, as it gets hot in the afternoon, even in winter and be sure to pack plenty of water and a bathing suit. 

Recap:
Where: in Nitmiluk NP – 60km north of Katherine
Walk from carpark to waterfall: 2.6km
Can you swim: yes
Where to stay to see the falls: camp in Kakadu. Where to stay to see the falls: click here to check out accommodation in Katherine

Best Waterfalls in Queensland

Josephine Falls, QLD

Suggested by Katie & Tom from Trekking the Dream

Cool off at Josephine Falls

Surrounded by the lush tropical rainforests of Queensland, Josephine Falls is one of Australia’s most breathtaking waterfalls. Part of the Wooroonooran National Park, this natural wonder is a testament to the unspoiled beauty of the Australian landscape and is a photographer’s dream.

The falls are reached via a scenic 10-minute trek from the car park through the rainforest, with plenty of flora and fauna to spot along the way. What makes Josephine Falls truly special are the three-tiered pools, the lowest two offering an opportunity to take a dip in the emerald-green water.

The falls are a true natural playground with a silky-smooth, granite rock slide providing an adventurous and fun way to get between the middle and bottom pools. Don’t be tempted to climb to the top pool; this area is restricted due to the risk of falls, and you don’t want to break a leg!

The close proximity of Josephine Falls to the car park makes it an ideal destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and thrill-seekers alike. There are no changing rooms but there are toilets and plenty of space on the rocks around the lower pool. Viewing platforms provide the perfect place to admire the falls and immerse yourself in the sound of the falling water.

If you love waterfalls, Josephine Falls really should be on your ‘must-see’ list. Getting there will take you around an hour from Cairns, with self-drive the easiest and most flexible transport option.

Recap:
Where: 1 hour from Cairns, QLD
Walk from carpark to waterfall: 10 minutes
Can you swim: yes
Where to stay to see the falls: click here to check out accommodation in Cairns

Millaa Millaa Falls

Favourite waterfall of Lanie of Make More Adventures

Take a plunge at Millaa Millaa

Millaa Millaa is one of the waterfalls located along the Waterfall Circuit in the Atherton Tablelands in Far North Queensland, about an hour and a half southwest of Cairns.

A heritage-listed plunge waterfall, Millaa Millaa Falls is surrounded by beautiful greenery and offers family-friendly swimming.

You can drive near the waterfall. The parking lot is just a couple hundred metres away and bus parking and disability parking are even closer. Toilets and change rooms are located by the bus parking lot. There is a spot for a picnic blanket with a view of the falls, or you sit at one of the picnic tables or benches.

In addition to Millaa Milla Falls, Waterfall Circuit includes Zillie Falls and Ellinjaa Falls. Exploring Waterfall Circuit is a great day trip from Cairns. It is no wonder that Milla Milla Falls is considered the most photographed waterfall in Australia. The falls are slightly more than 18 metres tall and provide the perfect swimming hole with greenery all around.

If you are looking for more stunning sites to see nearby, check out Cathedral Fig Tree National Park.

Recap:
Where: Atherton Tablelands about 1 hour inland from Cairns
Walk from carpark to waterfall: 200m or so
Can you swim: yes, very family friendly waterhole
Where to stay to see the falls: click here to check out accommodation in Cairns

Wallaman Falls

A favourite waterfall of Sue Louise of Nigel and Sue Adventures

enjoy the thunder of the waterfall

Wallaman Falls is the largest single drop waterfall in Australia.  At 268m it is truly majestical.  You can see the waterfall thundering down to the valley from a lookout, or hike down to the base of the falls.

This beautiful waterfall is in Girringun National Pak in Far North Queensland, around 50km from Ingham.  The lookout at the top of the falls is accessed by a steep windy road. You should allow around an hour for this drive, including time to stop at the Lannercost Lookout on the way.

The Djinda Walk to the base of Wallaman Falls is a 3.2km out and back hike, or more accurately, down and up!  The walk is quite challenging, with uneven steps which can be slippery.  However, the reward at the bottom is worth it as you stand and look up in awe at the waterfall above.  

You’ll feel the spray coming off the rocks, cooling you and preparing you for the long hike back up to the carpark.  There are a couple of pools where you can cool off with a swim if you wish.  Be careful as the rocks here can be slippery with all the water spray.

There are toilets in the carpark, and a National Park Campground nearby.  There is a variety of accommodation in Ingham or Townsville.  Wallaman Falls is located in the traditional lands of the Warrgamay people.

Recap:
Where: about 50km from Ingham, QLD
Walk from carpark to waterfall: 3.2km out and back – quite challenging walk
Can you swim: yes
Where to stay to see the falls: click here to check out accommodation in Ingham

Best Waterfalls in Tasmania

Montezuma Falls

Favourite waterfall of Taryn @ Happiest Outdoors

Sounds like this waterfall should be in Mexico! But it’s not

Montezuma Falls is the tallest waterfall in Tasmania, at 104 metres. If you’re visiting Strahan and Tasmania’s West Coast, it’s a must-see.

The falls are located near the tiny mining town of Rosebery, which is about 1 hour north of Strahan and Queenstown and 1.5 hours south of Burnie. The drive to get there goes through gorgeous rainforest along the Murchison Highway (A10). The last few minutes of the drive are on a gravel Williamsford Road, but it’s fine for all vehicles.

To get to Montezuma Falls from the car park, you’ll have to hike 4 km along an abandoned mining tramway. The track is quite flat but can be a bit muddy. The entire area was mined beginning in the 1890s. Today the rainforest has grown back, erasing most of the evidence, but unfortunately the legacy of pollution lives on. All of the creeks on the track are unsafe, so bring your own drinking water.

You can see the falls from a small viewing platform at the base, but the best view is from the suspension bridge that spans the creek. Take your time to admire the thundering flow, which is best after a rainstorm, before trekking the 4 km back to the car park. Allow about 3 hours total for the walk.

Recap:
Where: 1 hr north of Strahan, TAS
Walk from carpark to waterfall: 4km hike
Can you swim: no
Where to stay to see the falls: click here to check out accommodation in Strahan

Nelson Falls

Favourite waterfall of Ben Reave of Reeves Roam

Nelson Falls

Nelson Falls was our first stop off in Tasmania, as it is on the main road between Hobart Airport and Strahan. It is one of the earliest signposted places we came to within the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, part of the lush greenness of Tassie’s west coast. 

The falls themselves are quite small, and cascade over a series of quartzite steps. What makes them so impressive though, is the walk through the cool climate rainforest, which feels like taking a step into the Amazon! It was out first experience of this incredible landscape that we came to love over the coming weeks, but Nelson Falls holds a special place in our hearts for that initial ‘wow’ moment.

Once we’d parked up, reaching the falls was straightforward, thanks to a well-maintained, 1.4-kilometre return track that starts from the car park on the Lyell Highway. The path is relatively easy and would be suitable for most fitness levels, making it an inclusive adventure. We kept an eye out for the spectacular pink robins that live here, but weren’t lucky enough to see any.

The track culminates at a spacious viewing platform that offers an unobstructed view of the falls. It’s possible to get pretty close to the falls, and after a rainy few days, we could feel the spray of the water coming up from the pool below. 

Whilst small in stature, I think Nelson Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Australia, and, thanks to the environment, one that’s very different to most others you’ll find.

Recap:
Where: between Hobart and Strahan
Walk from carpark to waterfall: 1.4km return track
Can you swim: yes
Where to stay to see the falls: click here to check out accommodation in Strahan

Russell Falls

Favourite waterfall of Haley Blackall of Haley Blackall Travel

Russell Falls

Russell Falls is located in Mount Field National Park in central Tasmania. The falls can be reached by a 90-minute drive from downtown Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, making for a great day trip from Hobart with those who have access to a car.

What makes Russell Falls stand out is its accessibility. From the car park at Mount Field Visitor Centre, it’s an easy, flat walk of about 10 minutes through a stunning rainforest. This short walk means you don’t need to be an experienced hiker to enjoy one of Tasmania’s most beautiful sights. The path is well-maintained, winding through ancient ferns and towering trees, setting the stage for the spectacular waterfall ahead.

The falls themselves are a two-tiered wonder. The viewing platform is so close you can feel the mist on your skin, making for an unforgettable experience. There’s also the option to explore further with a 5-minute walk up a set of wooden stairs to the upper sections of the falls. For those wanting a bit more adventure, Horseshoe Waterfall lies just another 5-minute walk up the stairs.

Russell Falls is particularly impressive after rainfall, swelling into a powerful cascade and sparkling under the Tasmanian sun through the rainforest canopy.

Recap:
Where: 90 minutes from Hobart
Walk from carpark to waterfall: 10 minutes flat walk through rainforest
Can you swim: no

Where to stay to see the falls: click here to check out accommodation in Hobart

Best Waterfalls in Victoria

Erskine Falls

One of the best waterfalls in Australia by Audrey of Victoria Uncovered

Erskine Falls, an easy drive and walk from Lorne

Should you find yourself travelling along the Great Ocean Road, take the opportunity to venture off course and visit the stunning Erskine Falls. A mere 15-minute drive from the coastal town of Lorne, this popular waterfall is tucked away in a valley filled with giant ferns and huge boulders.

Although you’ll need a car to get there, Erskine Falls is one of the easiest waterfalls in the area to access as it doesn’t involve any hiking.

There are two viewing platforms for the falls. The first is a short walk from the car park, offering limited views it’s only recommended if you’re pressed for time or have mobility issues.

To fully immerse yourself (and feel the spray), prepare to descend 200 steps to the bottom of the falls. A challenge that will test your fitness on the way back up! The effort is worth it though.

This slender, 30-metre high waterfall, is an incredible sight, surrounded by the lush greenery, towering ferns, and moss laden rocks of the Otway’s rainforest. At the waterfall’s base lies a deep, enticing pool that’s particularly inviting on a warm summer’s day, and a tempting thought as you make your way back up those stairs!

Recap:
Where: 15 minute drive from Lorne in Otway National Park on Great Ocean Road
Walk from carpark to waterfall: easy walk down 200 steps
Can you swim: yes

Where to stay to see the falls: click here to check out accommodation in Lorne

Mackenzie Falls

Favourite waterfall of Dave Dean from Everything Victoria

Beautiful Mackenzie Falls in the Grampians

Mackenzie Falls is one of the highlights of Victoria’s Grampians National Park, and should definitely be on your itinerary when visiting the nearby town of Halls Gap. This large waterfall is the only one in the area that’s guaranteed to be flowing year-round, even during the dry summers that are common in the park.

There’s a large car park and picnic area alongside, and a lookout just a couple of minutes’ walk away that overlooks the falls from above. It’s a good viewpoint, but if you really want to see the power of Mackenzie Falls up close, you’ll need to strap on your walking shoes.

A 260-step staircase leads down from the carpark: it’s pretty steep, but there are several places to stop and admire the view/catch your breath along the way. A larger viewing platform is set up at the bottom, which is the perfect spot to take photos from as the water tumbles over 30m down into the deep pool at the base.

If you’ve got any energy left by the time you get back up to the top, be sure to follow the signs to the Broken Falls lookout as well: it’s 500m away on a near-flat, wheelchair-accessible path, and provides quite a different view.

I’d suggest going early to avoid the crowds: because the steps are quite narrow, the path can get quite crowded later in the day.

Recap:
Where: near Halls Gap
Walk from carpark to waterfall: down 260 step staircase
Can you swim: no
Where to stay to see the falls: click here to check out accommodation in Halls Gap

Mason Falls, Kinglake NP

Favourite waterfall of Sharyn of Live Work Play Travel

Mason Falls

Nestled in Kinglake National Park is Mason Falls, which is one of the main attractions in the Kinglake National Park. It is an easy drive from Melbourne making it a great day trip. It has dedicated parking and a fabulous bbq area where you can enjoy a bbq lunch.

From the car park Mason Falls is any easy stroll, about 700 metres, through the tall trees to the Mason Falls lookout point. Along the way, you can leave the track and dip your toes in the beautiful forest pools that cascade above the falls amongst the rocks. If the water is running, you can race leaves. This is what my kids did and they had so much fun! But there is no swimming hole for swimming.

You get the best views of the falls from the viewing area. You can sit for ages just enjoying the sounds of the water and the surrounding nature.

Recap:
Where: near Melbourne in Kinglake National Park
Walk from carpark to waterfall: 700m along a dirt tracks
Can you swim: no
Where to stay to see the falls: click here to check out accommodation in Melbourne

Best Waterfalls in Western Australia

Quinninup Falls

Favourite waterfall of Tess of Tessomewhere

Quinninup Falls

A lesser-known gem found in the popular Margaret River Wine Region in Australia’s South West is the picturesque Quinninup Falls, located only a few hundred metres from the coast.

To reach Quinninup Falls, take a 30-minute drive from the main town of Margaret River to Moses Rock Carpark. You’re now in the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, where your journey begins.

This waterfall is only accessible on foot, requiring a short but scenic 4-kilometre hike along the longer Cape to Cape track. However, the hike is part of the attraction itself, thanks to its jaw-dropping coastal scenery and a chance of spotting kangaroos and other native wildlife along the way.

The trail isn’t too challenging, but there are some steep sandy sections, so you’ll need to have a moderate level of fitness and good mobility. There are no facilities along the trail, so bring sufficient drinking water and follow the leave no trace principle.

Once you reach this 10-metre waterfall, you can take a quick dip or rest your feet in the cool water at the base of the falls. The best time to visit is from June – September when the falls are flowing at their fullest after rain. Spring is an especially beautiful time of the year to visit, due to the abundance of native wildflowers on the trail.

Recap:
Where: near Margaret River
Walk from carpark to waterfall: 4km hike with some steep sandy sections
Can you swim: yes
Where to stay to see the falls: click here to check out accommodation in Margaret River

Are You Ready to Visit some of the best waterfalls in Australia?

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