The best waterfalls on the Sunshine Coast for epic exploration

Swap the sand for breathtaking inland exploration to chase down the most picturesque waterfalls on the Sunshine Coast.

As a Gold Coast resident, I’m drawn to sun-soaked beach hangs. But travelling the 2.5 hours up to the Sunshine Coast inspires me to step out of my comfort zone. Ditching the waves of Caloundra, Noosa and Maroochydore for hinterland havens like Maleny, Mapleton and Montville, I’m free to chase waterfalls for days, scoring equally cooling dips along the way. Officially head over heels with the inland serenity of this Queensland hot spot, I’m here to shine a light on the most beautiful waterfalls on the Sunshine Coast. Strap up your joggers and pack your togs — my favourite cascades, and the roads you’ll take to find them, offer go-to-woah adventure.

In short

If you only visit one of the waterfalls on the Sunshine Coast, make it Kondalilla Falls in Montville. Offering unobstructed waterfall visibility, a beautiful bushwalking trail and a swimming hole, it ticks all the boxes.

1. Gardners Falls

the Gardners Falls, Sunshine Coast — Find shallow rock pools surrounding the scenic Gardners Falls. (Image: Sunshine Coast Council)

Where: Obi Obi Creek, North Maleny

I drive 25 minutes from the centre of Maleny (Maple St) to a small car park next to Obi Obi Creek. It’s a storybook setting filled with mossy rocks, birdsong and towering gums as the creek’s quiet trickle intensifies over 300 metres before giving way to Gardners Falls . I’m with my two small children who navigate the trail without complaint (rare, very rare), so it’s a great family-friendly option if long bushwalks and your tribe don’t mix. Additionally, my kids (and husband) love the shallow rock pools along the way, which grow larger the closer you get.

Once we hit the Falls itself, we (carefully) lead our little ones out over the rocks for photos right atop the cliff’s drop. It’s definitely not a designated trail, please note, but it’s an incredible selfie opportunity if you’ve got grippy shoes on. Plus, you can feel the waterfalls’ glorious spritz. Spend your visit spotting ropes to swing off and into the Falls’ waterhole or roll a lunch spread over flat rocks and lose track of time.

2. Kondalilla Falls

the Kondalilla Falls, Sunshine Coast — The Kondalilla Falls Circuit walk takes you to the base of the falls. (Image: Reuben Nutt/Tourism and Events Queensland)

Where: Kondalilla National Park, Montville

I’m staying in Montville, home to an impressive batch of cute boutiques and cafes, so getting to Kondalilla Falls, within Montville’s Kondalilla National Park, is my all-too-convenient next move. The name means ‘rushing water’ to the land’s traditional Gubbi Gubbi custodians, which reflects exactly what I find during summer’s wet season. Before I get to the staggering 90-metre plunge, I scale a lush rainforest (clearly signposted) circuit trail that, again, my kids shockingly don’t hate. Once the Falls get close, I can turn left for a freshwater rock pool at the top, or right for another rock pool at the bottom of the drop. I highly advise making time for both because they’re completely sublime, unique experiences (though, obviously, the latter is going to give you that cascading money shot). The circuit is 4.7 kilometres in total and there are loads of steps coming out of the bottom so leave the kids up top with dad, like I did, to soak up the serenity in solitude.

3. Gheerulla Falls

Where: Mapleton National Park, Mapleton

A little less dramatic than Gardeners and Kondalilla (unless it’s been downpouring in the lead-up to your visit), Gheerulla Falls in Mapleton National Park is super easy to reach and very kid-friendly. The Falls flow down a large cliff face as opposed to dropping through the air so you won’t find that monstrous splash. I’m told by people I get to chatting with that rain provides one helluva sight. My kids are mesmerised as tiny clocks in their heads map out ways to slide down the cliff face and there’s a small rock pool at the foot of the Falls to frolic in, too.

4. Buderim ‘Serenity’ Falls

the Buderim ‘Serenity’ Falls, Sunshine Coast — Buderim Falls has been affectionately nicknamed Serenity Falls. (Image: Nathan White Images/Tourism and Events Queensland)

Where: Buderim Forest Park, Buderim

I’m calling it: waterfalls on the Sunshine Coast are all, practically, young-family friendly. Yet another beautiful spot I discover with my children in tow, Buderim Falls, known locally as Serenity Falls, is easy to reach and within a few minutes’ drive from the centre of town. We go in via the Lindsay Rd entry at Harry’s Lane where a sturdy timber boardwalk paves stress-free navigation to the waterfall’s base. I’m told by fellow waterfall-chasers (and there’s significantly more here than at the previous spots I’ve visited) that the Quorn Close entry off Lindsay Rd is tougher for kids due to its steepness. A shallow waterhole beneath the falls is arguably as idyllic as the drop itself, and we soon discover it’s deep enough for diving. The cascade itself trickles softly when I arrive, but again, I’m told by fellow visitors that rain dials up the drama. Regardless, it’s gorgeous down here and quick and easy access means we’ve got the rest of the day to keep exploring.

5. Booloumba Falls

the Booloumba Falls, Sunshine Coast — Booloumba Falls are tucked away in Conondale National Park. (Image: Radley White/Tourism and Events Queensland)

Where: Conondale National Park, Conondale

After banging on about the young kid energy at waterfalls on the Sunshine Coast, I ditch the kids one morning to tackle one of the more adult-driven experiences. Driving as far inland as I’ve gone so far, I uncover Booloumba Falls in the beautiful Conondale National Park. Extra time behind the wheel is worth it – think lush rainforest, tall eucalypt trees and enchanting creeks, particularly when you’re soaking it up on your own. A collection of rock pools, filled with crystal-clear water, offer some of my favourite swimming options in the area. I spent serious time in the deepest pool, located at the top section of the Falls, before slothing it out in the plunge-style pool right near it, and another rock pool at the bottom of the waterfall.

To access the Falls, there’s an easy three-kilometre two-hour return walk, but make sure you stop at the junction of Peters and Booloumba creeks to admire the abrupt and totally enthralling Breadknife rock, which is exactly what it sounds like.

6. Wappa Falls

a woman sitting on the edge of Wappa Falls, Sunshine Coast — Discover the rock-bordered pool at Wappa Falls. (Image: Reuben Nutt/Tourism and Events Queensland)

Where: Next to the Wappa Dam, Yandina

Up near Coolum, one of the best Sunshine Coast beaches, lies Wappa Falls — arguably the most adored swimming hole of all. I visited as a child but it’s great to be back on the Maroochy River with the rock-bordered waters beckoning my family this time. To reach it, we drive along Pump Station Rd to find the Falls’ carpark before taking a short stroll to Mother Nature’s playground. My kids dip in and out of the pools as hubby and I soak up more serene birdsong and lashings of Vitamin D. What of the actual waterfall? Wappa Falls itself isn’t staggering from a height perspective, so it’s more about the divine dips, but visitors should note that it can turn turbulent after heavy rainfall. As always, lean into common sense and don’t swim if it’s poured in the lead-up.

7. Robinson Falls

Where: Cilento Bushland Conservation Reserve, Nambour

I’m told about Robinson Falls by the front desk team at my accommodation. A waterfall on the Sunshine Coast that not many tourists uncover, the slice of paradise is tucked amid lush bushlands. Named after brothers Edmund and Arthur Robinson, two early colonisers of the area, Robinson Falls sits within the Cilento Bushland Conservation Reserve : 10.5 hectares that welcome you with a children’s playground, toilets and barbecue facilities. I follow a short loop trail to the left of the park through the bush to reach the top of the waterfall (which isn’t massive but is very pretty) before following it down to the waterhole at the base. What I love about this spot is how secluded it feels and you’ll likely have the place entirely to yourself. Amid the burgeoning Sunshine Coast, that’s one serious drawcard.

From the moment you arrive in Moreton Bay, stunning natural vistas, fresh and tasty dining, history and more invite you to stay and play.

Untouched national park, mirror-like lagoons and endless stretches of beaches all make Moreton Bay experiences feel like you’ve stumbled across a secret Queenslanders collectively vowed not to tell. Yet it’s easily accessible. Explore further and discover hinterland farms, ancient rainforest, fresh seafood and more: there’s something on offer for every pace, interest and generation.

Just 20 minutes from Brisbane Airport, it’s hard to believe how underrated this Queensland getaway is. Here’s your ultimate guide to rediscover play with unmissable experiences in Moreton Bay.

1. G’Day Adventure Tours, Bribie Island

G’Day Adventure Tours’ Sea to Table Experience should be your first agenda item in Moreton Bay. Take a 4WD journey through the sandy tracks of Bribie Island’s beaches to the still, glassy waters of the island’s lagoons. Glide over perfect replicas of paperbarks and fluffy blue clouds mirrored in the lagoon waters in your kayak. Listen as native birdsong echoes around you.

Then, it’s on to Fort Bribie. During the Second World War, these concrete bunkers – now slowly being enveloped by the dunes – were the last line of defence for Moreton Bay.

End the day with a sun-dappled beach picnic of locally caught Queensland prawns and famous Moreton Bay bugs. As you head home, watch the dolphins playfully dart in and out of the surf.

2. Morgan’s Seafood at Scarborough

Right on the Scarborough Boat Harbour, you’ll find Morgan’s Seafood . Between the luxury yachts, you’ll also spot trawlers and fishermen delivering their day’s catch right to Morgan’s. The family-owned and operated spot is one of the best places to try the region’s eponymous Moreton Bay bug. Or, sample more of the area’s direct-from-the-boat seafood fresh at their oyster and sushi bar. If you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with a day they’ve caught tuna.

Picture fish caught that day, prepared and then served to you as fresh sashimi as the sun sets over the unique silhouette of the Glasshouse Mountains.

3. Woorim Beach, Bribie Island

On Bribie’s eastern coastline, you’ll find Woorim Beach : aka the closest surf beach to Brisbane. Find a place on the sand by the patrolled area or wander further south to find a quiet spot and while the day away between the shaded dunes, the pages of your book and the peaceful sound of rolling waves.

Ask any local where to grab lunch, and they’ll direct you to Bribie Island Surf Club Bistro . Tuck into a fresh, local seafood platter, just metres from the beach.

4. D’Aguilar National Park

D’Aguilar National Park is a 40,000-hectare slice of greenery that stretches from urban Brisbane right up to Woodford (home of the Woodford Folk Festival). The vast expanse of park is home to ancient rainforests, eucalypt forests and shaded swimming spots hidden within gorges and under waterfalls. The area is significant for the Jinibara and Turrbal people, with ceremonial bora rings and dreaming trails all found within the park.

Carve out some time in your itinerary to explore the park’s many trails. The Maiala day-use area is the perfect starting point for walks for all levels of ability.

5. Arcade Wine Bar

arcade wine bar moreton bay — Sit down to a menu inspired by Italy.

Opposite the Redcliffe Jetty and down a laneway, you’ll find an unassuming wine bar. Venture inside and quickly fall in love with Arcade Wine Bar , one of the region’s most beloved local haunts.

Owners Danilo and Matt have a combined 50 years of sommelier experience, which they have poured into the menu, styling and wine list. More than just a hole-in-the-wall wine bar, Arcade Wine is an enoteca (a wine repository), whose walls are lined with bottles upon bottles of Italian wine varietals from every corner of Italy.

Settle in with a wine and work your way through the menu inspired by Danilo’s native Italy: traditional meatballs, their quick-to-sell-out terrine, or a selection of Italian cheeses, charcuterie and arancini.

6. Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail

Away from the ocean, tucked in the hinterland, is the Wamuran & Loop Rail Trail . Perfect for cyclists or walkers, the trail was built to showcase the history of the Caboolture to Kilcoy rail corridor (last operating in 1964) and makes for the perfect family day out. The trail runs for 10.5km and connects Wamuran and Caboolture via an accessible path.

Pass through former railroad, bridges and shaded bushland as you cut from A to B. Plus, visit in winter for a detour along the way to one of the many pick-your-own strawberry farms.

7. Farm Visits

Beaches, mountains and history make an enticing combination. But Moreton Bay also brings hinterland, family-friendly farms to the table. Trevena Glen is one of the area’s most loved, with bunnies, ponies, sheep, alpacas (and more) available to visit for the kids. For the adults, book a horse-riding session and be treated to a grazing platter as you watch the sun set over the mountains of D’Aguilar National Park.

At White Ridge Farm , find camels, putt-putt, train and tractor rides and all kinds of animals. The entire farm is paved, making it accessible for all.

8. Miss Sprinkles

Miss Sprinkles Gelato moreton bay — Pick your scoop at Miss Sprinkles Gelato.

An ice cream at the beach is one of life’s most perfect pleasures. While in town, stop by Miss Sprinkles for the locals’ pick of homemade gelato on the Scarborough foreshore.

The gelato here is made the authentic Italian way and scooped up just across from the beach. Or, settle in at their kitschy pink wooden tables for traditional gelato in the sunshine. Aside from the homemade gelato, you’ll also find tarts, pies and even doggie gelato.

To start planning your Moreton Bay trip, or for more information, head to visitmoretonbay.com.au.

The most breathtaking waterfalls to chase on the Sunshine Coast