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Top 5 Sunshine Coast Waterfalls that are worth the Walk
- Jan 24, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 31
Top 5 Sunshine Coast Waterfalls that are
worth the Walk
While the Sunshine Coast is famous for golden beaches and a laid-back coastal lifestyle, head inland and you’ll uncover a cooler, greener side of the region. Tucked away in the hinterland are beautiful waterfalls framed by rainforest, creeks and rocky pools — perfect for swimming, bushwalking or simply slowing down in nature.
The waterfalls are at their best after rain, particularly during the wetter months from January to March, when creeks surge and cascades come alive. Here are our top five waterfalls on the Sunshine Coast.
Hidden within Kondalilla National Park, Kondalilla Falls is the tallest and most dramatic waterfall on the Sunshine Coast. Here, Skene Creek plunges 80 metres over the cliff edge into a lush rainforest valley below.
To reach the lookout, it’s a 1.7-kilometre return walk, passing the lovely Picnic Creek Falls and a series of rock pools where you can cool off on warmer days. For those wanting a more immersive experience, the 4.7-kilometre circuit walk continues down to the base of the falls, where the scale and power of the cascade is truly impressive.
Tucked inside the Buderim Forest Park, Buderim Falls — also known as Serenity Falls — feels like a hidden oasis close to town. The 600-metre circuit walk from the Quorn Close entrance winds through shady forest to Serenity Bridge and the falls.
Martins Creek drops around 10 metres into a large waterhole below, flowing year-round but becoming especially picturesque after heavy rain. It’s a peaceful spot for a short rainforest wander and one of the easiest waterfalls to access on the coast.
Just outside Maleny, Gardners Falls is a favourite with locals — and it’s easy to see why. A gentle 300-metre walk through lush forest leads to a series of small waterfalls and waterholes along Obi Obi Creek.
The largest pool is deep and perfect for swimming, especially on hot summer days. With multiple spots to sit, swim and relax, Gardners Falls is an ideal place to slow down and enjoy the natural beauty of the hinterland.
For those happy to earn their waterfall, Baxter Falls offers a rewarding adventure. This 22-metre waterfall lies within Kondalilla National Park and forms part of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk.
We approached from the northern entrance near Suses Pocket Road at Mapleton. The 4-kilometre return hike is moderate and winds through forest before crossing a suspension bridge just before the falls. Reaching the viewing area and looking down into the deep pool below makes the walk well worth the effort.
Located in Cilento Park at Nambour, Robinson Falls is a lovely surprise just minutes from town. A short 1-kilometre bushwalk leads through peaceful forest to this twin waterfall, where Tuckers Creek tumbles over the rocks into a shaded waterhole.
Cilento Park also features grassy areas, picnic tables, toilets and a small playground, making Robinson Falls a great stop for families or a relaxed afternoon walk.
Why the Sunshine Coast Waterfalls Are
Worth Exploring
The Sunshine Coast’s waterfalls offer a refreshing contrast to its beaches — cooler air, towering trees and the soothing sound of flowing water. Whether you’re chasing a dramatic drop like Kondalilla Falls, an easy-access swim at Gardners Falls or a short bushwalk to Robinson Falls, these hidden gems showcase the quieter, greener side of the region. If you’re visiting the Sunshine Coast, heading inland to explore its waterfalls is an experience you won’t regret.
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