Gardners Falls
A picturesque waterfall and swimming hole in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, perfect for a refreshing dip and family fun.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful swims, easy parking
Gardners Falls
Best Time
Peaceful swims, easy parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque waterfall and swimming hole in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, perfect for a refreshing dip and family fun.
"A beautiful place to relax, have a swim and connect with nature."
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Limited parking fills up fast, especially on weekends. Go early to snag a spot!
💧 Check Water Depth
Water levels vary. Always check depth before jumping or swimming.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Main Waterfall
Obi Obi Creek
A picturesque cascade into a refreshing natural swimming hole, perfect for a cool dip.
Rope Swing Thrills
Main swimming hole
For the adventurous, a rope swing offers an exhilarating way to enter the cool waters below.
Shallow Rock Pools
Downstream from main falls
Ideal for families, these gentle pools offer a safe and fun place for kids to paddle and play.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for a Serene Dip
Water Safety & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Limited parking fills up fast, especially on weekends. Go early to snag a spot!
💧 Check Water Depth
Water levels vary. Always check depth before jumping or swimming.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Rocks near the falls can be slippery. Good grip is essential for safety.
📱 Limited Phone Reception
Be aware that mobile reception can be spotty in the area.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Limited parking fills up fast, especially on weekends. Go early to snag a spot!
💧 Check Water Depth
Water levels vary. Always check depth before jumping or swimming.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Rocks near the falls can be slippery. Good grip is essential for safety.
📱 Limited Phone Reception
Be aware that mobile reception can be spotty in the area.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a relaxing day with grassy areas perfect for a picnic lunch.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Gardners Falls as a beautiful, refreshing natural escape perfect for swimming and connecting with nature. The easy access and free entry are major draws, though the limited parking and potential for crowds on weekends are noted drawbacks. It's a highly recommended spot for a relaxing day out, especially when timed right.
"This is such a beautiful place to relax,have a swim and connect with nature.
There's grassed areas to have a picnic and a drop toilet onsite.
I highly recommend for a relaxing day out"
Jody Maguire
"Visited Gardners Falls around 10:30 am on a weekday and had the place almost entirely to myself. I went for a swim about halfway downstream before the main waterfall with the rope swing. The water was definitely cold—probably around 8–10 degrees—but incredibly refreshing, like a natural ice bath. The peace and quiet made for a really enjoyable experience.
I’ve been here before on a Saturday around midday, and it was a completely different story—packed with people and nowhere to park. I ended up leaving that time, so I’d definitely recommend coming early in the morning or during the week if you’re after a quieter visit.
The surrounding nature is beautiful, and I even spotted a turtle sunbaking on the rocks. No platypus sightings this time, but it’s easy to see why they’d avoid the busier periods. One thing to keep in mind: don’t assume the water is deep everywhere—some parts are surprisingly shallow, even if they don’t look it.
All up, it’s a great spot for a midweek swim and a bit of time in nature—just time your visit right."
Joel Graham
"Best time to visit is during the week to avoid the crowds and after some rain so that the creek and falls are pumping! Plenty of parking and easy 300m walk to main falls. Track is mostly all bitumen with some water running across in places after recentrains. Great little walk to great little falls! We really enjoyed our experience here."
Kelvin Jones
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gardners Falls is approximately 104 km from Brisbane City Hall, making it about a 1.5-hour drive. It's a popular day trip destination for those looking to escape the city and explore the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
Driving is the most convenient way to reach Gardners Falls. The route is well-signposted from Maleny. There are also roadside parks available if the main car park is full.
Public transport options to Gardners Falls are limited. It is best accessed by car. Consider ride-sharing services if you are not driving yourself.
The walk from the car park to the main falls is a short and easy 300 meters. The track is mostly bitumen, making it accessible for most visitors.
Yes, the Sunshine Coast Hinterland is dotted with beautiful waterfalls. Nearby options include Kondalilla Falls and Elabana Falls, which are also popular swimming spots.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Gardners Falls is a natural attraction and does not have an entry fee, making it a fantastic free day out for families and individuals.
Gardners Falls is accessible at any time as it is a natural outdoor space. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
No, tickets are not required for Gardners Falls as there is no entry fee. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis for parking and access.
Yes, there is a car park at Gardners Falls. However, it is relatively small and can fill up quickly, especially on busy days. Arriving early or on a weekday is advised.
Yes, there is a drop toilet facility located onsite at Gardners Falls for visitor convenience.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Absolutely! Gardners Falls is a popular swimming destination with natural swimming holes and rock pools. The main waterfall pool is great for a refreshing dip, and there are shallower areas suitable for families.
Yes, Gardners Falls is family-friendly. The shallow rock pools downstream are perfect for children to play in safely, but always supervise them closely near the water.
Visitors can swim, enjoy the natural scenery, have a picnic on the grassy areas, and for the adventurous, there's a rope swing to jump from.
The walk from the car park to the main falls is a short 300m and mostly bitumen, making it relatively accessible. However, the terrain around the water can be uneven and slippery, so caution is advised.
The surrounding rainforest is home to various wildlife. Visitors have spotted turtles sunbaking on rocks, and it's a habitat where platypus might be found, though they are shy.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no cafes or restaurants directly at Gardners Falls. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks for a picnic.
Yes, Gardners Falls has grassy areas perfect for picnics. It's a great spot to relax and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
Pack essentials like a picnic blanket, food, drinks, and any utensils you might need. Remember to take all your rubbish with you to keep the area clean.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the cascading waterfall, the lush rainforest backdrop, and the fun of people swimming or using the rope swing. The natural light filtering through the trees creates beautiful shots.
Yes, the short walk and accessible viewing points make it easy to get great photos. Be mindful of slippery rocks when getting close to the water's edge.
Morning light can be soft and beautiful, especially if you can catch it before the crowds arrive. Midday sun can be harsh, but the shade from the trees helps.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local council bylaws and CASA (Civil Aviation Safety Authority) guidelines before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the waterfall and surrounding landscape. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water. A waterproof phone case is also a good idea if you plan on swimming.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The shallow rock pools downstream from the main waterfall are perfect for younger children to safely paddle and play in.💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Gardners Falls: A Natural Oasis
The falls themselves cascade into a clear pool, offering a refreshing escape, especially on warmer days. The surrounding lush rainforest adds to the serene atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to connect with nature.Beyond the main waterfall, the Obi Obi Creek offers a series of smaller rock pools that are ideal for children to splash around in safely. For those seeking a bit more adrenaline, a rope swing hangs over the main pool, providing a fun, albeit slightly risky, way to enter the water.
However, its popularity means that Gardners Falls can get crowded, particularly on weekends and during peak seasons. Many visitors recommend visiting on weekdays or early in the morning to experience its tranquility and secure parking, as the car park is quite limited.
Planning Your Visit: Tips from the Community
Safety is another key consideration. While the falls are inviting, always be mindful of water depth, as some areas can be deceptively shallow. Supervise children closely, especially near the water's edge.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit