Self Guided Waterfall Walks

A lot can be said for taking a break from the hustle and bustle of life and getting in touch with nature. The Sunshine Coast hinterland provides the perfect opportunity to explore the great outdoors.

Known for its breathtaking natural wonders, this region should be at the top of your list for a taste of what Mother Nature has on offer.

Here are some of the most beautiful waterfalls on the Coast that are close by to Spicers Tamarind Retreat.

1. Gardners Falls

This is one of the locals’ favourite waterfalls and swimming spots in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, and it’s literally right on the doorstep of Spicers Tamarind Retreat. You can walk to the waterfalls from the property itself or from the carpark near the banks of Obi Obi Creek take a short, level walk downstream toward the waterfalls (10 minutes). Along the way you’ll pass a number of shallow rock pools and flora including Wild Quince rainforest trees, White Bolly Gums and Creek Sandpaper Figs.

The freshwater pools increase in size until you reach the falls, under which you can cool off in the largest of the freshwater pools. The idyllic spot is fringed by a grassy verge so it’s worth considering a picnic. To make it even easier, order a fresh picnic made by the chefs at Spicers Tamarind Retreat, complete with a basket and rug to take with you!

Distance from:
Spicers Tamarind Retreat: 0.5km

2. Kondalilla Falls

Kondalilla is an Aboriginal word meaning “rushing waters”, and that’s exactly what you’ll find in this national park during the summer wet season, when Skene Creek plunges nearly 100 metres deep into rainforest.

The park is near Montville, and you can walk a full circuit that takes you to the falls in under 2km. There is a picnic area, lookouts and barbecue facilities, and if it’s warm you’ll be tempted to take a dip in the freshwater pool. If you’re feeling a little more energetic there is a 4.6km circuit.

The rainforest and falls provide an oasis for local wildlife, so if you’re a keen photographer, bushwalker or birdwatcher, this is the perfect destination. The park itself is a haven for photographers, bushwalkers and bird watchers and provides an oasis has become a refuge for animals and plants including the pouched frog and the bopple nut. More than 100 species of bird have been spotted in the park.

Distance from:
Spicers Tamarind Retreat: 16km

3. Mapleton Falls

Mapleton Falls plunge a tummy-churning 120 metres into the valley below, and a good place to see the action is from the lookout next to the carpark. It’s wheelchair friendly and can be reached in a few minutes. In August and September keep an eye out for soaring peregrine falcons.

The Wompoo circuit is about 1.3km long (45 minutes to walk), taking you through rainforest and eucalyptus forest. There are excellent views of the falls from The Peregrine lookout so take your camera.

Distance from:
Spicers Tamarind Retreat: 25km

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