If you're craving some chill time in nature, there's nothing like the sound of a babbling brook or Mother Nature's glorious mist splashing to help you get your groove back.

Whether you're a thrill-seeker or just in it for the peaceful vibes, swimming holes and waterfalls are ideal getaway locations. And with a little rain, they really come to life. Just so you know, Southeast Queensland has more to offer than just beaches.

There are other picturesque secret walks and waterfalls in the Brisbane hinterland and national parks that are just waiting to be discovered. You don't have to search for the best undiscovered waterfalls in the areas around Brisbane because we did the hard work for you. You just need to take it all in, unwind, and enjoy. Most of these swimming holes and waterfalls in Brisbane, all within a two-hour drive of the city, are great places to cool off. There is something for every adventure, whether you're looking for the peace of a hidden area or a plunge in one of the most breathtaking settings.

Please bear a few things in mind before beginning your epic expedition. Waterfalls are undoubtedly more impressive after a decent rain event, yet several of the falls listed above will be dry without much rain. If you intend to swim while visiting, be aware that swimming holes' water quality declines when water flow is restricted during dry seasons. Make the best decision you can. Naturally, there may be severe grades and the occasional steep drop over to the side when walking any of the paths indicated. When visiting, make sure to be safe and follow all safety signs. Before you go, let someone know where you're going and when you'll be returning. Never dive into bodies of water since there could be hidden hazards, the depths can fluctuate, and there might be powerful currents. And finally, enjoy yourself!

Here are the top waterfalls close to Brisbane, including some that you can swim beneath.

 

J C Slaughter Falls and Simpson Falls, Mt Coot-tha

J C Slaughter Falls and Simpsons Falls are the waterfalls that are nearest to Brisbane, located 15 minutes from the city centre, and are a favourite picnic location for locals. The falls remain dry for a good amount of the year, but after a significant downpour, they are incredibly stunning. Simply follow the Aboriginal Art Trail to a wooden platform with an overhang to see J C Slaughter Falls. You'll pass by a number of displays of Aboriginal art along the way. Kids can easily complete the one kilometre of flat terrain. The 650-meter Simpsons Falls Track is a somewhat difficult path that leads to Simpsons Falls but is also worth the trip. While parking for Simpsons Falls is available in the Simpsons Falls Carpark, the carpark for JC Slaughter Falls is located separately.

Cedar Creek, Samford

The beautiful rock pools of Cedar Creek lie just outside of Samford. Visiting Cedar Creek, you can experience the countryside with rolling hills in every direction, just a short, picturesque drive northwest of Brisbane. Turn left into Cedar Creek Road after travelling down Mt. Samson Road. You may either continue up the stream to some larger falls and pools, or you can stop at Andy Williams Park for a few rock pools. However, as there are some private residences nearby, please exercise caution and respect for them. Doing so will help to preserve Cedar Creek in its natural state.

Gardners Falls, Maleny

On a hot day, Gardners Falls, located on the Sunshine Coast Hinterland close to Maleny, attracts quite a few swimmers. From the parking lot, take the route to the main waterfall and swimming area, which has two rope swings for would-be Tarzans. Be warned: you won't have this waterfall in Brisbane to yourself because it's a popular spot. However, it is worth overcoming a small throng to enjoy a dip at this Maleny swimming hole when you consider the short distance from the car, the lovely bush environment, the gradual cascade, and the rock pools below.  In Southeast Queensland, this waterfall is likely the most kid-friendly. Obi Obi Creek is followed by a bitumen trail that passes through small waterfalls and bathing spots. Gardner's is a lovely swimming location because of the cool mountain water, and the water levels are appropriate for the whole family. Make a day of it by taking a picnic.

Serenity Falls, Buderim

The Buderim "Serenity" Falls are another treasure of the Sunshine Coast hinterland. Prior to the council buying the 45-hectare plot of land as a reserve for the general public, it was privately owned. The breathtaking falls are situated in the Buderim Forest Park. Serenity Falls have got to be the best-kept but least-known swimming spot in Buderim. Make sure to wear swimming trunks underneath your activewear as you explore Buderim Forest Park, then cool off with a plunge in the rock pool or by going underneath the waterfall. The cave behind the waterfall and the access it provides for visitors provide excellent photo opportunities.

Kondalilla Falls, Montville

Near Brisbane, Kondalilla National Park, just outside of Montville, contains another beloved waterfall that should be on your list to visit. There are more than 300 stairs on the Kondalilla Falls Circuit walking circuit, so make sure to wear sturdy walking shoes. A simple path will lead you through the rainforest before you begin a steeper descent to Kondalilla Falls. You can enter right away or observe from the lookout. You can swim at Kondalilla falls, and if you don't feel like climbing the 300 stairs there and back, there are also rock pool at the summit above the waterfall which is a highlight of the journey. It is understandable why the Aboriginal term for "rushing waters" inspired the name Kondalilla Falls. The water from Skene Creek descends 90 metres to the gully below during the rainy season. On Kondalilla Falls Road in Montville, you’ll find the car park for easier access.

Larapinta Falls, Lamington National Park

Larapinta Falls, a hidden gem in Lamington National Park, is accessible by a strenuous off-track walk with a rock-hop that will put your trekking prowess to the test yet leave you rewarded.  Make sure to check the weather conditions beforehand and get ready for an early start as the hike will take you roughly 6 hours. Stop for a rockpool swim as a reward for working up a sweat.

Serenity Falls, Buderim Forest Walk

In the Sunshine Coast's subtropical splendour, this isolated hideaway is a gem and needs to be on your bucket list of Queensland adventures. Less than 1 km from the Buderim Village sits this 45-hectare remote oasis. Tall trees, ferns, cascading waterfalls, and bird calls can all be found in this rainforest environment. Despite being only a short distance from the beach and the charming community of Buderim, this picturesque waterfall, nearby serene rock pools, and subtropical rainforest feel wonderfully isolated. When you visit, you'll understand why Buderim Falls is a haven for nature lovers and photographers alike and has swiftly grown to be one of the Sunshine Coast's most popular Instagram locations. Serenity Falls, also known as Buderim Falls, has two entry points and takes roughly 20 minutes to complete the circuit from Quorn Close.

Wappa Falls, Yandina

A local secret that not many are aware of is only a short stroll from Wappa Dam. Wappa Falls, like Gardners Falls, has a tonne of tiny swimming holes all around the main falls. When entering the water, use caution, and stay away from entering after a lot of rain. Despite not being very large, the Wappa Falls cascades are stunning. The water is cooling, and what's best is that not many people know about it. The falls feed the South Maroochy River through the Wappa Dam, and they lead to rocky pools where you can cool yourself. There is no need to walk because the carpark is only about 30 metres from the falls. It is advised to check the SEQWater website because the falls will be flowing if the dam is spilling.

 

Cedar Creek Falls, Mt Tamborine

The most well-known and visited waterfall on Tamborine Mountain is perhaps Cedar Creek Falls. Though you should be careful not to confuse it with the Samford location bearing the same name. From the breathtaking vantage points, take in the cascades and rock pools, or descend the 86 steps to the swimming hole. The parking lot quickly fills up throughout the summer and on weekends because it is such a popular swimming spot. Keep in mind that this is a national park, so only park in the approved areas to avoid paying a costly charge.

 

Curtis Falls, Mount Tamborine

More of the best waterfalls can be found on Tamborine Mountain, which is why you should stay and experience everything this mountain town has to offer. To get to Curtis Falls it is only a short, simple 1-kilometer walk through a charming wet eucalypt woodland and rainforest. The platypus and glow worms that live in this area of the national park are protected, therefore swimming is not permitted at this waterfall. But there is still enough scenery to take in to make it well worth the trip. When you reach the base of the falls, be sure to look up to catch a breathtaking glimpse of the water tumbling over the cliff.

 

Mapleton Falls, Mapleton

Mapleton Falls still has a lot to offer, despite not being as well-known as some of the other falls on the Sunshine Coast. The falls descend 120 metres to the rainforest below in a breathtaking drop. The overlook, which offers a bird's-eye view of the falls below, is only 50 metres from the carpark, which is perfect if you only have time for a brief visit. Being both wheelchair and stroller friendly, it is easily accessible to all. Check out the Wompoo Circle, a leisurely 1.3 kilometre circuit that winds through the local jungle, to see the falls from a different angle. You can also enjoy some great views of Mapleton Falls from the Peregrine Lookout.

 

Currumbin Rock Pools & Cougal Cascades, Currumbin Valley

Currumbin Rock Pools is the place to go if you've spent a few days on the Gold Coast and want a change of scenery with a spectacular place to cool off. There are several rock ponds along Currumbin Valley Road, making it a tranquil location for picnics and swimming. The Cougal Cascades can be found if you continue down the road to the very end, but it can get congested at times. Cougal Cascades, is tucked away in the Currumbin Valley, and is without a doubt one of the best spots to take a calming dip on a hot day. With its small rock wall gushing with fresh water and plunging deep into an emerald pool of heaven, Cougal Cascades will absolutely mesmerise you. From the parking lot, it is a simple 500-meter meander and an easy descent to the rock face.

 

Elabana Falls, Lamington National Park

Elabana Falls, a stunning horsetail-style waterfall nestled in the heart of a tropical rainforest, is one of the most well-known waterfalls in Lamington National Park. You can take a refreshing swim or enjoy a peaceful break at Picnic Rock. Be prepared to share the trails, falls, and swimming hole with many others on weekends. While Binna Burra Falls are best viewed after a significant downpour, Elabana is a permanent feature, and its beauty is only enhanced by the rain. To reach this lovely spot, you'll need to hike 3.5 km through the dense jungle, which can be slippery or muddy in some areas following a downpour.

Natural Bridge, Springbrook National Park

Natural Bridge is undeniably one of the most breathtaking sites in the Gold Coast Hinterland. A paved walking path will take you above, below, and around these stunning falls. If you stay a little longer until after sunset, you'll be treated to a spectacular display of glow worms. To protect the natural habitat of these beautiful creatures, swimming is not allowed here, but it's well worth the visit to witness it for yourself. To take the quickest route to the cave, turn left at the beginning of the pathway for a one-kilometre walk. While there are many stairs along the path, families can easily enjoy a stroll here.

 

Purling Brook Falls, Springbrook National Park

Want to see one of the most impressive waterfalls near Brisbane? Check out Purling Brook Falls, a journey that combines a 4-kilometre hike with some of Queensland's best World Heritage splendour. Begin your journey down to the gorge in Springbrook National Park from the Gwongorella picnic area, passing a profusion of wildflowers in the open woodland. The circuit offers breathtaking top-down and bottom-up views of Purling Brook Falls. The 265 steps on this route are easier to navigate if you go clockwise. As you make your way to the bottom of the gorge and view the falls from below, you'll pass through an open Eucalyptus Forest. Purling Brook Falls cascades 109 metres to the valley below. For a quick view, there is an overlook about 100 metres from the carpark where you can see the falls from above.

Twin Falls, Springbrook National Park

One of Springbrook's better swimming spots is Twin Falls, which features three levels of rock pools, a waterfall, and some pretty amazing views. From Canyon Lookout, take the track towards Twill Falls; the trip takes around 30 minutes each way. The hike is particularly special since you will encounter rocky caverns and outcrops as you make your way deeper into the former Gondwana rainforest. If it's a hot day, feeling the water's spray as you walk around the back and cross behind the falls when you come face to face with Twin Falls is a welcome feeling. This 4-kilometer circuit walk takes you behind two waterfalls, through the rainforest, across rushing streams, and through rock fissures.

Box Forest Circuit, Lamington National Park

The Box Forest Circuit is a great trip that takes you close to a number of peaceful waterfalls. You can escape from people along the 11km of walking trails that wind from O'Reilly's Jungle Retreat and deep into the rainforest. As a reward for your efforts, you will see Box Log, Wajinya, and Darragumai falls along the route. The Albert River Circuit's 20.6km-long Mirror Falls climb is one of the lengthier hikes in the area but provides an unrivalled escape into nature.

Queen Mary Falls, Main Range National Park

As you go by car to the breathtaking Queen Mary Falls, make sure to take in the fresh country air along the ride. Once you arrive you can enjoy the aerial view from the lookout, which is only a few metres from the parking lot, as well as the 2 km walking trail that leads to the creek below, if you’re looking for the entire experience. It takes about 40 minutes to finish the entire walk. The best time to see Queen Mary Falls, like many of the waterfalls outside Brisbane, is right after a little rain to make sure the waterfalls are flowing in all their splendour.

 

Visit the Best Waterfalls near Brisbane with GoGet

Your favourite waterfall or swimming hole is the best way to avoid the heat, but always remember to access them carefully, take safety precautions, and adhere to any given restrictions. Why not plan to visit all these waterfalls and tick them off your Queensland bucket list? Simply book your GoGet today and get out there!