Are you ready for an adventure that will amaze your kids? Australia is home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. And there is no better way to experience them than with your family during the Australian school holidays!
From the breathtaking beauty of Katoomba Falls in New South Wales to the spectacular King George Falls in Western Australia, below, you'll find the 25 most amazing waterfalls and waterholes in Australia that your kids will never forget.
So use this guide to prepare for an unforgettable family adventure to see the best Australian waterfalls in New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia, Tasmania, Northern Territory and the Australian Capital Territory.
Read about the best Australian waterfalls below:
- The best waterfalls in Australia to visit with kids
- Discover the best NSW waterfalls
- Plan your journey to the best waterfalls in Queensland
- Explore the most stunning waterfalls in Victoria
- Discover the best waterfalls in Tasmania
- Experience must-see waterfalls in South Australia
- Explore the best waterfalls near Canberra
- Adventure awaits: Waterfalls in Western Australia
- Explore the iconic NT waterfalls and swimming holes
Some of the best waterfalls in Australia to visit with kids are:
Best waterfalls in Australia | How tall is the waterfall? | Public Toilet | Entry Fee | Is it dog-friendly? |
---|---|---|---|---|
Ellenborough falls NSW | 120 - 130 m / 394 - 427 ft | Yes | Free entry | Dog-friendly waterfall |
Fitzroy falls NSW | 160 - 220 m / 525 - 722 ft | Yes | Free entry. Parking fees apply | Dogs are not allowed |
Katoomba Falls NSW | 230 m / 755 ft | No toilets | Free entry | Dog-friendly waterfall |
Beauchamp falls Blue Mountains NSW | 16 - 26 m / 52 - 85 ft | Yes | Free entry | Dogs are not allowed |
Ebor falls NSW | 44 - 50 m / 144 - 164 ft | Yes | Free entry | Dogs are not allowed |
Queen Mary Falls QLD | 40 m / 131 ft | Yes | Free entry | Dogs are not allowed |
Wallaman falls QLD | 305 m / 1,001 ft | Yes | Free entry | Dogs are not allowed |
Cedar Creek Falls QLD | 15 - 20 m / 49 - 66 ft | Yes | Free entry | Dog-friendly waterfall |
Barron Falls QLD | 125 m / 410 ft | Yes | Free entry | Dogs are not allowed |
Josephine Falls QLD | 150 - 300 m / 492 - 984 ft | Yes | Free entry | Dogs are not allowed |
MacKenzie Falls VIC | 20 - 25 m / 65 - 82 ft | Yes | Free entry | Dogs are not allowed |
Erskine Falls VIC | 49 - 57 m / 161 - 187 ft | No toilets | Free entry | Dogs are not allowed |
Sheoak Falls VIC | 15 m / 49 ft | No toilets | Free entry | Dogs are not allowed |
Three Falls Circuit VIC | Various heights | No toilets | Free entry | Dogs are not allowed |
Steavenson Falls VIC | 55 - 110 m / 180 - 361 ft | Yes | Free entry. Parking fees apply | Dogs are not allowed |
Trentham Falls VIC | 44 - 48 m / 144 - 157 ft | Yes | Free entry | Dog-friendly waterfall |
Russell Falls TAS | 34 - 58 m / 112 - 190 ft | Yes | Park Pass is required | Dogs are not allowed |
Three Falls Circuit Tasmania | Various heights | Yes | Park Pass is required | Dogs are not allowed |
Montezuma Falls TAS | 103 - 110 m / 338 - 361 ft | Yes | Free entry | Dog-friendly waterfall |
Ingalalla Falls SA | 81 - 92 m / 266 - 302 ft | No toilets | Free entry | Dog-friendly waterfall |
Gibraltar Falls ACT | 67 - 120 m / 220 - 394 ft | Yes | Free entry | Dogs are not allowed |
Mitchell Falls WA | 80 m / 262 ft | No toilets | Park Pass is required | Dogs are not allowed |
King George Falls WA | 80 - 100 m / 262 - 328 ft | No toilets | Free entry | Dogs are not allowed |
Jim Jim Falls NT | 140 - 200 m / 459 - 656 ft | Yes | Park Pass is required | Dogs are not allowed |
Florence Falls NT | 9.8 - 15 m / 32 - 49 ft | Yes | Park Pass is required | Dogs are not allowed |
Discover the best NSW waterfalls
Ready for an unforgettable family adventure? Dive into the beauty of the best NSW waterfalls like Ellenborough Falls, Fitzroy Falls, Katoomba Falls, Beauchamp Falls in the Blue Mountains, and Ebor Falls.
From the stunning falls in Sydney and the scenic waterfalls near Newcastle to the most spectacular waterfalls near Coffs Harbour and even spots where you can take a refreshing swim, there's something for everyone.
Plan a family bushwalk, hike, or a simple day out during the next school holidays to experience nature's magic!
⭐ Dive into school holiday fun! Explore our school holiday activities Sydney guide to discover school holiday programs, free school holiday activities, family events and more fun kids activities in Sydney & NSW!
Plan your journey to the best waterfalls in Queensland
Looking for your next family adventure during the school holidays? Dive into the beauty of the best waterfalls in Queensland, like Queen Mary Falls, Wallaman Falls, Cedar Creek Falls, the enchanting Barron Falls, and Josephine Falls.
Whether you're exploring the stunning North Queensland waterfalls or searching for the best waterfalls near Brisbane, there's a perfect family-friendly hike waiting for you.
⭐ Dive into school holiday fun! Explore our school holiday activities Brisbane guide to discover school holiday programs, free school holiday activities, kids events and more school holiday fun in Brisbane & surrounds!
Explore the most stunning waterfalls in Victoria
Ready for a memorable outdoor adventure with your family? Next school holiday, discover the best waterfalls in Victoria.
From the iconic MacKenzie Falls in the Grampians, the serene beauty of Erskine Falls, Sheoak Falls and the Three Falls Circuit in Lorne to Trentham Falls and Steavenson Falls, you'll see Victoria's most stunning cascades.
⭐ Dive into school holiday fun today! Uncover the best school holiday programs Melbourne has, including school holiday camps in Victoria, free school holiday activities, entertaining family shows and more!
Discover the best waterfalls in Tasmania
Get ready for your next school holiday adventure! Journey to Tasmania's best waterfalls, like Russell Falls, Three Falls Circuit in Mount Field National Park, and Montezuma Falls, to experience nature and family-friendly hikes.
Read on about the best waterfalls in Tasmania below.
Russell Falls in Tasmania: a perfect family-friendly adventure
Russell Falls in Tasmania is one of the best family-friendly activities near Hobart, Australia. Located in Mount Field National Park, it’s just a 1-1.5-hour drive from the city.
It's perfect for a day trip filled with adventure to see the natural beauty of this stunning three-tiered waterfall.
Things to know about Russell Falls:
Visitor Centre
Cafe
Gift Shop
BBQs
Picnic grounds
Toilets
Playground
Lots of space
Camping
Ample parking
Entry is free. However, you'll need to hold a valid Parks Pass. A daily Park Pass is $41.20 per car for 8 people or $20.60 per person.
Russell Falls walks
The Russell Falls Walk is 1.4 km (25 mins return), pram-friendly and wheelchair-accessible. easy to navigate the trail, which is perfect for a family hike. The walks start at the visitor centre.
Russell Falls is part of the Three Falls Circuit Walk in the Mount Field National Park. Read more about the beautiful 3 falls walk below.
Russell Falls map:
Russell Falls location:
Visit the breathtaking Three Falls Circuit, Tasmania
When you visit Hobart, TAS, embark on a one-day adventure with your family to hike the Three Falls Circuit in the breathtaking Mount Field National Park.
This moderate 6 km (2-2.5 hrs return) walk is perfect for families with older kids due to some steep hill sections along this walk.
During this beautiful walk, you'll see three waterfalls around the area:
Russel Falls, one of the most famous waterfalls in Tassie
Horseshoe Falls, a small yet lovely waterfall
Lady Barron Falls, a beautiful cascading waterfall
Things to know about the Three Falls Circuit, Tasmania:
Wear comfortable footwear
No drinking water stations in the forest, so take a water bottle with you
Some benches along the trail to sit and relax or have a bite
There is a lovely cafe at the visitor centre that offers a variety of lunch options and great coffee
The visitor centre offers clean toilets and a gift shop. The after-hours toilets are at the kids' playground nearby
Plenty of parking, BBQs, great picnic facilities and lots of space to run around
All Tasmanian national parks require a valid Parks Pass for entry. A daily pass is $41.20 per car / $20.60 per person
Dogs are not allowed.
Get ready for an unforgettable family day out at The Three Falls Circuit, one of the fun things to do in Hobart with kids! Dive into the beauty of the Tasmanian wilderness and explore a unique World Heritage site.
Three Falls Circuit Tasmania map:
Three Falls Circuit Tasmania location:
Visit the stunning Montezuma Falls - Tasmania's best-kept secret
Take your family on an adventure to the beautiful Montezuma Falls, the tallest waterfall in Tasmania! This hidden gem is the perfect family-friendly attraction near Queenstown.
Located in the West Coast region of Tasmania in a short 1-hour drive from the nearby towns of Zeehan, Strahan and Queenstown via the Murchison Highway.
Things to know about Montezuma Falls:
Montezuma Falls trail (8 km / 2 hours return walk) is pram-friendly and easy to navigate through the beautiful rainforest
Plenty of opportunities for kids to explore and discover. Kids will love it! Just bring water and snacks with you!
A little tunnel to walk through to get a closer look at the falls
The suspension bridge across the river is a unique viewpoint to see the falls and the surrounding Tasmanian wilderness.
Toilets at the start of the trail
Picnic tables at the start of the trail
Dogs are allowed on a leash.
Montezuma Falls hike location:
Experience must-see waterfalls in South Australia
When it comes to fun things to do in Adelaide with kids, visiting the beautiful South Australian waterfalls is a great family activity.
Dive into our guide about Adelaide's hidden gem, the stunning Ingalalla Waterfalls in Second Valley Forest Reserve, to plan your next school holiday adventure!
⭐ Ready for some school holiday fun? Discover what to do in Adelaide with kids during the upcoming holidays! From special events to free school holiday activities and more fun waiting to be explored!
Bring the whole family to Ingalalla Falls
If you're looking for Fleurieu Peninsula things to do for free during the school holidays, Ingalalla Falls is the ultimate destination for families to visit for a fun and exciting adventure!
The Ingalalla Waterfalls in South Australia is a hidden gem near Adelaide and a popular place for hiking and outdoor activities for families with kids.
Nestled in the heart of Second Valley Forest Reserve, Ingalalla Waterfalls offer a picturesque setting, perfect for kids to explore and play.
Things to know about Ingalalla Waterfalls:
The falls are located in Second Valley Forest Reserve, a great place for kids to play, explore and learn about the natural environment
Ingalalla Falls Walk is an easy 500 m walk from the carpark. Kids will love the adventure!
Lots of free parking
Lovely picnic spot with many picnic tables and space for kids to run around and have fun
Playground to burn off some energy
Panoramic lookout points to take great photos
No toilet facilities at the park
Swimming is typically allowed
Camping is available if there is no total fire ban
Dog-friendly waterfall.
Ingalalla Falls map:
Ingalalla Falls location:
Explore the best waterfalls near Canberra
When it comes to fun things to do in Canberra with kids, exploring the stunning Gibraltar Falls in Namadgi National Park is a great place to visit for families.
Dive into our guide below to learn all you need about the best waterfalls near Canberra and make your trip planning a breeze.
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Take the kids for a day of adventure to Gibraltar Falls
Gibraltar Falls in Namadgi National Park is one of the best free things to do in Canberra for families, just a short 45-minute drive from the city.
With crystal clear water cascading down the rocks and a small pool at the top of the falls, it's a great family-friendly spot to take the kids during the school holidays to explore the natural beauty of this area.
❗ Please note that the Gibraltar Falls and walking track are currently closed to the public until further notice.
Things to know before about Gibraltar Falls, Canberra:
The Gibraltar Falls Walk from the car park is a short 50 - 100 m trail, mostly uphill
Quite a few rock steps along the hike, so if you have small kids or limited mobility, the walk is not very accessible
The viewing platform allows seeing the lovely falls up close
Another relatively easy 3 km (1 hour) hiking trail is available - Gibraltar Falls Walking Track, from Gibraltar Waterfall to Woods Reserve
Swimming in the small pool at the top of the waterfall is allowed. However, there are no handrails or barriers, so be careful
Free parking with a few spaces available right near the falls' entrance. Alternatively, you can use the Woods Reserve car park
Toilets are available
Excellent BBQ facilities: gas BBQs, picnic shelter and picnic tables
Camping and fires are prohibited at Gibraltar Falls
Overnight camping is available at the Woods Reserve Camping Grounds nearby
No drinking water at the falls, so bring a water bottle
Dogs are not allowed.
Gibraltar Falls map:
Gibraltar Falls direction:
Adventure awaits: Waterfalls in Western Australia
Pack your bags for your next holiday journey to the most beautiful waterfalls in Western Australia, like Mitchell Falls, including Big Mertens Falls and Litlle Mertens Falls, and the majestic King George Falls in the Kimberley Region.
Below, you'll find more about Western Australia's best waterfalls.
⭐ Getting ready for school holidays in Western Australia? Dive into our curated list of fun school holiday activities Perth and its surrounds offer, packed with engaging school holiday programs, family events and free school holiday activities.
Take the kids on a breathtaking journey to Mitchell Falls
Mitchell Falls, Mitchell River National Park, in the Kimberley Region of Western Australia, is likely to become an unforgettable adventure for your school kids and teens during your Broome & Kimberley holidays.
It's an excellent opportunity to learn more about Aboriginal culture, take in the breathtaking views of the falls, enjoy a great outdoor adventure and create lasting memories.
Things to know about Mitchell Falls @ Kimberley:
Mitchell Falls Walk is a moderate-graded 8 km (2.5-3 hrs return) walk with lots of wildlife and adventure, great for hiking and walking.
Discover the stunning remote red rock wilderness area
There’s even Aboriginal rock art, including some under Little Mertens Falls
The magnificent Big Mertens Falls and Litlle Mertens Falls are suitable for swimming. Swimming is not allowed anywhere else as there could be saltwater crocodiles present
No toilets at the Falls and on the trail. The closest toilets are at Mitchell Falls Campground.
An Uunguu Visitor Pass is required: $15.00 per car (12 or fewer occupants) / $8.00 per vehicle (concession)
Dogs are not allowed at the park
Mitchell Falls Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis
Wet season: 01 October - 30 April. However, about 90% of the annual rainfall happens between December and March
Dry season: 01 May - 30 September
Mitchell Falls map:
Mitchell Falls direction:
Explore King George Falls by cruise or scenic flight
When it comes to the best things to do in Broome during the school holidays, visiting King George Falls in Kimberley is one of them.
Located in the remote North Kimberley Marine Park, the highest twin falls in Western Australia can only be accessed by cruise or scenic flight. What an exciting and adventurous family trip!
Things to know before going to King George Falls:
Cruises are available from Kununurra, WA
Flights depart from Broome and Kununurra, WA
The best time for visiting King George is April to May when the wet season is just finished, and there is plenty of water
No entry fees to the falls
Dogs are not allowed.
Explore the iconic NT waterfalls and swimming holes
Next time wondering what to do in Darwin with kids and teenagers, we recommend putting Kakadu National Park and Litchfield National Park on your bucket list!
Learn about the most beautiful waterfalls in NT - Jim Jim Falls and Florence Falls waterhole, to plan an unforgettable family holiday in Darwin, Australia!
Jim Jim Falls: an unforgettable family experience
Jim Jim Falls, the tallest waterfall in Kakadu National Park in Australia, offers an unforgettable experience for families with teens and school-aged kids.
The Jim Jim Falls Walk is an unforgettable adventure during which you'll discover the monsoon forest, giant trees, many boulders and a deep natural pool, all surrounded by impressive 200 m cliffs!
You may even meet some exotic birds and wildlife and discover the rich culture of the local Indigenous peoples.
Things to know before going to Jim Jim Falls:
During the wet season (December - May) and heavy tropical rains, the only way to see Jim Jim Falls is by air
During the dry season (June - November), it’s possible to walk through the monsoon forest to the base of the falls through the Jim Jim plunge pool walk.
Three hikes of various lengths and difficulties are available.
Jim Jim Falls is only 4WD accessible
Toilets are located at the Jim Jim Falls carpark
Swimming is not recommended in Jim Jim Falls
Kakadu National Park is a wild place. Read these safety tips before you go.
Camping is available at Karnamarr Campground, a 15-min drive offroad
Dogs are not allowed
A valid park pass is required to enter Kakadu. An adult park pass is $40 (15 May - 31 October) / $25 (1 November - 14 May)
Jim Jim Falls map:
Jim Jim Falls direction:
Splash into fun at Florence Falls waterhole
Florence Falls and Litchfield swimming holes are a must-see for families visiting Darwin during the school holidays.
Things to know before going to Florence Falls in Litchfield Park:
The Falls are the most stunning during the wet season (December - May) and the start of the dry season (June - November).
Several Litchfield swimming holes are available: the Florence Falls large plunge pool, Florence Creek at the top of the falls and Buley Rockhole.
Florence Falls Walk to the viewpoint is an easy-graded 120 m walk. To get to the bottom of the falls, you can either go down 160 stairs (which could be hard for little children and is not pram-accessible) or take the 1 km monsoon Florence Falls hike with just a few steps.
Florence Falls waterhole is crocodile free, making it a perfect spot to escape the heat!
Bring your goggles to swim under the waterfall and watch fish swimming around.
Sometimes swimming could be prohibited due to seasonal weather conditions
Supervise your kids closely, as the rocks could be slippery.
Jumping from the high rocks is prohibited
Dogs are not allowed
Ample parking
Public toilets
BBQ facilities
Picnic areas
From 3rd April 2023, a valid Parks Pass at $10 is required to visit the park.
Florence Falls map:
Florence Falls direction:
Litchfield National Park map:
Litchfield tours from Darwin
These Litchfield National Park tours are both educational and fun, providing the perfect opportunity for families to explore and discover the beauty of this unique park:
1-day tour to Litchfield National Park from Darwin: You'll see the town of Batchelor, Termite Mounds, Florence Falls, Tolmer Falls, and Wangi Falls and have a yummy lunch at Litchfield Cafe.
1-day trip to Litchfield National Park from Darwin: Enjoy a guided nature walk, a swim in Litchfield waterfalls - Florence Falls, Buley Rockhole or Wangi Falls, a thrilling crocodile cruise and giant termite mounds.
Don't miss out on an incredible opportunity to explore Litchfield National Park with your family. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy your time with your loved ones, or book a tour today and embark on an adventure you'll never forget.
Australia is home to some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the world, and these 25 falls are the perfect destinations for families looking for a unique and unforgettable adventure during the next Australian school holidays.
From the picturesque Katoomba Falls in NSW to the majestic Mitchell Falls in WA, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
The cascading waters and lush surroundings of Fitzroy Falls in NSW, Queen Mary Falls and Josephine Falls in QLD, MacKenzie Falls and Erskine Falls in VIC, Gibraltar Falls in the ACT, and more beautiful waterfalls featured in this article are must-see destinations for families looking for a unique and exciting adventure.
These amazing waterfalls are sure to create memories that will last a lifetime!
Don’t forget to share this article with fellow parents and guardians to help them plan the upcoming school holidays!