Best Waterfalls Near Melbourne in Victoria

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Article published: 7th November 2023

Plan a road trip to one of these amazing waterfalls near Melbourne!

Melbourne has an amazing collection of waterfalls in its proximity that often go unnoticed. Beyond the city’s bustling streets and iconic landmarks, a realm of cascading, serene waterfalls of Victoria await. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore a diverse collection of Melbourne’s most remarkable waterfalls, each offering its unique charm and allure.

Best Waterfalls in Victoria near Melbourne

We have divided the list of the best Victorian waterfalls into regions. Note that the waterfalls in Victoria here are not listed in any particular order.

Accessing waterfalls can be dangerous and you will encounter hazards. Please note that it is your responsibility to take into account any current safety and weather conditions, warnings in place and check official accessibility, parking information and addresses prior to going to any of the listed Victoria waterfalls. See our important disclaimer below and note we do not guarantee the accuracy of the information provided. Check official resources including Parks Victoria, Visit Victoria and Bureau of Meteorology.

 

Map of Top Victoria Waterfalls Near Melbourne

Hope you find the following interactive map of our favourite waterfalls in Victoria near Melbourne handy in planning your day trip.

You can zoom in on the map to explore the area more closely.

 

Grampians National Park Waterfalls

This amazing national park, also referred to by locals as simply The Grampians, is a great destination for a weekend getaway, a day trip or a hiking adventure. It also luckily happens to have some of the most amazing waterfalls in Victoria.

 

MacKenzie Falls

Location: Northern Grampians Rd, Zumsteins VIC 3401 *
Distance from Melbourne: Three to four hour drive

We start with the MacKenzie Falls – if you love waterfalls, you will love the MacKenzie Falls!

While they are a bit of a drive from Melbourne, the MacKenzie Falls in Grampians National Park are well worth the mileage.

The MacKenzie Falls are one of the biggest waterfalls in Victoria and an absolute must on your visit to the Grampians National Park. The MacKenzie Falls are one of the most iconic natural attractions in the region, plunging into a rugged gorge surrounded by astonishing rock formations. A network of hiking trails allows you to explore the beautiful area, including its unique plant and wildlife.

 

Silverband Falls

Location: Silverband Road, Bellfield VIC 3381 *
Distance from Melbourne: Three to four hour drive

Next up, we have the Silverband Falls. Also located within the Grampians National Park, Silverband Falls offers a serene and picturesque setting for any waterfall enthusiast.

Take a short walk from the car park to arrive at the base of Silverband Falls. Watch the water gently cascade over smooth rocks and take in the peaceful ambiance. The falls are easily accessible and make for a perfect stop while exploring the Grampians. In the area, you may even spot a kangaroo or two going about their day.

 

Fish Falls

Location: Zumsteins VIC 3401 *
Distance from Melbourne: Three to four hour drive

Fish Falls, also within the Grampians National Park, offers a serene escape into nature. A moderately challenging hike takes you to the falls, where water gracefully tumbles over the rocky terrain into a tranquil pool. The surrounding wilderness and some quite unique geological features create a dramatic backdrop.

 

Wannon Falls

Location: 1727 Glenelg Highway, Wannon VIC 3301 *
Distance from Melbourne: Three to four hour drive

For those willing to venture a bit further west exploring the Grampians, the Wannon Falls provide a serene rewarding escape into nature. The falls can be reached via a short walk from the car park. A nice vantage point provides a perfect spot for a picture and to admire the cascading water descending into the punchbowl waterfall. The rugged landscape and wondrous surrounds, make Wannon Falls another great waterfall stop for a visit to the Grampians. While you are here, you may also want to visit the nearby Nigretta Falls.

The best time to see the Wannon Falls is after a winter or spring rainfall.

 

Great Otway National Park Waterfalls

Located in southern Victoria, the one of a kind Great Otway National Park offers a large terrain of mountains, breathtaking landscapes and beaches to marvel at, rainforest and most importantly, some more amazing Victoria waterfalls!

Let’s have a look at a selection of the best of the waterfalls at the Great Otway National Park.

 

Beauchamp Falls

Location:  Beauchamp Falls Walking Track, Beech Forest VIC 3237 *
Distance: Two to three hour drive from Melbourne

Nestled within the Great Otway National Park, Beauchamp Falls is a hidden waterfall treasure awaiting your discovery. The falls viewing platform can be reached with a moderately challenging (take note) hike that takes you through the lush forest. As with others, check the Parks Victoria page to ensure the access is open and not undergoing upgrades.

As you approach the falls, the soothing sound of cascading water grows louder, building anticipation. Another waterfall near Melbourne not to miss, the Beauchamp Falls are an ideal destination for nature and waterfall enthusiasts and photographers.

 

Triplet Falls

Location:  Phillips Track, Wyelangta VIC 3237 *
Distance: Two to three hour drive from Melbourne

Another important mention in the list of the best waterfalls near Melbourne are the Triplet Falls. Maybe the most popular waterfall in the Otway Ranges, Triplet Falls lives up to its name, featuring three cascades of water that flow gracefully over fern covered rocks.

A well constructed Triplet Falls Rainforest Walk boardwalk takes you through the ancient rainforest, creating a magical atmosphere as you approach these enchanting falls with several elevated viewing platforms for the best views and pictures. The Triplet Falls are a delightful place to immerse yourself in the serenity of the forest and listen to the soothing sound of cascading waterfall water.

 

Hopetoun Falls

Location:  Great Otway National Park, Cape Otway VIC 3233 *
Distance: Two to three hour drive from Melbourne

Some consider the Hopetoun Falls not only one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the region, but also in Victoria and even the whole of Australia! Within the Great Otway National Park, Hopetoun Falls are a captivating sight for all visitors to the Otways.

The Hopetoun Falls Trail starts at the car park. There is a viewing platform of the falls for those who can’t or would prefer not to walk down. The path to the falls takes you through moss covered trees and the sounds of rushing water gradually grow louder, creating a suspenseful anticipation as you approach the falls. It’s a truly immersive experience that showcases nature’s raw beauty.

 

Sheoak Falls

Location:  Great Ocean Rd, Lorne VIC 3232*
Distance: Two to three hour drive from Melbourne

Nestled along the Great Ocean Road making it a perfect spot to take a break from the drive, the Sheoak Falls offer a serene and picturesque waterfall sight. A short walk through the lush forest takes you to a viewing platform that provides an uninterrupted view of the falls as they cascade over the rocky terrain. The walk is not too difficult for beginner hikers. The surrounding natural flora and fauna with the cool spray from the falls create a soothing ambiance, making it a perfect stop on your waterfall exploration journey. While you are visiting, try to spot a Tree Martin bird.

 

Erskine Falls

Location:  Erskine Falls Access Rd, Lorne VIC 3232*
Distance: About two hour drive from Melbourne

Another waterfall gem within the Great Otway National Park, Erskine Falls plunges 30 meters into the lush Erskine River gully. A short drive from Lorne, the falls are easily accessible and provide a serene oasis in the midst of the rainforest. There are two lookouts available to provide the perfect vantage point to admire the Erskine Falls, and a rainforest walk allows you to immerse yourself in the pristine environment as well as a few smaller falls on the way.

 

Ballarat and Daylesford Area Waterfalls

Looking for waterfalls to visit near Ballarat and Daylesford? You are in luck.

These popular destinations have amazing waterfalls on their doorsteps. Our favourite ones are the Lal Lal Falls, Sailors Falls and Trentham Falls but other notable ones to consider are the Moorabool, Granite and Loddon Falls.

 

Lal Lal Falls

Location: Von Guerard View Track, Lal Lal VIC 3352 *
Distance: About one to two hour drive from Melbourne

Lal Lal Falls, just a short drive from Ballarat (about 20 minutes), offers a charming and accessible waterfall experience. A short walk from the car park leads you to the falls, where water gracefully tumbles down a series of rock formations into a serene bottom. There is a playground, BBQ and a covered picnic area on site. You also have an option of a longer scenic walk around the area. The surrounding forest and the proximity to Ballarat make Lal Lal Falls a great addition to your waterfall hopping journey.

 

Sailors Falls

Location:  Sailors Falls, Victoria 3461 *
Distance: About one to two hour drive from Melbourne

Sailors Falls, just a short drive from Daylesford, offers a charming, easy to reach and accessible waterfall experience. A short walk from the car park leads you to the falls, where water gracefully tumbles down a series of rock formations into a serene pool before continuing through the Hepburn Regional Park. The surrounding forest and the proximity to Daylesford make Sailors Falls a great addition to your waterfall-hopping adventure.

 

Trentham Falls

Location:  Trentham Scenic Reserve Rd, Trentham VIC 3458 *
Distance: About one to two hour drive from Melbourne

Just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, the charming town of Trentham boasts one of Victoria’s most spectacular waterfalls. Trentham Falls descends a remarkable 32 meters down a basalt cliff , creating a peaceful oasis. The well constructed viewing platform offers a perfect vantage point to admire the falls, and a rainforest walk leads you deeper into the park, allowing you to immerse yourself in the pristine environment. Picnic tables and fire pits are available for a BBQ.

Don’t miss this one if you happen to be visiting Daylesford or Trentham.

 

 

 

Masons Falls

Location:  Masons Falls Observation Platform, Kinglake West VIC 3757 *
Distance: About one to two hour drive from Melbourne

Kinglake National Park, located just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, is home to Masons Falls. Follow the Masons Falls Walk for about 700 metres to the waterfall lookout platform. The high drop waterfall is especially  great to observe after recent rain. The walk allows visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the local forest. Masons Falls is a peaceful spot for picnics and relaxation, with the gentle sounds of the cascading water providing the perfect backdrop.

 

Wombelano Falls

Location:  Captains Creek Rd, Kinglake West VIC 3717 *
Distance: About one to two hour drive from Melbourne

Tucked away in the Lerderderg State Park, Wombelano Falls is a hidden treasure, accessible via a little more of a challenging hike compared to some of the above waterfalls. Enjoy the serenity of nature by taking a 1.5km bushwalk to the Wombelano Falls. Two tracks exist and you can take the same one or explore the other on the way back.

 

Yarra Valley Area Waterfalls

Yarra Valley is not only for the landscapes, wine, dairy and chocolate! It is also home to some of Victoria’s most unique and beautiful waterfalls.

 

Steavenson Falls

Location:  Falls Road, Marysville VIC 3779 *
Distance: About two hour drive from Melbourne

Nestled just outside the charming Yarra Valley town of Marysville, Steavenson Falls is a breathtaking natural masterpiece. The falls are one of the tallest in Victoria, with five cascades and plummeting 84 metres. A network of well maintained walking tracks provides access to various viewpoints, allowing you to capture the falls from different angles and choose how far you want your walk to be.

 

Keppel Falls

Location:  Lady Talbot Dr, Marysville VIC 3779 *
Distance: About two hour drive from Melbourne

Not too far from Steavenson Falls, Keppel Falls is a hidden gem that’s well worth the visit. A moderate hiking trail meanders through the forest and crosses a suspension bridge, providing a thrilling experience. Take care, recent condition updates suggest extra hazards and some parts of the hike are closed.

Located in the Yarra Ranges National Park, the Keppel Falls cascade in tiers over mossy rocks, creating a serene and picturesque setting. Keppel Falls is ideal for nature lovers seeking a quieter escape.

 

La La Falls

Location:   La La Falls Walk, 25 Irruka Rd, Warburton VIC 3799 *
Distance: About two hour drive from Melbourne

Located in the Dandenong Ranges, La La Falls is a serene gem waiting to be discovered. A picturesque walk through the lush forest takes you to the falls, where water gently flows over smooth rocks into a tranquil pool. The calming ambiance and the natural beauty of the Dandenong Ranges make La La Falls a peaceful escape from the urban Melbourne hustle and bustle.

 

 

Dandenong Ranges Waterfalls

Let’s look at some amazing Dandenong Ranges waterfalls next.

Sherbrooke Falls

Location:  Odonohue Track, Sherbrooke VIC 3789 *
Distance:  About one hour drive from Melbourne

Nestled in the Dandenong Ranges, Sherbrooke Falls offers a serene and picturesque setting. The falls are reached through the scenic Sherbrooke Forest, providing ample opportunities for bushwalking and exploring the local flora and fauna. The viewing platform offers a perfect vantage point to admire the falls as they tumble down the rocky escarpment into the fern covered plunge pool below.

 

Olinda Falls

Location:  Doughtys Rd, Olinda VIC 3788 *
Distance: About one hour drive from Melbourne

Also located within the enchanting Dandenong Ranges, Olinda Falls is one of Melbourne’s closest and most easy to get to waterfalls. The falls can be reached with a short walk from the car park and are set amidst towering mountain ash trees. The constant murmur of cascading water creates a soothing backdrop for picnics, leisurely strolls and bird watching (try to spot a Lyrebird).

 

Victoria’s High Country Waterfalls

Victoria’s High Country region is another not to miss when it comes to waterfalls.

Bindaree Falls

Location:  Bindaree Falls Walk, Mount Buller VIC 3723*
Distance: About four hour drive from Melbourne

Situated within the scenic Mount Buller region, Bindaree Falls offer a picturesque cascade that tumbles into a tranquil pool. The Bindaree Falls are a short 10 minute walk off Bindaree Road. The unique rock formations and the natural beauty of the Mount Buller area make Bindaree Falls a worthwhile destination for nature lovers and hikers. Please be aware of take into account the seasonal track closures in the Victorian High Country.

 

Rollasons Falls

Location:  Mount Buffalo VIC 3740 *
Distance: About three to four hour drive from Melbourne

Situated in the Mount Buffalo National Park, Rollasons Falls offer a rewarding hiking experience for those seeking a bit of adventure. A moderate hike through the forest leads to the falls, which cascade gracefully over rocky terrain. The rugged landscape and the serene surroundings make Rollasons Falls an excellent choice for those who enjoy outdoor exploration.

 

Woolshed Falls

Location: Woolshed Falls Road, Beechworth VIC *
Distance: About three to four hour drive from Melbourne

Woolshed Falls, located near Beechworth in Victoria’s High Country, offer a glimpse into the region’s gold rush history. The falls were once the site of gold mining, and remnants of the past can still be seen. A short walk takes you to the falls, which flow gracefully over smooth rocks, creating a serene atmosphere. Take care with slippery rocks. Woolshed Falls are an excellent spot for a peaceful day in the Victorian High Country.

 

Gippsland Waterfalls

Our favourite Gippsland waterfalls are the Agnes and Toorongo Falls & Amphitheatre Falls. Other notable mentions go to Narracan, Morwell River, Raymond Creek and Morwell River Falls among others.

 

Agnes Falls

Location: 125 Agnes Falls Rd, Hazel Park VIC 3966 *
Distance: About three hour drive from Melbourne

Located in the lush Strzelecki Ranges, Agnes Falls is one the highest waterfalls in Victoria, plunging a breathtaking 59 meters. Another important waterfall in Victoria to include on this list, the Agnes Falls are situated in a beautifully maintained picnic area with a well constructed viewing platform.

The lush ferns and eucalyptus trees surrounding the falls create a tranquil and rejuvenating atmosphere, making it a perfect place to connect with nature and escape the Melbourne big city hustle. Pack a picnic, relax and watch the native birds in their habitat in this protected pocket of bushland. One of my favourites.

 

Toorongo Falls & Amphitheatre Falls

Location:  Toorongo Falls Walk, Toorongo VIC 3833, Australia *
Distance: About two hour drive from Melbourne

Tucked away in the Gippsland region, Toorongo Falls and Amphitheatre Falls showcase the unspoiled beauty of the Australian bush. A short but picturesque walk through tall mountain ash forests leads you to the two tiered falls. The lower tier, known as Toorongo Falls, cascades gracefully, while the upper tier, Amphitheatre Falls, provides a dramatic backdrop. These falls are perfect for a tranquil day trip and a serene picnic in the midst of nature’s splendour.

 

Visit a Waterfall Near Melbourne

This comprehensive regional guide to Melbourne’s best waterfalls offers a diverse range of experiences, from peaceful picnics to challenging hikes and showcase the boundless natural beauty of Victoria.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, hiker or simply seeking a tranquil escape, these Victorian waterfalls are calling you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world close to Melbourne.

 

Important Information

Safety

As waterfalls near Melbourne are in a natural environment, they can be dangerous. There are many hazards you may come across and you need to be prepared for.  You must take into account any current safety and weather conditions, warnings in place and check official accessibility, parking information and addresses prior to going to any of the listed Victoria waterfalls. Melbourne Buddy makes no guarantees as to the safety of any trip or accuracy of any of the information provided. Check official resources including Parks Victoria, Visit Victoria and Bureau of Meteorology. Read the handy Safety in Nature and Water Safety guides from Parks Victoria in addition.

 

Parking and Access

* It is your responsibility to double check any waterfall address and destination information – some of the waterfall addresses we listed may be to a parking nearby or the waterfall itself and some may be out of date. Ensure your car is capable of making the trip and handling the terrain, especially after rain or a storm.

While nature destinations in Victoria have come a long way with regard to access, they are not suitable for all individuals, so make sure to check official resources and guides prior to attending.

 

Respect the Rules and Environment

You must respect all Victorian and local waterfall laws and rules to ensure safety and protect our beautiful habitat.

 

Note: Best Waterfalls Near Melbourne was written in November 2023.  We try our best to provide up to date and useful information, however we do not guarantee the accuracy of the information provided. Mistakes can and do happen. If you spot an error or something we can improve on to make this waterfall guide more useful, send us an email so we can fix it. Keep in mind the safety information as above and stay safe.