There are some spectacular waterfalls throughout Tropical North Queensland, many of which are located just a short distance from Coral Sands Beachfront Resort. Summer is without a doubt the best time of the year to view them in all their glory, and some waterfalls are great for swimming.
There are numerous day trips available that will pick you up from your accommodation with us. If you have your own car, a day spent exploring the waterfalls of Tropical North Queensland is certainly a worthwhile trip. It is an experience that is enjoyable for the whole family.
Barron Falls
Barron Falls is located approximately five kilometres outside Kuranda Village. It is one of the most magnificent waterfalls in the region. You can’t swim at Barron Falls, but there is a fantastic rainforest boardwalk and viewing platforms.
Malanda Falls
Malanda Falls are located at the western entrance of the town, as you head south-east from Atherton. Located on the North Johnston River, water spills over basalt rock and into a great swimming hole below.
Milla Milla Falls
Milla Milla Falls are quite the icon of the Atherton Tablelands. You’re likely to have seen it in brochures or on TV advertising the area. It is actually one of the most photographed waterfalls in Australia, so is definitely worth the visit.
At the bottom of the 18 metre drop is a very refreshing swimming hole, which is perfect on a summer’s day. There are also toilets, picnic tables and barbeque facilities available.
Zillie Falls
Approximately seven kilometres from Milla Milla is Zillie Falls, a pretty, cascading waterfall leading to rapids. While you can’t swim at Zillie Falls, there is a nice walking track and viewing platform.
Ellinjaa Falls
Just three kilometres from Zillie Falls is Ellinjaa Falls, a stunning waterfall that spills over lava tube columns. There are a couple of tracks, enabling you to view the falls from above or below.
Mungalli Falls
Mungalli Falls is the highest of the Atherton Tablelands’ waterfalls, at a huge 90m high. Cascading down sections of rocks, there is a great viewing platform, a swimming hole at the bottom and a teahouse located close-by at Mungalli Creek Dairy.
Suggested itineraries from Coral Sands Beachfront Resort
If you only have time to visit one waterfall while you are holidaying here, we suggest Barron Falls. In the summer it is magnificent and well worth the visit.
If you have a car, travel up the Kuranda Range (ask us for directions) just past the turnoff to Kuranda Village. Turn left at Fallon Road and follow the signs to the Barron Falls Lookout. There are several fantastic viewing stations and arguably one of the best rainforest boardwalks in the region.
Another great option is to take Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, a must do cairns attraction to see the rainforest. You can also visit the village of Kuranda and then travel back to Cairns on the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway.
View the rainforest canopy from above as you travel up to Kuranda on Skyrail, stopping at two mid-station along the way. Here you can enjoy ranger guided boardwalk tours, the Rainforest Interpretation Centre and spectacular views of Barron Falls.
Then, after you have explored Kuranda, wind your way back down the range through the rainforest. Pass beautiful waterfalls on the 120 year old Kuranda Scenic Railway. There will be a second opportunity to view Barron Falls from another angle.
If you have a little more time to spare and are self-driving, why not venture a little further to the Atherton Tablelands. It is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls of the region, green rolling hills and dairy farms.
- From Coral Sands Beachfront Resort travel up the Kuranda Range, stopping at the Barron Falls lookout.
- From Barron Falls, travel to Malanda and visit the Malanda Falls. They are at the entrance to the town and right next to a fantastic Visitor Information Centre. You might like to pop into the Tree Kangaroo Café next to the Visit Information Centre for lunch. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a tree kangaroo!
- From Malanda, travel approximately 25 minutes down the road to Milla Milla and through to Milla Milla Falls. Here is an ideal spot for a refreshing dip. Ellinjaa and Zillie Falls are also located close-by, both further down Theresa Creek Road.
- From there, continue heading down the range to Mungalli Falls. Perhaps make a stop at Out the Whey “Cheesery & Teehouse” at Mungalli Creek Dairy.
- Take the Palmerston Highway back down the range and return back to Coral Sands Beachfront Resort via the Bruce Highway.