Favourite Waterfalls and Swimming Holes
Some stretches of the road are defined by heat, dust, and long hours in the cab. The simple relief of cool water and shaded tracks shapes others. Looking back over our time travelling, a few places stood out, not just for their beauty, but for the way they reset the day and steadied the pace.
These are the waterfalls and swimming holes that stayed with us. Each one offered something different, from deep plunge pools to quiet rainforest streams, and all of them carried that feeling of stepping out of the heat and into a calmer place.
Our Faves!
Townsville Views and Waterfall Wonders
Our time around Townsville gave us a mix of city views, creek swims, and the raw power of Wallaman Falls. Big Crystal Creek was the standout — clear water, rock slabs, and shaded pools that made it easy to stay longer than planned.
Mataranka and Bitter Springs
Arriving at Mataranka and Bitter Springs felt like diving straight into the Top End’s best kind of magic. The warm, spring-fed water moves gently through the palms, and we ended up staying a full week. Early mornings were best, drifting through the clear water before the heat set in.
Lake Lonsdale
Near the Grampians, Lake Lonsdale offered a different kind of water stop. Low water levels didn’t bother the birdlife and didn’t stop us from soaking in the wide, open views. It’s a relaxed camp with easy space to breathe.
Babinda to Cairns to Kuranda
This run gave us some of Far North Queensland’s lushest water. From the swimming holes around Babinda to the rainforest tracks up toward Kuranda, the whole area is packed with spots to cool off between drives and catch-ups with family.
Cooktown
Cooktown delivered water in smaller, more personal ways. Isabella Falls was a favourite — a gentle cascade just off the road, perfect for a quick dip and an hour of peace. Zoe claimed the top pools as her own private paddling spot.
Litchfield National Park
Litchfield’s waterfalls and rockholes are some of the most reliable in the Top End. Florence Falls, Buley Rockhole, and Wangi Falls gave us three days of swimming, shaded tracks, and the kind of easy walks that feel good after long drives. Tolmer Falls added a quieter lookout with a different perspective.
Robin Falls
Robin Falls near Adelaide River remains one of those secret-feeling spots where you can sit beside the creek, listen to the water move, and forget what day it is. The walk in is short and the setting is calm, with the falls tucked between tall walls of rock and green.
Note: Robin Falls is expected to become part of an expanded Litchfield National Park in the coming years. Access is unchanged for now, but dog-friendly rules may shift, so it’s worth checking ahead if travelling with pets.
Katherine
Katherine gave us more water than we expected. From the shaded pools around the hot springs to the riverbanks that stretch through town, it was a welcome break from the heat. The swimming spots here mix warm water, light currents, and plenty of room to unwind.
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Cooktown charmed us with laid-back days, sunset cruises, museums, and even a cheeky paddle for Zoe. We wrapped it all up at the iconic Lions Den Hotel—live music, hearty meals, and full hearts.