The Great Ocean Road is famous for its views but it’s also home to many beautiful waterfalls hidden in rainforests and ancient forests. For those travelling along this iconic coastline, exploring these waterfalls is a chance to experience what makes this part of Australia so special. From the impressive Erskine Falls to the secret wonders of the Beech Forest, each waterfall has its own magic.
The Allure of Waterfalls
With hiking trails, viewing platforms, and inviting spots like the Sheoak Falls Picnic Area, each waterfall along the Great Ocean Road delivers a unique experience. Waterfalls such as Kalimna Falls and Phantom Falls in the lush Beech Forest provide more than just scenic beauty—they offer an immersive journey, where you can revel in the sights, sounds, and refreshing mist of the falls, surrounded by vibrant green ferns and moss-covered logs. Perfect additions to any great ocean road trips, these spots promise unforgettable memories.
Why Waterfalls Fascinate
Waterfalls fascinate in a way that few other landscapes do. The sound of the water, the mist in the air and the rainforest that surrounds the falls creates a peaceful and immersive experience. As you approach each waterfall you’re met with ferns, mossy rocks and towering trees that bring you right up to the heart of nature. The appeal of waterfalls like Sheoak Falls and Kalimna Falls is not just in their looks but in the adventure of walking marked tracks, crossing bridges over little streams and breathing in the air of ancient mountain ash forests.
For photographers these waterfalls are a great place to capture Australia’s landscape, as the scenery changes with the seasons. From green ferns in spring to earthy tones in autumn the waterfalls of the Great Ocean Road are open all year.
Top Waterfalls to Visit
Beauchamp Fall
In the Beech Forest, Beauchamp Falls is a must see for waterfall lovers. A track winds through the forest to a beautiful spot where the falls drop into a calm pool. If you want to see waterfalls, this is the chance to get up close and personal with the rainforest, with tree ferns and mossy logs along the track.
Hopetoun Falls
Deep in the rainforest, Hopetoun Falls drops 30 metres into a beautiful pool. Near Beech Forest, off Hopetoun Falls Road, the track down to the lower viewing platform is the perfect spot to get up close to the falls. The baby eels and wildlife in the area add an extra layer of nature to this pretty spot.
Hopkins Falls
At over 90 metres wide, Hopkins Falls near Warrnambool is famous for its broad cascading waters flowing over dark basalt rocks. In the wet season the falls are even more impressive, a great visual against the green of the surrounding forest. Hopkins Falls Road makes it an easy stop, perfect for families and anyone wanting to see more waterfalls along the way.
Kalimna Falls
Kalimna Falls has two falls—Lower and Upper Kalimna Falls—reached by a beautiful walking track from the Sheoak Picnic Area. The Lower Kalimna Falls drop into a calm pool, a great spot to stop and take in the views. Famous for their forest setting, the falls are surrounded by mossy rocks and a green fern gully, showcasing the beauty of the rainforest.
Phantom Falls
Off Allenvale Road, Phantom Falls is a hidden treasure. Near Lorne and a short walk through forest with mossy tree ferns and green ferns, this fall is surrounded by rock formations and a peaceful space to relax.
Triplet Falls
Triplet Falls in the Otway National Park has multiple cascades flowing through mossy tree ferns and tall myrtle beech trees. The track has interpretive signs about the historic timber tramway and the history of the area.
Little Aire Falls
A moderate walk in the Otway National Park takes you to Little Aire Falls. The track goes through forest and over bridges to a viewing platform where you can sit and enjoy the falls in all their glory. This track also takes you to Phillips Track which was part of the historic timber tramways.
Cora Lynn Cascades
Cora Lynn Cascades is a series of rocky ledges that forms a continuous flow of water. Less crowded than other waterfalls, it’s a great spot to get up close and personal with nature and perfect for those looking for a peaceful escape. Located along the Aire Valley Road, it’s a short drive from the popular Great Ocean Road attractions and a great spot for a nature focused day trip.
Best time to visit
The waterfalls on the Great Ocean Road are best visited during the wetter months May to October when the rainfall is more abundant and the falls are at their best. This time also provides cooler weather and more comfortable hiking conditions so you can walk the marked trails, steep steps and shaded forests at your leisure. If you visit in summer the water flow may be lower but the waterfalls are still picturesque and the warmer weather means you can walk the Erskine River Track, Aire Valley Road and other tracks. Always check local conditions as some tracks may be closed due to rain or seasonal closures.
FAQ
Which waterfall is the most popular on the Great Ocean Road?
Erskine Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls, 30m drop and located near Lorne VIC 3232.
Are there picnic areas at any of these waterfalls?
Yes, the Sheoak Picnic Area near Kalimna Falls and Allenvale Road Carpark near Phantom Falls have picnic spots perfect for family days out.
Can I swim at any of these waterfalls?
Swimming is not recommended due to strong currents but some areas near lower flow waterfalls may be accessible.
What to bring?
Sturdy shoes, water and a camera to capture the falls. Insect repellent and check the track conditions before you head out.
Is there camping near any waterfalls?
Stevensons Falls has a campsite nearby so you can stay overnight and enjoy the sound of the falls and the bush.
