The Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Oceania

Since I love waterfalls so much, I can’t stop chasing waterfalls in Asia. So here we are collecting the best waterfalls in Oceania. I’ve asked my fellow travel bloggers to name the most beautiful waterfalls in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific Islands. They came back with these 21 stunning waterfalls.

Are you still missing some waterfalls? Feel free to comment below and they can be added to the list.

Waterfalls in Oceania

Sopoaga Falls, Upolu Island, Samoa

Contributed by Sinead from Map Made Memories.

The impressive Sopoaga Falls lie in the middle of Upolu Island in Samoa, a around one-hour drive from the capital city, Apia. The single drop, 54-metre-high falls are surrounded by lush tropical vegetation without a single building in sight. Visitors will feel like they have stepped into Jurassic Park when viewing the stunning waterfall. Visitors cannot approach the remote falls due to the dense forested terrain but can view the falls from a privately owned viewing area nearby which costs 10 Tala to enter (approximately $4 USD).

There is also a pleasant garden at the viewing area with colourful tropical flowers and medicinal plants as well as a car park, toilet and fales which provide welcome shade for visitors. Due to the remote location, Sopoaga falls can only be visited by self-driving or as part of a tour. If you have time, a visit to nearby Papapapatai Falls is well worth the detour. 

Biausevu Falls, Viti Levu, Fiji

Contributed by Ariana from World of Travels with Kids.

Visiting the Biausevu Falls in Fiji was a total highlight of our Fiji trip! Unlike many of the Fiji experiences that are resort based, this was more like travel in Asia – we hired a local driver and headed to mountains just off the Coral Coast.

Despite information saying it was one of the more popular waterfalls in Fiji, we only saw a couple of other tourists while we were there.  Once we arrived in the village we participated in a traditional Kava ceremony whereby the villagers welcome you to the area, while you contribute an entry fee, which was a couple of dollars. The villagers also organised a horse for our daughter to ride on, and the handler also acted as a guide. The 3km trail from the village to the waterfall was clearly marked, so I think we could have done it without a guide, but riding the horse was a highlight for our daughter so well worth while!

If you have sandals or crocs – take them for this hike – there are 9 creek crossings between the village and the waterfall!  In a lot of ways, one of the reasons why this is one of our top things to do in Fiji for kids was that the hike itself was such a fun adventure.

The Falls themselves are 20 metres high, very pretty and powerful! We were going to go for a swim but it was pretty cold!

New Zealand

Bridal Veil Falls, North Island

Contributed by Bailey from Destinationless Travel.

Bridal Veil Falls is a stunning 55-meter-high waterfall located just outside of the small surf town called Raglan. As one of the most impressive waterfalls in New Zealand, visiting Bridal Veil Falls is easily one of the best things to do in New Zealand. 

Bridal Veil Falls is most commonly visited by people staying in Raglan, or Hamilton which is 53 kilometers away. However, it is possible to visit on a day trip from Auckland too. Although a bit of a drive at 300 kilometers, people definitely make this road trip in one day enjoying the scenic drive to get there.

It is free to visit Bridal Veil Falls and there is a large parking lot once you get there as well as bathrooms and a trail map. 

There are two different viewing areas at Bridal Veil Falls. The first is the upper viewing deck that is located pretty much right at the parking lot. It looks down onto the falls and is both stroller and wheelchair accessible. The lower viewing deck involves climbing down a few sets of stairs. It takes most people around 20 minutes and brings you to the lower viewing deck.  

The truth is, no matter where you see Bridal Veil Falls from, it’s going to be beautiful! 

Purakaunui Falls, South Island

Contributed by Jennifer from Backyard Travel Family.

Purakaunui Falls is the most beautiful of the Catlins waterfalls, and one of the most famous in New Zealand (being on the New Zealand stamp). You can find it in the Catlins region at the very Southern Eastern corner of New Zealand’s South Island.

The Catlins is a remote and off the beaten track tourist destination. In fact, it is not touristy at all, save for a few amazing natural wonders, so it does feel like you are exploring somewhere undiscovered.

Purakaunui Falls is one of the most visited waterfalls in New Zealand, made especially easy by the fact it is only a 10 minute walk from the carpark.  This means it’s perfect for toddlers to grandparents and everyone can enjoy the beauty. The cascade waterfall is best viewed from the viewing platform at the base of the waterfall and if you are up for a little adventure, you can rock hop out to the edge.

There is no cost to visit the waterfall, or any public waterfalls in New Zealand so this is a free adventure that everyone can access. All you need is your own set of wheels and you are good to go!

Tarawera Falls, North Island

Contributed by Nina from Plantiful Travels.

The Tarawera Falls are located only 45 minutes by car from Rotorua in the beautiful Bay of Plenty, New Zealand. Before visiting it is essential to get an entrance card for a 5 NZD fee at the Kawerau i-Site information center or online. The waterfall is located in a private forest and only accessible via private forestry roads. The drive to the falls is quite an adventure. It leads over unpaved gravel and forest roads in the middle of nowhere.

Once at the parking lot, an easy 20 minutes walking track leads through the forest to Tarawera Falls. The track continues from the waterfall to Lake Tarawera. It is a  beautiful hike with a magnificent landscape and breathtaking bushland along the Tarawera River. Tarawera River originates as an outlet of Lake Tarawera. The river disappears in front of the waterfall in volcanic rock. There the water emerges and shoots out through a hole in the rock face. At this break-off edge the water falls about 60 meters deep. The hike from the waterfall to the lake and back takes at around 3 hours in total.

Washpen Falls, South Island

Contributed by Nadine from Le Long Weekend.

An easy day trip from Christchurch, Washpen Falls is a popular walking spot for local families, and one of the most unique experiences in New Zealand. Located on a private farm, the famous waterfall (the falls found fame when the movie Z for Zachariah was partially filmed at the farm) is found around the mid-way point on a 2-hour loop hike through spectacular scenery in an ancient volcanic canyon.  

It’s a well laid out walking track and maps and walking sticks are given out at the start of the walk. The falls themselves appear dramatically as you approach from a raised vantage point, and viewing platforms and walkways have been strategically arranged to make the most of the view. Nearby, you’ll find a picnic area located next to a lake where you can use the rowboat provided to take a paddle.  Entrance costs $10 per adult & $5 per child, so remember to have cash on hand when visiting.

Australia

Barron Falls, Queensland

Contributed by Sophie Marie from Australian Kitchen & Home.

If you’re looking for some seriously impressive waterfalls, Barron Falls in Far North Queensland are well worth a visit during the west season. These falls are the place where the Barron River dramatically and steeply descends down from the Atherton Tablelands to the Cairns coastal area.

During the dry season (approx April to December) there really isn’t much to see and the falls are little more than a trickle down over the rocks. Visit in the wet season though and it’s a completely different story! From around December to March, when the big rains come, Barron Falls is completely transformed into a raging waterfall cascading over the rocks into the rainforest below and it’s a magnificent sight.

If you want to make a day of it, take the skysail up to the rainforest village of Kuranda to enjoy the quirky local markets. Along the way you will get magnificent aerial views of the falls and you can take the train home to stop at the Barron Falls overlook for a closer view.

Wentworth Falls, New South Wales

Contributed by Emma from Emma Jane Explores.

Wentworth Falls in the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Blue Mountains region of New South Wales is a spectacular three-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush Australian bushland walks. There’s no entrance fee to visit Wentworth Falls and the area is quite easy to visit with the nearby town of the same name serviced by a train line from Sydney and plenty of parking around for those who prefer to drive.  

At 187m high, the Wentworth Falls are most impressive after rainfall, but are truly gorgeous year-round. They’ve been a favourite day trip for Sydneysiders for a long time, even the famous naturalist, Charles Darwin walked along to admire the falls here in 1836. 

Wentworth Falls is particularly great for those looking to get out and experience the unique nature that Australia has to offer. There are bushwalks available for beginners to the advanced hiker – the National Pass Circuit is an incredible cliff-side trail that takes walkers on a vertigo-inducing 4.5km loop complete with unparalleled views of the falls.

Ellenborough Falls, New South Wales

Contributed by Anne from Londoner In Sydney.

The third highest single drop waterfall in Australia is called Ellenborough Falls in NSW’s mid-north coast. With 641 steps to climb down, it’s actually one of the easiest waterfalls in NSW we’ve walked down to the base of, taking just 15 minutes.

Usually some of the waterfalls can be a bit tricky to find, but Ellenborough Falls has an easy to follow path which is even suitable for families to walk down. Just be careful if you’re walking down after rain as it will be a bit slippery so wear appropriate footwear at all times.

When you reach the bottom of Ellenborough Falls, you’ll be able to sit on the boulders and enjoy the remarkable waterfall. The question will be whether you’re brave enough to go for a swim!

There are toilet facilities next to the car park and a kiosk to buy drinks and the famous pies you need to try! On the left hand side of the car park, there’s also a secret lagoon to explore. You’ll just need to walk down the path and you’ll come to it about five minutes later. This would be the perfect swimming spot in Summer. 

Russel Falls, Tasmania

Contributed by Natalie & Steve from Curious Campers.

Moss covered rocks, giant tree ferns, glow worms and maybe even a platypus. This is the kind of magic you can expect at Russell Falls in Tasmania. Found in Mount Field National Park, Russell Falls is a 3 tired cascade fall that flows year round. The falls are surrounded by temperate rainforest and are an easy day trip from Hobart.

One of the great things about Russell Falls is its accessibility. From the visitor centre carpark it is an easy 20 minute return walk through the rainforest to the falls. Park entry is AUD$16.50 for the day. If you are travelling around Tasmania maybe get a 2 month Holiday Pass as there are lots of great National Parks in Tasmania you’ll want to visit.

Russell Falls is at the start of the Three Falls hike at Mount Field. This 6km, 2.5 hour medium level circuit hike also takes you to Horseshoe and Lady Barron Falls and through the Tall Trees Forest. There are a lot of steps at the start and end of the hike but in between you’ll get a great taste of the Tasmanian wilderness. The sight, smell and sound of the forest is wonderful.

Katoomba Waterfall, New South Wales

Contributed by Angela from Where Angie Wanders.

Katoomba Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the Blue Mountains, not far from Sydney in Australia. The waterfall cascades 150 meters from the top of the cliff to the Jamieson valley below and is a sight not to be missed.

Katoomba Falls are best viewed from the Scenic World cable car that passes beside them. If you don’t have a head for heights, (it is suspended 270 metres above the ravine), then you can take the Prince Henry walking trail, starting from Scenic World and taking you around the top of the falls, it will take around 15 minutes and is signposted.

Another option is the 45-minute walking trail starting at Echo Point allowing you the chance to see view the famous 3 sisters rocks at the the start of the walk and then Katoomba falls from the mid-way lookout point.

Whichever option you choose you will be thrilled to see the Katoomba falls, one of Australia’s best loved waterfalls.

Empress Falls, New South Wales

Contributed by Holly from Globeblogging.

At a height of 37m, Empress Falls may not be as high or even as well-known as Wentworth Falls, but it is easily as spectacular.

Popular with locals, this Horsetail waterfall is also located in the suburb of Wentworth Falls in the Blue Mountains National Park on the Valley of the Waters track. The track commences at the Conservation Hut, worth a visit in its own right for the coffee and views. It’s a steep declining path that passes multiple lovely Blue Mountains Waterfalls as it carves its way down to the valley below.

Empress Falls is the first of the falls on the track, and the largest. It spills out of Empress Canyon before rushing off to join the lower falls. The adventurous can do a half-day canyoning adventure which ends with an abseil down the waterfall. Even if you don’t want to walk the full Valley of the Waters track, it is worth walking to the bottom past Sylvia, Ladore and Flat Rock Falls. While this is a steep climb back out again. It’s a great opportunity to stop for a drink and rest at the Conservation Hut!

Spa Pool, Western Australia

Contributed by Nina from Plantiful Travels.

The Spa Pool in Hamersley Gorge is one of the most photographed pools of Karijini National Park and frequently considered as one of the most beautiful places in Western Australia. It is located on the opposite end of the park to the information centre and Dales Gorge. A place where you can completely shut down and be one with nature. The National Park Fees apply for entrance. The best time to travel are the cooler months between May and October.

Only a short walk from the carpark, a lookout offers views of the gorge and a well signed trail leads into the gorge. It takes around 10 minutes to get to the upper pool. From there only follow the water up stream to find the hidden Spa Pool. It is an ice blue pond that rests inside a curved rock formation. The rust-red sand mixes with beige-colored rock and the dark turquoise water laps quietly at the bottom of the gorge. All of this makes the pool with its waterfall especially interesting. For a true spa experience, take a dip in the natural rock pool. 

McKenzie Falls, Victoria

Contributed by Rachael from A City Girl Outside.

The Grampians National Park is one of the best things to do in Victoria, Australia. The National Park is part of a Great Ocean Road itinerary. The Grampians is home to many beautiful lookouts and landmarks. One of the top things to see in this national park is the magnificent McKenzie Falls.

There are several ways to see McKenzie Falls, there are a few lookout points from above or you can opt to make the journey down a steep staircase to see the falls up close. McKenzie Falls stands 35 metres tall and is stunning in person. You can feel the spray on the falls as you slowly descend to the base. From the base of McKenzie Falls are trails and paths leading to other hikes and walks within the Grampians.

The town of Hall’s Gap is located close to the Grampians and is the perfect area to base yourself. Here you’ll find boutique hotels and hostels and a variety of cafes and eateries. This area is also great for wildlife spotting. In the evening when the temperature starts to cool, groups of Kangaroos can be spotted in open fields. It is recommended that you spend a few days in the Grampians as there is far more to this beautiful park including hikes such as the Pinnacle. 

Lesmurdie Falls, Western Australia

Contributed by Ariana from World of Travels with Kids.

Lesmurdie Falls, located in the Perth Hills, is the biggest waterfall in Perth Western Australia. It’s also one of the few around Perth that runs all year round. 

At 50 metres (164 ft) Lesmurdie Falls offers a pretty spectacular drop. It’s best seen during the Western Australian winter and spring (eg between June and September) when the water flow is at its best.   One of my favourite things about Lesmurdie Falls is that it is actually located within the Perth city, and yet it feels like you are in the Australian bush.   There are a number of lovely walk trails around the Mundy Regional Park and absolutely spectacular views across to Perth city.

While Western Australia has some truly spectacular waterfalls in the wild north,  it is not as well known that there are some really good ones to visit right in Perth city, which we cover in  the Best Perth Waterfalls.  No entry fee is applicable to Lesmurdie Falls. 

Mena Creek Falls, Queensland

Contributed by Sophie Marie from Australian Coffee Lovers.

All of the waterfalls around Cairns in Queensland are beautiful but one of my favourites has to be Mena Creek Falls! Not only are the falls awe inspiring by themselves but they are also onsite at the beautiful Paronella Park.

Mena Creek Falls are about 100km from Cairns (100km) and you will need a car to get to them due to the lack of public transport. Unfortunately, swimming is no longer allowed due to a crocodile recently being spotted in the area. They are still well worth a visit though. You can view them from above on the suspension bridge or at the base from the banks of the river.

The falls are right onsite at Paronella Park. Which is home to the ruins and grounds of a beautiful home created in the 1920s by Jose Paronella for his beloved wife. The story behind Paronella Park is really interesting and there are tons of great walkways and ruins to explore. You can even camp overnight and take in the night time tour when the ruins are lit up beautifully, making for a super magical experience. There is a cafe right next to the falls that serves light snacks. There’s also a peaceful area on the banks of the river where you can stop for a picnic.

Ebor Falls, New South Wales

Contributed by Paula & Charles from Australia Your Way.

One of the most spectacular waterfalls along the aptly named Waterfall Way in NSW, Ebor Falls sits almost halfway between Coffs Harbour and Armidale.

Falling 115m, Ebor Falls is a two-tier waterfall in the Guy Fawkes River National Park. The falls carry a good amount of water year-round, even in drought, meaning you are very unlikely to be disappointed with your visit here.

The view of the top falls in just a few minutes’ walk from the car park. From here, you can see the main view above. There was significant damage to the area in the summer 2020 bushfires. Which has limited access to the main walking track and viewing platform to the lower falls. However the top falls alone is reason enough to schedule a visit.

It’s a lovely spot for a picnic and there is also a short walking track from the falls car park into the Ebor village where you will find the Ebor Hotel. Along with offering a great bistro lunch, the pub has some great old photos of the falls dating back more than 100 years. The pub also offers a free camping area for RVs.

There is no entry fee to view the falls or this National Park.

Wallaman Falls, Queensland

Contributed by Disha from Disha Discovers.

Oceania has so many beautiful and incredible waterfalls and Wallaman Falls is one of them. It’s a cascade and horsetail waterfall that drops approximately 286 meters in the northern part of Queensland, Australia. Wallaman is Australia’s highest permanent single drop waterfall in Girringun National Park and belongs on every Queensland bucket list. It’s located within the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area and it’s surrounded by rainforest. 

There is no entrance fee to view the waterfall and there are a few ways in which you can take in the beauty of it. You can see it from a viewpoint a few feet away from the parking lot. The views from this viewpoint are beautiful and you’ll feel like you’re up close to the waterfall. Alternatively, you can get even closer to the massive falls via a moderate 2.5-kilometer hike.

Keep in mind that there are no restaurants or hotels super close to the falls. You’ll have to road trip an hour from Ingham through some pretty curvy and windy roads. Your visit to Wallaman Falls will be magical and tranquil! 

Gunlom Falls, Northern Territory

Contributed by Pauline from Beeloved City.

Located near Darwin, Kakadu National Park is home to some of the most stunning waterfalls in Australia.

Although most visitors rush to Jim Jim Falls, Gunlom Falls are actually even better! 

They are situated in the southern part of the National Park. The falls should be your first stop if you are driving from Alice Springs.

The entrance fee to Kakadu costs between $25 and $40 (depending on the season). You can buy your pass online or at the entrance. 

Once you reach Gunlom Falls, you will find a big carpark. Leave your car and go on the 20-minute walk to the top. 

Although you can admire the falls from the bottom, going up to the plunge pools is a must-do!

Once you get to the top, you will discover stunning natural rock pools. You can swim safely there. As you get closer to the edge (but not too close!), you will be able to see the jaw-dropping views over Kakadu!

Fortescue Falls, Western Australia

Contributed by Steph from A Nomad’s Passport.

Fortescue Falls is located in Dales Gorge of Western Australia’s Karijini National Park. With a height of over 20 meters and crystal-clear water that cascades down steps of red rock, this waterfall is a stunning sight. The backdrop of green trees only adds to the ambience of the location.

Fortescue Falls is the only permanent waterfall of the national park as it is spring-fed. A circumstance which makes this waterfall a special place in this inland-Australia environment of dry red dirt and a limited amount of water during the dry season.

To get to Fortescue Falls you have to walk 800m from the car park. The largest part of the trail consists of staircases. At the very end you have to climb down an incline with natural steps to reach the waterfall’s pool. Be sure to stop as you walk down because the view from above is incredible. It is from here that you can see the full size of Fortescue Falls.

Other amazing places of interest in the same gorge are the nearby Fern Pool and downstream the Circular Pool.

Millaa Millaa Falls, Queensland

Contributed by Pauline from Beeloved City.

Located in the Atherton Tablelands, Millaa Millaa Falls are Queensland’s most famous waterfalls!

You can easily get there on a day trip from Cairns. It takes about 90 minutes by car. There is no fee to get to the waterfall however, you may have to pay for parking.

If you don’t have a car, it’s nothing to worry about. There are many day tours that go there from Cairns.

Once you arrive, you will discover majestic falls surrounded by the lush rainforest. There is a natural pool at the bottom where you can swim. It’s very refreshing! 

Millaa Millaa Falls became world famous  in 1995 when they were featured in the video clip of “Mysterious girl” by Peter Andre.

But the best thing about Millaa Millaa is that the area is also home to two other stunning waterfalls: Zillie and Ellinjaa. The three of them are located on the Waterfalls circuit which is a 17km long walk. This is a must-do when visiting Queens land. 

If possible, try to get there early. It’s a popular spot and it can get crowded very quickly.

These are all the best waterfalls in Oceania

And there are some truly beautiful falls in Oceania. We’ve covered the best waterfalls in South Pacific, from Australia to Samoa. We started with European Falls and end the waterfalls series with the waterfalls in South Pacific. Next to beautiful falls, there are also fantastic forts to be found here.

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