Without a shadow of a doubt, Melbourne is a city with incredible natural beauty and most beautiful waterfalls, perfect for day trips or weekend escapes.
To nature lovers, adventure seekers, or those seeking some quiet time, these best waterfalls near Melbourne can offer a lot in terms of experiences, from hiking, a picnic under a tree, or merely standing to appreciate the breathtaking views.
Read this blog till the end to explore the mesmerizing beauty and add it to your bucket list when you travel next. Let's begin:
Best Waterfalls Near Melbourne That Your Eyes Will Never Forget
1. Trentham Falls
Known as Victoria's tallest single-drop waterfall, Trentham Falls in Trentham Scenic Reserve is only an hour from Melbourne. It seems to tumble up to 32 meters over into the Coliban River below. It is a year-round beauty, especially after it rains when it's at its peak.
The waterfall will bless your eyes by walking distance from the car park, making it a favourite for those in need of a quick nature fix.
2. Steavenson Falls
The Steavenson Falls in Marysville is one of the highest waterfalls in Victoria, standing at 84 meters. It is also one of the most accessible falls since it has two access options - the easy walk to the base and the longer 3.4 km hike through the Tree Fern Gully Trail.
As it is well-lit at night, the falls make it an excellent destination for an evening trip. The surrounding picnic areas and forested pathways make it a perfect day trip destination.
3. Erskine Falls
Located off the grid near Lorne on the world-famous Great Ocean Road, the Erskine Falls is an impressive 30-meter plunge into a lush, fern-lined gully. There are two lookouts: an upper lookout within a short distance from the car park and a lower one by a steep but highly rewarding descent.
Further hidden gems can be reached on other trails surrounding it. This place is, thus ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
4. Olinda Falls
Olinda Falls are located in the Dandenong Ranges, one hour out of Melbourne and stands for a peaceful retreat just an hour from Melbourne. This waterfall is not exactly as long as the other ones, but quite magical nonetheless, especially during spring when the greenery around is at its best.
It's an easy 500-meter walk up to the viewing platform, which makes it popular among families and people seeking a spot for relaxation.
5. MacKenzie Falls
MacKenzie Falls is one of the largest and most powerful waterfalls near Melbourne located in Victoria at the Grampians National Park. The thundering sound of water splashing down into the gorge will greet you long before you reach the falls.
A 2 km return walk from the car park takes you right to the base of the falls to see this dramatic beauty for yourself. It's a great stop to make if going up to the Grampians. Do not miss this charming beauty!
6. La La Falls
La La Falls is located in the Yarra Ranges, a short walk from the town of Warburton. The 3.2km return walk takes you through some beautiful rainforest with tall trees and brooks that make you feel like you are in a fairytale, thus making it a worthwhile destination, even though the falls are a bit low.
7. Beauchamp Falls
Gigantic mountain ash trees and dense ferns are the backdrop to the Otways' Beauchamp Falls. There's a little bit more effort, of course, but a half-hour tramp through dense forest leads you to the falls, a 25m drop into a pool below. It is perfect for those who want a kind of adventurous day out. The walk itself is part of the reason.
8. Gooram Falls
For some fun and leisurely pastime, Gooram Falls is just the best spot and certainly one of the best waterfalls near Melbourne. Located two hours from Australia's garden city, these falls are part of a series of cascades flowing into rock pools, perfect for splashing around on a warm day. The walk to the falls is only 400 meters, making it one of the easiest walks for families with children.
9. Wombelano Falls
Hidden in the Kinglake National Park, Wombelano Falls is an isolated retreat for peace. A circuit walk of 1.5 km to the falls takes you through fantastic eucalypt forests, and the lookout above the 90-m cascading waterfall provides stunning views.
Far less crowded than many waterfalls, this spot is a guarantee for a peaceful, reconnection with nature for those searching for this kind of experience.
10. Triplet Falls
Located in the Great Otway National Park, Triplet Falls is a unique place with three different cascades flowing through a beautiful rainforest. Nature lovers will surely list it among the best waterfalls near Melbourne.
The 2 km loop trail is not very strenuous and has many viewpoints along the way from which one can view the falls from different angles. The beauty of the falls combined with the ancient ferns and towering trees creates an attraction for any nature lover.
The Bottom Line
A few of the best waterfalls near Melbourne are, in fact, unique, unforgettable, and pleasing experiences. Some consist of challenging hikes, while some offer serene picnic spots, and a selection of waterfalls across Melbourne ensures that there's something for everyone.
It's from the towering height of Trentham Falls to the peaceful beauty of La La Falls, it's something for an ideal escape in nature just a short drive from the city.
