10 Great Ocean Road waterfalls worth chasing
The Great Ocean Road is famous for its dramatic coastline but venture a little inland and you'll uncover a different kind of magic – hidden in lush rainforests and moss-covered gullies are majestic waterfalls tumbling through the heart of the Otways.
Winter and spring are the best times to visit, when seasonal rains bring these waterfalls to life with powerful cascades.
These 10 Great Ocean Road waterfalls are well worth chasing.
1. The classic beauty of Erskine Falls
You’ll want to tick the iconic Erskine Falls off your waterfall list. From the upper lookout, you can watch the water plunge 30 metres into the fern-filled valley below. For the full experience, take the staircase down into the rainforest to the base of the falls. The climb back up might get your heart rate up, but the view is worth every step.
Where to stay: Lorne park
2. The dramatic face of Sheoak Falls
A gentle walk through coastal woodland leads to this beautiful waterfall. After rain, Sheoak Falls comes alive, spilling dramatically over a dark rock face framed by towering eucalypts. If you've got a little extra energy, continue on to Swallow Cave, where namesake swallows nest during spring.
Where to stay: Lorne park
3. Pretty as a picture Hopetoun Falls
Hopetoun Falls takes the crown as most photogenic waterfall on the Great Ocean Road. Dropping 30 metres into a lush rainforest amphitheatre, it feels almost otherworldly. The viewing platform offers a spectacular perspective, while steps lead to the rocky pool at the base bring you closer to the action. Visit after dark and you’ll spot glow worms lighting up the forest.
Where to stay: Kennett River, Skenes Creek, Marengo or Apollo Bay parks
4. Immerse yourself at Beauchamp Falls
Beauchamp Falls is one of those places where the journey is just as memorable as the destination. Follow the track through misty rainforest, past lush ferns and a trickling creek, and you'll be rewarded with a beautiful 20-metre cascade hidden among towering mountain ash trees.
Where to stay: Skenes Creek, Marengo or Apollo Bay parks
5. Three cascades are better than one at Triplet Falls
Why settle for one cascade when you can have three? One of the Otways' most enchanting walks winds through giant tree ferns and towering myrtle beech trees before revealing the three flowing streams of Triplet Falls. It's a magical place that feels straight out of a fairytale.
Where to stay: Marengo or Apollo Bay parks
6. Stevensons Falls is for everyone
Stevensons Falls proves you don't need a long hike to enjoy a spectacular waterfall. The short, accessible walk leads to a broad cascade spilling into a boulder-filled pool. Take time to wander among the giant blue spruce and Californian redwoods along the way – it’s magical.
Where to stay: Apollo Bay, Marengo, Kennett River or Skenes Creek parks
7. The hidden secret of Phantom Falls
Phantom Falls feels like one of the Otways' best-kept secrets. Follow the peaceful creek-side trail through lush forest and you'll soon discover a secluded waterfall tucked away among the trees. Head down to the large pool below for the best view of its wide curtain of water.
Where to stay: Lorne park
8. Step behind Kalimna Falls
It’s a peaceful walk through a lush creek valley with dense tree ferns and towering trees to reach Upper and Lower Kalimna Falls. While these falls aren't the biggest on the list, there's something special about their tranquil rainforest setting, not to mention being able to step into the peaceful world behind the waterfall curtain.
Where to stay: Lorne or Wye River parks
9. The lush oasis of Henderson Falls
Dropping dramatically into a deep, forested valley, Henderson Falls delivers one of the most impressive outlooks in the Otways. The lush greenery of fallen moss covered logs and tree ferns surrounding the trickling water is a magnificent sight. For a longer day of adventure include The Canyon, Won Wondah Falls and Phantom Falls.
Where to stay: Lorne park
10. Make the journey to Currawong Falls
Getting to Currawong Falls is part of the charm. The longer hike leads through woodland, heathland, a fern gully, and melaleuca swamp, with panoramic views of Aireys inlet and Split Point Lighthouse along the way. In spring, colourful wildflowers add even more beauty. Even if the falls aren’t flowing, the atmosphere is.
Where to stay: Anglesea or Lorne parks
Pull on your boots, pack a spray jacket and follow the sound of cascading water through the forest.
Book a spring stay & do go chasing waterfalls.
This is an inspirational guide only, and some waterfalls may be temporarily closed following recent weather events. Check local conditions here