All Natural and Healthy Fun
Introducing young children, particularly toddlers, to the beauty and fun of natural swimming holes is like opening up a photo album of your own youth. The gorgeous, untouched glory of the wide variety of waterfalls Brisbane region has to offer cuts through any over-dependence on screens and phones within seconds. Be transported to a different time by the whipping sounds of native birds, the crispness of the air and the cold lick of the swimming holes on the backs of your legs. It was a simpler time, when kids were kids.
Here’s where you can go to grab a slice of Brisbane waterfalls magic for yourself.
Waterfalls: Brisbane and surrounds
It would be impossible to include every last natural swimming hole in South-East Queensland. We are incredibly lucky to find ourselves living in such an ecologically diverse environment. The information collated below was chosen because of the toddler and small child-friendly nature of the landscapes. Larger, deeper swimming holes have not been included.
Please also consider the following points when travelling to the waterfalls Brisbane has to offer.
There are no lifeguards on patrol at any natural swimming holes. The safety of your children is entirely your responsibility. They must be appropriately supervised at all times, never leave your sight and be encouraged to behave and play safely.
It is the firm belief of Little Scholars to engage positively and respectfully with the environment. Do not leave rubbish in or around swimming holes – take it with you. Obey all signage and ensure that you leave the area as beautiful as it was when you found it.
Waterfalls Brisbane and Gold Coast – toddler-friendly swimming holes
Lees Road Crossing, Dayboro
This is one that not many have heard of. Lees Road Crossing in Dayboro is just within reach of Brisbane and offers a plethora of places to sit calmly and watch the world float by. There are shallow spots for toddlers to splash and play and plenty to explore.
Gardners Falls Swimming Hole
Families with young children will be heading to the Sunshine Coast (near Maleny) to find the wonderful Gardners Falls. A shallow rockpool awaits toddlers and small kids and there is plenty of shade to be found for happy travellers. Bring the camera as this is a natural setting you won’t want to forget, set to the soundtrack of gorgeous native birds.
The falls themselves are surrounded by many different rock ledges but the rock pools are definitely going to hold the most appeal for your toddlers. Of note is the short walk from the carpark to the water as well – easy, accessible, brilliant.
Cedar Creek Falls, Samford
Perhaps the most iconic Brisbane swimming hole, Cedar Creek has entertained generations of Brisbane families. Halls Road Crossing is the best choice for families with toddlers as there is a wide variety of wildlife as well as safe land to walk around on (but there are no toilets). You must ensure you wear appropriate foot wear at all times (even in the water) as this is quite a rocky area.
Andy William’s Park has plenty of rock paddling pools for toddlers as well as picnic facilities.
Cedar Creek Falls, Tamborine
This swimming spot can be found on the Gold Coast near Thunderbird Park. Once the steps and paths are negotiated (potentially a little difficult for small legs but some help from mum and dad should do it), you’ll come across three separate rock pools that offer delightful swimming opportunities for any age or ability. There are lower rock pools that are more suitable to small ones as the top one is quite deep.
This is a very natural setting – there are no bathroom facilities or rubbish bins. There is, however, opportunity to have a picnic or use one of the BBQs.
Kondalilla National Park Swimming Hole
Visiting this waterfall involves a drive north. It’s found in the Sunshine Coast hinterland (near Montville) inside the borders of the Kondalilla National Park. Admittedly, there is a steep descent from the carpark to the water which must be taken into consideration depending on who is in your group.
Once you get here, it’s definitely worth it. The falls themselves tumble down four metres of rockface – making this one of the most gorgeous sites you’re going to see outside of a picture book. The swimming hole is absolutely beautiful and the kids will simply love it.
If you’re feeling particularly energetic (or you have older kids who need wearing out), there is a walking track that traverses about 5km and includes 100 steep stairs. Ensure you have appropriate sun coverage as well as food and drink.
Bunya Crossing Reserve
This is an easily accessible spot for families with young children. It’s a mere half hour or so from the CBD. There are shallow waters for splashing and exploring that are just perfect for toddlers and little ones. The water is clean and mostly clear, and there are plenty of shady spots to spread out a picnic blanket and make the most of the day.
Sustainability lovers and nature explorers of Little Scholars will be thrilled by the amount of wildlife that can be found at Bunya Crossing Reserve. Ducks, lots of fish, marsupials and cheeky tadpoles are just waiting to be examined!
Edward Allison Park, Eatons Hill
This idyllic spot borders the South Pine River and is set back in a secluded, natural setting. Close by the carpark, you’ll find a wonderful rock pool area that almost seems like it was designed for toddlers to play in.
Waterfalls Brisbane and Gold Coast Region
This is the perfect way to spend time with the family, all while not spending any money. Ensure that sun protection and personal safety are accounted for and that you take all rubbish with you when you leave.
When you’re done exploring waterfalls, Brisbane childcare excellence is waiting to be discovered. Learn how our early learning program inspires environmental awareness in little ones. Contact us today.
