This review provides everything you need to know about visiting Gardners Falls in Maleny.
The Queensland Travel Guide acknowledges the Jinibara peoples, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which the Gardners Falls are situated. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continued spiritual and cultural connections to Country. Always was, always will be, Aboriginal land.
Nestled in the heart of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, Gardners Falls in Maleny offers a serene escape into nature.
With its waterhole, small waterfalls and lush surroundings, Gardners Falls is a popular place for a short walk and picnic. Swimming is unpatrolled and carries natural-waterway risks.
Whether you’re planning a picnic by the water or a walk beside Obi Obi Creek, check conditions on arrival, follow local signs and supervise children closely.
Easy to access and free to explore, this hidden gem is a must-visit for anyone travelling through the Maleny region.
If you’re considering a trip to Gardners Falls, this guide covers what you need to plan your visit. You can also check the official Sunshine Coast Council listing before you go.
This post may contain compensated links. Please refer to our disclaimer here for more information.
Last comprehensively reviewed and updated: November 2026.
Where are the Gardners Falls?
Tucked away along the Obi Obi Creek, Gardners Falls is a short drive from the heart of Maleny.
Head east along Obi Lane South (off Landsborough–Maleny Road) to reach Gardners Falls from Maleny.
If you’re travelling from Brisbane, it’s roughly a 90-minute drive north, while those coming from the Sunshine Coast can reach the falls in about 40 minutes by heading inland via Landsborough.
Where to park at Gardners Falls?
There is a very small official car park for Gardners Falls, and I recommend you don’t rely on finding a space when you arrive. But if you do happen to snag a space, the good news is it’s free!
The area becomes very busy in summer. Arrive early, park only where permitted and follow all local parking signs.
Walking to Gardners Falls
Once you arrive, it’s just a short, easy walk of about 300 metres from the car park to the waterfall and swimming hole. It’s a beautiful walk to the falls alongside the Obi Obi Creek.
The first section is a wide, sealed path. Much of the approximately 200-metre bitumen section can be travelled without assistance, although help may be needed when leaving the car park and near the rocky end of the path.
As you get closer to the falls, the track becomes quite rocky, and this part of the track is not suitable for prams or wheelchairs.
At Gardners Falls
The falls are only a few metres high, but the water below contains unseen hazards. Sunshine Coast Council does not encourage jumping or swimming here, and the rope swings should not be used.
A large natural pool sits below the falls. It is unpatrolled, conditions and submerged hazards can change, and anyone entering the water does so at their own risk.
There are smaller waterfalls and shallower rock pools along the creek, but shallow water is not automatically safe. Keep children within arm’s reach and assess conditions before entering.
Along the side of Obi Obi Creek is a narrow bank where you might like to set up a picnic.
Read and follow all onsite warning signs. Suitable footwear is recommended because rocks can be slippery and sharp objects may be present.
Facilities at Gardners Falls
Public toilets are located beside the car park. The official accessibility guide notes there is no accessible toilet at this location.
There are a few picnic tables scattered throughout the area too.
Please note that there is no drinking water here and dogs are prohibited at the falls.
Enjoy Gardners Falls, Maleny
Hopefully, you found this guide on visiting Gardners Falls helpful.
I’d also recommend you check out our full guide to the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, which provides links to everything you need to know to plan your trip.
And why not join our free Queensland Travel Guide Facebook community, where you can ask questions and find even more great tips on things to do in and around Maleny.
You may also be interested in these guides: