Malanda Falls is one of the best waterfalls near Cairns for families or anyone who doesn’t want to walk far through the rainforest.
These falls on the North Johnstone River offer three great things for visitors – a waterfall with a swimming pool, two paths through the rainforest, and a beautiful picnic area.
Malanda Falls is much easier to reach than other waterfalls in the area, like Crystal Cascades or Stoney Creek Falls, which are more hidden. Malanda Falls is right next to the main road.
Where can you find the Malanda Falls
Malanda Falls is right next to the Malanda Visitor Centre, on the North Johnstone River. There are parking and restroom facilities available at the visitor centre.
The visitor centre also has a large porch that looks out over the jungle and unfortunately, the Tree Kangaroo Cafe is permanently closed.
How to Get to Malanda Falls
Malanda Falls flows over rocks created by an old lava flow from Mount Hypipamee. Malanda Visitor Centre is around 1 hr 20 min (76.9 km) from Cairns city via Gillies Range Rd.
The falls are surrounded by green rainforest and are close to the carpark, making it easy for families with young children.
Around halfway from the car park, there are toilets and some rest areas.
Directions to Malanda Visitor Centre
Walk to the Malanda Falls
There are two short walks in the nearby rainforest. The Tulip Oak Walk has signs created by the local Aboriginal people who share the history and culture of the area.
The Rainforest Circuit Walk follows the river and loops back through the forest. Watch out for native animals like the shy Lumholtz’s tree kangaroo.
What You’ll Find at Malanda Falls
The falls are about four meters high and 30 meters wide, with cool, fresh water flowing over ancient lava rocks.
In front of the falls is a man-made swimming pool, first surveyed in 1906. It was Malanda’s swimming spot for many years, with a diving board and a wall added in the 1920s by the local council.
It’s generally safe to swim here, except after heavy rain. There’s a small beach, (well sort of) and shallow areas where kids and non-swimmers can enjoy the water.
The large grounds around the falls are ideal for picnics and barbecues. There are different levels and paths, so you can find a quiet spot easily.
The different terraces and lovely trees provide plenty of shade. There’s lots of grassy space for picnics or setting up chairs. Visitors can also relax on the benches under the trees.
