Buderim Forest Park and Falls is undoubtedly one of the Sunshine Coast’s hidden, natural gems, offering visitors a lush rainforest world to explore.
This picturesque waterfall, with its babbling waterfalls and the surrounding tranquil rock pools and sub-tropical rainforest, is mere minutes away from the beach and the quaint Buderim Village, yet feels wonderfully secluded.
Visit this tranquil spot and you’ll quickly understand why Buderim Falls is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike, and has fast become one of the most Instagrammed places on the Sunshine Coast—a testament to the area's beauty, which visitors are encouraged to appreciate and help preserve.
Buderim Forest Park and Falls
Buderim Falls, also known as Serenity Falls, is one of those rare natural treasures that you can experience in as little as 20 minutes. As a favourite recreational place for both locals and visitors, it offers a perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor activities. Interestingly, the falls are unofficially named Serenity Falls by locals. The region's indigenous people also held this area in high regard, with the falls being a significant site for them. Amazingly, much of the surrounding land was once owned by private land owners before the council acquired it to preserve the area's beauty and ensure public access. Please help preserve this special environment for future generations.
The waterfall flows year-round but looks particularly spectacular after rainfall, when the water from Martins Creek transforms the falls from a trickle into a strong cascade of water down the rock face into the shallow pool and water hole below. This pool is a popular water hole where visitors can swim, especially during summer. The main trail, which is about one kilometre in length, allows you to cross the creek via bridges and access both the lower entry and upper entry point. The trail can become slippery after rain, so take care when walking.
The falls are set in 45 hectares of the Buderim Forest Park, on the northern side of Buderim Mountain, which is home to tall trees, dramatic strangler figs, ferns, and melodious forest birdlife, such as whipbirds and catbirds. The natural soundscape is filled with bird calls, adding to the serene atmosphere.
Wandering along the bush pathways and trail that lead to Buderim Falls is a magical experience, and it is worth stopping to listen to the quiet babble of the creek and call of the native birds.
Serenity Falls, Buderim Forest Park
How to get to Buderim Falls
Located just a ten-minute drive from Mooloolaba, 90 minutes from Brisbane or 45 minutes from Noosa, this picturesque spot is easily accessible for a day trip.
There are two main entry points to Buderim Falls, both accessible from Lindsay Road: the lower entry via Harry's Lane near Harry's Restaurant, and the upper entry point at Quorn Close. Each entry point offers a picnic area and access to the main trail, which is approximately one kilometre in length.
From the lower entry at Harry’s Lane, located off Lindsay Road and adjacent to Harry's Restaurant, you can start the trail on an easy, stroller and wheelchair-accessible elevated boardwalk through the sub-tropical rainforest. This section is perfect for families and those seeking a gentle walk. As you continue, the boardwalk ends and you will need to cross bridges and rocky sections along the trail, following the banks of Martins Creek to the base of the waterfalls. This part of the trail is not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs, but with caution, even younger children can manage the crossings.
The upper entry point at Quorn Close features a picnic area and parking. From here, a 350m steep track leads directly down to the top of the waterfalls. The steep track includes numerous stairs and descends to the wooden, high arch Serenity Bridge, offering a spectacular elevated view of Buderim Falls. This route requires a moderate level of fitness and is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
Buderim Forest Waterfalls (Serenity Falls), Buderim
Facilities at Buderim Forest Park
Buderim Falls is the perfect location to enjoy a picnic, and is an ideal day trip for families and couples alike.
Barbeque facilities, a picnic area, picnic tables, toilets and a good amount of parking are available at both the Lindsey Road and Quorn Close entrances to the nature reserve.
Lindsey Road also has a large, flat grassy parklands, while Quorn Close has a small memorial garden in honour of Edna Wallings, who was an internationally-renowned gardener who retired to Buderim.
Please note that as Buderim Falls is located within a nature reserve, dogs are not permitted. To help preserve the area's natural beauty, please do not leave any rubbish behind.
Buderim Forest Waterfall
Where to Stay and Eat
Why not make a weekend of it, so you can explore more of Buderim and Mooloolaba?
An evening meal at Buderim Tavern should also not be missed, with its top-class menu and spectacular views all the way to the coastline.
Lovers of fine dining should book a table at Harry's on Buderim, a fully-licenced restaurant offering modern Australian cuisine.
Harry's on Buderim
