1. Obi Obi Creek Crossing No 2
Obi Obi Creek meanders down the valley from Mapleton Falls to Kenilworth, where it joins the Mary River. The road largely follows the creek, and you will cross small bridges (some single lane) several times. It is a joyfully scenic drive, and a pleasant alternative route back to Brisbane from Kenilworth.
The creek crossing along the Obi Obi Road at Obi Obi Crossing #2 offers pleasant swimming within easy access of Kenilworth village, just a few minutes drive from the turn-off at Eumundi-Kenilworth Road towards Mapleton. Cross the bridge when you approach the crossing, turn left immediately and find a shady park under a tree.
2. Booloumba Falls
Waterfall in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, Booloumba Falls, Conondale National Park.
Booloumba Falls is a favourite swimming destination, though it takes a little bit longer to get there, and you need to be travelling in a four-wheel-drive. The falls are quite well signed on arrival, and there is a spacious car parking area with directions on where to head to the falls. The walk to the falls from the carpark is a comfortable 1.5 km, and is a quality hiking trail. We suggest that you wear closed-in shoes all the same. You will see a number of creek entry points as you progress along the trail, though we recommend powering on until you reach the lookout, as it's well worth taking in the view and capturing a photo. Just beside the lookout, you will see the stairs going down to the swimming hole under the falls. Enjoy the waterfall shower and cool swim, and remember to take your rubbish with you on the way out.
3. Gheerulla Creek
Gheerulla Falls, Mapleton National Park, Sunshine Coast Hinterland waterfall
Gheerulla Creek is a short drive of around eight minutes from Kenilworth Village towards Eumundi on the Eumundi-Kenilworth Road. Shortly after the rest area on the right (last toilets on this trip!), you will see a turn-off on your right along Sam Kelly Road. The first part of the road is well graded and maintained, and as you approach the dense forest along Gheerulla Creek, you will need to be in a 4WD to continue. Alternatively, park your sedan here as the walk is scenic and pleasant. This is the beginning of a longer walk through to the Gheerulla Valley Forest and is also a popular starting point for dirt bike and mountain bike riders as well.
Gheerulla Creek is probably more suitable for paddling in the shallows or chilling your feet. It is a spectacularly scenic fast-flowing creek, bumbling across round rocks and boulders and surrounded by rainforest vegetation. We like to cross the creek at the main parking area and stroll across a large fallen tree to the other side, where you can join the established walking track that follows the path of the creek for a short or long walk.
4. Kenilworth Homestead
Kenilworth Homestead is a privately run outdoor recreation, family camping and function centre, on the bank of the beautiful Mary River and just a short distance from the township of Kenilworth in the Mary Valley. The swimming holes are mostly shallow ponds, lots of sandy bank and if you paddle your way downriver, there are several deep swimming holes to be found at various locations.
How about Borumba Dam?
While you can't swim here, this spot is well worth a visit, particularly if you have a boat, kayak or canoe. From Kenilworth, travel to Imbil, down its main street (Yabba Creek Road), and continue out the other end towards the dam for about 20 km. Imbil is also a nice stop-off point for a coffee, drink or supplies.
Up next? Explore our guide to secret summer spots to cool down on the Sunshine Coast.
Caution: The great part about swimming around Kenilworth is that unless you enter a waterway during periods of flood - and we strongly recommend that you don’t - it is remarkably safe and free from hazards. There are no crocodiles, sharks, sea lice, rips, or other bitey things to worry about! And the water is fresh and cleansed by multiple sand bars, which act as filters. One of the few hazards to be aware of after periods of heavy rain is strong currents in a few locations. Usually, these are short stretches of river, and where they connect with logs lying across the creek or river, are best avoided.
While our waterfalls are stunning, they can also be dangerous. Always stick to marked trails, follow any local signage and check park alerts before you visit at parks.qld.gov.au
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