While Port Douglas may be famous for spectacular Four Mile Beach, our region is also home to many picturesque fresh water rivers and waterfalls that really bring the wow factor and get the cameras flashing!
The Waterfall Circuit
Encompassing spectacular Milla Milla, Zillie and Ellinjaa Waterfalls, take an overnight trip to do the 300km Waterfall Circuit south of Cairns. Stopping through the tablelands and via Yungaburra, take your time and soak up the beautiful surrounds of the Tablelands. Milla Milla falls is heritage listed and is Australia's most photographed waterfall so all those enthusiastic snappers can't be wrong!
Barron Falls
Though Barron Falls isn't a swimming spot, (its inaccessible at the bottom), if you are nearby the massive 125 meter waterfall it definitely warrants a visit, particularly during the green season when there has been significant rainfall. The four cascading levels roar in heavy flood throughout the wet season.
Davies Creek Falls
Located between Mareeba and Kuranda, some 100km south of Port Douglas, Davies Creek has the lot. Featuring an impressive waterfall, sandy edged creek for swimming, beautiful bush walking tracks and theres a camp ground here if you want to make a night of it. Perfect! Check local conditions before departing, as some larger caravans may have trouble entering the national park.
Shannonvale Waterhole
Located just a short 15 minute drive from Port Douglas and just south of Mossman is Shannonvale Waterhole. Simply follow the signs to the the Shannonvale Winery and you literally can't miss it. Theres a small carpark right but the water and because the bottom is sandy and only around waist height, its a good option for the kids. Take time crossing the causeway and check the water levels before entering.
Mossman Gorge
Located just 15 minutes drive from Port Douglas is Mossman Gorge, which in addition to the award winning visitors centre features a stunning fresh water swimming hole, a favourite amongst tourists and locals alike. Head to the Mossman Gorge Visitors Centre and the friendly staff will direct you to the shuttle busses servicing the gorge.
Silky Oaks Lodge
If private fresh waterfront access is what you're after you can't go past Silky Oaks Lodge, which features its own private creek frontage with fabled healing waters, that is yours to enjoy while you are a guest. Silky Oaks Lodge is located 25km north of Port Douglas.
Heritage Lodge
If you're planning on staying a night in the Daintree, Heritage Lodge has an secret that we're about to reveal. Just at the back of this gorgeous rainforest lodge is a crystal clear fresh water swimming hole. Take a swim with turtles and jungle perch in pristine Cooper Creek as it winds its way through the property
Masons Store Waterhole
Located right on Cape Tribulation Road, Mason's Store is a perfect place to stop in on your Daintree adventure for a refreshment. Enjoy some food prepared with locally sourced fresh ingredients, and for just $1 entry fee take a swim in Mason's Creek which adjoins the property. Full of native fish and croc and stinger free it's a spectacular freshwater swimming hole thats easily accessible.
Fresh Water Swim Tours
If you're lacking transport or perhaps not the greatest navigator, you can choose to book a scenic River Swim & Paddle Tour which will supply you with all the additional gear you make need, including Stand Up Paddleboards, masks and snorkels plus tranfers from your accommodation.
What to bring
If you're planning on taking a dip don't forget to bring
- your swimsuit of course!
- a towel
- sunscreen or a wide brimmed hat
- insect repellant
- shoes for walking to and from swimming spots
Safety in our fresh waters
Take care entering and exiting any water as rocks can become very slippery when wet.
Always heed local warning signs, and if it's flooded, forget it.