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How to Explore Cedar Creek Falls

Exploring the Whitsundays from Airlie Beach isn’t all sand and sea – if you’re up for an inland adventure, few sights are as stunning as Cedar Creek Falls. 

As the largest waterfall in the tropical Whitsundays region, Cedar Creek Falls is a spectacular sight to behold. Depending on who you ask, Cedar Creek Falls might either be described as a hidden gem or a favourite spot among locals. The 30-metre waterfall pours into a clear waterhole that’s perfect for a swim.

If you’re staying in Airlie Beach and have a free day (or even half a day), here’s your guide to exploring Cedar Creek Falls.

Getting to Cedar Creek Falls

Cedar Creek Falls is tucked away in the Conway National Park, about 30km from Airlie Beach. Driving from Airlie Beach to Cedar Creek Falls takes about 30 minutes – you’ll need to follow Shute Harbour Road towards Cannovale, then turn onto Conway Road in Mount Julian after 12km. Continue on Conway Road for 8.6km and then turn left onto Saltwater Creek Road. From there, keep a lookout for signs for Cedar Creek Falls as you approach Palm Grove. 

If you’re driving directly from Proserpine, the trip will only take 20 minutes – the route also starts on Shute Harbour Road toward Conway Road, followed by the same directions. 

Cedar Creek Falls is not serviced by any public transport routes, so you’ll need to either have your own car or hire one. There is a car park onsite, but spaces are limited. There are no power facilities available for caravans, so be sure to prepare accordingly. 

It’s a short 200 metres walk from the car park to the falls and waterhole, and there’s a marked pathway that’s suitable for children and anyone with a basic level of fitness. Those up for a slightly more challenging trek can take one of the many bushwalking trails up to the top of the waterfall for an elevated view of the entire alcove – this trail will take about 10 minutes to complete. 

When is the best time to visit Cedar Creek Falls?

To witness Cedar Creek Falls in its full splendour, you’ll want to visit after a period of heavy rainfall, typically during January to March. Rainy weather increases the volume of the waterfall, making it look all the more impressive. 

Cedar Creek Falls is a popular destination among the locals, so it can get busy during the school holidays. We recommend visiting earlier in the morning at 9 or 10am to beat the crowd and have most of the waterfall to yourself. If you can, go on a weekday, as it gets busier on the weekends.

If you’re pressed for time, consider visiting Cedar Creek Falls when travelling between the Whitsunday Coast Airport at Proserpine and Airlie Beach. The detour only adds an extra 10-15 minutes to travel time in exchange for being able to soak in the tropical atmosphere of a natural waterfall.

What to do at Cedar Creek Falls

There’s lots to do at Cedar Creek Falls besides taking in the sights – swim in the waterhole, have a picnic, or explore the tropical rainforest around the falls using the local trails. 

The water is clear and cool all year round, making it a pleasant escape from the hot, humid weather. If the water isn’t too heavy, you can stand under the waterfall for a refreshing shower! Diving from the waterfall is not allowed, however, as the waterhole isn’t deep enough. 

The falls are also surrounded by white cedar trees and Alexandra Palms amidst tropical flora and fauna. Aside from the rushing sounds of the fall, the air is still and calm, creating a serene escape for those seeking a moment of peace and quiet.

What to bring along

There are changing facilities and toilets at Cedar Creek Falls, but not much else in terms of amenities, so you’ll have to bring along everything you need for the visit. 

  • Swimwear 
  • Towels
  • Decent walking shoes – the trail can get a bit rocky closer to the falls
  • Waterbottles
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes 
  • Picnic mats and food
  • Garbage bags to take your rubbish with you when leaving
Cedar Creek Falls Airlie Beach

Explore the highlights of the Whitsundays from Airlie Beach

Cedar Creek Falls is one of the Whitsunday region’s best-kept secrets, offering a change of scenery from the busy coastal activity in Airlie Beach. Of course, no trip to the Whitsundays is complete without a sailing tour – if you’re after the best Whitsundays sailing tour to see the other iconic destinations in the Whitsunday Islands, we’re here to help. 

Get in touch with us to book a Whitsunday sailing adventure from Airlie Beach or find out more about what the Whitsunday region has to offer.