Discover the best waterfalls and swimming holes near Townsville

If you need a cool moment from the balmy Queensland weather, it's no hard feat in Townsville, where watering holes and swimming spots are as plentiful as they are refreshing.

Experience the region’s natural wonders and take the chance to cool off with a dip at these waterfalls and swimming holes near Townsville. Follow this three day guide to greet the star attractions.

Day One: Wander through the World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics

Wallaman Falls

Hit the road from the city centre, meandering up the Bruce Highway for two hours north until you reach the Wet Tropics Heritage Area. It’s within this luscious, ancient expanse that you’ll find the stunning local icon Wallaman Falls, the highest, permanent, single-drop waterfall in the country. Pack your walking gear and your swimwear too - the hike down the canyon is about 2 kilometres, but be warned it’s rather steep. Once you reach the bottom, take a dip in the pool and stretch your neck as you peer up toward the falls' source.

You’ll spend your afternoon further south, inland from Townsville city at Hidden Valley. This idyllic stretch is the perfect place to indulge in some ample rest and relaxation, swimming in the surrounding network of waterways. Puzzle Creek and Deception Creek are two of the most popular places to enjoy a dip, with the duo flowing on into the Running River. Feel like an afternoon alone is not enough? Get better acquainted by spending the night at the award-winning eco-resort on site, Hidden Valley Cabins, tucked into the surrounding greenery. If you prefer camping, there's a national park campground nearby the Wallaman Falls lookout.

Day Two: Hop your way between swimming holes in Paluma Range National Park

Big Crystal Creek & Little Crystal Creek

Conveniently, Hidden Valley is on the cusp of the equally remarkable Paluma Range National Park. It’s in its midst that you’ll find a cluster of waterholes, natural rock slides, and luscious waterfalls demanding to be explored. Of the swimming holes and waterfalls near Townsville, Little Crystal Creek may be one of its most famed and is well worth a visit. Mountain water cascades down into the crystal clear waters of this freshwater creek, under a very photogenic stone arch bridge built back in the 1930s.

Just 15 minutes upstream sits Big Crystal Creek, another popular destination especially for those with kids in tow, thanks to the landmark being home to a natural rockslide. You don’t even have to leave if you don’t want to. Just pitch a tent for the night in the designated campgrounds, perched right on the creek bed.

Ethel Creek Falls

The southern component of Paluma Range National Park offers even more waterfalls to explore - like the lesser-known Ethel Creek Falls and the easily accessible Gorge Falls and Loop Falls.

For a unique way to explore this neck of the woods, NQ Cycle Journeys offers guided e-bike and hiking day tour through the Paluma Range, stopping at lookouts, waterfalls, and swimming spots along the way.

Jourama Falls

Want to continue your exploration of the luscious surrounds? There are plenty more waterfalls in Paluma Range National Park. Especially in the northern section of the park, where Jourama Falls sit at the foothills of the Seaview Range. Wander your way through the collection of rainforest and open woodland till you reach the waterfalls. The adventurous can march their way to the top on a hike which takes about an hour and a half uphill, and 45 minutes down again. Or take it easy with a dip in the neighbouring Waterview Creek, where another campsite resides.

Day Three: Trek to a hidden gem in Bowling Green Bay National Park

Alligator Falls

Before you make your way back to the bright lights of Townsville, spend some time south of the city in Bowling Green Bay National Park, just 30 kilometres away. A gaggle of rugged mountains, wetlands, and mangrove forests will greet you, through which Alligator Creek flows, descending the valley in a series of pools and waterfalls.

The most effective way to see the district is with a meander along the Alligator Falls Track, a 17-kilometre stretch through Bowling Green Bay National Park. You’ll begin your journey at the southern end of the car park, following Cockatoo Creek through woodland, on to Alligator Creek Falls and its surrounding waterholes, where a quick dip is soothing, especially on a hot day. Be aware before you depart that the walk is long and can be demanding, with four creek crossings and some boulder scrambling required along the way.

After your day spent out in the elements, you may want to treat yourself to a night at the suavely styled resort The Ville back in town. The 4.5 star property sits pretty on the Townsville breakwater, with views out onto Magnetic Island. If the views don’t tempt you the amenities will, which include five eateries and bars among more.

A Townsville waterfall to add to your adventure list

Zoe Falls, Hinchinbrook Island

Zoe Falls has to be nature's most alluring infinity pool - but it's not an easy feat to get here, so be sure to plan ahead. This waterfall is located on Hinchinbrook Island, accessible by boat from Lucinda and along the multi day hike, Thorsborne Trail. Like a scene out of Jurrasic Park, Hinchinbrook Island is wild and remote - and strictly managed by national parks service so you'll need a permit before you slip into your hiking boots.

Looking for more? Discover Queensland's best waterfalls here.