Queensland is renowned for its glorious beaches, island escapes and year-round sunshine – but when the heat cranks up, locals know the coast isn’t the only place to go to cool down. Just 90 minutes north of Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast Hinterland is a lush pocket of paradise where you can swap ocean swims for forest (and waterfall) bathing.
Our favourite place to escape the heat is Kondalilla National Park, a fairytale rainforest filled with refreshing rock pools, stunning lookouts and a cascading 90-metre waterfall. The most popular way to explore the forest is by following the relaxed 4.7-kilometre Kondalilla Falls Circuit, which takes roughly 90 minutes to complete.
We suggest arriving early, as the car park fills up fast. The trail starts at the picnic area, located around 100 metres downhill from the Kondalilla Falls car park. From there, around 300 steps lead you from the top of the falls down through the escarpment into a lush rainforest valley.
Kondalilla means ‘rushing waters’ in the local Aboriginal language, and in the summer wet season, the waterfall truly lives up to its name. Admire the views from the base of the falls before climbing up the ridge to the start. A dip in the rock pool on the way back is a well-deserved reward for tackling those 300 steps.
Even if you don’t have the time or energy for the full circuit, you can follow the shorter track that leads straight to the pools and enjoy a refreshing dip. There’s also the leisurely 1.7-kilometre Picnic Creek Circuit, where you can soak up views of the ancient Blackall Range, which was shaped by volcanoes more than 25 million years ago.
Once you return to the picnic area, you’ll find barbecues with shaded tables – so pack some snacks and make a full day of it. Otherwise, drive five minutes to Montville – named Australia’s most welcoming town for 2025 – and refuel at one of the charming cafés.