If your family loves the great outdoors and is always on the hunt for new adventures, exploring the best waterfalls in Sydney should be at the top of your bucket list. Beyond the city’s skyline and beaches, Sydney is surrounded by incredible national parks and natural waterways, many of which hide spectacular waterfalls perfect for hiking, picnicking, and even swimming beneath.

From easily accessible cascades ideal for kids to more adventurous trails leading to hidden gems, Sydney’s waterfalls offer something for every kind of explorer. So pack the car, cue up your favourite playlist, and get ready for a refreshing day trip that combines nature, adventure, and plenty of family fun.

Waterfalls in Sydney & Beyond

1. Collins Flat Beach Waterfall, Manly

Nestled between North Head and Little Manly Cove, Collins Flat Beach offers one of our favourite secluded waterfalls in Sydney. Scenic harbour views and calm waters make Collins Flat Beach the perfect spot for families, and you might even spot a passing ferry or a fairy penguin!

Location: Collins Beach Road, Manly

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2. Wentworth Falls, The Blue Mountains

Possibly one of the most iconic waterfalls in Sydney, Wentworth Falls is an impressive three-tiered, 200-metre high waterfall that cascades over Jamison Valley before reaching its destination.

There are numerous lookouts in Wentworth Falls to view the stunning waterfall in its entirety, and the best way to view the base of Wentworth Falls is by starting at the Conservation Hut and going straight down into the Valley of the Waters.  

Location: Wentworth Falls, Blue Mountains

3. Empress Falls, The Blue Mountains

Another one of our favourite waters in Sydney, you can find the stunning Empress Falls along the National Pass Walking Track.

There are plenty of rest stops along the way, so don’t let ‘walking track’ scare you! Water passes down 30 metres of rock layers into a deep swimming lagoon below. Amazing!

Location: Wentworth Falls, Blue Mountains

4. Winifred Falls, Royal National Park

Winifred Falls is probably better for older kids as this waterfall comes with a four-kilometre walk! But what awaits you is definitely worth the effort - water cascading into a gorgeous deep green pool at Winifred Falls. An optional side trip along the track will lead you to the South West Arms Pools, which are also worth a visit.

Location: Winifred Falls Firetrail off Warumbul Road, Royal National Park

5. Nellies Glen, Budderoo National Park

If you haven't visited Nellie's Glen yet, chances are you've already heard of it its neighbour!

The enchanted Blue Pool in Carrington Falls and Nellie's Glen are both located in Budderoo National Park and are the perfect family adventure. Keep your eyes open for brightly coloured orchids and bower birds... as if it gets more stunning than that!

Location: Nellie's Glen Walking Track, Budderoo National Park

6. Jump Rock, Macquarie Pass

Not to be confused with Manly’s Jump Rock, Jump Rock Macquarie Pass can be found along the Jump Rock Falls Walk in Macquarie Pass National Park and is another must-visit waterfalls in Sydney.

Jump Rock flows into a deep swimming pool that people love to jump into, thus the reason we call it Jump Rock!

Location: Jump Rock Falls Walk, Macquarie Pass National Park

A Little Further Afield...

7. Crystal Shower Falls, Dorrigo National Park

If you feel like going on a real waterfall adventure or you just happen to be up north, Crystal Shower Falls in Dorrigo National Park looks like it's been plucked right out of the Jungle Book!

Location: 142 Dome Road, Dorrigo

Hero image: Locationscout

More Outdoor Adventures in Sydney

Sydney's Royal National Park Beaches are a Must-Visit
Caves You Can Visit Near Sydney
Tranquil Secret Gardens in Sydney

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