best waterfalls near melbourne

Craving a splash of nature near Melbourne that doesn’t involve a dodgy backyard sprinkler? Start with Trentham Falls (about 90 km northwest) for a big single-drop curtain and easy lookout access.

Head to the Otways for the crowd-pleasers: Erskine Falls, Hopetoun Falls, and Beauchamp Falls—fern heaven, cool mist, and stairs your calves will gossip about.

Closer in, the Dandenongs offer Sherbrooke Falls and Olinda Falls for a quick green fix, while Steavenson Falls at Marysville does drama (and after-dark lighting) without the three-day hike.

Wear decent shoes, check track conditions, and mind the leeches—bring salt, not bravado.