
Curtis Falls is one of my favorite waterfalls on the Gold Coast which can be explored via an easy walking trail known as the Curtis Falls track.
Located at the top of Tamborine Mountain, Curtis Falls is an awe-inspiring natural attraction that is not to be missed when visiting Tamborine National Park.
In this guide, I have included useful information on how to get to Curtis Falls, the best time to visit and what to expect on the Curtis Falls track.
Also, at the bottom of this post, you will find my recommendations on where to stay in Mount Tamborine, a list of fun-fuelled Gold Coast tours and links to more of my Gold Coast travel guides that you might like to check out!
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HOW TO GET TO CURTIS FALLS
Curtis Falls is located in the hinterland region of the Gold Coast known as Mt Tamborine, and the waterfall itself lies within Tamborine National Park.
→ Click here to see the pin location on Google Maps.
From the main tourist hub on the Gold Coast (Surfers Paradise), it’s approximately a 45-minute drive to reach Curtis Falls Mt Tamborine. From the southern end of the Gold Coast (Coolangatta), the journey time is around 1-hour.
There is no public transport to access Mount Tamborine so you will need to have your own vehicle to make the drive up to Curtis Falls.
The road leading out to Mount Tamborine is unbelievably scenic so I urge you not to rush and soak in the nature that surrounds this area.
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Curtis Falls Mt Tamborine
BEST TIME TO VISIT CURTIS FALLS
Curtis Falls Mount Tamborine is quite a popular tourist attraction and it can get quite busy on the weekends. If you can time your visit for a weekday, you will get to enjoy it with fewer people.
The best time to visit Curtis Falls and the Curtis Falls Walk is between 8 am and 12 pm for the best lighting.
If you’re not a morning person, you can still visit Curtis Falls at any time during the day, just make sure to allow yourself enough time if you wish to complete the Curtis Falls track which takes up to 1.5 hours.
RELATED ARTICLE → 3 DAY GOLD COAST ITINERARY
Curtis Falls Walk
ARRIVING AT CURTIS FALLS MT TAMBORINE
When you arrive at Curtis Falls, there is a parking lot in front of Curtis Falls Cafe with around a dozen free spaces where you can park your car safely.
From here, the trailhead is clearly signposted and it’s a short 10-15 minute walk through the rainforest to reach Curtis Falls.
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Curtis Falls Cafe
The trailhead to Curtis Falls
Beginning of the Curtis Falls track
CURTIS FALLS TRACK
The Curtis Falls track is a combination of stone steps, dirt trails, wooden boardwalks and concrete bridges that will lead you through the lush rainforest that makes up Tamborine National Park.
Follow the signs to Curtis Falls which is a short 10-15 minute easy walk from the parking lot and there a number of viewpoints along the way that offer spectacular views of the rainforest and the canopy above.
If you wish to visit Curtis Falls plus venture along the Lower Creek Circuit as well, it’s an easy 1.6km return walk that takes no more than 1.5 hours including stops to go swimming and take photos.
There are some interesting sites to keep an eye out for on the Curtis Falls walk such as hanging tree vines, flowing streams, enormous fig-trees, lookout points and small bridge crossings, all of which add to the exciting adventure!
Epic viewpoints at Curtis Falls
Clear signposts at Curtis Falls Mt Tamborine
On the way down to Curtis Falls
At the base of Curtis Falls
WHAT TO EXPECT AT CURTIS FALLS
When you come to a T-section in the trail, you will see a signpost that says Curtis Falls 105m to the left and Lower Circuit Trail 1.6km return to the right.
I recommend turning left at this point, which will lead you right into the natural amphitheater at the base of Curtis Falls, then come back to this point and follow the signs for the Lower Creek Circuit trail.
When you arrive at the viewpoint and first lay eyes on Curtis Falls Mount Tamborine, you will be in awe! Tropical ferns and hanging vines envelop Curtis Falls and a fallen-over tree trunk lies on one side of the basin.
The water flows down from the stream above and discharges effortlessly over a rock face, creating a silvery-like curtain of falls that fills a large catch basin below.
RELATED ARTICLE → SPRINGBROOK WATERFALLS
It is safe to go swimming in the freshwater pool to cool off after the hike down and you can even swim out to a dry rock that lies in the middle.
The swimming area beneath the falls is quite shallow around the edges so I wouldn’t recommend doing any rock jumping into the basin.
There is also a dirt track on the left-hand side of the viewpoint that leads to a rocky cave behind the falls. From here you can get another cool perspective looking out over the basin at Curtis Falls.
Taking a dip at Curtis Falls Mt Tamborine
Viewpoint at Curtis Falls Tamborine Mountain
LOWER CREEK CIRCUIT TRAIL
Once you’ve enjoyed marveling at Curtis Falls, continue the adventure along the Lower Creek Circuit trail which is a 1.6km return walk.
The Lower Creek Circuit is just as impressive as the main attraction, Curtis Falls, in my opinion.
This trail will take you deep into the rainforest, crossing over streams, weaving in and out of towering fig trees and emerging at a turquoise-colored rockpool at the bottom of the valley.
Along the Lower Creek Circuit, I urge you to stop, look, listen and enjoy the tranquility of the rainforest here in Tamborine National Park.
There are several small rock pools along the way where you can take the opportunity to go for a refreshing dip and gaze up at the mesmerizing canopy above.
When you reach the end of the trail on the Lower Creek Circuit, follow the signs for Curtis Falls and this will take you back to the parking lot located in front of Curtis Falls Cafe.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated with Hydro Flask! I take this water bottle with me on all of my adventures. Hydro Flask keeps your water icy cold all day and you’ll also be helping out the environment by reducing the use of single-use plastics.
Curtis Falls Track
Concrete bridges on the Lower Creek Circuit
More waterfalls and rock pools
Curtis Falls walking track
Rainforest canopy in Tamborine National Park
Signpost on the Curtis Falls walking track
FINAL THOUGHTS OF CURTIS FALLS TAMBORINE
I have visited Curtis Falls many times in my teenage years (that’s right, I was born and bred on the Gold Coast) and I’m so glad I revisited this epic spot to put together this adventure guide for you to follow.
Curtis Falls is the perfect place to go to escape the hustle and bustle of Gold Coast City and spend a day adventuring and relaxing in nature with your friends and family!
I guarantee that you will enjoy this place as much as I have and feel free to let me know how your experience goes in the comments below!
CURTIS FALLS MAP
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WHERE TO STAY IN MT TAMBORINE
Tamborine Mountain has dozens of accommodations to choose from so I have narrowed it down to a few of my recommended places to stay in Mt Tamborine to fit the needs of all types of travelers.
See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend:
Luxury: CURTIS FALLS COTTAGE
Check prices on Agoda | Check prices on Booking.com
Mid Range: MT TAMBORINE MOTEL
Check prices on Agoda | Check prices on Booking.com
Budget: TALL TREES MOTEL
Check prices on Agoda | Check prices on Booking.com
FOR ALL OTHER PLACES TO STAY IN MT TAMBORINE, SEARCH ON AGODA OR SEARCH ON BOOKING.COM
BEST GOLD COAST TOURS
BEST TIME TO VISIT GOLD COAST
The Gold Coast is one of the only places on the East Coast of Australia that sees glorious sunshine almost all year round.
If you want the best of the best conditions weatherwise, I recommend visiting between May and October (Autumn – Spring) which is most ideal for beach bumming, nature walks and water sports.
Summer on the Gold Coast is between December and February which sees hot temperatures and a lot of rainfall.
AIRBNB GOLD COAST
Another option for accommodation in Gold Coast is to stay at an Airbnb, which generally has some great deals on the Gold Coast.
Want to save hundreds of $$$ on Airbnb? Click Here to download my Airbnb Money Saving Guide!
MORE AUSTRALIA TRAVEL GUIDES
• Gold Coast: 3 Day Gold Coast Itinerary
• Gold Coast: 11 Best Gold Coast Beaches
• Springbrook: Springbrook Waterfalls
• Currumbin: Currumbin Rock Pools
• Brisbane: Things To Do In Brisbane
• Byron Bay: Things To Do In Byron Bay
• Sydney: Things To Do In Sydney
• Melbourne: Things To Do In Melbourne
• Fraser Island: Fraser Island Day Trip
LONELY PLANET – AUSTRALIA
One of the best books to take on your trip is the Lonely Planet Australia Travel Guide!
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WHAT TO PACK FOR GOLD COAST
Everyday Backpack: One of the best backpacks on the market! The Nomatic 20L Backpack is perfect for on the go adventures. Featuring multiple storage spaces for valuables, drink bottles, chargers, notebooks and more. This sleek backpack was designed for you.
Universal Power Adapter: Don’t leave home without one! I highly recommend getting this Universal Power Adapter so that you are able to charge all of your electronics when you’re on the road. Compatible in Asia, UK, Europe, Africa, USA, SA and Australia.
Hidden Money Belt: I never go on a trip without one! The best thing is they are always out of sight, hidden beneath your clothing. With RFID blocking, they are perfectly designed to keep your credit cards, cash and other valuables safe when you’re out adventuring!
Waterproof Phone Case: A waterproof phone case is a must-have item! This universal case will keep your phone safe from water damage, sand and scratches during your adventures. Suitable for all smartphones.
Portable Charger: One of the best portable chargers on the market! The Anker Power Bank keeps your phone and accessories charged on those longer adventures. Featuring 2 USB charging ports, rechargeable battery, works with iPhone, iPad, Samsung, Oppo and Android.
Microfibre Travel Towel: To pack a towel or not to pack a towel? A standard bathroom towel can take up a lot of space in your travel bag. Get your hands on a quick-dry Microfibre Travel Towel which is perfect for the beach, backpacking, camping and general traveling.
Rain Jacket: A light-weight rain jacket is an absolute must when traveling! North Face waterproof rain jackets come in both men and women sizes, featuring a breathable mesh lining and adjustable hood that can be tucked away inside the collar.
Kindle: The best alternative for books! Kindle e-readers are perfect for long haul flights, reading on the beach or a quiet evening away from the bars. Kindle’s are waterproof with rechargeable batteries and adjustable light settings to suit indoor/outdoor conditions.
Packing Cubes: My favorite item in my backpack! Perfect for organizing your shirts, pants, jackets, socks, underwear and more. This 5 Set Packing Cubes makes packing easier and more efficient, adding extra space in your bag for your next trip.
Activated Charcoal Tablets: Want to avoid food poisoning? Most of us have been a victim of travelers diarrhea from eating street food. Organic Activated Charcoal Tablets are fast-acting and will rid your system of bad bacteria that causes stomach upset.
MY CAMERA GEAR
Everyday Camera: The most affordable mirrorless camera on the market! I personally use the Sony A7ii Mirrorless Camera on all of my adventures. It’s compact, lightweight and super easy to use for all levels of photography. A 28-70mm Sony lens is also included.
Drone Camera: Take your photography to new heights! The DJI Mavic Pro 2 Drone is at the top of the game when it comes to high-quality images and video, easy to control functions and traveler-friendly capabilities. I guarantee you won’t regret purchasing one.
GoPro Hero 8: One of the most popular cameras on the planet! I love using the GoPro Hero 8 for all of my underwater shots and fast-paced adventures. The GoPro Hero 8 captures the best moments with its wide range of functions that are very simple to use!
Camera Bag: My favorite camera bag I have ever owned! The Lowepro Protactic 450 AW II Camera Bag features a waterproof rain cover, drink bottle holder, padded compartments for cameras, drones, lenses, accessories and it also has a laptop pocket.
Selfie Stick: Everyone loves a good selfie, right!? The Sandmarc Metal Edition Selfie Stick is sleek, stylish and can extend to 1.2m. I find it much easier to take photos and videos with the GoPro when it is mounted to the Sandmarc Selfie Stick!
Camera Tripod: The Joby GorillaPod is suitable for all cameras. This tripod is easy to use and perfect for setting up a time-lapse video or even using it as a selfie stick. The legs are flexible so you can wrap it around a tree or a pole to get creative with your shot.
GoPro Dome: Have you ever wanted to capture those under/over water shots with the GoPro? This epic underwater GoPro dome housing is the best camera accessory to have to create the perfect 50/50 shot. I use mine every time I am in the ocean!
Memory Card: The best thing about SanDisk Extreme Pro is that it delivers maximum speed for images and videos. Having 64GB of storage means that you can store hundreds of files on this SD card for 2-3 days and not have to worry about running out of space.
External Hard Drive: As a photographer, my images and video files take up a lot of space on my MacBook so I use the WD Elements External Hard Drive to store everything. With 4TB worth of storage space, this is more than enough for 1 years worth of content.
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MY SHOP
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I’ve got a wide range of digital products for sale and I’m sure you’ll find something that will come in handy during your travels!
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FINAL THOUGHTS OF CURTIS FALLS TAMBORINE
I hope you have enjoyed reading this article and if you have any questions at all about Curtis Falls Tamborine, please leave a comment below and I will reply as soon as I can!
Happy Adventuring!