DISCOVER PURLINGBROOK FALLS IN THE GOLD COAST!
Purlingbrook Falls, in my honest opinion, is the best waterfall on the Gold Coast. Purling Brook Falls is one of several spectacular waterfalls that are surrounded by ancient forests in the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforest in Springbrook National Park.
I have been to Purlingbrook Falls on several occasions and have put together this complete guide of how to get there, the best time to visit, things to know before you go to Purling Brook Falls and what to expect!
Also, at the bottom of this Purlingbrook Falls guide, I have included some useful information on where to stay on the Gold Coast, a list of recommended tours and links to my other Gold Coast travel guides that you might like to check out!
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HOW TO GET TO PURLING BROOK FALLS
Purling Brook Falls is located in the hinterland region of the Gold Coast known as Springbrook Mountain.
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From the main tourist hub on the Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise, it’s approximately a one hour drive to reach Purlingbrook Falls.
From the Gold Coast Airport, the journey time to reach Purling Brook Falls is also around one hours drive.
There is no public transport to access Springbrook National Park so you will need to have your own vehicle.
The road out to Springbrook is unbelievably scenic with a few lookout points along the way that are clearly signposted and definitely worth stopping at to take a few photos.
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Aerial shot of Purlingbrook Falls
At the base of Purlingbrook Falls
Purlingbrook Falls Springbrook
ARRIVING AT PURLINGBROOK FALLS
When you arrive at Springbrook National Park you’ll find that there is free parking located at the entrance to Purlingbrook Falls.
There is a small cafe near the parking lot if you would like to purchase some water and snacks before beginning the hike down to Purlingbrook Falls Walk.
There are also toilet amenities and picnic areas next to the car park that you can make use of before and after your Purlingbrook Falls adventure.
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PURLING BROOK FALLS TRAIL
The trail down to Purlingbrook Falls is clearly signposted with a number of viewpoints along the way that offer spectacular views of the Gold Coast Hinterland.
It’s a 4km moderate hike down to reach the base of Purlingbrook Falls. Depending on how many times you stop to take photos or to rest, the Purlingbrook Falls walk will take approximately 45 minutes from top to bottom.
The circuit trail may sometimes be closed if there have been landslides from storms, if that’s the case, the trail down is the same trail to you will have to return on.
The way down to Purlingbrook Falls is a combination of concrete steps and cleared dirt trails that will lead you through the lush Gondwana Rainforest.
There are some fun obstacles that you will encounter along the way down to Purlingbrook Falls such as hanging tree vines, flowing streams and wooden bridges that adds to the exciting adventure!
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On the edge at Purlingbrook Falls
Purlingbrook Falls walk
Purlingbrook Falls Gold Coast
Purling Brook Falls walk
WHAT TO EXPECT AT PURLINGBROOK FALLS
The trail will lead you right into the natural amphitheater at the base of Purlingbrook Falls and from here you can explore the rocky and grassy areas on both sides of the falls.
You can even go for a swim in the freshwater rock pools beneath Purling Brook Falls to cool off after the hike down!
The discharge of water from Purlingbrook falls is not too powerful and it’s safe to stand directly beneath the flow of water, making for the perfect outdoor shower.
The rock pools are very shallow so I wouldn’t recommend doing any rock jumping at this particular spot.
There is also a pathway that leads directly behind Purlingbrook Falls and from here you can get another cool perspective looking down the valley.
RELATED ARTICLE → 5 BEST SPRINGBROOK WATERFALLS
Purlingbrook Falls Springbrook
Purling Brook Falls
Birdseye perspective of Purlingbrook Falls
WARRINGA POOL
Once you have spent some time marveling at Purling Brook Falls, I highly recommend continuing the adventure on to Warringa Pool.
When you’re standing at the base of Purlingbrook Falls, you will see a sign that points the direction down to another trail which is the way to Warringa Pool.
It’s an easy 2km return hike that leads you further down into the valley which emerges at this little hidden gem.
Warringa Pool features a small but beautiful waterfall and swimming hole which is the perfect opportunity to take a refreshing dip.
You can even do some rock jumping into the natural pools if you’re up for an adrenaline rush! I would recommend bringing a pair of slip-on waterproof shoes for extra grip.
It’s also possible to explore further upstream from Warringa Pool to where you’ll find a series of cascades and smaller pools. The water is quite cold as it’s shaded from the canopy above, though it is every bit invigorating!
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Warringa Pool – Purling Brook Falls
Warringa Pool – Purlingbrook Falls
PURLINGBROOK FALLS – THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
If you are planning to spend an entire day exploring Purling Brook Falls and Springbrook National Park, I recommend pre-packing a lunch and drinking water before heading up the mountain. There are a number of cafes and fudge stores in Springbrook, though they can be quite expensive if you’re on a tight budget.
The best time to visit Purlingbrook Falls and Warringa Pool is between 8 am and 12 pm for the best lighting from the sun.
If you’re not a morning person, you can still visit Purlingbrook Falls Springbrook at any time during the day, just make sure to allow yourself enough time to complete the trail down and back up again. (1-2 hours).
Purlingbrook Falls is a very 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.
Purlingbrook Falls Gold Coast
Another perspective of Purlingbrook Falls
PIN LOCATION OF PURLINGBROOK FALLS
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WHERE TO STAY ON THE GOLD COAST?
The Gold Coast is a popular tourist hub so there is no shortage of accommodation options and most people want to be by the beach as often as possible. It’s first in, best-dressed, especially in the peak holiday season which is the summer months between December and February.
I have narrowed it down to a few of my favorite places to stay on the Gold Coast to fit the needs of budget backpackers, luxury travelers and everyone in between.
See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend:
Luxury: Luxury Beachfront Sky Home
Centrally located in Burleigh Heads and a stone’s throw from the beach. This 5-star accommodation features an outdoor swimming pool, garden, fitness centre and free wifi. The apartments are spacious and include a fully equipped kitchen, living and dining room, 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, hot tub, flat-screen tv and ocean views. Perfect for families and couples.
Mid Range: Outrigger Burleigh
The best and most affordable hotel in Burleigh Heads. The Outrigger is a two-minute walk from Burleigh Beach featuring an outdoor pool, hot tub and ocean views! The rooms are spacious, air-conditioned, equipped kitchenette, living room, private bathroom and balcony. Close to supermarkets, cafes, restaurants, bars and public transport. Perfect for couples and families.
Budget: Komune Resort & Backpackers
Komune Resort is located south of Burleigh Heads in Coolangatta and it’s one of the cheapest and best backpackers on the Gold Coast! Located a stone’s throw from the beach, Komune Resort features a beach club, outdoor pool, table tennis, hammocks, pool bar and nightclub. There are dorm rooms and private apartments available, perfect for friends and solo travellers.
FOR ALL OTHER PLACES TO STAY, SEE MY COMPLETE GUIDE ON WHERE TO STAY IN THE GOLD COAST
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.
LONELY PLANET – AUSTRALIA
One of the best books to take on your trip is the Lonely Planet Australia Travel Guide!
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AIRBNB GOLD COAST
Another option for accommodation in Gold Coast is to stay at an Airbnb, which generally has some great deals!
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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
WHAT TO PACK FOR PURLINGBROOK FALLS
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 smartphone models.
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 the 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
Before you go, don’t forget to check out My Online Shop!
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 PURLINGBROOK FALLS
I hope you have enjoyed reading this article and if you have any questions at all about Purlingbrook Falls, please leave a comment below and I will reply as soon as I can!
Happy Adventuring!
Hi, if i would like go to Purlingbrook falls on Christmas day, will there be any issue to reach the falls, Natural Bridge or the National Park, will there be any gate at the entrance of the park? As on that day shops in town will close so we intend to do some outdoor activities.
Thanks for your advise.
Regards,
Harnny Ong
Author
Hello, I am quite certain that you will have no issues accessing the falls and other locations on Christmas Day. Hope this helps and enjoy 🙂