Cedar Creek Falls day trip: Swim & lunch included

The waterfall is rain-reliant, so the pools run clear only in certain seasons.

An all-inclusive day tour from Airlie Beach that combines swimming in Cedar Creek Falls' natural rockpools with lunch and drinks at Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill on the waterfront. The tour includes transport, a guide, morning snack, lunch prepared by the local chef, and one beer, wine or soft drink per person. Children are welcome from age 4, and the small group keeps the pace relaxed. The waterfalls depend on seasonal rainfall, so water flow varies by time of year.

Step-by-step itinerary

Explore waterfalls and beach dining

• Travel 30 minutes to Cedar Creek Falls
• Swim in natural rockpools
• Enjoy guided nature walk
• Travel 30 minutes to Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill
• Have lunch and drinks at beach bar

The Experience

Cedar Creek Falls sits about 30 minutes by bus from Airlie Beach, surrounded by white cedar trees, Alexandra Palms, wild orchids and native birds. You swim in the clear natural pools at the base of the falls, moving at your own pace while the guide points out the tropical flora and fauna around you. The rockpools themselves are the main event—the water is refreshing and the setting feels removed from the coast, even though you're still close to town.

After the falls, the tour heads to Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill, a beachfront restaurant and bar just outside Airlie Beach. Lunch is prepared fresh by the on-site chef, and you get one alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink included with the meal. The bar overlooks the water, so you can sit with a view while you eat. There's also a private beach area for children to explore if they're part of your group.

The company holds Australia's highest ECO certification as a Climate Action Leader and won the 2024 Best Adventure Tourism Business award in the Whitsundays. Transport is by air-conditioned vehicle, and the guide is fun and informative throughout the day. Wear enclosed shoes—no thongs—and bring sunscreen and a towel if you have them; these aren't provided. The whole experience runs about 5 hours from start to finish.

What’s included

• Air-conditioned transport from Airlie Beach.
• fun and informative guide.
• morning snack.
• lunch prepared by the local chef.
• one beer, wine or soft drink per person.
• all fees and taxes.

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearby

Operated by Red Cat Adventures

Is this one for you?You end the day fed, hydrated and having swum in a natural waterfall pool—the all-inclusive format means you don't stop to arrange food, drinks or logistics once the tour starts, so the whole 5 hours stays focused on the falls and the beach.

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Top questions

How far is Cedar Creek Falls from Airlie Beach?

Cedar Creek Falls is approximately 30 minutes by bus from Airlie Beach, so most of the day is spent at the falls and the beach bar rather than traveling.

Can I bring my children on this tour?

Yes, children are welcome from age 4 and up. The tour includes a private beach area at Northerlies for kids to explore after lunch.

What happens if there's no water at the waterfall?

The waterfalls are rain-reliant and depend on seasonal rainfall. Depending on the time of year, the pools may not be running on your tour date, so water flow varies throughout the year.

What's included in the price?

The tour includes air-conditioned transport, a fun and informative guide, morning snack, lunch prepared by the chef, one beer, wine or soft drink per person, and all fees and taxes. You'll need to bring your own sunscreen, towel, hat and camera.

What should I wear or bring?

Wear enclosed shoes—no thongs or sandals. Bring sunscreen, a towel, a hat and a camera if you want photos. The tour provides the meal and one drink, but you'll want sun protection for the time at the falls.