Must-See Kununurra Waterfalls And Rock Pools
For a town that translates to ‘Meeting of Big Waters’ in the local Aboriginal language, it’s no surprise that Kununurra is brimming with a collection of incredible waterfalls and rock pools. These stunning bodies of water not only provide you an epic view, but also a heaven-like place to cool down.
With your Thrifty rental car, Kununurra’s bodies of water are yours for the choosing! While there’s plenty to explore, we’ve compiled the best waterfalls and rock pools for you to discover as you traverse this slice of paradise in the Kimberley’s east. Let’s make a splash!
Prepare to Drop Your Jaw at The Grotto
Forty-five minutes’ drive west of Kununurra, you’ll happen upon The Grotto. Park your rental car in the car park and head down toward the enormous gorge, which can be reached by 140 steps down to the waterhole. Before you embark on your journey down into this slice of heaven, make sure to take in the view from above of the thrilling waterfall as it cascades into the pool below. When you reach the bottom, you’ll be welcomed by a natural swimming pool and even a tarzan rope to swing off and soar through the air and into the water. Keep an eye out for the scaly friends that visit the area—Goannas love to sunbake on the rock ledges here. With the golden sun beaming down on you and a refreshing pool to cool off next to you, you might even want to join them.
Embrace the Serenity at Molly Springs
While small in size, Molly Springs is a rock pool with a big heart. Venture out to this quaint spring-fed pool, only a twenty minute drive west of Kununurra, and get ready to take things slow. The perfect place to sit back and relax with a book in the sun, or just watch the light filter through the trees above and graze the turquoise of the pristine pool below, Molly Springs is filled with a variety of native local flora and fauna to observe. This little pool is a popular spot for locals for a good reason. You’ll be able to escape the hustle and bustle of the crowds and spend some time with just the sunshine and the fish swimming by your feet in the glistening water.
Adventure to Middle Springs and Black Rock Falls
It’s adventure time for this rock pool and waterfall combo! Middle Springs and Black Rock Falls are located just a short distance from each other, so they’re best enjoyed in combination. Head out half an hour north of the Kununurra township and you’ll find both pools along Parry Creek Road. Middle Springs delivers picturesque views over the valley and a grassy edge to the pool to relax in between swims. While the journey to Middle Springs is well worth it, just note that to reach the area, you’ll need a four wheel drive. If a two wheel drive is your vehicle of your choice, fear not! Black Rock Falls is still reachable, and rewards those who venture out to it with tall black cliffs that tumble down into the pool below. The waterfall at Black Rock Falls can dry up quickly, but you’ll never be without the shining pool below. Remember to bring your camera for this spot—it’s definitely a picture worth a thousand admirable words.
Relax Close to Town at Lake Kununurra Falls
For a region as expansive as the Kimberley, it’s not often that you’ll happen upon the place you want to explore right next to where you already are. Lake Kununurra combines convenience with beauty, situated just next to the Kununurra township. This man-made lake is a must-visit when you’re in town, providing not only the perfect spot for swimming, but also a variety of other water activities like fishing, boating and canoeing. If you’re wanting to explore the falls around Lake Kununurra, it’s best to embark on your adventure during the wet season. Head up Lake Kununurra on a boat and you’ll discover a plethora of waterfalls just waiting for you to gasp in awe. Once you pick your jaw up off the floor, jump in the lake and swim alongside these majestic natural water fountains as the river streams guide you the way. Lake Kununurra is also an ideal spot for a picnic by the lake’s shores, or a walk around the outskirts as the golden light grazes the red cliffs at sunset. If you really want to see this pocket of the Kimberley at its best, brave an early wake up and head out at sunrise for an experience you’ll never forget.
Thrilling bodies of water abound in the Kimberley town of Kununurra. In your Thrifty rental car, it’s never been a better time to discover these waterfalls and rock pools.
