Sheoak Falls is a place of tranquillity and beauty just off the Great Ocean Road. Here, the waters of Sheoak Creek cascade 15m down a sheer rock face into a pool surrounded by trees.
It's a short walk from the carpark to the falls (although there are plenty of steps), so if you fancy a longer stroll, continue up the trail to see Swallow Cave. It's quite a climb, but you'll also see some alternative views of the falls along the way. This trail also requires a river crossing, so it might be impassable in the winter. At Swallow Cave, look out for Tree Martins, which live in the grotto during spring, summer and autumn. These birds use mud from the creek to build their nests.
For a longer and more challenging hike, you could park your car at Sheoak Picnic Area and walk the 3.6km trail (one way) to Sheoak Falls. Sheoak Picnic Area has better facilities than Sheoak Falls Carpark, including toilets and picnic benches.
As waterfalls are within a natural environment, you may encounter hazards. Follow our water safety advice to make sure your day out at Sheoak Falls is a safe and enjoyable one.
Things to do
Sheoak Picnic Area
Erskine Falls
How to get there
Sheoak Falls
When you're there
Sheoak Falls is not to be confused with Sheoak Picnic Area, which is nearby and a popular trailhead for several waterfall walks. It is possible to walk to Sheoak Falls from Sheoak Picnic Area, but the trail is 3.6km one way and it is a challenging hike.
Need to know
Sheoak Falls
Accessibility
Sheoak Falls carpark has a good smooth surface and good circulation. The tracks nearby are not so accessible as they have steep sections and steps. There are no picnic facilities or toilets onsite. The nearest facilities are in Lorne.
Visiting a park can be more of a challenge for people with disabilities, however in Victoria there are a wide range of facilities to help people of all abilities enjoy our wonderful parks around the state.
Assistance dogs are welcome in Parks Victoria parks and reserves. Entry requirements apply for parks and reserves that are usually dog prohibited, such as national parks.
Change of Conditions
Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.
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Herberts (Wymbooliel) Campground (Great Otway National Park)
Herbert's Campground closed
Herbert’s Campground is closed until further notice due to hazardous trees. -
Beauchamp Falls Reserve
Beauchamp Falls Reserve Closure
Beauchamp Falls campground, road and waterfall are closed to visitors until further notice due to upgrade works. -
Notices Affecting Multiple Sites
Stay safe this summer around beaches
Beaches may have hazards such as steep cliffs, slippery rocks, strong ocean currents, large waves, rips, and sudden changes in weather conditions. Stay safe on your day at the beach by only swimming where there are lifeguards and by staying in between the red and yellow flags. Always heed warning signs and advice even if you are not planning to go in the water and be aware of changing weather conditions. Always wear a lifejacket whenever boating, rock fishing, or using a watercraft.Stay safe this summer around waterfalls
It is not safe to swim under or near waterfalls. The pool at the base of a waterfall can be deep and very cold with the risk of hypothermia, and the force of the falling water can cause difficulties for even strong swimmers. Rocks around waterfalls are often wet and slippery so it is easy to slip and fall in the water or down a cliff, leading to serious injuries. Always heed warning signs and advice even if you are not planning to go in the water and be aware of changing weather conditions. Stay behind safety barriers around waterfalls –they are there to keep you safe.
Similar experiences
MacKenzie Falls
Erskine Falls
Ladies Bath and Eurobin Falls
