If you’ve been researching the Great Ocean Walk, you may have heard whispers about Rainbow Falls — a hidden waterfall off the main trail that only a few walkers get to see. And if you’re wondering whether it’s worth the detour, let us share a bit of insight from the team here at Walk91.
As locals living and working in Apollo Bay, helping thousands of walkers experience this iconic 100km coastal trail over the past 20 years, we’ve visited Rainbow Falls more times than we can count — in sunshine, drizzle and perfect stillness. And we can say with confidence: it’s absolutely worth the detour…but only if the conditions are right.
So, continue reading to learn more about this fantastic route and be sure to browse our full selection of Great Ocean Walk Tours.
Our Story: A Windy Day, a Hidden Waterfall, and a Soaking!
On one memorable day years ago, we took our kids and a few of their mates out for an early winter wander to Rainbow Falls. The weather had been patchy all week — the kind of moody Otway drizzle that locals secretly love — and we knew the falls would be flowing.
We’d checked the tide (low, but rising), so we knew we didn’t have long to linger. As we reached the cliff’s edge near Station Beach, the clouds finally parted and sunlight spilled across the slick, sea-sprayed rocks. The kids were the first to reach the falls and in seconds they were underneath the falls, squealing with delight as freezing water streamed down.
What started as a bit of teenage grumbling about “another long walk” quickly turned into a fun water adventure. We ended up having to call them out as the tide began to shift — soaked to the skin but laughing the whole way back.
What Makes Rainbow Falls So Special?
Rainbow Falls is one of the only coastal waterfalls on the Great Ocean Walk — a rare sight where freshwater springs cascade directly down the dark cliff face onto rocky shore platforms.
Unlike Hopetoun Falls or Triplet Falls, which are in the Otways but not on the Great Ocean Walk trail itself, Rainbow Falls flows right where the rainforest meets the wild Southern Ocean. You’ll notice tiny rivulets of crystal-clear water trickling down a wall of slippery rock, catching the sunlight and sometimes throwing a full spectrum rainbow across the cliff — hence the name.
It feels like discovering an indoor waterfall in an outdoor cave — especially when the water’s running strong.
Located on the first half of the Great Ocean Walk, such as on our 3-Day Hike the Cape Walk, there is a tendency for hikers to just skip this 1-hour detour, as there are still several more kilometres to cover on the day’s walk. However, in the right conditions, this is a very pretty spot to stop for a while, rest and enjoy the view.
Where Does the Water Come From?
The source of Rainbow Falls is a natural freshwater spring located above the cliffs. For years, water from the spring was pumped to nearby farmland using a windmill — one you can still see standing proudly (if rustily!) above the track near Station Beach.
That windmill has a bit of history. Years ago, part of it was torn off in a wild coastal storm. These days it runs on a generator and now only supplies water to three local properties. But it still quietly does its job — a reminder of how the land has been shaped by both people and the elements over time.
Is It Safe to Visit Rainbow Falls? Read This First.
The most important consideration when visiting Rainbow Falls is safety.
🌀 Check the tide and swell conditions:
- Only visit at low tide, when you can see the tide is low on the beach and the rocks are exposed and safe to cross.
- Don’t rely on the tide chart alone — if the sea swell looks rough or unsafe, skip the detour. It’s not worth the risk.
- Make sure you take the Great Ocean Walk Map with you.
🥾 Wear proper footwear:
- The rocks can be very slippery, especially where the freshwater runs across them.
- Sturdy walking shoes or boots with strong grip are essential.
⏱ Allow time:
- The detour from the main Great Ocean Walk track takes about 30–45 minutes each way, not including viewing time.
- You’ll see the Parks Victoria signpost to Rainbow Falls and Station Beach — use this as your turning point.
At Walk91, if you’re on one of our self-guided ‘inn-to-inn’ tours, we’ll discuss the current conditions at your walk briefing and help you decide if it’s a good day to go. That’s part of what makes our locally run service different — we know these trails like the back of our hand.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Rainbow Falls?
Rainbow Falls is at its most impressive after steady rainfall, ideally on a sunny day when the light hits the mist and creates those famous rainbows.
Best seasons:
- Autumn, winter and early spring (March–November) usually bring the rainfall needed for the waterfall to flow well.
- In summer, rainfall is less common, so the falls may slow to a trickle — though even then, it’s a beautiful spot.
💡 Walk91 Tip: We’ll help you plan your walking days around the weather and tide conditions when you book with us.
Are There Any Facilities at Rainbow Falls?
No— and that’s part of the charm. 🌿
Facilities:
- 🚻 Toilets: None
- 🏕 Camping: Not permitted
- 🐶 Dogs: Not allowed (you’re inside Great Otway National Park)
- 🏊 Swimming: Not recommended (Station Beach is unpatrolled and often rough)
There are no bins either, so please take your rubbish with you. On a recent visit, we spotted bits of plastic washed up on the beach — likely carried in by wind and tide. If you feel inclined to pick up a couple of pieces and carry them out, it helps more than you know.
Should You Visit Rainbow Falls?
If you’re prepared, walking safely, and have the time — absolutely. It’s a place of quiet magic, shaped by time, water, and wild weather. Just be respectful of the elements, don’t take risks with the tide, and enjoy it for what it is: a rare slice of unspoiled coastline on one of the world’s greatest long-distance walks.
Planning Your Visit with Walk91
Walk91 has been supporting walkers on the Great Ocean Walk for over 20 years. One of our founders, Mark, even helped build the track with Parks Victoria. We’re proud to be the only truly local tour company based in Apollo Bay, right at the trailhead.
Whether you’re walking solo, with friends, or as a couple, we help with:
- Tide and weather planning
- Accommodation and luggage transfers
- Flexible itineraries based on your ability and interests
- Ongoing local support while you’re out on the track
👉 Browse our Great Ocean Walk tours
📞 Or contact us anytime — we’re happy to chat!
How do I get to Rainbow Falls?
Once you leave the Cape Otway Lighthouse, turn left at the ticket office heading towards the Cape Otway Campsite and follow the well-marked track to Station Beach. Follow the boardwalks through the coastal scrub.
At the Parks Victoria signage at Station Beach, make your way onto the sand and turn left for Rainbow Falls. The detour is approximately 1.6 km from the beach along the soft sand, so it can be quite a tiring walk. However, you will be accompanied by the sound of the wild crashing waves along this isolated stretch of beach, which is quite magical. You will enjoy magnificent views of the Great Southern Ocean and if you are walking from June to September, remember to look out for Southern Right Whales!
Need More Info?
For up-to-date trail conditions, weather warnings or official safety advice, please refer to the Parks Victoria website.
The Great Ocean Walk & Walk91
We hope this information has answered a few of your questions and made you even more excited to explore this wonderful part of the Great Ocean Walk. And remember, there are so many other great sights to see on this world-famous walk.
So, if you have any questions about planning your walk or want to enquire about our 6-Day Great Ocean Walk Tour or any other walks we offer, please feel free to contact us.
