Gardners Falls is a popular spot near Maleny along the Obi Obi Creek. The easy 800m return walk leads to a swimming hole above and below the main falls.
Swinging ropes are positioned around the hole, and the rock ledges at the top of the falls provide additional launching points for the adventurous. Jumping into the waterhole is a popular activity, particularly with older children and young adults, with displays of hesitation amongst encouragement from others whether they are participating or not.
Above the falls is a shallower and calm swim spot for younger children and the less adventurous. A smaller set of falls flow in here, and a side chute of water runs under a shady tree.
Look carefully in the waters and you may notice some turtles swimming around. We didn’t spot any this trip as it was quite busy and they were probably trying to stay out of the way, but we have found them on previous visits.
The falls are beautiful and have always been flowing when we’ve been there. The main falls, the smaller falls just before it, and the walk in along Obi Obi Creek offer plenty of material for photographers, and nature lovers in general.
There are a few picnic tables in the bush near the falls, and some spots to lay out a picnic blanket. There are no toilets at the falls, but there are some at the parking area. There is also one picnic table near the parking area.
The parking area is not massive, and being such a popular place with sightseers and swimmers alike, getting a park can be difficult on weekends in the warmer months. It is common for cars to be parked along the roadway on the way in.
Draft plans 
made in March 2018 for a number of improvements by the Sunshine Coast Council. Parking, upgrading the walking track, and a walking trail to Maleny township are some of the items in the proposed actions. Plans for signage upgrades show further upgrades to happen in 2024/25, including road and traffic upgrades, a crossing to the Maleny Community Precinct Trail, and minor amenity upgrades.