The Best Picnic Spots in Sydney

No matter what time of year, a picnic in Sydney is a special occasion thanks to the abundance of wide-open spaces and picture-perfect views our gorgeous city has to offer. Not to mention there are plenty of cafes and snack stops dotted throughout the city to load up on the yummy goods!

And let's not forget, a family picnic is a low-budget way to keep the kids entertained while you take a breather. We'll happily take it over chasing toddlers through a fancy restaurant any day!

The Best Picnic Spots in Sydney

1. Centennial Park

There is so much to see and do in Centennial Park, from lakeside picnic spits with resident ducks, swans and geese to a variety of playgrounds and bike tracks, plus walking trails, bike hire, horse riding, restaurants and kiosks.

It is a large circular park with a one-way loop road so you can drive around and scope out your ideal location before settling on a spot. There are plenty of shady spots to set up camp and lots of open spaces for family football or cricket. There are eight free electric barbecues across the park and some idyllic picnic spots.

Location: Grand Dr, Centennial Park

RELATED: Best Picnic Hampers in Sydney

2. The Australian Botanic Garden, Mt Annan

Mt Annan Botanic Gardens has so much space and lots of facilities, including a mountain bike track, walking and bike trails, the enchanting Gardens Playground, lakes, toilets, and covered shelters. Take some time out for a stroll to discover exotic native flora and wildlife. The café near the playground does great coffee! There are picturesque picnic spots with free barbecues that are easy to find and plenty of wide-open lawns for the kids to run wild. 

Location: 362 Narellan Road, Mount Annan

3. Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

There is nothing better than a picnic with the most spectacular harbour views and the sea breeze to keep you cool. For a touch of tranquillity in the middle of the city, meander through the Royal Botanic Gardens, explore the vibrant array of flowers and settle in for a picnic under the famous fig trees, then venture to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair and down to the Opera House or The Rocks.

Location: Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney

4. Balmoral Beach

If the kids are desperate for a splash before their picnic, you can't beat Balmoral Beach.

There are multiple areas along the Balmoral promenade to choose your perfect picnic spot. The Rotunda at Balmoral Reserve gives you picture-perfect views of Balmoral Beach and the Rotunda itself projects some serious English-countryside picnic vibes. 

If the kids want to swim and play, the playground towards the southern end of Balmoral Beach (outside the Boathouse) is another popular spot and provides plenty of grassy and sandy spots to relax and picnic. 

Location: Balmoral Beach

5. Sydney Park, St Peters

 

Sydney Park in St Peters was named one of the most innovative parks in the world back in 2020, but that's not the only reason we're adding it to our list of the best picnic spots in Sydney.

The sprawling, 40 hectares of gardens, rolling lawns, wetlands, and waterways make for a fantastic outdoor adventure for picnicking families. BBQ facilities are on offer along with native animals frolicking all about and plenty of wide-open spaces to throw out a blanket and while the afternoon away. 

Location: 416 Sydney Park Rd, Alexandria

6. Royal National Park

Get away from it all and explore the world’s second-oldest national park just south of Sydney. Royal National Park has beautiful vistas, lovely bushwalks, amazing ocean views and some family-friendly beaches.

Older kids will love exploring the coast track, waterfalls and paths at Wattamolla, while younger kids will work up an appetite wandering Lady Carrington Drive or Audley Weir. You can find picnic tables and barbecues throughout the park. If you are out in the bush facilities are limited, but peace is abundant. A permit is required to park in the park for the day.

Location: Sir Bertram Stevens Dr, Audley

7. Blues Point Reserve

Blues Point Reserve offers one of the most breathtaking views of the harbour bridge you'll find anywhere in the city. From here, you have an unobstructed vista directly facing the bridge, with nothing but the sparkling water between you and this iconic landmark.

The sight of the bridge from Blues Point Reserve is truly timeless, and it's the perfect spot for a picnic in Sydney!

Location: Blues Point Road, McMahons Point

8. Oatley Park

Oatley Park is a 112-acre reserve on the picturesque Georges River in the southern Sydney suburb of Oatley surrounded by natural bushland and waterways.

There is a fabulous inclusive adventure playground. There are plenty of trees to provide shady picnic spots, plus covered tables, barbecue facilities, and toilets! You can bike ride on quiet roads and find the ‘castle’ or head down to the bottom of the park to explore the sandy beach on the waterfront with netted swimming baths and lots of scenic parklands to wander.

Location: 2385+VQ, 1 Dame Mary Gilmore Rd, Oatley

9. Lizard Log

Part of the Western Sydney Parklands, Lizard Log is a wonderland of abundant natural features including a fantastic playground full of fun features and backed by miles of paths for walking and scootering. The surrounding mountains, lookouts and dams make a serene backdrop ideal for exploring. There are free BBQs, really well looked after facilities and loads of parking. There is a nearby coffee shop and regular visits from the resident ice cream van.

Location: The Horsley Dr &, Cowpasture Rd, Abbotsbury

10. Nielsen Park

Note: Shark Beach, next to Nielsen Park is temporarily closed and should re-open end of June 2024.

Another great picnic spot in Sydney for families who love being by the water, Nielsen Park delivers grass and water views for your weekend picnic. 

The impressive views across Port Jackson and Mosman, along with wide-open spaces, huge shady fig trees and access to snacks from the nearby cafe make Nielsen Park one of our favourite picnic spots in Sydney.

Please note that Nielsen Park gets very busy on the weekends and parking spots get snatched up quickly. Make sure you get there early to secure your spot! 

Location: 6 Steele Point Rd, Vaucluse 

11. Ballast Point Park 

Birchgrove’s Ballast Point Park is a gorgeous spot for a picnic in Sydney. With its stunning views of Sydney Harbour, you'll discover ample spots to spread out your picnic blanket and soak in the scenery.

Plus, you'll have access to amenities like BBQ facilities and a playground, making it perfect for a fun day outdoors. Spanning across 2.6 hectares, this harbourside park also boasts some memorable outdoor art installations to explore.

Location: Ballast Point Rd, Birchgrove 

12. Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden

Nestled beside Lavender Bay, Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden is a hidden gem bursting with native flora, blooms and trees, creating a picturesque setting for your next picnic adventure. With breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour, this charming garden oasis invites you to relax and unwind amidst nature's beauty, plus a fun-filled playground promises to keep the little ones entertained. 

Location: Lavender St, Lavender Bay

13. Barangaroo Reserve

Situated along the shores of Sydney Harbour, Barangaroo Reserve boasts panoramic views of iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Darling Harbour, providing a breathtaking backdrop for your outdoor adventures.

With its lush landscaping, the reserve offers a plethora of lookout points and plenty of grassy patches, ensuring you'll discover the ideal spot for a picnic.

Location: Hickson Rd, Barangaroo

14. Blackwattle Bay Park, Glebe

Situated between the serene waters of Blackwattle Bay and Rozelle Bay, Blackwattle Bay Park offers sweeping views of the ANZAC Bridge and Sydney Harbour, setting the stage for an unforgettable picnic.

With its spacious grounds, finding your ideal picnic spot is a breeze, so pack your basket and prepare for a day of fun! Don't forget to bring along your furry companions to romp and play in the designated off-leash dog area, or take a stroll along the scenic foreshore to soak in more of the beauty that Sydney has to offer. 

Location: Chapman Rd, Glebe 

15. Cremorne Reserve

Nestled on Sydney's lower north shore, Cremorne Reserve boasts breathtaking waterfront vistas and inviting picnic areas. This picturesque spot boasts a playground and convenient amenities, and you can soak in the stunning sights of iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the city skyline while you're there. With its serene ambience and panoramic views, Cremorne Reserve promises an unforgettable experience for all ages. 

Location: Milson Rd, Cremorne Point

16. Shelly Beach, Manly

Manly's Shelly Beach isn't just renowned for its fantastic diving and snorkelling – it's also an epic picnic destination in Sydney. Spread out your picnic blanket on the lush grassy area overlooking the beach and treat yourself to breathtaking views of Manly Beach. With its serene atmosphere and picturesque vistas, Shelly Beach promises a perfect day out for picnicking, swimming, and soaking up the sun. 

Location: Shelly Beach

17. Hyde Park

As Australia's oldest park, Hyde Park holds a special place in Sydney's heart – and it's the perfect spot for a picnic. Spread out your blanket on the lush green lawns of this expansive 16-hectare oasis, conveniently located just a stone's throw away from bustling Pitt Street, the QVB, and a host of other Sydney hotspots.

While you're here, take a stroll and uncover the park's hidden treasures, from statues and monuments like the ANZAC Memorial and Pool of Reflection to fountains and more. 

Location: Elizabeth St, Sydney

18. E.G. Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens, Caringbah

Perched above the picturesque Yowie Bay, the E.G. Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens in Caringbah are a true floral paradise, renowned globally for their stunning camellia displays. With lush lawns scattered throughout, it's no wonder this botanical haven is a go-to spot for picnickers seeking a serene escape!

Location: 333 Taren Point Rd, Caringbah 

19. Clontarf Reserve

Looking for the ultimate day out blending picnics and splashing in the water? Look no further than Clontarf Reserve, nestled right behind Clontarf Beach. With its stunning vistas of Middle Harbour and the iconic Spit Bridge, this picnic haven offers more than just scenic beauty—it's your gateway to a fantastic beach day.

Take a stroll along the shoreline to reach the beach's swimming area and dive into the refreshing waters for an unforgettable afternoon.

Location:  Sandy Bay Rd, Clontarf 

20. Fitzpatrick Park

Just a short drive from the CBD, Fitzpatrick Park in Picnic Point offers a great blend of serene river views and expansive green lawns, creating ample space for a memorable picnic in Sydney. 

Nestled within the picturesque Georges River National Park, this park is ideal for a leisurely afternoon of fishing, embarking on a kayaking escapade, or enjoying some quality time with the little ones.

Location: 3A Carinya Rd, Picnic Point

What Makes a Great Picnic Spot?

It sounds obvious, but a great picnic spot depends on your needs and it pays to know what they are! You can go traditional with a shelter and BBQs, or rough it in the bush, however, there are some things to keep in mind to really make a picnic a fantastic day out. We can’t go without:

• Covered picnic tables for shade
• Free BBQs are fantastic but allow lots of time for cooking
• Sufficient bins which are emptied frequently so rubbish isn’t littered everywhere
• Somewhere for the kids to ride, play or explore. A playground, river, or beach are great entertainment while adults relax. Alternatively, a large expanse of grass can turn into a cricket or football game without too much effort.
• Clean toilets that are close and always stocked with toilet paper.
• A nearby café for a hot drink or a cold ice cream. 

More Outdoor Fun in Sydney

Sydney's Best Free Water Play Parks
Best Pram-Friendly Walks In Sydney
The Best Adventure Playgrounds in Sydney

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