We’ve rounded up the best picnic spots in Sydney for a perfect day out in the great outdoors.
Craving a relaxing day in the great outdoors? We’ve rounded up the best picnic spots in Sydney, from beachside getaways to unbeatable harbour vistas. Gather your friends and family, pack a picnic basket, and enjoy a perfect day out at these top picnic locations.
McKell Park, Darling Point
Nestled at the end of Darling Point Road, McKell Park is a picturesque picnic spot on the shores of Sydney Harbour. Spread out your picnic blanket on the tiered grass levels and take in the glistening harbour, city skyline, and iconic Harbour Bridge. Head down towards the water for a prime position to watch the sun set over the sandstone wall, where you’ll often see people fishing or relaxing with a good book. The perfectly manicured gardens also make it a popular spot for wedding ceremonies in the warmer months. Just remember, the gates close at sundown, so make sure you don’t get too relaxed and overstay your welcome!
Centennial Park, Centennial Parklands
Centennial Parklands is undoubtedly one of the most popular picnic spots in Sydney, and it’s easy to see why. The expansive grasslands provide ample space to spread out and enjoy the sunshine with friends, without fighting for picnic rug space. Another major draw? The eight free gas-powered barbecues available for public use, are perfect for cooking up a storm of mouthwatering sangas and sizzling steaks. Plus, your four-legged friends are welcome to join in the fun – it’s a win-win!
Blackburn Gardens, Double Bay
Just a short stroll from Double Bay, Blackburn Gardens is a beautifully restored heritage garden that offers a tranquil picnic spot. Peek over the lush greenery and you’ll be treated to spectacular views of Sydney Harbour. The garden adjoins Murray Rose Pool (formerly Redleaf Pool) and Seven Shillings Beach, making it the perfect spot to cool off with a dip in the ocean between snacks. With manicured lawns, an idyllic secret garden oasis, sundial, and water features, it’s a picturesque setting for a memorable picnic
Royal Botanic Gardens
No list of the best picnic spots in Sydney would be complete without mentioning the iconic Royal Botanic Gardens! This tranquil oasis offers a variety of picturesque locations for picnics and garden parties, including the intimate Harbour View Lawn with its large shady fig tree and stunning harbour views, and the Herb Garden and Pavilion, which provides rain coverage for up to 20 people. With plenty of space to spread out, you’re free to pop up anywhere you please for groups under 20. For larger picnic parties, you can reserve an area in advance. The gardens open at 7am each day and close at different times throughout the year, ranging from 5pm in June and July to 7.30pm in October.
The Office (Manly Harbour)
Manly’s beloved East Esplanade Park, affectionately known to locals as “The Office,” is the ultimate summer picnic spot. Stretching right around Manly Cove, this grassy expanse offers the perfect place to set up your picnic with the ocean literally at your feet. Arrive early to secure a spot near one of the communal BBQs and get some snags sizzling. You can even bring along some frosty cold beverages, with alcohol consumption legal until 8pm. If you’re keen to keep the party going after the sun goes down, Manly Wharf Hotel, 4 Pines, and Manly Skiff Club are all just a short walk away.
Cockatoo Island
For a picnic with a side of history, hop on the ferry and spend the day exploring the picturesque attractions of Cockatoo Island. After working up an appetite on a self-guided tour, set up your picnic on the grass and soak in the money-can’t-buy views of Sydney Harbour. With several picnic areas to choose from, some equipped with coin-operated BBQs, download the Cockatoo Island map to find the spot that most takes your fancy. Just keep in mind that Cockatoo Island has a strict no-BYO alcohol policy, but don’t let that dampen your spirits!
Wendy Whitley’s Secret Garden
Step into a world of enchantment at Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden, a public garden nestled in the heart of Lavender Bay. Bring along a picnic basket filled with your favourite treats and set yourself up beneath the garden’s lush canopy. Free and open to the public seven days a week, this hidden gem is undoubtedly one of the most romantic picnic spots in Sydney.
Barangaroo Reserve
For front-row views of the magnificent Sydney Harbour, gather your picnic essentials and head to Barangaroo Reserve. BYO blanket, picnic, and drinks (alcohol is allowed in the Reserve), or pick up a delightful range of picnic options from the food outlets at Barangaroo’s food and retail precinct. Bel and Brio offer an array of gourmet picnic products, conveniently located just a short stroll away.
Cremorne Point Reserve
The Lower North Shore boasts some of the best picnic spots in Sydney, and Cremorne Point Reserve certainly lives up to the hype. The grassy knolls dotted along the 3km Cremorne Point Walk provide the perfect setting for sun-soaked afternoons. With impressive real estate to admire on one side and breathtaking views of Sydney on the other, what’s not to love? Make a day of it by hopping on the ferry to Cremorne Point, picnic basket in hand.
Balmoral Beach
Another North Shore gem ideal for picnicking is the picturesque Balmoral Beach. With ample grass space, sprawling shady trees, and public BBQs, stake out your spot and soak in the glistening harbour views. The calm waters and laid-back neighbourhood vibe of Balmoral will keep you feeling relaxed well into the afternoon.
Sydney Park, Alexandria
Sydney Park in Alexandria is an expansive recreational area that truly has something for everyone, from off-leash areas for your furry friends to rolling hills and playgrounds. Our favourite way to enjoy this inner-west gem? Sprawled out on a picnic blanket with plenty of snacks and good company, of course!
Observatory Hill Park, Millers Point
Let your pup run free while you take in the 360-degree harbour views from one of Sydney’s best dog-friendly picnic spots. This inner-city gem is off-leash, easily accessible by public transport, and perfect for watching the sunset – date night sorted!
Bradfield Park, Milsons Point
Bradfield Park in Milsons Point is arguably one of Sydney’s most iconic picnic spots. Situated under the Sydney Harbour Bridge and just a stone’s throw from Luna Park, this is the place to bring your out-of-town friends for the ultimate Sydney experience. We recommend taking the train to Milsons Point, stocking up on wine from Le Pont Wine Store and pastries from Loulou, then meandering through Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden, past Luna Park, and on to your idyllic picnic destination.
Venture Beyond the City for These Picturesque Picnic Areas
Bateu Bay Beach (Central Coast)
For a picturesque picnic spot just north of Sydney, head to Bateau Bay Beach on the Central Coast. This sheltered and quiet area is perfect for a post-lunch dip or exploring the rock pools, so remember to pack your towel!
Ku-ring-gai National Park (various spots)
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park offers a smorgasbord of picturesque picnic areas, including Akuna Bay, Apple Tree Picnic Area, and Bobbin Head. Boat enthusiasts can dock at Akuna Bay before indulging in a leisurely picnic, with the added convenience of on-site BBQs. Apple Tree Picnic Area provides an easily accessible spot to re-energize before exploring the park’s many tracks, with drinks, food, shaded picnic tables, and barbecues available at the café. Located in the west of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Bobbin Head also boasts plenty of lush green space with built-in barbecues, picnic tables, and shelters.
Narrawallee Creek Nature Reserve
Spend a day at Conjola Beach picnic area in Narrawallee Creek Nature Reserve on the South Coast. Explore a range of remote beaches and make the most of the warmer weather with a spot of bushwalking.
Georges River National Park
With over 350 parks to choose from, Bankstown offers gorgeous pockets of native bushland perfect for a picnic pit stop. One such area is Burrawang Reach Picnic Area, set on the sandy shores of the Georges River. There’s ample room for a family catch-up, with barbecues available or the option to bring along a spread to share on the wide stretch of grass. The area also boasts a number of sporting reserves where you can enjoy activities like water-skiing on the Georges River or simply stroll along the river foreshore.
Wattamolla Picnic Area (Royal National Park)
For a beachside picnic that’s hard to beat, head to the extremely picturesque Wattamolla picnic area in the Royal National Park. Bring along your swimmers to make the most of the lagoon, where you can also snorkel. With plenty of spots to set up under the cabbage tree palms, it’s a picture-perfect setting for a memorable day out.
Cattai National Park
Perfect for a family picnic or a weekend getaway, Cattai Campground on the Hawkesbury River offers plenty of space for kids and four-legged friends to run around. Those seeking a little more adventure can also enjoy canoeing, fishing, bike riding, and birdwatching.
Garie Beach (Royal National Park)
Just an hour or so from Sydney, you’ll quickly fall in love with Garie Beach in the southern end of Royal National Park. Pack a picnic, gather the clan, and arrive early to secure a prime spot at this picturesque location.
Bonnie Vale Picnic Area (Royal National Park)
Embark on an adventure in the Royal National Park and enjoy your picnic in the tranquil Bonnie Vale picnic area. A great day of water-based fun for family and friends, you can swim in the calm waters of Cabbage Tree Basin and hire a canoe on weekends to paddle the waters of Port Hacking.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the most romantic picnic spots in Sydney?
For a dreamy picnic with your special someone, head to Observatory Hill in Millers Point, Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden in Lavender Bay, or Bradfield Park in Milsons Point.
Which picnic spots in Sydney allow alcohol?
If you’re looking to enjoy a few drinks with your picnic, Cremorne Point Reserve, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Manly’s “The Office,” and Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden all allow you to BYO alcohol.
Where are the best dog-friendly picnic spots in Sydney?
To spend a perfect day picnicking with your furry friends, check out Observatory Hill in Millers Point, Sydney Park in Alexandria, and Centennial Parklands, among many other dog-friendly options.
This guide is up to date as of December 2024.
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