Discover Sydney’s Perfect Picnic Spots
If you plan on exploring the great outdoors, here’s a guide to some of the most picturesque picnic destinations in Sydney, with each location offering its charm and unique features. Don’t forget to pack some of our new Scarborough wines in a can to make your next outdoor adventure even more enjoyable.
Sydney CBD Picnic Spots
Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden, Lavender Bay
Hidden away in Lavender Bay, Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden is a tranquil retreat created by artist Wendy Whiteley. The garden is a whimsical escape, full of winding paths, hidden corners, and an eclectic mix of native and exotic plants. Whether you’re looking to relax with a book or enjoy a romantic picnic, the garden’s nooks provide privacy and serenity, along with captivating views of Sydney Harbour. It’s so close to the Harbour, but you could be anywhere. One of our favourites.
Why it’s special: A hidden gem - peaceful, secretive atmosphere and stunning views of Sydney Harbour.
Facilities: Picnic benches, serene walking paths.
Address: Lavender Street, Lavender Bay
Learn more - https://www.wendyssecretgarden.org.au
Barangaroo Reserve
Barangaroo Reserve is one of Sydney’s most striking modern parklands, where nature meets contemporary design. It took a while to build, but the Reserve features spacious lawns perfect for large picnics, offering sweeping views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and city skyline. Stroll through the park’s paths lined with 75,000 native plants or enjoy a leisurely afternoon on the banks of the harbour. Alcohol is allowed in the reserve, so grab your Scarborough can and grab some takeaway from one of the local restaurants. You can even take a swim at the new Marinawi Cove
Why it’s special: Iconic harbour views combined with modern, spacious green spaces. It’s also easy to get to from the Ferry and the new Barangaroo Metro Station.
Facilities: Large picnic-friendly lawns, public restrooms, and nearby cafes and restaurants for post-picnic snacks.
Address: Hickson Road, Barangaroo
Learn more - https://www.barangaroo.com/precincts/barangaroo-reserve
Be sure to take note of some of the picnic spots in Sydney where alcohol restrictions are in place - https://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/public-health-safety-programs/outdoor-alcohol-restrictions
South Sydney Picnic Spots
EH Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens, Caringbah
For a tranquil, floral escape, head to the Camellia Gardens in Caringbah. These picturesque gardens are perfect for a peaceful picnic, surrounded by blooming camellias and other vibrant flora. There’s a charming teahouse inside the gardens if you want to indulge in a proper afternoon tea, or simply find a quiet corner to spread out and relax under the trees. Note, you can’t BYO alcohol into the Camelia Gardens.
Why it’s special: The abundant floral displays and calm atmosphere make it a serene spot.
Facilities: Picnic tables, playground for children, and a quaint teahouse.
Address: 104R President Avenue, Caringbah South on the corner of President Avenue and Kareena Road.
Learn More - https://www.sutherlandshire.nsw.gov.au/play-and-explore/the-outdoors/gardens/camellia-gardens
Royal Botanic Gardens & Mrs Macquarie’s Chair
The Royal Botanic Gardens is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys lush, meticulously maintained gardens. With countless plant species, scenic walking trails, and views across Sydney Harbour, it’s the ideal spot for casual picnics and grand gatherings. Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, a carved sandstone bench on the eastern side of the gardens, offers one of the city’s most iconic views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. It's definitely Instagram-worthy! Hard to go past this picturesque view.
Why it’s special: Historic, scenic, and iconic, with breathtaking harbour views.
Facilities: Picnic areas, access to walking paths, nearby cafes, and ample open space.
Address: Mrs Macquarie’s Rd Sydney
Learn more - https://www.botanicgardens.org.au
Audley, Royal National Park
Set within the stunning Royal National Park, Audley offers the perfect mix of nature and convenience. Surrounded by lush forests and the tranquil Hacking River, this beautiful location provides plenty of spaces for picnics, kayaking, or even bushwalking. After a relaxing lunch, why not rent a boat and explore the peaceful waterways, or hike to fully appreciate the park’s beauty? We love to hire a kayak and spend a few relaxed hours paddling up Kangaroo Creek from Audley Boatshed https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/canoeing-paddling-experiences/audley-boatshed. Alternatively, pop into the Visitor Centre https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/visitor-centres/royal-national-park-visitor-centre/visitor-info discover some alternative locations for your picnics.
Why it’s special: Its riverside setting within a national park offers endless recreational activities.
Facilities: BBQ areas, picnic tables, boat hire, and close access to walking tracks.
Address: Royal National Park
Learn more - https://www.visitsutherlandshire.com.au/our-neighbourhoods/audley/
Gunnamatta Park, Cronulla
Just a short walk from Cronulla’s train station, Gunnamatta Park is a charming coastal escape. This expansive park is perfect for picnics, offering grassy spots and scenic views of Gunnamatta Bay. A trip here is incomplete without hopping on the ferry to nearby Bundeena http://bundeenainfo.com, where the ferry ride offers a unique scenic experience.
Why it’s special: Coastal charm, easy access to public transport, and ferry trips to nearby Bundeena.
Facilities: Picnic areas, BBQ spots, and public restrooms.
Address: 39/41R Nicholson Parade, Cronulla NSW
Eastern Suburbs Picnic Spots
Rushcutters Bay Park
A stunning location along the foreshore of Sydney Harbour. There is a small kiosk on location, but a wonderful spot to sit back and enjoy the vista, crowd-watching as the yachts pull into the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia.
Why it’s special: A great place to gather on New Years Eve to watch the fireworks. A beautiful scenic walk with some off-leash areas for your four-legged friends. Brisk stroll from Edgecliff station
Facilities: Grassy picnic areas, Exercise station
Address: 2A New South Head Road, Edgecliff
Learn more - https://www.woollahra.nsw.gov.au/Recreation/list-of-parks-reserves-and-playgrounds/Rushcutters-bay-park
Centennial Parklands
Centennial Parklands is a vast green space, one of Sydney’s largest and most popular picnic spots. From horse riding to bike trails, this park offers something for everyone. Its large open lawns and peaceful ponds make it an ideal place to spend an entire day outdoors. Pack a picnic, gather your friends, and enjoy the many activities available.
Why it’s special: Expansive parklands with plenty of activities for families, couples, and groups.
Facilities: Picnic tables, BBQ areas, playgrounds, and bike paths.
Address: Grand Drive, Centennial Parklands Sydney NSW 2021
Learn more - https://www.centennialparklands.com.au
Parsley Bay Reserve, Vaucluse
For a quiet, scenic escape, Parsley Bay Reserve offers a peaceful spot to enjoy a day out. This bayside location is a hidden gem in Vaucluse, perfect for a laid-back picnic away from the crowds. The calm waters are ideal for a swim, and the reserve’s grassy areas are perfect for spreading out with a blanket. We love a stroll in the surrounding bush tracks – you’ll forget you’re this close to Sydney.
With some construction happening on the nearby roads, pedestrian access to Parsley Bay Reserve and the swimming area is via Fitzwilliam Road and The Crescent.
Why it’s special: A serene, less crowded spot with calm waters for swimming.
Facilities: Grassy picnic areas, playground, and BBQ spots.
Address: Horler Avenue, Vaucluse 2030
Learn more - https://www.woollahra.nsw.gov.au/Recreation/list-of-parks-reserves-and-playgrounds/Parsley-Bay-Reserve
Western Sydney and Inner West Picnic Spots
Auburn Botanic Gardens
For a more exotic picnic experience, Auburn Botanic Gardens is the perfect destination. Famous for its cherry blossoms in spring, the gardens offer a Japanese-inspired landscape with picturesque ponds, bridges, and vibrant plant life year-round. It’s a wonderful place to escape the city's hustle and enjoy a picnic surrounded by beautiful scenery.
Why it’s special: It’s a unique Japanese-style garden with seasonal cherry blossoms.
Facilities: BBQ areas, picnic tables, and scenic walking paths.
Address: 99 Chiswick Road, Auburn
Learn More - https://www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/auburn-botanic-gardens
Lake Parramatta
Lake Parramatta is one of Western Sydney’s best-kept secrets, offering scenic picnic areas with the added bonus of water activities. Take a kayak or paddleboard out on the lake after lunch or go for a refreshing swim. With ample shade and beautiful lake views, this spot is ideal for a leisurely family outing.
Why it’s special: Lakeside picnics with water activities like swimming and kayaking.
Facilities: Picnic tables, BBQ areas, and watercraft hire.
Address: 28 Bourke Street North Parramatta
Learn More - https://www.sydney.com/destinations/sydney/sydney-west/parramatta/attractions/lake-parramatta-reserve-and-recreation-area
Bicentennial Park Glebe
A popular spot to stroll in the Inner West. Situated on Rozelle Bay, it’s family-friendly and a great spot to be able to bring your pooches. Many picnic lovers will venture from the nearby Sydney Fish Markets https://www.sydneyfishmarket.com.au, or come via the Tramsheds https://tramshedssydney.com.au to make their way around to Bicentennial Park for a picnic.
Why it’s special: A stunning outlook, looking over The ANZAC Bridge
Facilities: Play equipment, Dog on and off leash areas, small beach with access to Rozelle Bay
Learn More- https://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/parks/bicentennial-park
H2: Northern Sydney Picnic Spots
Clifton Gardens, Mosman
Clifton Gardens is a stunning, family-friendly park on the north shore, offering grassy picnic spots and easy access to the beach. The location provides stunning views across Sydney Harbour, making it an ideal picnic spot for those looking to combine outdoor dining with a swim or a stroll along the shore.
Why it’s special: Harbour views combined with a beachside atmosphere.
Facilities: BBQ areas, playground, and beach access.
Address: Morella Road, Mosman
Learn more - https://www.northshoremums.com.au/by-the-sea-a-day-at-clifton-gardens/
Ready for Your Next Picnic?
No matter where you are in Sydney, there’s a beautiful picnic spot waiting for just for you. Pack your picnic, gather some friends and don’t forget some of our new Scarborough Wine in a can to /Our-Wines/WineInACan make your next outdoor adventure even easier.
Know somewhere perfect for a picnic that we should consider adding to our guide? Be sure to reach out and let us know so we can include it.