The 13 Best Picnic Spots in Sydney

Sydney is a beautiful city with plenty of great spots for a picnic. From picturesque parks and gardens to stunning waterfront locations, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy a leisurely lunch outdoors in Sydney. A hamper filled for two and stunning harbour views—what could be more romantic? Where else could you host a group of pals for a lengthy lunch with a million dollar view? Or maybe a spontaneous outside supper date? To get all of this and more, grab a GoGet and visit one of Sydney’s top picnic areas today. 

Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney are the oldest botanical gardens in Australia and a picnicking hotspot that cannot be missed! It’s no surprise it’s one of Sydney’s top locations for picnics. A stunning green space in the middle of the city, it is ideal for a tranquil picnic, and the gardens are home to a diverse range of plants, flowers, and trees. Picnics can be had on the lawns, under shady trees, or next to the serene ponds and lakes of the gardens. Consider Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair if you want a picnic with a view. Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair is historic sandstone bench with breathtaking views of the Harbour and the city skyline.

Bradfield Park

Bradfield Park in Kirribilli, which is directly beneath the Sydney Harbour Bridge, is a bit of a hidden gem. It has fantastic views of Circular Quay and the enormous cruise ships that frequently pass by, and is close to Luna Park and the Olympic Pool. You can enjoy a coffee boost just around the corner with a range of local cafes (Cool Mac and BTB are our faves). Book your GoGet and head down to Bradfield Park, with nearby metered street parking available.

Dudley Page Reserve

A bit of a hidden gem, this Dover Heights Park in the Eastern Suburbs is one of the very best places in Sydney to enjoy the sunset. It offers sweeping views of the Sydney skyline and harbour, showcasing the bridge and opera house in all their stunning glory.

Balls Head Reserve

Balls Head Reserve in the Lower North Shore is a true woodland paradise with incredible views of Sydney Harbour, albeit it may not be as well-known as other picnic areas in Sydney. With numerous tables and BBQs, a drinking fountain, and restrooms, the picnic sites on this peninsula are well-maintained. On the Waverton Peninsula, Carradah Park is a nice area for a picnic and is close to Balls Head Reserve.

Centennial Park

Centennial Park is the ideal location for a long, leisurely picnic in Sydney. The park features ponds, large gardens, statues, and historic structures, making it really one of a kind. You’ll forget you’re in the centre of a busy metropolis because Centennial Park is so large! Due to the size of the park, it is possible to always locate a quiet location and enjoy some privacy. The best open areas in Sydney are found in Centennial Park, which is a great place to enjoy a picnic with loved ones any time of year.

Cockatoo Island

Cockatoo Island, a historically significant UNESCO World-Heritage Listed island in Sydney Harbour has some truly special picnic areas and one of a kind views. Make sure to explore the island’s preserved history while you’re there. Love it so much you want to extend your visit? You can reserve a luxurious tent on the camping grounds.

Observatory Hill

It goes without saying that Observatory Hill, one of Sydney’s most romantic locations, also makes for an incredibly lovely picnic location. It provides breathtaking views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the nearby historic district of The Rocks, and Walsh Bay because it is situated high on a hill. We also give Observatory Hill top marks for its excellent wet weather choices if you reserve a private picnic experience. Anyone up for a picnic in a rotunda? Once you’ve recovered from the uphill hike, this location is ideal for a leisurely afternoon in Sydney. The best time of day to go is just before sunset, but if you’re not interested in anything eerie, make sure to leave by dusk because legend has it that this is a good site to spot ghosts.

Barangaroo Reserve

In September 2015, the Barangaroo Reserve was inaugurated on what had previously been a deserted wharf. The park and leisure area has several levels and offers sweeping views of Sydney Harbor making it an excellent picnic spot. And if you haven’t packed a picnic spread, there some of Sydney’s best food and drink options a short walk away.  

Cockatoo Island

Cockatoo Island, a historically significant UNESCO World-Heritage Listed island in Sydney Harbour has some truly special picnic areas and one of a kind views. Make sure to explore the island’s preserved history while you’re there. Love it so much you want to extend your visit? You can reserve a luxurious tent on the camping grounds.

Wendy’s Secret Garden

Did you know Sydney has its own secret oasis? This is a great place to get away from the city and take in the splendour of a little paradise is Wendy’s Secret Garden. To honour her late husband Brett Whitely, a well-known artist, Wendy Whitely turned a barren space into a flourishing, lush garden. You won’t want to leave this quaint and magical area once you step foot here.

Blackwattle Bay Park

This quiet and beautiful Inner-West park is well-known for its breathtaking views of Rozelle Bay and the Anzac Bridge. It’s especially popular for those with dogs, as they are allowed to be off-leash here.

Mary Booth Lookout Reserve

This location is Sydney’s best-kept secret despite how crowded the city is. Here, you can have a serene afternoon picnic with views worth a million dollars. It’s a great place to enjoy sunset, though make sure to bring your phone or camera along. Your ‘gram will thank you for it.

Shelley Beach, Manly

Shelly Beach is the ideal location for a beachside picnic. Can it become crowded on a hot summer day? Sure! Is it still worth a visit? Without a doubt! Either the grassy area immediately behind the beach or the beach itself are great options. In case you forgot to bring your entire picnic, there is a fantastic cafe nearby called The Boatshed that also offers takeout. Why not take a quick swim to explore the underwater world and then enjoy your picnic food and a quick nap in the afternoon sun at a beach that is also known for its snorkelling and diving?

If you’re a GoGet member, then there’s nothing standing in your way! Book a car today and GoGet out there. No Membership? No problem! We’ve got the perfect plan for you!