Quick Links
It’s no secret that Sydney is the number one city for picnic lovers. With stunning harbour views, lush gardens, beachside escapes and inner-city parks, there’s sure to be a perfect picnic spot for everyone. To make it easier, we’ve collated some of our favourite picnic sports from a variety of regions in Sydney so all you have to do is grab your blanket, fill your basket, and enjoy some alfresco dining in the beautiful city of Sydney.
CBD
The Royal Botanic Gardens
No Picnic list is complete without mentioning the iconic Royal Botanic Gardens. With views of both the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, gorgeous seasonal gardens, and lots of space, it’s no wonder the gardens are such a popular choice for picnic lovers.
Shade: Yes
Dog friendly: No
Toilets: Yes
Parking: Yes (metered)
Observatory Hill
A favourite spot for sunset watchers, Observatory Hill offers a view like no other of the fabulous Harbour Bridge. If unique, panoramic views of the Sydney Harbour sounds good to you, there’s plenty of space to lay a picnic blanket on the grassy hill and watch the world go by.
Shade: No
Dog friendly: No
Toilets: Yes
Parking: Yes (ticketed)
North Sydney
Lavender Bay
If you’re familiar with North Sydney, you may have come across Wendy’s (not so) Secret Garden. Venture down the stairs and you’ll be taken to Lavender Bay’s delightful Quibaree Park. A 10 minute walk from North Sydney station, this spot boasts sweeping views of Luna Park, the Harbour Bridge and many, many boats. If you love a waterside picnic, you’ll fall in love with the charming little spot instantly.
Shade: No
Dog friendly: Yes
Toilets: Yes
Parking: Yes- 2P
Berry Island
A favourite for North Shore locals, Berry island is the perfect spot for a great day out. After you’ve indulged in a waterfront picnic, there’s a lovely scenic bush track to explore, and even a playground for the little ones.
Shade: Yes
Dog friendly: yes
Toilets: Yes
Parking: Yes- street parking on Shirley rd
Lane Cove National Park
If a beautiful bush setting is more your style, Lane Cove’s Illoura Picnic Area is nestled next to the Lane Cove River and offers plenty of spectacular flora and fauna views. Not only are there facilities like sheltered tables and barbecues, but there are also amazing cycling, walking and paddling opportunities to take advantage of for a full day out.
Shade: Yes
Dog friendly: No
Toilets: Yes
Parking: Yes
Eastern Suburbs
Centennial Park
With lovely open grasslands, woodlands, gardens, and ponds, there’s a perfect picnic spot here for everyone. Dubbed “the people’s park,” this lovely space is brimming with barbeques, tables, playgrounds, and plenty of off-leash space for furry friend
Shade: Yes
Dog friendly: Yes
Toilets: Yes
Parking: Yes
Robertson Park
Grassy greenery with magnificent harbour views and a small harbourside beach, Robertson Park located in Watsons Bay is well worth a visit. If you don’t feel like packing a picnic, Doyle’s Fish and Chips offers great takeaway so you can still enjoy the alfresco dining experience. Afterwards, you can explore the many walks offered around the Watson’s bay area, or even jump on a ferry departing from the nearby wharf.
Shade: Yes
Dog friendly: No
Toilets: Yes
Parking: Yes (street parking)
West and Inner West Sydney
Parramatta Park
Parramatta Park is a local favourite for a good reason. Lay down your picnic blanket anywhere in the beautiful open landscape, or explore the stunning rose garden, intriguing historic sites and the many heritage monuments.
Shade: Yes
Dog friendly: Yes
Toilets: Yes
Parking: Yes (ticketed)
Glebe Foreshore Parks
Four beautiful parks combine to create the Glebe Foreshore Parks – Federal Park, Jubilee Park, Blackwattle Bay Park, and Bicentennial Park. With each park boasting waterside views, grassy spots, historic monuments and modern architecture, we recommend taking a stroll along the Foreshore and picking out your personal favourite spot.
Shade: Yes
Dog friendly: Yes
Toilets: Yes
Parking: Yes (street parking)
We hope we’ve inspired you to get out and tour the best that Sydney has to offer!
If you’d like a truly unique picnic experience without the hassle of setting up, head over to the Graze and Gaze website and explore the incredible Luxury Picnic Experiences offered in the most gorgeous parts of Sydney including a few mentioned on this list and more!
