Sydney's Best Picnic Spots

by Claire Young

There’s something so magical about Sydney Harbour regardless of whether you’re seeing it for the first time or the 500th. But how often do you ever actually kick back, relax and enjoy the view? We’re challenging you to the make the most of the summer season by getting out and about with a basket in one hand and a picnic rug in the other. These picnic spots are guaranteed to showcase spectacular views of the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge – all you have to do is sit back and enjoy!

1. Mrs Macquarie’s Chair

Short on camp chairs? You’re in luck! Mrs Macquarie’s Chair is quite literally just that – a hand-carved sandstone seat with the best panoramic views of Sydney Harbour. Elizabeth (the wife of former NSW Governor Lachlan Macquarie) was known to regularly visit this spot and take in the incredible view back in the 1800s. Not only will you still see spectacular harbour views centuries later, but it’s also the perfect place to view the Opera House and Harbour Bridge together. Unfortunately you won’t have the actual chair to yourself for too long – this is a hot spot for tourists. The good news is you’re surrounded by plenty of grassy spots to lay out a picnic rug.

Address: Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney
2. Dawes Point Park

If you want a picnic spot that’s up close and personal to the Harbour Bridge, then have we got the spot for you! Dawes Point Park is located next to the southern pylon of the bridge and is the perfect spot to sit back and relax after completing a Sydney Harbour BridgeClimb. After all that walking you probably won’t want to trek too far away!  A stone’s throw away from the Museum of Contemporary Art, and with plenty of lush green grass to lay out a rug, this is the ultimate picnic spot with 10/10 views.

Address: Hickson Road near the Park Hyatt, Sydney
3. Dr Mary Booth Park and Lookout
With beautiful views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, it’s no surprise the Dr Mary Booth Lookout is a popular place for tourists and locals alike. A short five-minute walk from Milsons Point, this dog-friendly park is a great spot if you want to go on a picnic with your furry friend in tow.  The park is named after physician and welfare worked Mary Booth who did incredible work for women’s rights in the early 1900s.

Address: Waruda St, Kirribilli
4. Observatory Hill Park

A 10 to 15-minute walk from The Rocks; this spot is perfect for a relaxing afternoon in Sydney… once you recover from the uphill walk that is! Observatory Hill Park is close to the bustling city, but far enough away to provide a bit of peace and tranquillity. The best time of day to visit is during sunset, but if you’re not a fan of all things paranormal you should leave by nightfall – rumour has it this is also a great place for ghost spotting…

5. Wendy’s Secret Garden

It’s hard to believe this picnic spot was once a derelict railway dump filled with everything from abandoned mattresses to rusted household appliances. Wendy Whiteley took the garden transformation on as a personal project, having lived adjacent to the land for decades. With two gardeners by her side, Wendy slowly started clearing away the rubbish and weeds. They transformed the spot into a breathtaking garden hidden away in beautiful Lavender Bay. It can be a bit of a challenge to find, but it is a secret garden after all! This is the perfect spot for a romantic lunch with your loved one.

Address: It’s a secret so keep this quiet! Go down the set of stairs on Walker Street and you’ll find it on the left.

6. Bradfield Park

If you’re taking the rug rats for a picnic lunch then consider Bradfield Park, which is fully equipped and fun. The fenced playground has plenty of equipment for kids big and small (did someone say family-sized seesaw?!).  This park has ample seating for parents wanting to watch their kids play while simultaneously enjoying the spectacular view. And with local cafes close by, a caffeine hit is just around the corner.

Address: 41 Alfred St South, Milsons Point
7. Blues Point Reserve

Be dazzled by western views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House from this quiet reserve at McMahons Point. Located just metres from the ferry wharf or a short 15 minute walk from North Sydney Train Station, this is one of the top places in Sydney to pull out a picnic rug and indulge in yummy food paired with world-class views.

Address: Blues Point Rd, North Sydney NSW 2060

Gifts for her

Spoil her with something special.

Read More
Teenagers on a rollercoaster

Birthday gifts for teens

Gift them a life-changing experience.

Read More
Men about to go on a V8 experience

Gifts for him

Get his heart racing.

Read More

Related Products

Bv load URL: