With Sydney slowly reducing its restrictions and warmer weather, Sydneysiders have been flocking to gorgeous parks to spend valuable time with family and friends to make the most of the beautiful weather. Although it was hard to choose, I have only included the best picnic spots in Sydney; and although with an abundance of parks to choose from, it was a difficult decision. 

I asked the Milk and Honey Picnics professionals for their professional opinion(as they work all over Sydney), and I threw in a few of our favourites that have been tried and tested. And together, we came up with the top ten picnic spots in Sydney we suggest you try out for yourself this Spring. 

Sydney Picnic Ideas

Mary Booth Lookout, Kirribilli

I think this is one of Sydney’s best-kept secrets, with one of Sydney’s most iconic landmarks in plain view; who would not choose this as their first picnic spot to mention? 

Although this is a small park with barely more than a patch of grass, it has one incredible view. The close-up views across the harbour, including Circular Quay and the Harbour Bridge backdrop, are this location’s true hero.

Things to know about this park –

• Hikes/walks: Yes
• Toilets: Yes
• BBQ: No
• Pets: No
• Parking: no
• Getting there: Public transport is the best way, and Milsons Point Station is only 800 metres away.

Balls Head Reserve

This little slice of heaven found on the North shore is a great spot to picnic. With views of the harbour and so peaceful, you would think you are somewhere other than in a bustling city. Here you will also find plenty of benches to picnic on if sitting on the ground isn’t your thing. Otherwise, head down to the water’s edge for a slice of heaven.

Things to know about this park –

• Hikes/Walks: Yes
• Toilets: Yes
• BBQ: Yes
• Pets: Yes, but they must be kept on a leash
• Parking: Yes, there are loads of parking inside the reserve.
• Getting there: It is about a 15-minute walk from Waverton Train Station. 

Hermitage Track, Vaucluse

With a view of the harbour bridge in the distance, this little gem will have you wondering why you hadn’t spotted this location earlier. A little lesser known than its busier neighbouring area of Neilson Park, this is a great little low-key vibe with a genuinely majestic and romantic feel. However, be careful because it will have you swept up in its vibe and will have you accidentally proposing to the person you are picnicking with; it is that romantic. 

Things to know about this park –

• Hikes/Walks: Yes
• Toilets: no
• BBQ: no
• Pets: no
• Parking: Parking is hard to find around this area, but Neilson Park has loads of parking if you don’t mind a little walk.
• Getting there: You can catch buses from the city. 

Neilson Park, Watson Bay

Nielsen Park is within walking distance from Hermitage Track Vaucluse and boasts incredible views over Port Jackson and Mosman. The park is busier than most in this area, but it has it all; with an enclosed swimming area and a small kiosk, it is an excellent place for all types of picnic goers. 

Things to know about this park –

• Hikes/walks: Yes
• Toilets: Yes
• BBQ: Yes
• Pets: No
• Parking: Yes, but weekends can get very busy
• Getting there: You can catch buses from the city and walk for a few minutes. 

Centennial Parklands

Centennial Parklands has been my “go-to” place since I was a teenager. I have had more picnics here than almost anywhere else in the world. Why? Because it is convenient, it has almost everything for all age groups. 

There is ample room at this spacious park; however, arriving relatively earlier will save you from doing endless loops around the park trying to find a car spot. 

Things to know about this park – 

• Hikes/walks: Yes
• Toilets: Yes
• BBQ: Yes
• Pets: Yes
• Parking: Yes
• Getting there: You can catch public transport in every direction; however, driving there is the easiest solution as there is loads of parking.

Dover Heights Cliffs

Dover Heights Cliffs is a beautiful romantic setting overlooking the ocean, spectacular when the weather is warm and the sun is shining. However, it can get windy there due to the proximity to the sea. This part of Sydney is stunning, so it is no wonder it is a popular place to picnic. 

Things to know about this park –

• Hikes/walks: Yes
• Toilets: no
• BBQ: no
• Pets: Yes, further down at Raleigh Park is an off-the-leash dog park
• Parking: Yes, but minimal on-street parking. 
• Getting there: You can catch a bus there or walk from Bondi Beach (it is a little bit of a hike uphill, but it is doable).

Steyne Park, Double Bay

I might be a little bit biased here, as I recently held a catered picnic in this location for my daughter’s birthday, and it was the perfect blend of scenery and convenience. Overlooking the stunning harbour, it has everything you need for the ideal park location for a picnic for that special occasion. However, it is an off-the-leash dog park, so you may end up with an extra friend or two that you hadn’t anticipated. 

Things to know about this park – 

• Hikes/walks: no
• Toilets: yes
• BBQ: no
• Pets: Yes, it is an off-the-leash dog park
• Parking: Yes, there is plenty of street parking, but most are only 2 hours; however, if you are lucky, you might snap up a 10-hour parking spot.
• Getting there: There are buses, but driving would be my preference for this location. However, if you are coming from the city, the Double Bay ferry Pier is right in front of the park, so it might be a great way to get to the ideal location. 

Kamay Botany Bay National Park

The drive along Captain Cook Drive might feel long, but it is worth it once you arrive. This park has something for everyone, with it being Captain Cook’s landing spot; you will find an indigenous trail, a new play area for kids, a beach to play in and some fantastic new sculptures near the water’s edge. There are also a few restaurants, cafes and places to grab something to eat if you decide not to bring a basket along for the ride. 

Things to know about this park –

• Hikes/walks: Yes
• Toilets: yes
• BBQ: yes
• Pets: Yes, further down at Raleigh Park is an off-the-leash dog park
• Parking: There is plenty of street parking and paid parking inside the national park.
• Getting there: There are buses, but they do not come frequently, so I suggest driving to the location.

Sydney Park

Sydney Park is the perfect place to picnic for everyone. There are coffee shops, dog walking areas, kid’s playgrounds and a walking track. The location of Sydney Park doesn’t get any better either, conveniently located in Alexandria, where this once-the-local tip has turned into a magical place to get together with friends and family. 

• Hikes/walks: Yes
• Toilets: Yes
• BBQ: yes
• Pets: yes
• Parking: Yes, there is parking in the car park and street parking.
• Getting there: You can drive or catch public transport, both are very convenient.

Do you love the idea of a picnic but hate the thought of dragging many things with you (especially if you decide to head to the park on public transport)? Have you ever considered hiring someone to take all the hard work out of the occasion, the best part? But, of course, they know precisely what they are doing, so you won’t have to think of a thing. 

 Milk & Honey Picnics is Sydney’s premier pop-up picnic company. They deliver, set up and collect at your location of choice; indoor or outdoor, harbourside or poolside, corporate to intimate, kids parties, weddings and casual get-togethers. With full catering, grazing board, and set-up options available, all with elegant design and devotion to service, they have redefined the picnic experience.

I know it is as simple as ABC because I recently held my daughter’s 21st birthday in a park, and they did it all for us. From styling choices to deciding on a location, they have oodles of information ready for you; all you have to do is ask. 

They combine their passion for connection, creativity & beauty to create unforgettable & magical events.

Special location mentions –

Royal Botanic Garden

There is no more special spot than the Royal Botanic Garden, with the most beautifully kept laws, fawn and fauna that will have you roaming around the garden mesmerised by its beauty. Right in the heart of Sydney’s CBD and within walking distance of The Sydney Opera House, this is one of the most magical places you’ll ever picnic. 

Things to know about this park –

• Hikes/walks: Yes
• Toilets: Yes
• BBQ: no
• Pets: no
• Parking: Yes, but limited and metred
• Getting there: The ferry Pier at Circular Quay is only moments away. Otherwise, there are plenty of buses and trains about 15 minutes walk. 

 Jack Vanny Reserve

This place is dear to my heart as I spent so much time here as a child. Mahon pool is where I learnt to swim as a child, and the grass area of Jack Vanny Reserve was my backyard, so I know this area better than all the other parks mentioned. 

With views looking over the ocean, a pool to swim in when the weather is warm, and an excellent cafe across the road, this location is, for me, hands down, my favourite. 

Things to know about this park – 

• Hikes/walks: Yes
• Toilets: Yes
• BBQ: no
• Pets: yes
• Parking: Yes, there is lots of parking, but on a hot summer’s day, it will be hard to find parking.
• Getting there: Probably best to drive to this location. However, you can catch buses directly to the area from the city. 

Thanks for taking the time to read my blog. I hope this post has given you the information you need. If you have any recommendations, tips or advice, I would love for you to share them in the comment section below!

Other things you need to know

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we may receive a commission at no extra cost if you make a purchase through a link. Please see our full disclosure for further information.

Check out my Instagram page or join the Truly Expat Facebook group.

Pin it for later!

Would you like to read more about Sydney?