Get your picnic baskets ready! 08/22-28 is Keep Australia Beautiful Week and getting out in the sun for an all-round Aussie picnic is the perfect way to appreciate our spectacular country!
Cave Gardens, Mount Gambier (SA)
If you fancy picnicking next to a real-life sinkhole, the Cave Gardens at Mount Gambier will take you into a glorious garden world. Splendid greenery grows right down into the sinkhole, with viewing platforms and even a waterfall to check out during rainy weather. When it’s picnic time, spread your rug over the grass beneath the rose bushes and enjoy.
Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, Sydney (NSW)
Views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House rarely get much better than this in Sydney. Spots in the shade fill up quickly on weekends, so arrive early to grab your bit of grass with a waterside view. If you don’t want to pack your own lunch, there’s a kiosk on site as well.
Sheoak Picnic Area, Near Lorne (VIC)
Whether you’re heading down the Great Ocean Road or just looking for a Victorian day trip idea, Sheoak is a beautiful picnic spot to stop. Nestled in amongst forest trees and nearby waterfalls, the area is well-shaded and has BBQ facilities available. When you’re done eating, try a casual hike along one of the surrounding trails.
Great Keppel Island, Whitsundays (QLD)
Thirty minutes on a ferry (from the Keppel Bay Marina) will take you to the breathtaking beaches of Great Keppel Island in the Whitsundays. Twenty-eight kilometres of beaches and bays form the perimeter of this island, so you can pretty much picnic (and wander) to your heart’s desire. Other activities can include snorkelling, swimming, kayaking and hiking.
Wellington Park, Kunanyi/Mount Wellington (TAS)
This Hobart park is open 24/7, meaning you can self-dine outdoors whenever you like. There are several places to picnic here, including Fern Tree Park, the Springs, Myrtle Forest and the Waterworks Reserve. A hike up to the Pinnacle and observation shelter is a must for some postcard perfect views.
Gunlom, at Kakadu National Park (NT)
Gunlom is one of the most gorgeous spots in all of Kakadu and makes up part of Waterfall Creek. It’s easily reachable by 4WD, and offers a picnic spot with BBQ facilities, toilets and sweeping park views. Other key attractions include the Gunlom Plunge Pool, the waterfall, and the rock pools at the top of the falls. PS. Don’t forget about crocodile safety!
Meelup Reserve Trail, Margaret River (WA)
It’s one of Australia’s most resplendent wine regions, but the Margaret River area brings much more than just wineries. Head out along the Meelup Reserve Trail and you’ll find yourself meandering through bush and along the coast, with picnic and BBQ areas to be found along the way. Stopping to take in the vistas at Castle Rock is highly recommended, too.
Tips for Keeping Australia Beautiful (when picnicking)
- Don’t leave anything behind. Take out what you bring in, including all of your food and rubbish. If a bin is overflowing, find another one or take your rubbish with you.
- Always check park rules before picnicking or BBQ-ing. Read up on opening/closing times, fire safety and any other regulations you need to abide by.
- Don’t mess with nature. That means no feeding wildlife, straying off marked trails or taking away plants, flowers, soil, shells or rocks. Unless the spot you’re going to welcomes furry friends, it’s best to eave your pets at home (You can usually check online or phone).
- Use designated toilets only. Don’t just go wherever you feel like it! It can cause damage to the environment and wildlife.