As the weather warms up, there’s nothing better than packing up a picnic basket, getting a group of friends together and heading to one of Sydney’s breathtaking venues for a picnic. The picnic’s been around for a while, but it’s an undervalued recreational activity. What’s not to love about sitting out in the open with good friends, good food and enjoying the picturesque scenery? And with its amazing natural scenery and plethora of parks and beaches, Sydney is perfect for a picnic.

Whether you’re a Sydneysider or just visiting, a picnic is a great way to experience and enjoy some of Sydney’s beautiful scenery. For those on holiday and staying in Sydney accommodation, many hotels offer the service of a pre-packaged picnic – with all the necessities included – for their guests.

Here’s a guide to some of Sydney’s most picturesque picnic spots.

• Balmoral Beach, Mosman. Whether you pack your own spread or pick up some fish and chips at one of the beach kiosks, the shady parkland that brackets Balmoral Beach is perfect for long summer day picnics. This harbour side beach on the Sydney’s north shore is a favourite with families for the calm water swimming, parklands and play equipment it provides.
• McKell Park, Darling Point. Located at the northern end of Darling Point Road, this Eastern Suburbs park is a quiet, picturesque and well maintained spot for a picnic. Even better, it offers one of the most spectacular harbour views around – without the tourist crowds.
• Wendy’s Secret Garden, Lavender Bay. This beautiful green haven was created by Wendy Whitely in memory of her husband, Brett Whiteley, one if Sydney’s most renowned painters. This garden is tucked away in the Lavender Bay cove and offers beautiful views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House.
• Sydney’s Royal Botanic Gardens, Farm Cove. Sydney’s Royal Botanic Gardens is one of Sydney’s finest natural assets, and the perfect spot for a picnic. The 30 hectares of garden are located on some of Sydney’s finest real estate, wrapping around Farm Cove on the edge of Sydney Harbour and showcasing spectacular views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
• Jubilee Park, Glebe. Located at the water’s edge at the end of Glebe Point Road, Jubilee Park and its Moreton Bay figs are lined by a promenade that follows the shore of Blackwattle Bay. With lots of open space, a playground and sports field, there’s something for everyone at this Sydney picnic spot.