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The Best Picnic Areas in Perth That Melted Our Worries Away
When life hands you lemons, skip the overpriced restaurants or resorts and roll out your picnic blanket instead.
Soothing and majestic picnic areas in Perth, like Hyde Park and Bells Rapids, will prove why a dash of sunshine is good for the soul. If you aren’t convinced yet, our recommendations below might just flip the script for you.
Hyde Park
From so.perth
Address: Vincent St &, William St
Contact Details: (08) 9273 6000
Operating Hours: Daily – 24 hours
Excluding Hyde Park from this list would be a travesty. The spot’s centerpiece is its lake, glistening under the sun, shaded by trees, and surrounded by birds that provide the perfect soundtrack.
For the kiddos, there are playgrounds and sand pits on Glendower Street, while an accessible playground awaits on Throssell Street. The Hyde Park Water Playground, open seasonally, promises splashy fun for everyone, too.
Walking trails also wrap around the area, allowing picnickers to get moving. Once your fuel is empty, hit up the BBQs near the playgrounds and make the day better with a slice of well-grilled meat.
Tip: Don’t let your furry pals wallow at home. Bring them to the dog-friendly Hyde Park!
Kings Park
Address: Fraser Ave
Contact Details: (08) 9480 3600
Operating Hours: Daily – 24 hours
This might not be the first time you read about Kings Park (it won’t be the last too), but the spot is just a picnic lover’s dream destination. This massive inner-city park isn’t just a pretty face—it’s home to over 3,000 species of unique flora.
On our last visit, our team wandered through the bushland walk trails and immaculate gardens, totally in awe of the colors and smell.
The kids also had a blast playing in the Paperbark Waterhole at the Variety Place wooden playground. They also enjoyed the Federation Walkway and Rio Tinto Naturescape, both perfect for stretching legs while soaking nature’s best gifts.
Bells Rapids
From akeko_125
Address: Orlov Trail, Cathedral Ave
Contact Details: (08) 9267 9267
Operating Hours: Daily – 24 hours
Bells Rapids is the ultimate chill spot if you’re looking for a chaos-free picnic spot with bodies of water as the highlights.
There are several areas with jaw-dropping views of falls and rapids, not to mention the occasional kangaroo cameo. In addition, wildflowers bloom from July to November, adding more hues to the scenery.
You can access the picnic spots via a gravel road leading to a parking area, so pack your patience along with your picnic essentials. Dogs are also welcome, but keep them leashed unless you want them chasing kangaroos.
Tip: To see the waters in their full, rushing glory, swing by during winter. Yes, it can be chilly, so wear warm clothing!
Lesmurdie Falls
From peanutlittle
Address: Lesmurdie Falls National Park, Falls Rd, Forrestfield
Contact Details: (08) 9442 0300
Picnickers looking to embrace new heights should add Lesmurdie Falls to their go-to destinations.
This picnic favorite has bushlands and high grounds, offering primo sunset views that’ll make your Instagram a must-see sight. The wow factor takes another level during spring when wildflowers take center stage.
When hunger fills the tummy, BBQs near the picnic shelters are ready to be fired up. And if you’re up for some leg work, there are walking trails ranging from short strolls to full loop trails, offering serious bragging rights and snap-worthy sceneries.
Tip: We get it, off-beaten paths can be too enticing to pass up. However, don’t risk your safety and stay on the main paths; Lesmurdie Falls has steep cliffs.
Walyunga National Park
From cassper79
Address: Walyunga Rd, Bullsbrook
Contact Details: (08) 9290 6100
Operating Hours: Daily – 8 am to 5 pm
Walyunga National Park isn’t a world away from Perth, but it certainly feels like it, with its dose of peace, quiet, and nature.
Whether you’re into bushwalking, camping, canoeing, or just chilling by Avon River emo-style or with loved ones, this place has you covered with its two picnic areas on the riverbanks.
Speaking of the river, it flows gracefully over smooth granite boulders while native trees frame the scene like a postcard. Picnickers can also explore Aboriginal trails that don’t lack history, culture, and, of course, views.
Tip: Need a campground for extended stays? Book your spot at the Walyunga Campground.
Matilda Bay Reserve
From mr_shaun_miller
Address: The University Club of Western Australia, Crawley
Contact Details: (08) 9442 0300
Operating Hours: Daily – 24 hours
With crystal-clear waters, occasional dolphin sightings, and trees galore, Matilda Bay Reserve is a sight for sore eyes and a remedy for tired souls.
Our team recently checked this one out and the calm river served as a top-tier spot for a refreshing swim and a leisurely kayak ride.
We didn’t even bother stressing out over food, as cafes, like Bayside Kitchen Cafe, are in the area. But, if you like to do things your way, there are free electric BBQs. Just don’t forget the sausages!
Tip: Matilda Bay Reserve doubles as a fishing hotspot, so bring your gear. With luck and skill, you might just catch a free dinner.
Cottesloe Beach
From chloe.chuuuu
Address: Marine Parade, Cottesloe WA 6011
Operating Hours: Daily – 24 hours
Cottesloe makes the golden hours more stunning. Seriously, the sunsets here are pure magic.
Beyond sitting on a rug and sipping wine, you can swim or surf (why not both?).
The beach is also more than just powdery sand and clear waters: there are nearby seaside eateries and bars with brekkie to sunset blends and bites—perfect for those who love picnics but hate preparing picnic snacks.
Tip: Beat nature’s whims by picking sunny days for your Cottesloe Beach picnic. Checking the weather forecast will do the trick.
Mardalup Park
From lynnette_ooi
Address: Brown St, East Perth WA 6004
Operating Hours: Daily – 24 hours
We’re so sorry for locals who like to keep Mardalup Park an East Perth secret, but we can’t help spilling the beans on this laid-back, riverside locale.
The Swan River is in full display here, along with winding pathways, exercise zones, BBQs, and playgrounds for tiny tots who’d rather sweat bullets than relax.
It isn’t all about kicking back and watching your kids play, though. You can spice up your picnic by trying Matagarup Bridge Zip and Climb’s ziplines.
Tip: There’s a small but convenient parking area at the end of Brown Street. Be an early bird to snag a spot.
Millbrook Winery
Address: Old Chestnut Ln, Jarrahdale
Contact Details: (08) 9525 5796
Operating Hours:
- Mon – 10 am to 5 pm
- Tue to Wed – Closed
- Thu – 10 am to 5 pm
- Fri to Sat – 10 am to 3 pm
- Sun – 10 am to 5 pm
A picnic at Millbrook Winery is basically a never-ending flow of wine. Now that’s what we call a well-deserved break!
A majestic lake, lush greenery, and rolling hills envelope the winery’s locale, giving you a taste of the countryside. Colonial architecture also adds an aura of elegance.
As for the grub, you must score their picnic baskets that are stacked with all the goods: fresh garden salad, gourmet charcuterie, homemade pâté, cheese, crackers, and even something sweet to satisfy your cravings.
Tip: Make your outdoor adventure hassle-free! Opt for booking a picnic basket.
Sir James Mitchell Park
From itslady_fi
Address: Mill Point Rd, South Perth
Contact Details: (08) 9474 0777
Operating Hours: Daily – 24 hours
Sir James Mitchell Park, along the scenic South Perth Foreshore, is a Perth picnic staple for very good reasons.
The city’s iconic skyline and the tranquil Swan River are the backgrounds here. In addition, there are BBQ facilities for the grill masters, beach access for the water babies, and playgrounds for the energetic kiddos
Tip: Aside from being a picnic go-to, Sir James Mitchell Park is a terrific choice for private functions or weddings. Book a specific area by heading to this page.
Sunset Hill Scarborough
From vlwphotography
Address: 126 The Esplanade, Scarborough
Operating Hours: Daily – 24 hours
Sunset Hill at Scarborough is like the front-row seat to nature’s magic hour. The sunset over the Indian Ocean is pure Instagram gold, especially if you have a picnic at the shaded tables near Whale Playground, an adventure play space.
This spot is also buzzing with activity. From strolling through the bustling promenades to playing on the said playground, there’s something for picnickers who don’t want to sit the entire day.
Plus, if you’re feeling adventurous, there are nearby skate bowls and a climbing wall for some adrenaline-pumping fun. Exercise equipment is also available for those who want to get their sweat on before or after indulging in picnic treats.
Tip: Mobile lockers, towels, umbrellas, and sun lounges are available for rental here! Prices run from around 10 to 15 bucks for each item.
Heathcote Reserve
From kristyleanne1
Address: 58 Duncraig Rd, Applecross WA 6153
Contact Details: (08) 9364 0666
Operating Hours: Daily – 24 hours
When our team is in the mood for a picnic that teems with marine life, Heathcote Reserve is typically the spot we pop by.
The crystalline waters reveal a kaleidoscopic world of seagrass, prawns, seahorses, and blue-swimmer crabs. On our latest outing here, we even spotted bottlenose dolphins doing what they do best—being flipping cute.
In terms of facilities, Heathcote Reserve has a jetty, lockout deck, and a few BBQs for those planning to grill up a storm.
Tip: Opt for a compact picnic setup. The reserve offers plenty of shady spots, so keep your gear minimal and your exploration maximal!
