Best places to picnic in Perth

13 Of The Best Picnic Spots Around Perth

We've rounded up the best picnic spots in and around Perth, so you can throw down the picnic rug and indulge.

Sometimes fancy dining and restaurant lunches can get a bit old, not to mention strain the bank account. So why not get out and about and appreciate Perth’s glorious scenery on your next food-based outing? With lush green parks, riverside views, and ocean waves providing the perfect backdrop, there’s certainly no shortage of spots to soak in nature. From the beach to the hills, we’ve rounded up the best picnic spots around Perth, so all you need to do is pack the basket and grab the blanket.

Hyde Park 

Picnic at Hyde Park in Perth
Credit: Daniel Grant

The stunning scenery of Hyde Park offers the ultimate backdrop for your next picnic date, and the delectable delights from Chu Bakery, just across the road, make the perfect snack.

Relax under the shade of the trees and take in the tranquillity as you’re whisked a world away from the hustle and bustle outside. You’ll also be sure to come across a few fluffy friends on their daily walk, so you’re in the right place for a round of happy pats. 

South Perth Foreshore 

South Perth Foreshore
Credit: @perth.local and @skyperth

Picture this: you’re set up on the grass looking out over the sparkling water of the Swan River with a cool drink in hand and dazzling city views.

It’s a no-brainer that a patch of green along South Perth Foreshore is the prime spot to get your picnic on. And with plenty of idyllic locations to choose from, you’ll be hard-pressed to find somewhere that isn’t perfect to pop down a rug. 

Mullaloo Beach

Mullaloo Beach
Credit: @beyondthebreakphotography

We’re huge fans of our postcard-worthy coastline, and Mullaloo Beach might just take the cake as one of our absolute favourites. 

The calm blue waters and white sandy shores shape for a sweet sight as the sun makes its way down. And if sand isn’t your thing, you can pick a perch at the park overlooking it all. Pick up some fish and chips from across the road and settle in for a quintessentially Australian beach picnic.

Stirk Park

Lovely and leafy — that’s just how we like our parks. Stirk Park is a short walk from the Kalamunda town centre, with plenty of space for a picnic along the verdant hills. There’s a giant chess set, if you’re up for using a bit of brainpower, or you can take it easy with a stroll in the sunshine. 

Bells Rapids 

Bells Rapids
Credit: @jordancantelo

One of the best places to get out amongst nature is Bells Rapids. Combine your picnic feast with a fabulous bushwalk on one of the trails as you revel in the beauty of streams and waterfalls alongside the scents of gum leaves and fresh countryside air. We’re relaxed just thinking about it. 

Kings Park

Picnic at Kings Park
Credit: Tourism Western Australia

Yes, we know it’s been done to death. But, there’s a reason why Kings Park is time after time, one of Perth’s top picnic destination recommendations.

It’s the vast green spaces, pops of botanical colour, awesome playgrounds, pristine bushland trails, and city skyline views. What’s not to love? 

Cottesloe Beach

Cottesloe Beach
Credit: @beyondthebreakphotography

Sunsets at Cottesloe Beach are made for a picnic rug, a glass of wine, and a cheeseboard. 

Finding a patch of grass might be a challenge on particularly balmy afternoons, but it’s well worth the hunt. You’ll watch the waves roll in and the sun roll down, with a satisfied belly as the salty air hits your face. Now that’s living Barry!

John Oldham Park

Long kept as one of Perth’s greatest secrets, you wouldn’t suspect that such a sensational waterfall — aesthetic enough to be a wedding background — was sitting smack bang in the middle of Mounts Bay Road. 

The secret’s out and the lush green-filled oasis has become a popular lunch spot for city dwellers looking to perch up and unwind from a busy morning. With barbeque facilities and pleasant strolling paths, it’s a midday stop deserving to be taken.

Millbrook Winery

Millbrook Winery
Credit: Millbrook Winery

If you’re up for a bit of a journey, head to Millbrook Winery on the outskirts of Perth for the perfect wine-filled picnic. 

If you’re feeling a little lazy at the thought of packing your picnic, Millbrook offers gourmet-style baskets with everything you could ever need. A delicious spread from the kitchen, a picnic rug to soak up the sun and vineyard vistas, cutlery, and the all-important glassware.

Scarborough Sunset Hill 

Speaking of glorious coastal picnics, have you given Scarborough’s iconic Sunset Hill a spin?

Located in the heart of the beachside suburb, just across from the main strip of bars, it’s not hard to find. The high vantage point means you’ll lap up endless ocean views as you wind down with some takeaway from one of your favourite oceanside food joints.

Matilda Bay Reserve 

Matilda Bay Reserve
Credit: @shotbysamcurrie and @georgiabenedetti_photography

There’s something about Matilda Bay Reserve that just makes us want to pack our picnic basket, and set up on the water’s edge for a day of summer fun. 

The Swan River and city backdrop are a welcome sight, and if you have little ones joining, there’s plenty of space for them to paddle or take to the jetties for a bombie while you sit back and relax.

Lesmurdie Falls National Park 

Picnic at Lesmurdie Falls National Park
Credit: @experienceperthhills and @naturebynathan

We’re sure you’ve heard about the insanely wonderful waterfall at Lesmurdie Falls National Park, even if you haven’t already paid it a visit yourself. 

It’s a well-known spot for spectacular sunset views and energising bushland hikes. And we think it’s simply perfect for your next daytime picnic adventure. There’s a designated area with barbeques, or you can venture off the beaten track and find a secret spot just for you.

Perth Observatory

If you’re planning to take the romance up a notch with a well-considered picnic date, we’ve got you covered.

Set up for an evening under the stars at Perth Observatory, where you can lay down a rug and book a night sky tour that will completely wow your star-crossed lover. Look through the range of telescopes and discover the wonders of the universe as the dedicated volunteers help point out the exquisite sights.  

Featured image credit: Evangelina Silina
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