Going down south for a mini getaway doesn’t mean your bank account has to. So why not let the experience be a priceless one? Australia’s South West is home to plenty of scenic picnic spots perfect for a feasting session amongst the region’s most diverse landscapes. With an array of gourmet treats and seasonal produce available en route, there’s no shortage of fare to add to your basket.
Here are the South West’s most scenic picnic spots to throw down your rug and enjoy a budget-friendly picnic. You can thank us later!
Injidup Natural Spa
What was once a secret South West swimming spot is now a bucket list location for families and photographers alike. The natural rock formation is just a short drive south of Yallingup and a favourite hidden rock pool for many. Protected from the winds, it’s a coastal “spa” experience, and a scenic spot to picnic and watch the world go by.
Honeymoon Pool, Collie
Perched within the jarrah, marri, and yarri trees of Wellington National Park, Honeymoon Pool is a picturesque camping and swimming spot. Enveloped by overhanging peppermint trees, the adventure mecca on the Collie River boasts bushwalking and mountain biking galore. The destination was once a base camp for army training. It’s also thought to have been named by WWII soldiers, as it was a common honeymoon spot.
Surfers Point, Prevelly
For insane views, the Margaret River coastline never disappoints. Surfers Point provides epic 180-degree views of the Indian Ocean and free entertainment in the form of surfers tackling the region’s world-class breaks.
Pick a picnic perch along the vast grassed area or the white sandy beach below. Margaret River’s pinnacle spot will leave you both in awe of its encompassing natural beauty and the skillset of professional surfers. The blissful sunset is merely an added bonus!
Black Diamond Lake, Collie
Black Diamond Lake is one of WA’s most Instagrammable destinations and a rare jewel in Australia’s South West. Set five kilometres west of Collie, this former open-cut mine has been given a new lease on life as a picturesque, oh-so-blue lake. Ever satisfying snap-happy folk.
The location is perfect for a day trip, spent on and by the lake with picnic baskets and pals. If you’re keen to get active post-feed with stand-up paddleboards, canoes, kayaks, and inflatables, be sure to check the water quality before making the splash.
Lake Beedelup, Beedelup
Feel small in the presence of towering karri, jarrah, and marri trees fringing along the edges of the ever-still Lake Beedelup. Here, you can throw down the rug or fire up the barbecue while marvelling at the enchanting postcard-like scenery. RAC Karri Valley Resort and Lakeside Restaurant also sit on the lake’s fringes, perfect if you’re in the market for a caffeine hit or drop of a local wine.
If you’re up for an adventure post-picnic, there are hiking trails worthy of exploration, including a trek to the nearby Beedelup Falls. There are also kayaks available for hire at RAC Karri Valley Resort if you’re that way inclined.
The Aquarium, Yallingup
Situated between Smiths Beach and Canal Rocks, The Aquarium is a small, crystal-clear lagoon, and heaven for beach hoppers. With rock pools galore and sandy places to throw down the picnic rug, there’s space for the adventurous and sit-on-a-towel-with-a-book types to live their best lives.
Castle Rock, Porongurup National Park
Perched in the granite-strewn Porongurup Range is Castle Rock picnic area, a serene base for the colossal adventure ahead — the Granite Skywalk. Embracing the massive granite outcrop of Castle Rock, the Granite Skywalk is an engineering marvel and features two lookout points. Work off your feed by trekking two kilometres from the picnic area, passing through jarrah, karri, and marri woodlands to reach the lower lookout of Castle Rock.
If you’re game enough and the sense of adventure is calling your name, go further to reach the upper lookout. You’ll scramble over rocks and climb a six-metre ladder before being rewarded with sweeping vistas of Albany. As well as Mount Gardener, Mount Manypeaks, the Stirling Range and beyond. Here, you can wholly appreciate the spectacle of nature and engineering feats working in unison.
Meelup Beach, Margaret River
Expect a colour wheel of blue and green at Margaret River’s prime swimming locale, Meelup Beach. The destination features shady, well-grassed areas complemented by a pristine white sandy beach and tranquil turquoise waters. Make the shoreline your sporting ground as it’s wide and flat enough for beach activities. So, don’t forget to pack the cricket bat and Finska!
