From secret gardens to leafy parks and water views, we count down our faves

Camellia Gardens

Camellia Gardens undoubtedly deserves a place on this list with secluded nooks and picturesque backdrops scattered across the grounds. The gardens are a haven for blooms year-round with camellias in season from autumn to winter, a variety of colourful annuals in spring and roses in summer. Entry to the gardens is free and guests are welcome to bring their own picnic goodies or pop into the tea house for dine-in or takeaway. You’ll find house-baked scones, cakes, freshly made ice tea and more. Duck food is also available from the tea house should you fancy sharing a meal with the local residents (note: please don’t feed the ducks bread - this is unhealthy for both them and the environment!)

Gunnamatta Bay Cronulla — *Image credit: @itsdavesdrone*

Gunnamatta Park

Gunnamatta Park sure is no secret but any top picnic list wouldn’t be complete without it. Located a stone’s throw from Cronulla train station and mall, the park has plenty of nooks for you to enjoy. Pick up a pizza or some fish n’ chips from one of Cronulla’s takeaway outlets and settle in for a dusk picnic. Don’t forget your swimmers as the lack of waves makes this one of The Shire’s most popular swimming areas, too.

Audley

Located only a 10 minute drive from Sutherland, Audley has long been favoured as a picnickers paradise - and for good reason! The flat, grassy expanses are ideal for throwing down a rug whilst the riverside views and towering trees offer an iconic backdrop. There are free barbecue facilities for those seeking to cook up a storm or you can pop over to the Audley Dance Hall Cafe for a scrummy seasonal menu or takeaway coffee. If you’re looking for a spot of activity post-picnic, consider hiring a canoe or rowboat from the historic boat shed and explore the winding river.

Darook Park

More secluded than other parks in Cronulla, Darook is a popular location for wedding ceremonies, where you can expect nothing but beautiful water views and grassy grounds. Enter off Nicholson Parade and take your pick from an abundance of spots to settle into for the afternoon. Dreaming of sand under your toes? Steer right and head down to Darook Beach. Another beautiful spot for picnic goers.

Oak Park

If a picnic by the seaside sounds like your kind of day out, then Oak Park it is! There are plenty of places to set up on the grass with a few tables available, alongside two undercover barbecues. The ocean pool is perfect for a post-picnic dip or you can take a stroll along The Esplanade to walk it off.

Hazelhurst

Hazelhurst is a picnic lover's dream. This community space boasts lovely landscaped gardens as well as plenty of spots to spread out your picnic rug. Entry to both the grounds and gallery are free so if you fancy a spot of culture, be sure to pop your head in to take a peek at the current exhibition. If you’re in need of a caffeine fix, iced tea or your entire picnic for that matter, pop over to Hazelhurst’s new cafe for one of the most appetising menus in The Shire.

Como Pleasure Grounds

A favourite with families, Como Pleasure Grounds has been hosting picnics since 1895. Expect sweeping views of the Georges River, a walking loop, picnic tables and barbecues, a kiosk for snacks and a playground. If you’re visiting in summer be sure to make use of the local pool which is free to enter.

Salmon Haul

Salmon Haul attracts the attention of locals and visitors alike and we can see why. With crystal clear waters and views across to Bundeena and the Royal National Park, once you arrive, you won’t want to leave. Recently upgraded, you will now find a new kids play area plus multiple seating options and public toilets.

Swallow Rock

On the banks of the hacking river, accessed via Swallow Rock Drive in Grays Point, you’ll find Swallow Rock Reserve. Set up camp under the trees and enjoy a frolic on the sandy shore or put your feet up with a book. You’ll have views out to the Royal National Park with a calm riverbank dip just a few steps away. You’ll also find public toilets, barbecues and a boat ramp should you fancy making a day of it.

South Cronulla Park

Located alongside the eateries of Cronulla mall, Cronulla Park is the perfect spot to spread out a rug and enjoy a spot of dinner. To be fair, the park is a joy at any time of the day but dusk is when the park really shines. The superb local takeaway offering has made the park a popular place for locals to enjoy a spot of dinner with waterviews and a side of people watching. A post-dinner dip in summer isn’t out of the question.

Burnum Burnum Sanctuary

What’s better than a picnic? A picnic by the river, of course. Burnum Burnum Sanctuary, located on the banks of the Woronora river is another Shire gem. With a lush green and leafy outlook, the reserve also features a playground, cycle paths, public toilets and barbecue facilities whilst being the starting point for a handful of great bushwalks.

Forby Sutherland Memorial Park

This petite space, nestled in the heart of Sutherland, is a not so hidden gem. The pristine gardens are bursting with colour year-round and are a source of joy for all passerby's. The central fountain is also popular with small children. We recommend pairing a visit with a trip to Sutherland Farmers Markets on a Saturday morning and enjoying your spoils fresh from the source.

The 12 Best Picnic Spots In The Shire