Perth was basically built for picnics. Big blue skies, shady parks, and beaches that look like postcards. And yet, most weekends start with the same question, “Where should we go?”.
If you’ve run out of ideas or just want a spot that’s actually worth laying the rug down for, we’ve got you sorted.
This is our go-to list of picnic spots across Perth — the kind of places you’ll want to come back to, with space to spread out, shade when you need it, and plenty to keep the kids (or grown-ups) entertained.
For families with kids
Goolugatup Heathcote Reserve, Applecross
This one’s a firm favourite for a reason. The pirate ship playground is a standout, there’s loads of grass for cartwheels and picnic rugs, and the views over the Swan River are just a bonus. You’ve got BBQs, toilets, a shaded seating area, and a kiosk for coffee and snacks. Easy.
58 Duncraig Road, Applecross WA 6153
Image courtesy of Goolugatup Heathcote Reserve.
Whiteman Park, Whiteman
Whiteman Park is the kind of place you can spend the whole day. There are multiple playgrounds (Pia’s Place is our favourite), shaded BBQ areas, train and tram rides, and even wildlife encounters at Caversham. It’s perfect for bigger family meetups or when you need more than just a patch of grass.
Whiteman Drive East, Whiteman WA 6068
Image courtesy of Whiteman Park.
Jackadder Lake Reserve, Woodlands
Jackadder Lake Reserve flies under the radar, but it’s a gem for families with younger kids. There’s a large, fenced-in playground, walking paths around the lake, and shaded picnic tables along the edge. If you’re lucky, you might spot people sailing remote-controlled boats on the water!
9 Jackadder Way, Woodlands WA 6018
Image courtesy of City of Stirling.
Beaton Park, Dalkeith
This riverside spot is home to the Jo Wheatley All Abilities Play Space, designed with everyone in mind. It’s got inclusive equipment, wide open grass, picnic tables, BBQs, and river views that make it feel like a little escape without the drive. Great for mixed-age families or big group lunches.
Esplanade, Dalkeith WA 6009
Image courtesy of Buggy Buddys.
Hyde Park, North Perth
A classic family picnic spot with loads of shade, big grassy areas, and two playgrounds to burn off the post-snack energy. In warmer months, the water play area is a hit with younger kids. There’s a lake to stroll around, paths for scooters and bikes, and cafés nearby for coffee or emergency snacks. It’s central, easy to get to, and always a solid option.
Vincent St & William St, Perth WA 6000
For scenic dates and lazy Sundays
Kings Park and Botanic Garden, Perth
The classic. It’s massive, it’s central, and it somehow never gets old. You’ll find plenty of picnic-perfect lawns with views across the city and river, plus shady spots, wildflower trails, and quiet corners if you want a bit of peace.
For a casual hangout, the area near the State War Memorial or along Fraser Avenue is always a win. Our tip is to just get there early if the weather’s good (you won’t be the only one with the same idea).
Fraser Ave, Perth WA 6005
Image courtesy of Kings Park & Botanic Garden.
Cottesloe Civic Centre Grounds, Cottesloe
Less busy than Cottesloe beach and just as beautiful, these gardens are one of Cottesloe’s best-kept secrets. You’ve got sprawling lawns, tall trees, and heritage architecture all around. Grab something from a nearby cafe and set up on the Sunken Lawn or in the Secret Garden for proper Sunday energy.
Cottesloe Civic Centre Grounds
Napier St, Cottesloe WA 6011
Image courtesy of Town of Cottesloe.
Mardalup Park, East Perth
Hidden along the edge of Claisebrook Cove, this riverside park is quiet, grassy, and has front-row views of Optus Stadium and Matagarup Bridge. You’ll find barbecues, a shaded playground, and a gentle walking trail along the river. Great for a picnic with a view that feels like a secret.
Brown St, East Perth WA 6004
Image courtesy of City of Perth.
Matilda Bay Reserve, Crawley
A calm stretch of lawn right on the Swan River, Matilda Bay has that peaceful, tucked-away vibe even though it’s minutes from the city. You’ll get sweeping views of the water, shady trees for cover, and a walking path if you’re keen to stretch the legs after lunch. Dolphins are regulars too!
Hackett Drive, Crawley WA 6009
Image courtesy of Explore Parks WA.
John Oldham Park, Perth
Just off Mounts Bay Road near the Narrows Bridge, this quiet park is full of leafy paths, shady picnic spots, and even a hidden waterfall. There’s a small playground, a duck-filled pond, and walking trails that make it feel far from the city (even though it’s right in the middle of it).
Mounts Bay Rd, Perth WA 6000
Image courtesy of Visit Perth.
For nature lovers and bushwalkers
John Forrest National Park, Hovea
One of WA’s oldest national parks and still one of the best. John Forrest has waterfalls, walking trails of all lengths, and picnic areas scattered around the bush.
There’s plenty of wildlife too! You can expect to spot kangaroos, birds, and the occasional lizard sunbaking near the path.
Park Rd, Hovea WA 6056
Image courtesy of Explore Parks WA.
Araluen Botanic Park, Roleystone
Feels like you’ve stepped into a European garden, especially in spring when the tulips are out. Araluen has stone pathways, waterfalls, manicured lawns, and quiet corners that are perfect for a picnic. Even outside of flower season, it’s a peaceful spot with plenty of shade and fresh mountain air.
362 Croyden Rd, Roleystone WA 6111
Image courtesy of Araluen Botanic Park.
Walyunga National Park, Bullsbrook
Set where the Swan and Avon rivers meet, Walyunga is a quiet, rugged spot with picnic tables, BBQs, and river trails that feel properly remote. It’s a great choice if you want to stay close to the city but still feel like you’ve escaped into the bush.
Walyunga Rd, Bullsbrook WA 6084
Image courtesy of Explore Parks WA.
Local favourites south of the river
Monument Hill Reserve, Fremantle
High on the hill with one of the best views in Fremantle, this spot is quiet, green, and steeped in local history. You can see the harbour, Rottnest, and the sun dropping over the Indian Ocean if you time it right. There aren’t any BBQs, but for a takeaway picnic and a bit of quiet, it’s hard to beat.
Corner Of High St and Bateman St, 249 High St, Fremantle WA 6160
Image courtesy of City of Fremantle.
South Perth Foreshore, South Perth
City views, river breeze, and more space than you’ll know what to do with. The South Perth Foreshore is one of the best picnic spots in Perth for a reason. There are playgrounds, walking paths, shady trees, and regular food trucks in summer. You can even hop on the ferry or grab a coffee from one of the cafés near Mends Street.
Sir James Mitchell Park, South Perth WA 6151
Image courtesy of Western Australia Tourism.
Piney Lakes Reserve, Winthrop
Tucked away in suburbia, Piney Lakes is quiet, green, and full of birdlife. There are walking trails through native bush, shaded picnic areas, and a nature-based playground that’s great for younger kids. It’s peaceful, low-key, and feels a bit like your own backyard.
555 Leach Hwy, Winthrop WA 6150
Image courtesy of Buggy Buddys.
Bibra Lake Reserve, Bibra Lake
This one’s a southside staple. There’s a massive all-abilities playground, wide-open grassy areas, BBQs, and a lakeside trail that’s ideal for bikes or scooters. Great for big family meetups or burning energy with the kids. Keep an eye out for turtles and birdlife along the water’s edge as well!
Progress Dr, Bibra Lake WA 6163
Image courtesy of Trails WA.
Let’s help you live near the places you love
Spending weekends like this is pretty hard to beat. If you’ve been thinking about making that lifestyle more permanent, we can help with that too.
Our team knows the southern suburbs inside and out, and we’ve got plenty of homes for sale near some of Perth’s best picnic spots. Browse our current houses for sale in Perth or get in touch with us. We’d love to help you find your place.
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