When the sun’s out and the skies are blue, there’s nothing quite like grabbing a rug, packing your cooler, and heading out for a relaxing day in nature. With its blend of lush gardens, scenic coastlines, and hidden urban oases, Melbourne is spoiled for choice when it comes to outdoor escapes.
Whether you’re planning a romantic afternoon, a catch-up with mates, or a family feast under the gum trees, there’s a perfect picnic spot waiting for you. In this guide, we’ve rounded up 13 of the best picnic spots Melbourne has to offer — from iconic favourites to underrated gems.
13 Best Picnic Spots in Melbourne
Just like the stunning picnic spots in Sydney, Melbourne serves up plenty of amazing places to throw down a rug and enjoy the outdoors— from peaceful inner-city gardens to coastal views and hidden green pockets. Here are 13 of the best picnic spots Melbourne has to offer:
1. St Kilda Beach
If you’re a beach lover, St Kilda offers a vibrant coastal atmosphere perfect for a picnic. Spread your blanket on the sandy shores, enjoy the sea breeze, and watch the world go by. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along the iconic St Kilda Pier or explore the nearby St Kilda Botanical Gardens for a touch of greenery.
2. Royal Botanic Gardens
Located in the heart of Melbourne, the Royal Botanic Gardens provide a serene escape from the bustling city CBD. With expansive lawns, tranquil lakes, and diverse plant collections, it’s one of the most popular Melbourne picnic spots.
Find a shady spot under an ancient tree, lay out your blanket, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. You can also try their guided tours and educational programs here, perfect for families or those interested in botany.
3. Yarra Bend Park
For those who prefer more natural picnic places in Melbourne, Yarra Bend Park is a good option. As the largest area of natural bushland near the city centre, it offers a blend of urban convenience and rural charm.
Go for a picnic along the banks of the Yarra River, where you can watch kayakers and rowers glide by. The park also features walking trails, a golf course, and even a colony of fruit bats, providing plenty of post-picnic entertainment.
4. Fitzroy Gardens
Step into a fairy tale at Fitzroy Gardens, one of Melbourne’s most historic and beautiful parks. With its elm-lined walkways, ornamental lakes, and charming conservatory, it’s a picturesque setting for any picnic.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Captain Cook’s Cottage, which was relocated from England and rebuilt in the gardens. After your meal, explore the miniature Tudor Village or simply relax amidst the lush greenery.
5. Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden
For beautiful picnic spots around Melbourne, head to the Dandenong Ranges. This popular day trip destination boasts stunning vistas and vibrant seasonal blooms. Choose from different picnic grounds within the national park, each offering its own unique charm.
Take a ride on the historic Puffing Billy steam train or explore one of the many walking trails through the lush fern gullies and towering mountain ash forests.
6. Torquay
If you’re up for a short drive, Torquay is the ultimate destination for those who love to be by the ocean. Known as the gateway to the Great Ocean Road and the home of Australian surfing culture, Torquay offers scenic views of Bells Beach and beyond. Enjoy your picnic on the golden sands, then perhaps try your hand at surfing or simply soak up the laid-back coastal atmosphere.
7. Carlton Gardens
Adjacent to the Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage site offering expansive lawns and majestic tree-lined avenues.
It’s an excellent picnic area in Melbourne, especially during autumn when the foliage turns vibrant hues. After your meal, visit the Melbourne Museum or simply relax by the ornamental fountains.
8. Westerfolds Park
Located in Templestowe, Westerfolds Park spans over 120 hectares of natural bushland along the Yarra River. It’s perfect for those seeking a more secluded picnic experience. The park offers picnic tables, barbecues, and walking trails where you might spot kangaroos and native birds.
9. Hanging Rock Reserve
Located near Woodend, about an hour’s drive from Melbourne, Hanging Rock Reserve is a unique geological formation surrounded by picnic grounds. Set up your picnic under the shade of native trees, then embark on a climb up Hanging Rock for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The reserve also offers walking trails and is rich in local flora and fauna.
10. Organ Pipes National Park
For a beautiful suburban picnic location in Melbourne, Organ Pipes National Park is renowned for its striking basalt columns resembling organ pipes. Enjoy a picnic in designated areas, then take a short walk to view these impressive geological formations. The park also features walking trails through native bushland, offering a peaceful retreat from the city.
11. Heide Museum of Modern Art
If you’re looking for romantic picnic spots in Melbourne, this is it. Combine your love for art and outdoor dining at the Heide Museum of Modern Art. Located just 20 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD, Heide offers beautiful sculpture gardens perfect for a unique date experience.
Indulge in the thought-provoking artworks and soak in the creative atmosphere. Hold your partner’s hands and explore the museum’s collections housed in various buildings across the property.
12. Werribee Park
For a touch of grandeur with your picnic, visit Werribee Park. Home to the magnificent Werribee Mansion, this park offers formal gardens, open lawns, and even a rose garden for your picnicking pleasure.
After eating, tour the 19th-century mansion, visit the Victoria State Rose Garden, or say hello to the animals at the adjacent Werribee Open Range Zoo.
13. Point Nepean National Park
Last but not least, Point Nepean National Park offers a picnic experience steeped in both natural beauty and history. Located at the very tip of the Mornington Peninsula, this park boasts panoramic views of Port Phillip Bay and Bass Strait.
Enjoy your picnic while exploring the historic military fortifications or find a secluded spot along the rugged coastline. The park also offers excellent walking and cycling trails for post-picnic adventures.
How Can You Prepare for a Picnic in Melbourne?
Once you’ve picked one of the best picnic places Melbourne has to offer, it’s time to get organised so you can kick back and enjoy the day. Here’s how to make sure your picnic is relaxing, fun, and stress-free:
Check the Weather
Melbourne’s weather has a bit of a reputation — four seasons in one day isn’t just a saying. Check the forecast before you head out, and pack accordingly (think: hats and sunscreen or umbrellas and jackets — sometimes both).
If you’re planning a longer day out or heading to a spot with limited shade or shelter (like the beach or a more open park), having something like the EcoFlow WAVE 2 Portable Air Conditioner with Heater can seriously level up your comfort.
It’s a wireless portable AC with built-in heating, perfect for Melbourne’s four-seasons-in-a-day kind of weather. It can cool a small space fast — dropping the temp by 10℃ in just 5 minutes — and you don’t need to worry about installation or drainage.
Thanks to its compact, quiet design (just 44 dB in Sleep Mode), you can use it without disturbing your peaceful picnic setup. Plus, it runs for up to 8 hours in Eco Mode with the add-on battery, and you can charge it at home, in your car, or even with solar.
Pick Your Spot Early
Popular picnic areas can fill up fast, especially on weekends. If you’ve got your heart set on a prime shady spot or one with a BBQ, it’s worth getting there a bit earlier.
Pack the Essentials
Here’s a quick checklist:
- A comfy picnic rug or camping chairs
- Esky or cooler bag with ice packs
- Reusable cutlery, plates, and cups
- Napkins, wet wipes, and rubbish bags
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, and hand sanitizer
- A portable speaker for tunes — but keep it low so everyone can enjoy the space.
If you’re bringing any tech — like everyone’s phone, a portable fan, or even a mini blender for smoothies — having backup power is a smart move. That’s where the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus Portable Power Station comes in handy. It’s compact, powerful, and whisper-quiet (under 30dB), making it perfect for outdoor settings where you want reliable power without the noise.
With up to 600W of rated output and the ability to handle 1,200W devices using X-Boost, it keeps your gear running without a hitch. Its smart app control gives you full command over your power usage, and the fast-charging options — from wall sockets to solar or your car — mean you’ll always be ready to go.
And thanks to its lightweight, space-saving design, this portable power station fits easily in the boot, your van, or a picnic bag. It’s a seriously handy way to stay powered up no matter where your picnic takes you.
Plan Your Menu
Keep it simple and shareable. Think sandwiches, wraps, salads, fresh fruit, and snacks. If you’re firing up a public BBQ, prep your meat or veggie skewers at home to save time.
Don’t forget drinks — plenty of water, and maybe something fizzy or sparkling to make it special. Just check local rules if you’re thinking of bringing alcohol — not all parks allow it.
To keep everything fresh — and your drinks icy cold — the EcoFlow GLACIER Portable Refrigerator is a total game-changer. It’s a 3-in-1 fridge, freezer, and ice maker that runs wire-free for up to 40 hours, making it perfect for longer days out or picnic spots without nearby facilities.
With dual-zone temperature control, you can keep salads crisp on one side and drinks frosty on the other — or even bring a tub of ice cream if you’re feeling fancy. The built-in ice maker is a bonus too, pumping out 18 cubes in just 12 minutes — ideal for chilling drinks on a hot day.
It’s easy to wheel around, fits neatly in the car, and can even charge your phone via USB-C. Whether you’re picnicking by the bay or deep in one of Melbourne’s leafy parks, EcoFlow GLACIER helps keep the good food (and good vibes) flowing.
Think About Entertainment
Depending on who you’re with, a few extras can really lift the vibe. Bring a footy, cricket set, cards, or a book if you’re after a chill solo picnic.
Leave No Trace
Melbourne’s green spaces are there for everyone to enjoy. Make sure you clean up properly, take your rubbish with you, and leave the spot as lovely as you found it.
Conclusion
No matter the season, Melbourne delivers when it comes to beautiful picnic backdrops — from bayside breezes to shady inner-city retreats. With a little prep and the right location, your next outdoor get-together can be as relaxing or adventurous as you like. So, grab your sunnies, pack a few local goodies, and get out there to explore the top picnic spots Melbourne locals love. You might just find a new favourite corner of this great city.
FAQ
Which picnic spots in Melbourne are for family?
If you’re looking for a great picnic spot to enjoy with your family in Melbourne, head to the Royal Botanic Gardens. This beautiful park offers plenty of open spaces, shady trees, and overlooking views of the city skyline. Spend the day exploring the gardens’ many walking trails, lakes, and plant collections. The Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden is a must-visit for families, with its interactive play spaces and educational exhibits.
Which picnic spots in Melbourne are pet-friendly?
For a picnic with your furry friend, check out Princes Park in Carlton North. A spacious park that has off-leash areas where your dog can play and has plenty of grassy areas for picnicking. You can also find a beautiful lake, walking trails, and sporting facilities here. Another great option is Gasworks Arts Park in Albert Park, which has a designated off-leash area for dogs and plenty of shaded spots for a picnic. The park also hosts regular events, so there’s always something interesting to see and do.