What better way to enjoy the beauty of the Gold Coast than with a delicious al fresco brunch, lunch or late afternoon picnic with a view? Home to beautiful bays, areas of outstanding natural beauty and landscaped gardens, finding the perfect place to enjoy a picnic is easy. From romantic dates with a difference to wild dining with the kids during the school holidays, the Gold Coast is home to some of the best year-round picnic spots everyone can enjoy.

Whether you prefer a beachside backdrop or are looking for something a little bit more formal, you are spoiled for choice when it comes to amazing places to throw down the picnic rug and dig into plates of sandwiches, cold cuts and sweet treats. To help you plan an amazing Gold Coast picnic during your next visit, here are some of the best picnic spots to check out.

Burleigh Hill

Located just a quick 10-minute drive from Dorsett Gold Coast, one of the region's most popular outdoor destinations, Burleigh Hills, sets the scene for fantastic family picnics under the Gold Coast sun. Loved for its unspoiled natural beauty, modern BBQ and picnic facilities, stunning views over the ocean, and safe play areas for kids, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon. Nearby, Burleigh Pavilion serves up a variety of casual dining options and drinks, while the rock pools are ideal for cooling off from the heat of the day.

If visiting on a Sunday, be sure to check out the Burleigh Heads Art & Craft Markets or enjoy a stroll down to Miami Beach for a spot of surfing, snorkelling or swimming. Making your way across Burleigh Head National Park, you’ll find the calm waters of Tallebudgera Creek and Tallebudgera Beach. With plenty of nearby cafes, bars and restaurants and a wealth of local shops, there’s lots to keep the whole family entertained, and the picnic hamper full during your visit.

Burleigh Hill Picnic

Tallebudgera Creek

Another top destination perfect for picnics, and just a 10-minute drive from Dorsett Gold Coast, is Tallebudgera Creek. Throw down a blanket and relax, framed with a backdrop of the Burleigh Heads National Park and the glittering turquoise waters of Palm Beach. Enjoy a day of splashing around in the cool, calm waters of the creek - which is ideal for those travelling with kids. Kick back and relax with nothing but the sound of the water flowing and the scent of eucalyptus filling the air as you dig into your creek-side picnic.

On-site, you’ll have access to a variety of facilities, including barbecues, picnic zones and toilets. Just a short distance further down the road is the town of Currumbin, where you’ll find Currumbin Wildlife Park and Currumbin Creek. Open throughout the year, Tallebudgera Creek is a must for people who love to picnic by the beach.

Tallebudgera Creek

Cascade Gardens

Right on the water's edge and nestled on the banks of the Nerang River, you’ll find the picnic grounds of Cascade Gardens. As one of the most popular BBQ and picnic spots on the Gold Coast, everything you need for a fantastic day out can be found here. Soak up the sun and make the most of being outdoors on the well-maintained grounds or enjoy a little bit of shade in one of the protected shelters. Kids will love the large playground, with more than enough to keep them entertained for hours on end.

After enjoying your picnic, why not explore the beautiful rainforest walking trails where you’ll spot plenty of local wildlife? The Memorial Walk is also worth dedicating a little bit of time to as well, whilst the enclosed sanctuary provides an idyllic haven for a multitude of migratory birds.

Picnic Spread

Macintosh Island Park

Located just 10-minutes away in the heart of Surfers Paradise; Macintosh Island Park places picnickers amongst the glitz and glamour of the Gold Coast’s top tourist destination. Make the most of this idyllic oasis near Main Beach, with towering trees providing plenty of shade, adventurous kids' play zones and a safe bubbling brook for the little ones to enjoy. Enjoy your picnic to the call of peacocks, which roam the parkland freely and take advantage of modern picnic and BBQ facilities.

Being located on the banks of the Nerang River means a variety of riverside sandy beaches are available, as is the opportunity for a spot of kayaking or paddle boarding. Why not combine your picnic with a visit to Main Beach, where you can cool off in the sea and top up your tan on one of the region's most iconic beaches?

picnic in nature

Regional Botanic Gardens

When it comes to a Gold Coast picnic spot that is truly spectacular, The Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens, Benowa, never fails to impress. Located less than a 10-minute drive from Dorsett Gold Coast, make the most of 31 hectares of pristine parkland, lakes and gardens that cover everything from mangroves to jungle and rose garden to butterfly haven. Before setting up your picnic, be sure to check out the bush foods garden, which is educational and entertaining and provides ample opportunity to add a few new flavours to your hamper.

The best place to throw down your picnic blanket is by the lake, where ample walking trails, local wildlife and cool breezes can be enjoyed. For those who have never visited before, free guided walks are available - helping uncover the best-hidden gems and kid-friendly activities within the gardens. Kids will love the Kaialgumm aboriginal games trail, while ice cream, coffee and snacks can be found at the Friends Centre.

Gold Coast Accommodation

With 313 stylish rooms, delicious food, decadent cocktails and a variety of leisure activities to choose between, Dorsett Gold Coast is the perfect place to stay on your next visit to the glittering Gold Coast. Fall asleep in king beds made for sweet dreaming and wake up to coastline, city or hinterland views. From the moment you check-in, you’ll enjoy authentic hospitality, stylish amenities and direct access to the best things to do on the Gold Coast.

Make the most of your next getaway. Book a Stay