From the calming coastline to the lush hinterland, we really do have the best of everything on the Gold Coast. There are few better ways to appreciate the Gold Coast's natural beauty than by setting up a picnic and soaking up stunning views.
Whether you like blissful silence, kid-friendly facilities or a spot to people-watch, the Gold Coast is full of amazing picnic spots (all with beautiful views, of course). So, pack the car, load up the hamper with way too much cheese and whatever you do, don't forget the rug. Scroll on for ten of the best picnic spots on the Gold Coast.
Syd Duncan Park
Lower Beechmont
If you're after drop-dead gorgeous picnic views over the Hinze Dam, look no further. Syd Duncan Park is located at the top of Lower Beechmont and boasts panoramic views over the Gold Coast, a well-maintained grassy hilltop, toilets and picnic tables. Due to the more rural nature of Syd Duncan, this picnic spot is less frequented than others, but you can bet you'll be joined by several loved-up couples on any given weekend.
Burleigh Hill
Burleigh Heads
Let’s not play maverick just for the sake of it—Burleigh Hill is the best picnic spot on the Gold Coast. Unless you hate crowds and looking for a place to park, in which case it could be the worst. But for most of us, the sweeping views from Burleigh Beach up to the big smoke, the laidback vibes, the plethora of dogs and the 'always Sunday' mood make it well worth it.
The Panorama
Tallai
The Panorama in Tallai should be a monthly drive for any Gold Coast local. Just 25 minutes drive west from Broadbeach, this millionaire’s row gives an unmatchable outlook over our incredible coastlands and at nightime you'll be able to see thousands of twinkling city lights. As a picnic spot, this may not have a nearby coffee shop or a BBQ and shade area, but pack the car with blankets and snacks and you're good to go.
Evandale Parklands
Bundall
Unbeknown to many, HOTA Gallery in Bundall has a little sand-fringed lake and parklands area resting between the main building and the Broadwater, dedicated to all things multicultural and peaceful. Evandale Parklands is a hallmark picnic area for many reasons, but mainly its ducks. There are many and they are adorable. It also homes outdoor yoga classes, a running track, exercise equipment, and resting areas. Visit on a Sunday morning and you can pick up delicous goodies from the weekly HOTA Farmers Markets.
Currumbin Rock Pools
Currumbin Valley
Rock pools, fresh mountain air and limited WiFi, the Currumbin Rock Pools have been putting smiles on summer faces for many years, and for good reason. For the less organised picnicgoer, detour past a local cafe and pick up an assortment of wholesome slices, bakes, salads, and treats. You can set up on the rockpools or on the surrounding grassy area with toilets and barbeque facilities.
Regional Botantic Gardens
Benowa
Set on 31 hectares, you would never know the Regional Botanic Gardens are just ten minutes drive from Surfers Paradise. Wander through the floral Sensory Garden, explore the Butterfly Garden or smell the roses at the stunning Rose Garden. Once you've explored, throw down a rug by the lake or in one of the many picnic areas and chow down on charcuterie at this top Gold Coast picnic spot.
Hang Gliders Lookout
Tamborine Mountain
We might be a little biased, but Tamborine Mountain's Hang Gliders Lookout is our favourite Gold Coast picnic spot. Not only is it slightly off the beaten track, but it overlooks the beautiful Canungra Valley, has clean mountain air and is located close to many of Tamborine's wineries and cafes. This picnic spot is used for hang gliders to take off from, so if you arrive early in the morning, you might be lucky enough to see a crew of colourful gliders taking flight.
Cascade Gardens
Broadbeach
Cascade Gardens in Broadbeach might the Gold Coast's most family-friendly picnic spot. Here you'll find barbecues, picnic tables, sensory gardens, playgrounds and a waterfront parkway. There is also a Rotary Kokoda Memorial Walk and a rainforest walk which features Indigenous cultural elements. If you visit on a weekend, it will be bustling and you'll most likely see a wedding taking place at the gorgeous wedding rotunda.
Wave Break Island
Broadwater
Nestled in the Broadwater behind the Gold Coast Seaway, Wave Break Island is an absolute picnic must do. It might appear as a shrubby wasteland to some, but it is home to many a great weekend adventure and boating holiday for countless others. Sit back, enjoy your picnic and soak up the oceanfront views.
Hinze Dam
Advancetown
The Hinze Dam is an easy option for an out-of-town escape next weekend. If you’re not shy of working up a sweat before smashing those dips and deli cheeses beckoning from the esky, stride out on the dam wall and appreciate where your seemingly bottomless supply of safe tap water is sourced. It's a 3.6-kilometre round trip but well worth it.
Image credit: The Burleigh Hill, Brooke Darling for The Urban List & Urban List