Grab your picnic baskets and gather the troops, we've found the best family-friendly and picture-perfect picnic areas in the Bundaberg and North Burnett Regions. From seaside escapes to hinterland views and botanic garden surrounds, you'll be spoiled for choice with these 10 picnic paradise spots!
To save you time searching for that perfect picnic meal, we've created this guide to dining out in the region.
THE HUMMOCK
Surrounded by rich red soil and rows upon rows of fresh produce, sits a low-lying volcanic remnant known as The Hummock. While only sitting 96 metres above sea level, this little piece of Bundaberg offers spectacular views of the region and the perfect place to plate up a picnic. Situated just off Bargara Road, you will find yourself overlooking the Coral Coasts beautiful beaches, abundant sugar cane fields and bustling city life. Take a journey up to the Hummock and soak up the views while watching the sun set and see if you can spy the iconic Bundaberg Rum Distillery Mill.
CHRISTEN PARK BARGARA
Known as the lifestyle capital of the Coral Coast, Bargara is a local favourite when it comes to rolling out the picnic rug and playing Jenga in the park. This ocean oasis is a must for all, especially those looking for a day spent sitting seaside. Head to the infamous Christen Park in Bargara and enjoy the charming picnic areas before taking a dip at Bargara Beach or the Basin.
KELLYS BEACH
Venture further south of Bargara and arrive at Kelly’s Beach. Park up at one of the many shaded picnic areas lining the coastline and enjoy lunch along the shoreline with the sea breeze flittering through the leaves ahead. Crawford Park at Kelly’s Beach offers amenities and easy access to the beach. If you prefer calmer waters, set your picnic up along the picnic areas lining the Causeway for the afternoon.
PALMERS CREEK PARK
Looking for somewhere a little less crowded? Head to Palmers Creek at Innes Park and pick your perfect picnic spot among the shaded trees. Relax and soak up the peaceful surrounds with nothing but the creek as your backdrop. This secluded picnic area is a local favourite for couples and families, especially where the creek meets the ocean at low tide.
BUNDABERG BOTANIC GARDENS
Nestled within the beautiful surrounds of the Bundaberg Botanic Gardens, take a walk through the winding paths that travel through Japanese and Chinese gardens, spotting the wildlife along the way. With plenty of space to be found, make yourself at home and bask in the peaceful natural landscape.
ALEXANDRA PARK
Trade pristine beaches for sweeping river views of the Burnett River and take a seat at one of the under covered picnic areas while the kids play in the park. Don’t want to pack a picnic basket? Simply pick up a bite to eat from one of the many local cafes offering take away that run parallel to the river, just a block or two away.
MOORE PARK BEACH
From picnics on the sand to undercover tables and spacious parks, Moore Park Beach offers an ideal picnic area for those wanting to escape. Travel up the beach towards Ray Townson Park or choose to sit in the shade at Lions Park or Malvern Drive Park for your picnic getaway.
BALDWIN SWAMP ENVIRONMENTAL PARK
If you’re a bird lover or a lover of the outdoors, then Baldwin Swamp Environmental Park is the perfect place to spend a day exploring. Pack yourself a picnic for the day’s adventures ahead and follow the various walking tracks and trails that interconnect over wetlands. From boardwalks, concreted pathways and bush walks to be explored, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the abundant wildlife that call the area home. After weaving your way through this environmental park, enjoy a picnic in the park at the Scotland Street entrance where large picnic tables await.
ELLIOTT HEADS
Find a spot along the idyllic beach of Elliott heads or sit yourself down along one of the grassed areas overlooking this ocean oasis. This tranquil beach is a local favourite and will have you falling in love with its tranquillity, effervescent waters and white sand. Grab that book you’ve always wanted to read and stop along the many farm-gate honesty boxes to add to your picnic.
CANIA GORGE NATIONAL PARK
Perfect for all those picnic lovers within a 50km radius, why not travel to Cania Gorge National Park for a day filled with breathtaking views as you journey throughout a sandstone wilderness. You’ll find sheltered picnic tables on the southern side of the park adjacent to Three Moon Creek, that also branches into onto a 300m return walking trail. Be sure to pack your lunch and snacks in re-usable containers as no bins are provided and all rubbish must be taken home.
Why not discover more picnic inspiration with Crush Magazine's top picnic spots, you're sure to be spoiled for choice.