The Swan Valley, with its scenic vineyards, lush parks, and riverside views, offers some of the best picnic spots in Western Australia. Whether you're looking to enjoy a family outing, a romantic lunch, or a peaceful break from exploring the wineries, the valley’s wide-open spaces and picturesque settings make it an ideal destination for a picnic. Here’s a guide to the top picnic spots in Swan Valley, where you can relax, enjoy nature, and perhaps sip on a glass of local wine.

1. Whiteman Park

Whiteman Park is one of the largest and most popular picnic destinations in the Swan Valley, offering an array of activities and facilities for families. Spread across 4,000 hectares, the park is home to several designated picnic areas with plenty of shaded seating, barbecue facilities, and playgrounds for the kids. The park’s expansive lawns and natural bushland provide a peaceful backdrop for picnics, with opportunities for walking, cycling, and wildlife watching.

One of the highlights of Whiteman Park is its miniature railway, which is a hit with families, and the Caversham Wildlife Park located within the park, where you can see kangaroos, koalas, and other Australian animals.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

Facilities: Barbecue areas, shaded picnic tables, playgrounds, mini-train, walking trails.

Tip: Head to the Village Café to grab a coffee or a snack before setting up your picnic. Make time for a ride on the miniature train—great fun for kids and adults alike.

2. Bells Rapids Park

For a more serene and natural picnic setting, Bells Rapids Park is a stunning spot located along the Swan River. This area is particularly beautiful during the wildflower season and the Avon Descent (an annual white-water race), when the river’s rapids are at their most impressive. The park offers plenty of open space for picnics, as well as several walking trails that take you through the valley, offering incredible views of the river and surrounding hills.

The River Walk is a popular choice for those looking to enjoy a post-picnic stroll, while the Goat Walk is a more challenging hike with rewarding views of the rapids and valley. It's a peaceful spot where you can relax by the water, surrounded by nature.

Facilities: Picnic tables, river views, walking trails, open grassy areas.

Tip: Visit during spring for the best chance to see the wildflowers in bloom, or plan your picnic around the Avon Descent for an exciting display of white-water racing.

3. Sandy Beach Reserve

Nestled along the Swan River in Bassendean, Sandy Beach Reserve is a quiet riverside spot perfect for a laid-back picnic. With shady trees, grassy areas, and a gentle slope leading to the riverbank, this spot is ideal for families, couples, or anyone looking to relax near the water. The calm river makes it a great spot for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, and there’s a small sandy beach area for the kids to play on.

This hidden gem is quieter than some of the larger parks in Swan Valley, making it a great place to unwind and enjoy a peaceful picnic by the river.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

Facilities: Picnic tables, barbecue facilities, river access, playground.

Tip: Bring along some kayaks or paddle boards to explore the river after your picnic, or simply sit back and enjoy the serene river views.

4. Walyunga National Park

For a more adventurous picnic experience, Walyunga National Park is the perfect destination. Located in the Darling Range near Upper Swan, this park is known for its bushwalking trails, Aboriginal heritage sites, and scenic views of the Swan River as it winds through the valley. The park is particularly popular for its wildflowers in spring and the rocky rapids along the river.

There are several picnic areas throughout the park, many of which are shaded by tall gum trees. After your picnic, you can explore one of the park’s many walking trails, ranging from easy riverside walks to more challenging hikes up the hills, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the valley.

Facilities: Picnic tables, barbecues, walking trails, river views.

Tip: Visit in the cooler months (April to October) when the walking trails are most enjoyable, and the river is flowing strongly through the rapids.

5. John Forrest National Park

As one of Australia’s oldest national parks, John Forrest National Park is a fantastic spot for a picnic in the bush. Located on the edge of the Swan Valley, this park offers several picnic areas with barbecues, as well as plenty of walking trails that take you through the bushland and past scenic waterfalls like Hovea Falls and National Park Falls.

The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos and birds, making it a great place for nature lovers. The Heritage Trail, which follows an old railway line, is a popular walking route that offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Facilities: Picnic tables, barbecues, walking trails, waterfalls, wildlife.

Tip: For a special treat, stop by the John Forrest Tavern, located within the park, where kangaroos often gather near the outdoor seating area.

6. Upper Reach Winery

For a combination of wine tasting and picnicking, Upper Reach Winery offers a scenic vineyard setting where you can enjoy a relaxing lunch with a view. The winery has a beautiful lawn area overlooking the vineyard and the Swan River, making it an ideal spot to lay out a picnic blanket and indulge in some local produce. You can bring your own picnic or purchase a picnic hamper from the winery’s restaurant, filled with delicious local cheeses, meats, and bread.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

While you're there, be sure to stop by the cellar door for a wine tasting, or book a guided vineyard tour to learn more about the winemaking process.

Facilities: Picnic areas, wine tastings, restaurant, vineyard views.

Tip: Book a picnic hamper in advance and pair it with a bottle of Upper Reach wine for the perfect picnic experience.

7. Lilac Hill Park

Lilac Hill Park, located near the town of Guildford, is another lovely riverside picnic spot in the Swan Valley. This spacious park offers plenty of grassy areas, shade from large trees, and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a great place for a family picnic. The park is often used for cricket matches, and you can enjoy watching a game while relaxing in the shade.

The Swan River runs alongside the park, offering scenic views and a chance for kids to play by the water. It’s also close to the historic town of Guildford, where you can explore local cafes and antique shops after your picnic.

Facilities: Picnic tables, barbecues, cricket grounds, river views.

Tip: Bring along some sports gear like a frisbee or soccer ball for a fun, active afternoon with the family.

8. Noble Falls Picnic Area

For those who love combining a picnic with a walk in nature, the Noble Falls Picnic Area is a fantastic choice. Located near the small town of Gidgegannup, this picnic spot offers plenty of shaded picnic tables and barbecues, as well as easy access to the Noble Falls walking trail. The walk takes you along Wooroloo Brook to the waterfall, which is especially beautiful in the winter and spring months when the water is flowing.

The picnic area is surrounded by bushland and offers a peaceful retreat for families, couples, or solo adventurers. The short, flat walking trail makes it suitable for all ages, and there are plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the sounds of nature.

Facilities: Picnic tables, barbecues, walking trail, waterfall.

Tip: Visit in spring to enjoy the wildflowers along the walking trail, and bring along a camera to capture the beautiful waterfall.

9. Mandoon Estate

For a more luxurious picnic experience, Mandoon Estate offers a beautiful lawn area where you can enjoy a gourmet picnic while overlooking the vineyards and the Swan River. The estate provides picnic hampers filled with local produce, cheeses, and charcuterie, which can be paired with one of their award-winning wines or beers from the Homestead Brewery.

Mandoon’s family-friendly atmosphere and spacious grounds make it a great place for a relaxed afternoon. After your picnic, you can explore the art gallery, enjoy a wine tasting, or let the kids play in the open space.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

Facilities: Picnic areas, wine tastings, brewery, art gallery.

Tip: Reserve a picnic hamper ahead of time for a convenient and delicious meal on the estate’s lawn.

Final Thoughts

The Swan Valley is full of beautiful and peaceful picnic spots, whether you're looking for riverside views, bushland settings, or vineyard backdrops. From the adventure-filled Walyunga National Park to the tranquil Sandy Beach Reserve, the region offers something for everyone. Pack a picnic, grab a bottle of local wine, and enjoy a relaxing day surrounded by the natural beauty and charm of the Swan Valley.