Your guide on where to picnic
Whether you’re planning a picnic stop along the route or a well-organised picnic, the Great Ocean Road region offers plenty of options.
Planning the perfect picnic along the Great Ocean Road? Whether you're craving a pre-packed gourmet hamper or looking for the ideal spot to lay down your blanket, the region has everything you need for an unforgettable al fresco experience. From coastal lookouts and tranquil lakes to lush botanic gardens and towering redwood groves, here are some of the best places to enjoy your picnic amidst nature’s finest backdrops.
Effortlessly explore the region with a pre-packed picnic hamper from Surf Coast Picnic.
Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because, their hampers feature local favourites – making it easy to enjoy a delicious stop while soaking up the scenery. Simply pick up a picnic, grab a rug and you’re ready! They cater to various dietary needs, occasions and budgets while making sure everything is sourced from the Surfcoast, Bellarine & Geelong. Order online in advance to personalise your hamper for any occasion or choose from one of their curated selections.
For a unique picnic experience, consider hiring a bike from Ride With Us
Based in Timboon, hop on a mountain or e-bike and pedal through the Timboon region. Treat yourself to a cheese platter, enjoy fresh strawberries, and indulge in creamy Timboon Fine Ice Cream. It’s the perfect date idea, family adventure or friend catchup. With everything from bike hire to a cooler bag provided, all you need to do is soak up the beautiful scenery and enjoy.
Now you’ve got your picnic sorted, you need to find a place to set down and enjoy. Here are our suggestions:
1. Set yourself up by the Trestle Bridge on the grassy bank on the Timboon to Camperdown Rail Trail, or head coastal to the town of Port Campbell where there are plenty of picnic tables overlooking the bay and close by to the Twelve Apostles.
2. Heading inland? Enjoy the expansive views and serene waters of Lake Bullen Merri. It’s a great spot for a relaxing picnic, and there are BBQ’s on-site, a playground for the kids or the lake for the warmer months.
3. The beautifully maintained Colac Botanic Gardens offer plenty of space and picturesque spots for a picnic. Enjoy the lush green surroundings and peaceful atmosphere as you dine outdoors.
4. In a serene corner of the Otway Ranges, the Californian Redwoods offer a breathtaking backdrop for your picnic. There’s two large picnic tables, or a grassy area to set up your picnic as the towering giants stretch high into the sky nearby.
5. Another stop among the giant trees and lush greenery of the Otways, Stevensons Falls offers a fully accessible location with plenty of picnic tables. Plus, there’s a stunning waterfall at the end of the trail, making it a fantastic spot for the whole family to enjoy and explore.
Or, if you’re opting for a coastal day picnic from Torquay:
6. For a picnic with a view, head to Teddy’s Lookout in Lorne. Here, you’ll find panoramic vistas of the Great Ocean Road meeting the Otway Ranges. Set up your picnic on the grassy area, and enjoy the stunning coastal views while you munch on your favourite snacks.
7. Pick up your picnic head to Coogoorah Park. This spot has everything you need for a great outing, including BBQ facilities, toilets, a large playground for the kids, and nearby walking tracks that are perfect for a post-picnic stroll.
8. No shoes, no plates, no worries! Head to the Anglesea Riverbank, where you can effortlessly enjoy a casual picnic on the grassy lawns or riverside platforms. With plenty of BBQs, picnic tables, and facilities nearby, it’s an easy-going spot for a relaxed meal by the water’s edge.
Closer to the Western end of the region?
9. Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve offers a picnic experience like no other, set within an ancient volcanic crater. As you drive into the crater, you feel like you’re entering another world, with its green surroundings and wildlife, it’s a fantastic spot for a family picnic.
10. Located in Warrnambool, Lake Pertobe is perfect for a family picnic by the water. With wide lawns, BBQ facilities, and picnic tables, it’s a great stop. The adventure playground will keep kids entertained, while the lake offers walking tracks, fun boat rides or bird spotting.
11. While there are many great picnic spots around Portland, the Portland Botanic Gardens offer a peaceful retreat and are beautifully maintained. Bring a picnic to enjoy beneath the trees or make use of the picnic tables and BBQ’s. The cable tram stops nearby the entrance, and gardens are linked by walking trails to Fawthrop Lagoon and the Foreshore Precinct.
More Picnic Spots
Barwon Park
Warrnambool Community Garden
BIG4 Port Fairy Holiday Park Monkeys and Mermaids Indoor Play Centre
Port Campbell Playground
Graton Gardens
Lake Pertobe
For personalised advice and expert recommendations, stop by one of our Visitor Information Centres. Our local Great Ocean Road experts can help you tailor your trip and provide insights on top attractions, camping spots, and travel tips to make your stay unforgettable.
