As the days warm up, we are now able to venture out for a family picnic on the Sunshine Coast… yay! However, we all know that this is never an easy task with little ones in tow. After all, we might be outdoors, but families still need the basics such as stroller-friendly paths, good coffee, and amenities within an easy dash (we’ve got your back, toilet training mamas!).
To make your next picnic a walk in the park, here are seven of the best family-friendly picnic spots on the Sunshine Coast.
Noosa Botanic Gardens, Cooroy
With plenty of secret gardens, a fun Greek amphitheatre to play in and turtles to feed in the lake, Noosa Botanic Gardens is a great spot for the kids to enjoy some outdoor time. The paths are all stroller friendly with no challenging walks, making perfect for a stroll and a picnic with little ones.
Cotton Tree Park, Cotton Tree
Cotton Tree is one of the most popular picnic spots on the Sunshine Coast for families, and with good reason. With plenty of space, shade and waterfront location, it’s great spot to kick a ball, share a picnic and enjoy being outdoors.
Mary Cairncross Reserve, Maleny
In need of serenity? The stunning Mary Cairncross Reserve has something for everyone. Take in the sounds of the birds along the 2km bushwalk, or for little legs, just head up to the butterfly viewing platform. There’s a huge grassed area to run around and enjoy a picnic, and a small play park, too.
Chambers Island, Maroochydore
Perfect for families with little ones, Chambers Island in the Maroochy River is an easy two-minute walk from the car park and over the bridge. Kids love the small, sheltered sandy beach and splashing in the shallow water, and it’s separate enough from the town centre for parents to feel like they are taking a break. However, it can get busy.
Pirate Park, Noosaville
With a huge playground, plenty of shade under the trees and access to the Noosa River to dip your toes, the Pirate Park on Gympie Terrace is one of the best family-friendly picnic spots on the Sunshine Coast. Don’t want to pack a basket? Grab fish and chips from the local eateries and relax on the river bank whilst the kids burn off some energy.
Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden, Tanawha
There’s so much to explore at the Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden, it’s an ideal spot for families. Wander through the sculpture gardens, explore the Whipbird Walk, play in the cubbies. There are plenty of picnic tables and shaded areas throughout the gardens for a picnic and stacks of space to enjoy the serenity and fresh air.
Point Cartwright
With stunning views of the ocean and large grassy slopes to kick back on, Point Cartwright is a popular picnic spot for families and locals on the Sunshine Coast.
The coastal track around the lighthouse offers stunning views—from Mount Coolum to Kawana Beach. You can also simply enjoy the views and sea breeze.
Images: Tourism and Events Queensland
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