Sydney’s best BBQ spots
The locations are idyllic and the hotplates are there for public use – so get sizzling.
1. Bronte Park
Bronte Park ticks the boxes when it comes to barbie spots: plenty of hotplates; a beach; and lots of green space for that essential game of cricket. Easily accessed via public transport, it’s Sydney’s best spot for a cook-up, so pack the family, the esky and everyone you know. (Insider tip: the park gets busy, especially on perfect summer days, so make sure you get in early for pan space). Bronte Rd, Bronte 2024.
2. Centennial Park
Sydneysiders have been flocking to the 360-hectare parkland since it was opened as “the people’s park” by PM Sir Henry Parkes in 1901. And for good reason: the ‘lungs of the city’ is one of the best spots in Sydney to relax, play and cook a snag. BYO lunch feast and grab a spot at one of the six coin-operated barbecue areas dotting the park – we guarantee you will be well rewarded. Lang Rd, Centennial Park 2021. Open sunrise to sunset.
3. Shelly Beach
Prolong your weekend (and your barbecuing time) at this north-facing sheltered beach – perfectly positioned to catch the last of the sun before it dips below the horizon. There’s great snorkelling, a café and a family-friendly vibe pervading the six barbies you’ll find scattered underneath trees. A favourite with Sydney’s Brazilian community, their drumming will provide the soundtrack to your afternoon. Bower St, Manly 2093.
4. Captain Cook’s Landing Place
You have to drive through the industrial suburb of Kurnell to get to the splendid Botany Bay National Park but once you arrive, you won’t want to roll up your picnic rug to leave. With plenty of shaded areas, grassy spaces and free gas barbies, this park is great for history buffs (check out the Discovery Centre), walkers (take the Banks-Solander Track) and ship spotters. Cape Solander Dr, Kurnell 2231.
5. Lane Cove National Park
Within this expansive national park you’ll find over 25 individual picnic areas, meaning you’ll never be short of a new place to sizzle your sausages. The Lane Cove River runs straight through the middle so if eating in a canoe or pedal boat is your thing, you’ll think you’ve found chargrilled heaven on earth. Access from Delhi Rd or Lady Game Dr, Chatswood West. Entry fee $7 per vehicle.
6. Lake Parramatta
Many Sydneysiders will have fond memories of mucking around in the lake back when swimming was allowed at this popular western Sydney swimming hole. But that doesn’t detract from the cool and calm setting of Lake Parra. With lots of free gas barbecues and shaded tables, it makes a welcome respite from the hot summer days. Off Lackey St, North Parramatta 2151. 6.30am-5.30pm (7.30pm during daylight saving).
Article written by Sarah Norris.
Tags: aussie bbq , bbq , bronte beach , Captain Cook's Landing Place , Centennial Park , Lake Parramatta , Lane Cove National Park , Shelly Beach , Two Flat Whites