There’s something magic about a proper Aussie picnic. Maybe it’s the sun on your shoulders, maybe it’s the esky full of cold ones, maybe it’s the chance to kick back with your favourite people somewhere leafy, sandy or scenic.
Whatever it is, a picnic is one of life’s simple joys, and with a little prep (plus a couple of your favourite Stone & Wood brews), it becomes downright unbeatable.
Whether you’re planning a casual arvo in the park, a date down by the river, or a sunset feast on the headland, here’s how to pack the perfect spread, with plenty of picnic food ideas to suit every vibe.
Start With Easy, Fresh and Crowd-Pleasing Picnic Food
When it comes to simple picnic food ideas, keep it relaxed and unfussy. You want things you can graze on between yarns, dips in the ocean, or quick games of beach cricket.
A few no-fuss favourites:
- Fresh sourdough or Turkish bread with olives, cheeses and dips
- Seasonal fruit - grapes, peaches, berries, melon
- Charcuterie or smoked salmon, perfect with a crisp beer
- Salads that travel well - pasta salad, tabbouleh, potato salad or leafy greens
- Homemade wraps or baguettes packed with roast chicken, avo or grilled veggies
These classics make excellent picnic lunch ideas, but they’re just as handy for lazy afternoon hangs or pre-sunset snacks.
The golden rule? Keep it simple. No cutlery dramas. No complex plating. Just good food you can enjoy on a blanket.
Make It Dinner-Worthy With Heartier Picnic Food
If you’re planning a late-arvo session that rolls into the evening, level things up with some warmer or heartier foods. Great picnic dinner ideas include:
- Warm roast veggie salads with herbs and feta
- Cold BBQ chicken, carved and ready to share
- Frittatas or savoury tarts, sturdy and delicious
- Fresh prawns, especially for coastal picnics
- Crusty bread + fancy butter for instant comfort
These dishes hold up beautifully outdoors and pair well with a cooler change rolling in.
Picnic Food Ideas for Couples: Keep It Cosy
If you’re planning a date picnic, keep things simple, thoughtful and easy to share. You don’t need a huge spread, just a few little touches that feel relaxed and a bit special.
Great picnic food ideas for couples include:
- Soft cheeses (brie, camembert or a creamy blue)
- A few slices of prosciutto or smoked salmon
- Fresh berries or stone fruits
- A bar of good chocolate or brownie bites
- Fresh bread or crackers with a dip
- A couple of pastries or mini tarts from the bakery
Pair these with a cold Citrus Radler or Pacific Ale, a cosy blanket and your favourite view, and you’ve got a simple but memorable picnic for two.
Don’t Forget the Drinks, Especially the Beers
A proper Aussie picnic deserves a proper esky full of flavour, and these Stone & Wood favourites are brewed for sunny days, salty air and good company:
Pacific Ale
Cloudy, crisp and bursting with tropical Galaxy hops, perfect with fresh fruit, seafood, soft cheeses or any of your simple picnic food ideas. Made for warm, sun-drenched sessions.
Easy Pale Ale
Smooth, refreshing and endlessly drinkable mid-strength ale. Ideal alongside picnic lunch ideas like chicken sandwiches, pasta salads or grazing boards.
Big Pale Ale
Bigger, richer and bold. Its malt character and punchier hops pair beautifully with hearty picnic dinner ideas like roast veggie tarts, charcuterie or BBQ chicken.
Hazy Pale Ale
Soft, juicy and tropical, perfect with spicy snacks, salty cheeses and fresh, punchy flavours.
Citrus Radler
Bright, zesty and incredibly refreshing. Ideal with fruit-heavy spreads or summer snacks on hot days.
Peach Radler
Light, fruity and playful, perfect for dessert moments or picnic food ideas for couples like pastries and chocolate treats.
Pack Smart: The Little Things That Make a Big Difference
The right little extras can turn a good picnic into a great one. Think about comfort, convenience and leaving your spot as beautiful as you found it.
Handy things to pack:
- A big, comfy picnic blanket
- Reusable plates, cups and cutlery
- A napkin or tea towel for spills
- A small knife and a chopping board
- Sunscreen, hats and a rubbish bag
- Frozen water bottles to keep beers cold (and drink later once melted)
- A deck of cards or a small speaker for gentle background tunes
It’s these simple, no-fuss additions that make your whole picnic feel smooth, relaxed and effortlessly enjoyable.
Choose a Spot That Sets the Scene
Picnics are all about ambience. Try:
- A shady patch in your local park
- A grassy hill overlooking the surf
- A riverbank nook at golden hour
- A quiet headland with sweeping views
- Your local oval for a casual arvo with mates
Wherever you land, fresh air + good food + cold beer = guaranteed good time.
Create the Picnic You’ll Talk About All Summer
Whether you’re keeping it simple or going all out, the perfect Aussie picnic is built on three essentials: fresh food, beautiful surroundings, and a couple of Stone & Wood brews to bring it all together.
So grab the cooler, rally your mates (or that special someone), and make an afternoon of it. Because when the snacks are good and the beer’s cold, you really don’t need much else.
