Today, we’re sharing what we call the Picnic Makers Picnic Spot Journal. It’s simply a curated list of the best picnic spots in Los Angeles. Each spot has something that made us stay longer, eat slower, or simply look around and say, “This is a good place to be.”
We’ve written it like a journal—part notes, memories, and a guide. If you’ve ever asked, “Where should I picnic in LA?”, this is our answer. Let’s begin.
The Best Picnic Spots in Los Angeles 🗺️
To make your planning easier, we’ve laid out all 21 of the best picnic spots Los Angeles has to offer in one simple view. Each pin on the map links to one of our favorites, pulled directly from our Picnic Makers Picnic Spot Journal.
🧭 No map? No problem. You can scroll through each entry below and find the picnic setting that matches your mood, location, or time of day.
1. Griffith Park 🌲
Date Noted: March 12 – warm, clear skies, slight breeze
Journal Entry: Huge, classic, and packed with variety. You’ll find open lawns, shaded tables, and pockets of quiet just off the main trails. We set up near the Observatory and stayed until the light changed. Views stretch for miles. Even with foot traffic, it never felt crowded. Sandwiches, sparkling water, and a book were enough.
- Highlight: Best for all-day picnics with a view
- Shade Check: Partial to full, depending on the area
- Best For: Groups, solo time, or tourists seeking that LA backdrop
- What We Packed: Cold pasta salad, oranges, a folding chair, and sunscreen
- Why We Go Back: It changes with the time of day—golden hour here is something else
It is one of the best parks in Los Angeles for picnics, and easily among the most flexible Griffith Park picnic spots for every kind of setup.
2. Palisades Park (Santa Monica) 🌴
Date Noted: April 5 – breezy with soft golden light
Journal Entry: Cliffside ocean views, palm tree silhouettes, and just enough benches to stay a while. It’s elevated—literally and emotionally. You’re close to the beach, but above it. Great for a casual picnic that still feels intentional. No-frills setup, just takeout and quiet.
- Highlight: Best at golden hour
- Shade Check: Light shade from palms and scattered trees
- Best For: Couples, sunset watchers, quiet moments
- What We Packed: Charcuterie board, canned rosé, linen napkins
- Why We Go Back: It feels romantic without trying too hard
It is one of the most effortlessly romantic picnic spots Los Angeles has to offer—simple, scenic, and easy to love.
3. Grand Park (Downtown LA) 🏙️
Date Noted: March 21 – midday, light breeze, steady city noise
Journal Entry: Unexpected calm in the middle of the city. The lawn is wide, open, and framed by government buildings, but still manages to feel laid-back. Ideal if you work downtown and want to escape for an hour with a sandwich and some sun. Water features add a nice backdrop without overpowering the vibe.
- Highlight: Best for lunch breaks and people-watching
- Shade Check: Some trees, scattered umbrellas
- Best For: Office escapes, solo recharge time, casual meetups
- What We Packed: Bánh mì, iced tea, and a sketchpad
- Why We Go Back: You can feel surrounded without feeling crowded
It’s one of the more convenient picnic spots Los Angeles has for weekday moments that need a little pause.
4. Los Angeles State Historic Park 🏞️
Date Noted: April 2 – sunny, families out early.
Journal Entry: Open layout with skyline views and plenty of breathing room. You’ll see people doing yoga, walking dogs, playing frisbee, or just laying out with a book. There’s a gentle hum of activity, but nothing overwhelming. Minimal shade though—bring a hat or something to cover up.
- Highlight: Best for low-key weekend picnics
- Shade Check: Sparse—best to bring your own cover or umbrella
- Best For: Families, couples with dogs, active picnickers
- What We Packed: Wraps, watermelon, folding chairs, and a Bluetooth speaker
- Why We Go Back: Big sky, open feel, and downtown just a few steps away
A perfect setup if you’re looking to picnic Los Angeles-style without the crowd stress.
5. Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden 🌸
Date Noted: March 29 – clear skies, mild breeze, lots of birdsong
Journal Entry: Massive trees, peacocks roaming, and plenty of botanical shade. You’ll find yourself slowing down without even meaning to. It feels far from LA, but it’s right there in Arcadia. There’s an entry fee, but the peace, quiet, and plant life make it worth it.
- Highlight: Best for scenic, quiet escapes.
- Shade Check: Excellent—tons of natural canopy throughout
- Best For: Slow afternoons, reading under trees, romantic strolls
- What We Packed: Quiche, sparkling lemonade, and a vintage blanket
- Why We Go Back: It never feels rushed—just green, calm, and still
It is one of the best parks in Los Angeles for picnics if you’re craving stillness and a little beauty.
6. Runyon Canyon Park (Hollywood) 🥾
Date Noted: April 6 – early morning, cool and sunny
Journal Entry: It’s mostly known for hiking, but there are places to pause if you bring snacks. Lookouts offer views that stretch all the way to the ocean on clear days. It’s busiest midday—go early or during golden hour for quieter moments.
- Highlight: Best for active picnics with a skyline reward
- Shade Check: Minimal—plan on sun exposure
- Best For: Light hikers, friends with dogs, skyline chasers
- What We Packed: Energy bars, chilled fruit, and iced coffee
- Why We Go Back: The walk up earns the view—and the picnic
This is where you go when you’re up for a little climb before you picnic in Los Angeles.
7. Will Rogers State Historic Park 🧺
Date Noted: April 9 – partly cloudy, wide open skies
Journal Entry: Open grassy fields with an old ranch house feel. There’s a timeless calm here. Tons of shade, good restrooms, and easy parking check all the practical boxes. It’s often overlooked, which makes it even better.
- Highlight: Best for full blanket spreads.
- Shade Check: Excellent—plenty of trees and covered areas
- Best For: Group gatherings, game day setups, shaded lounging
- What We Packed: Burritos, card games, extra water
- Why We Go Back: There’s space to breathe, eat, and stay as long as you want
Quietly, one of the most comfortable LA picnic spots for laid-back afternoons.
8. Lake Balboa Park (Van Nuys) 🦆
Date Noted: March 25 – sunny, cherry blossoms starting to bloom
Journal Entry: Lakefront setting with paddleboats, ducks, and plenty of room to stretch out. In spring, the cherry blossoms line the walkways. Most tables are taken by noon, but the atmosphere is friendly.
- Highlight: Best for families and food-heavy setups
- Shade Check: Good—trees line many paths and lawn areas
- Best For: Big picnic baskets, strollers, and long stay plans
- What We Packed: Grilled skewers, fruit salad, coolers with drinks
- Why We Go Back: You can picnic, paddle, and people-watch all in one place
Los Angeles has one of the more lively picnic areas, especially in spring.
9. Point Dume State Beach (Malibu) 🌊
Date Noted: April 13 – breezy and bright
Journal Entry: A coastal dream. There’s a short trail up the bluff with views that don’t quit. Or you can keep it simple and set up on the sand. It’s windy—clip your blanket corners or go low with a beach mat.
- Highlight: Best for beach-view lovers.
- Shade Check: None—bring umbrellas or a hat
- Best For: Ocean-facing setups, sunrise snacks, Malibu moments
- What We Packed: Shrimp rolls, chips, chilled white wine
- Why We Go Back: There’s a “you’re on vacation” vibe you can’t fake here
Easily one of the best picnic spots in LA when sand and salt air are part of the plan.
10. Topanga State Park 🌿
Date Noted: April 7 – cool, quiet, felt miles from LA
Journal Entry: Feels like an escape. Tall grass, tree groves, and winding trails. You won’t run into many people if you go midweek. Shade is hit or miss, so plan ahead. The air feels cleaner here, like the city doesn’t exist.
- Highlight: Best for long, quiet setups away from crowds
- Shade Check: Partial—depends on your path
- Best For: Peaceful getaways, hikers, midweek recharge time
- What We Packed: Chickpea salad, trail mix, thermos of tea
- Why We Go Back: You can actually hear birds instead of traffic
One of the best hidden picnic spots Los Angeles hides in plain sight—no noise, no pressure, just sky and space.
11. Vista Hermosa Natural Park 🌇
Date Noted: April 10 – hazy skies clearing by sunset
Journal Entry: Small, intimate, and surprisingly green for being right near downtown. A tucked-away bench here feels like your own. The skyline view through the trees is the big payoff, especially at golden hour. Slightly hidden, but that’s part of the charm.
- Highlight: Best for sunset picnic photos.
- Shade Check: Moderate—some tree cover and pergola areas
- Best For: Low-key hangs, solo moments, photographers
- What We Packed: Sushi rolls, sparkling water, camera tripod
- Why We Go Back: It feels like an LA secret, right in the middle of it all
It stands out among Los Angeles picnic spots for its central location and peaceful perspective.
12. Franklin Canyon Park 🍃
Date Noted: March 30 – quiet, barely anyone around
Journal Entry: Tucked just above Beverly Hills, but you’d never know it. Shaded trails, tucked-away tables, and not much foot traffic. It’s a slow, quiet space that makes you want to stay longer.
- Highlight: Best for peaceful, no-rush picnics.
- Shade Check: Excellent—plenty of tree cover
- Best For: Nature breaks, introvert-friendly setups, trail lunches
- What We Packed: Turkey wraps, kettle chips, a paperback book
- Why We Go Back: You can hear the wind in the trees. Not cars.
One of the best secluded picnic spots in Los Angeles is if you need a break from everything.
13. Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area 🏞️
Date Noted: April 1 – clear and warm, good for groups
Journal Entry: Expansive and versatile. You’ll find barbecue pits, shaded tables, open lawns, and even walking trails. Feels more like a full-day park than a quick-stop spot. Bring a crew and spread out.
- Highlight: Best for big group gatherings.
- Shade Check: Plenty—especially around the BBQ areas
- Best For: Birthday picnics, reunions, potlucks
- What We Packed: Grilled chicken, sides, fold-out tables, Bluetooth speaker
- Why We Go Back: It can handle any kind of picnic vibe you’re planning
Easily one of the best picnic spots Los Angeles offers when you’ve got a group and a plan.
14. El Matador State Beach 🏖️
Date Noted: April 14 – windy, waves loud, sunlight golden
Journal Entry: Not picnic table-friendly, but worth every bit of sand in your shoes. Rugged cliffs, natural arches, and a whole lot of atmosphere. Bring a thick blanket, stay low, and embrace the view.
- Highlight: Best for adventurous, romantic setups.
- Shade Check: None—sun all the way
- Best For: Couples, spontaneous detours, golden hour photographers
- What We Packed: Cheese board, chocolate-dipped strawberries, mineral water
- Why We Go Back: There’s no backdrop like this one
Possibly the most photogenic of all romantic picnic spots, Los Angeles has wild, dramatic, and unforgettable scenery.
15. Brand Park (Glendale) 🌳
Date Noted: March 27 – early morning, birds everywhere
Journal Entry: Tree-filled, spacious, and quieter than nearby Griffith. Trails wind into the Verdugo foothills, and the shaded lawn areas are perfect for slow starts. Bonus points for fewer crowds.
- Highlight: Best for morning or late afternoon
- Shade Check: Strong—plenty of tree-lined picnic spaces
- Best For: Sunrise meetups, post-hike bites, mellow afternoons
- What We Packed: Bagels, fresh fruit, thermos of black coffee
- Why We Go Back: It’s peaceful, open, and always has a spot
A go-to for when you want to picnic Los Angeles-style without the rush or crowd.
16. Queen Mary Seawalk Park 🚢
Date Noted: April 3 – salty breeze, cruise ship on the horizon
Journal Entry: A tucked-away gem in Long Beach. You’re right by the water with views of the Queen Mary and the harbor. Not a typical picnic destination, which makes it even better.
- Highlight: Best for coastal curiosity and ocean breeze
- Shade Check: Some—mostly open along the seawalk
- Best For: Off-the-radar setups, people-watching, harbor views
- What We Packed: Croissants, fresh juice, beach towel
- Why We Go Back: It’s strange and beautiful in all the right ways
One of the more underrated hidden picnic spots in Los Angeles is quietly by the sea.
17. Travel Town Museum (Griffith Park) 🚂
Date Noted: April 11 – warm, light breeze, lots of families
Journal Entry: Vintage trains as your picnic backdrop. It’s a hit with kids and train lovers, but even without either, it’s just fun. Tables are nearby, and there’s always something to look at. Definitely feels like a throwback.
- Highlight: Best for families or themed picnics
- Shade Check: Moderate—some trees, but come prepared
- Best For: Kids, train buffs, playful picnics
- What We Packed: PB&J sandwiches, juice boxes, coloring books
- Why We Go Back: There’s motion, imagination, and room to run
One of the most unique Griffith Park picnic spots—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for families.
18. TreePeople Park (Beverly Hills/Coldwater Canyon) 🌲
Date Noted: April 8 – earthy scent in the air, cool under the trees
Journal Entry: Forest feel without the long drive. Shaded trails, wood chip paths, and a tree canopy that gives it a real atmosphere. You’ll feel tucked away, but it’s surprisingly close to the city.
- Highlight: Best for shaded, relaxing breaks.
- Shade Check: Excellent—dense tree cover almost everywhere
- Best For: Nature-lovers, mindful breaks, introvert escapes
- What We Packed: Pita wraps, lemonade, cloth napkins
- Why We Go Back: You slow down the second you park
A top choice for those searching for picnic areas Los Angeles locals love but don’t always talk about.
19. Dockweiler State Beach 🔥
Date Noted: April 16 – windy with a clear sunset forecast
Journal Entry: Beach meets fire pit. Come for the open space, stay for the bonfire. It’s one of the only beaches in LA where fire rings are allowed. Ideal for late-day setups that turn into something more.
- Highlight: Best for late-day and evening picnics
- Shade Check: None—sun or stars only
- Best For: Sunset crews, s’mores lovers, extended hangouts
- What We Packed: Hot dogs, marshmallows, blankets, firewood
- Why We Go Back: There’s something about food by fire near the ocean
This is the place if you plan to picnic in a Los Angeles-style setting with a spark.
20. Elysian Park 🌄
Date Noted: April 4 – quiet weekday afternoon, sun filtering through trees
Journal Entry: Open grassy areas with views of downtown in the distance. It’s one of LA’s oldest parks and still feels like a local secret in parts. Free parking, minimal crowds on weekdays, and easy access from almost anywhere.
- Highlight: Best for low-key setups with a view
- Shade Check: Good—especially near Chavez Ravine area
- Best For: Midday meetups, solo journaling, weekend resets
- What We Packed: Chicken salad sandwiches, kettle chips, cold brew
- Why We Go Back: The Elysian Park picnic area feels tucked in but wide open at the same time
A reliable go-to when you want easy access, elbow room, and skyline backdrops.
21. Lake Hollywood Park 🎬
Date Noted: April 15 – overcast, lots of dogs, still peaceful
Journal Entry: Views of the Hollywood Sign, dogs running off-leash, and a surprisingly chill atmosphere considering the location is iconic. There’s enough space to stretch out without feeling on display.
- Highlight: Best for out-of-town guests and laid-back afternoons
- Shade Check: Moderate—some tree cover near the street
- Best For: Tourists, dog owners, casual weekends
- What We Packed: Turkey and avocado wraps, kombucha, a tennis ball for the dog
- Why We Go Back: It feels like you’re showing someone “classic LA” without the traffic
Easily one of the best places to picnic in LA if you’re playing tour guide—or just want to feel like one.
Final Thoughts – 21 Days, 1 City, Endless Blankets 🧺
After visiting all 21 spots, one thing became clear: the best picnic spots in Los Angeles show how a place makes you slow down.
Some spots surprised us. Others we already loved, but saw in a new way. If you’re ready to plan your next outing, you might want to pair your spot with something sweet. We compiled a full list of picnic desserts that travel well and taste even better under the sun.
Or maybe it’s your turn to start a picnic journal of your own. A few notes, a few snapshots, and before you know it, you’ve got a guidebook of your own making.
And if you’d rather just show up and have it all waiting for you, we’ve got that covered too. Picnic Makers can arrange your entire picnic in LA, from setup to clean-up, in any of these spots.
See you out there.
FAQs
Do I need a permit for a picnic in Los Angeles parks?
A permit is usually not required for small, casual picnics. However, it may be needed for large gatherings or equipment setups.
Are there any beach picnic spots in LA that allow bonfires?
Dockweiler State Beach permits bonfires. It’s a great spot to have a picnic during the day and a bonfire as the sun sets.
Can I bring alcohol to a picnic in Los Angeles parks?
Alcohol is prohibited in most public parks. Always check local park rules before bringing any beverages.
Are there any picnic spots with BBQ pits in Los Angeles?
Several spots, such as Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area and Elysian Park, have barbecue pits for a delightful outdoor grilling experience.
Can I bring my own grill to a picnic area?
Some parks allow portable grills, but open flames are restricted in many areas. Check park regulations first.
Are there any hidden or less crowded picnic spots in LA?
Franklin Canyon Park and TreePeople Park are excellent choices if you’re looking for less crowded or hidden gems for a peaceful picnic experience.
Are there eco-friendly picnic tips for visiting LA parks?
Use reusable containers, pack out all trash, and avoid single-use plastics to help keep parks clean.
