My Favourite Public Spots in Sydney for Mini Elopements & Small Weddings
There’s something magical about keeping your wedding small and simple - just you, your love, and your nearest and dearest. And Sydney, lucky for us, is full of beautiful public spaces that make the perfect backdrop for elopements and small weddings.
From parks to hidden gardens to tucked-away beaches, these spots give you atmosphere and intimacy without the fuss of a large venue. They’re also easy to access, which makes them practical for you and your guests.
A quick tip: as with any outdoor ceremony, please have a back-up plan in case the weather isn’t on your side (see my blog post on wedding weather tips).
Here are some of my favourite Sydney public spaces for elopements and small weddings:
Number one on my list & and with good reason! It’s huge, versatile, and endlessly beautiful. There are so many ceremony spots to choose from: under the grand Moreton Bay fig trees, the Paperback Grove, Rose Garden, by the lakes, in hidden groves, or on wide open lawns.
Because the park is so large, it’s easy to find a private little pocket away from the hustle and bustle. There’s ample free parking, accessibility for all guests, and it always photographs beautifully no matter the season. If I had to sum it up in one word? Timeless.
A harbourfront gem that’s small, quiet, and completely charming. With its manicured gardens, sandstone pavilion, and water views stretching across to the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, it feels both intimate and iconic at the same time. Because it’s tucked away rather than a thoroughfare park, it often feels like your own private garden.
🌲 Strickland House & Grounds, Vaucluse
This is one of Sydney’s best-kept secrets for small weddings. Think heritage architecture, rolling lawns, and sweeping harbour views. It has a touch of grandeur while still feeling relaxed and private.
🌸 Paddington Reservoir Gardens
For something with urban character, Paddington Reservoir Gardens offers a unique mix of history and greenery. The sunken garden, heritage arches, and tranquil spaces give it a tucked-away feel despite being in the heart of the city. It’s one of those places where guests always say, “I never knew this existed!” and it makes for stunning photos.
If your heart is set on a beach wedding but you’d rather avoid the crowds at Bondi or Coogee, Little Bay is a beautiful alternative. Nestled between headlands, it has a sheltered, ‘secret cove’ feel. It’s quieter, more peaceful, and still delivers those gorgeous coastal views. Perfect for a barefoot elopement with sand between your toes.
🌾 Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden, Lavender Bay
Romantic, lush, and whimsical - with winding paths, shaded nooks, and sweeping views of the harbour, it feels private and intimate even though it’s so close to the city. It’s a favourite with photographers and couples who want a garden ceremony that feels personal and tucked away.
✨ Final Thoughts
Sydney has no shortage of breathtaking public spaces that are perfect for mini elopements and small weddings. Just remember with public spaces comes unpredictable weather, so always have a back-up option ready to go.
Thanks for reading!
