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8 Top Things to Do in Bondi Beach: Fun Travel Guide

Australia’s Most Famous Beach: Bondi Beach

When visiting Australia , it is a MUST to visit Bondi Beach ! This Sydney suburb is Australia’s most famous and visited beach for various reasons. There are also many fun things to do in Bondi Beach to make countless memories!

Translating to the sound of water breaking over rocks, Bondi Beach was named after the Aboriginal word “Bondi.” It’s around a 15-minute drive from Sydney CBD (Central Business District) and is considered one of the most expensive areas in Australia. Overall, Bondi Beach is a mecca for those who love surfing, fitness and the coast!

What makes Bondi Beach so popular is that it boasts an eclectic vibe with the most breathtaking coastline. In fact, it showcases the best of Australian culture! Bondi Beach also offers world-class restaurants, safe beaches and great shopping.

Discover the best fun things to do in Bondi Beach, New South Wales , Australia in this travel guide.

**Please note that this blog post uses affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase via my affiliate link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only promote and talk about products and services that I have used and like. While in Bondi Beach, The BLUE Hotel Bondi hosted me for three nights. This is also in collaboration with Italo House Bondi .

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Traveling to Bondi Beach: Where is Bondi Beach, Australia

Bondi Beach is one of the Eastern suburbs of Sydney and only a short drive from the heart of downtown (around 15 minutes). It’s also a little over a 20-minute drive from Sydney Airport , the closest international airport to Bondi Beach. You can find affordable flights through Skyscanner !

I visited Bondi Beach from Sydney CBD and took an Uber , but you can also get there by utilizing the Sydney trains and buses run by Opal . A great way to get to Bondi Beach from Sydney CBD is by taking the bus from Circular Quay.  It’s best to purchase an Opal card during your trip to Sydney!

Here is a 5-day Sydney, Australia itinerary !

Since Bondi Beach is close to the heart of the city, you can easily do a day trip there, but I recommend spending at least a couple of nights like I did to make the most of your time at Australia’s famous beach. Because I spent a month in Australia, I stayed in Sydney CBD for my first three days, followed by three days in Bondi Beach. At the end of my trip, I spent my last two nights in the Southern suburb of Newtown before flying home.

(I stayed at Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney in the CBD, The Blue Hotel in Bondi Beach and an Airbnb in Newtown.)

My journey to Sydney, Australia included a flight from Newark Liberty International Airport to Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport with a layover in Vancouver, Canada. I did my monthly Australia trip solo and chose to stick with public transport to get around via affordable flights through Jetstar and by the Greyhound Bus .

If you decide to rent a car in Australia, please remember that all vehicles and road rules are opposite to the USA. Since I’ve never driven on the opposite side of the road, I didn’t feel comfortable trying it alone.

When conquering all the best things to do in Bondi Beach, it’s easy to get around by walking everywhere! As you explore this beautiful area, you’ll notice that almost everyone is physically fit, so it will give you that push to get your body moving.

The Bondi Beach, Sydney area also has a plethora of taxis and rideshare services you can take to get around.

Where to Stay in Bondi Beach:

Located in the heart of Bondi Beach, The BLUE Hotel Bondi is the best place to stay! It’s a non-traditional boutique hotel that caters to an emerging class of young travelers who are entrepreneurs and digital nomads.

The concept behind The BLUE is designed to sit between an Airbnb and a traditional hotel. There is no main lobby and the check-in/check-out process is done through your phone on an app.

The BLUE is a home-away-from-home hotel that offers a comforting workspace, spacious loft rooms and group-style accommodation, along with a great Italian café and pizzeria next door. It’s also the perfect place for solo travelers looking to meet like-minded people!

This fantastic hotel is a short walk from the beach and is in close walking distance to the start of the Bondi to Coogee Walk and many great restaurants, shops and bars.

Staying at The BLUE Hotel :

I stayed in the King Suite with Balcony Room for three nights at The BLUE in Bondi . It’s located on the hotel’s top floor. It’s a loft-style hotel room with a balcony, a comfortable king bed with luxury linens, a spacious bathroom with Hunter bath products and modern amenities.

The other rooms and suites you can choose from when booking a short or long-term stay at The BLUE Hotel are the regular King Suite, Blue Twin Suite, Penthouse and Penthouse XL. If you’re traveling with family or a friend group, there are Family and Group Suites to choose from that include bunk beds.

I love how all the rooms are decorated to resemble the hip beachy vibes of Bondi Beach! The rooms and suites have dark blue and golden tones and you’ll find photos of the surfers, nature and art of this area.

Work, Eat and Play at Italo House Bondi :

Situated next to The BLUE Hotel is Italo House . It’s an espresso bar and café in the morning and then turns into a pizzeria, Italian restaurant and nightclub in the evening. Overall, Italo House reflects the fun of nightlife along the Italian Riviera and visiting it is one of the best things to do in Bondi at night .

Since I was in Australia for a month, I had to allocate days to work, so in addition to the coworking space at The BLUE , Italo House was also an excellent spot to grab coffee with a toastie and get work done.

On my first night in Bondi Beach, I went to Italo House for dinner and drinks and it was a blast! There was a dance floor and a DJ who played European dance hits. Plus, the food and drinks did not disappoint. I savored the prosciutto and rucola pizza and had two of their cocktails – the Italo Margarita and Italo Sour.

Italo House Bondi opened in the early 90s with 80’s Disco and Georgio Moroder in mind. It’s moved locations in Bondi Beach, but the restaurant and bar by The BLUE is new and reflects the summer vibes of partying in Italian seaside holiday destinations.

During the day, I loved enjoying Italo House ’s oat cappuccino with a melted chicken and pesto toastie while I worked. Everything is delicious and the staff is welcoming!

Fun Things to do in Bondi Beach, Australia:

The best time to visit Bondi Beach is during the summer months and shoulder season when the entire area thrives (November through March). There are a lot of great Bondi Beach tourist attractions, from its beautiful beaches with pristine sands to its cultural events .

Below are the best things to do in Bondi Beach for a memorable time:

Enjoy the Scenic Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk:

It’s no secret that one of the leading things to do in Bondi Beach is the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk. It’s recognized as Sydney’s most iconic walk, including beautiful beaches, breathtaking cliffside views, incredible wildlife, epic ocean rock pools and beachside cafés.

The entire Bondi to Coogee walk is 3.7 miles (6 kilometers) and takes around two and a half hours to complete one way, with stops. The path starts at Bondi Icebergs Club and ends at Coogee Beach. It’s one of the best free activities!

Please note that this coastal walk is rated a grade 2 and even though you’ll see people walking it barefoot or with flip-flops , it’s best to wear comfortable sneakers . Dogs with leashes are also allowed on the trail and it’s suitable for young children. There are also water fountains along the way!

The Bondi to Coogee walk is heavily trafficked, especially on a beautiful summer weekend, so keeping that in mind is essential. If you want to enjoy the coastal walk without crowds, it’s best to go early in the morning. Along the way, you’ll stop numerous times to enjoy the spectacular views, take pictures, see the migrating birds, walk on the beaches, watch the surfers, meditate and even grab a coffee.

Bondi Icebergs is located at the Southern end of the beach and is the most iconic spot in Bondi Beach due to its incredible 50-meter lap pool circulated with ocean water. Before conquering the stunning coastal walk, check out Icebergs ’ pool and snap a few photos. It’s incredible!

From there, check out Mackenzie’s Bay, a small inlet with rock pools, boulders to sunbathe on and beautiful biodiversity, which makes for great bird watching. During the colder months, you can see humpback whales around this location if you’re wondering what to do in Bondi Beach in winter . Please note, though, that Mackenzie’s Bay presents some dangers when it comes to swimming due to the strong currents and rocks.

A few great lookouts along the way are Haug Beach and Tamarama Point. Don’t forget to bring your camera!

The first beach you’ll encounter along the walk is Tamarama Beach. Even though it’s small, Tamarama Beach is one of the most beautiful on the Sydney coastline. It’s also one of the best beaches to visit if you want to escape the crowds from Bondi or Bronte Beach. There’s also a beachfront coffee shop called Tamarama Beach Kiosk , making it a superb spot for a break!

After stopping at Tamarama Beach, you’ll reach Bronte Beach. This beach was my favorite because it offered a bustling atmosphere, but wasn’t as crowded as Bondi Beach. It also has an epic ocean pool and lookouts with the best views. There are also a variety of coffee shops and eateries in Bronte Beach.

I will admit that even though I did this coastal walk a few times during my three days in Bondi Beach, I never made it past Bronte Beach. If you have ample time and want to go all the way, stop at Waverley Cemetery , Clovelly Beach, Gordons Bay and Coogee Beach.

Relax at the Different Beaches near Bondi:

Due to its location, enjoying a well-needed beach day is one of the best things to do in Bondi Beach. The famous Bondi Beach, Tamarama Beach and Bronte Beach are the best places to relax and enjoy a beautiful beach day in the Sydney area.

One of the many reasons why I love Australia is because people worship the beach as much as I do and swim in the ocean at all times of the day. So you’ll see many people going for an early morning swim!

Please note that Aussie beaches are free for all!

Bondi Beach:

If you ask yourself, “ Why is Bondi Beach so famous ?” the Australian show Bondi Rescue was filmed here. The series showcases the realities of lifeguard patrols on Bondi Beach, from shark rescues to surfing injuries and Bluebottle jellyfish stings to lost kids. It also takes you into the personal lives of these lifeguards.

When planning a beach day at Bondi Beach, grab fish and chips at Bondi Pavilion , a smoothie or açai bowl from Cali Press or a refreshing gelato from Gelato Messina to fuel you up.

The sand at Bondi Beach is a powdery white, making it perfect for sunbathing, napping, picnics and building sand castles. If you’re not a fan of the sand and sun, there’s also a lawn area in Bondi Beach Park where you can lay your towel or chair down and enjoy shade under the trees while admiring incredible ocean views.

While at Bondi Beach, you can admire the talented Bondi Murals and street art, play volleyball, go skateboarding, body surf, boogie board, skimboard, swim and surf!

Tamarama Beach:

Since the main Bondi Beach is a popular site, Tamarama Beach is a wonderful spot to enjoy a quiet seaside experience with great views all around.

Tamarama Beach is a favored surfers’ beach due to its huge waves, but if you plan on swimming here, please be mindful of the strong currents. Besides that, it’s a great location to sunbathe, read a book, enjoy some comforting coffee at the nearby kiosk and picnic on the lawn in Tamarama Beach Park.

A fun fact about Tamarama Beach is that it’s also called “Glamarama” because it attracts many good-looking people and is also known to be a topless beach.

Bronte Beach:

Just like Bondi Beach, Bronte Beach is also a popular spot filled with a lot of excitement. Swimming conditions at Bronte Beach can be a bit challenging, but there’s a sheltered rock pool on the south end of the beach that is perfect for families with young children.

Located at Bronte Beach is also Bronte Park, where you can have a barbecue, picnic and enjoy fun lawn games.

Take a Surfing Lesson in Bondi Beach:

One of the top things to do in Bondi , especially during your first trip to Australia, is to take a surfing lesson . If you’re looking for a good surf school, Let’s Go Surfing and Waves Surf School are the best places to do a surfing lesson in Bondi Beach.

Surfing is a fun action sport that allows you to adventure in the ocean. There aren’t many places with a big surfing culture, so when you visit a premier destination like Australia, it’s a fun excursion to sign up for!

Even though you can rent surfboards at Bondi Beach, it’s best to take a lesson if you’ve never tried surfing before. You can take small group lessons, private lessons and courses to learn how to surf. During one of these lessons, you’ll be taught the basic moves and techniques, how to stand up on the board and also how to ride the big waves of the South Pacific.

Swim in the Bronte Baths:

Undoubtedly, one of the best free things to do in Bondi Beach is to walk to Bronte Beach and enjoy the fun vibes of the Bronte Baths!

On a warm and sunny day in Bronte Beach, I recommend swimming in the Bronte Baths, a pool with ocean water built into the cliffs. There’s no cost and it’s always open to the public, except when the tides and waves are too rough. Overall, the Bronte Baths have the same concept as the Icebergs lap pool, except this one is more laid back.

There are showers and changing rooms near the baths, so you can always bring a change of clothing. An important thing to note is that there are no lockers for your belongings, so you’ll have to put them on one of the benches by the baths and keep an eye on everything. However, the baths and benches are behind a fence, making it harder for someone on the Bronte Coastal Walk to run away with them.

The swimming times for Bronte Baths differ each day. Click here for the Bronte Pool cleaning schedule.

Near the Bronte Baths are two epic lookout spots – Farbs Look Out and a hidden overlook on the cliff (pictured above). The secret lookout on the cliff is popular among Sydney locals, but for visitors, it’s essential to be careful if you decide to climb up.

Thankfully, I was with my friend Christina , who safely took me there. It’s an awesome spot to grab epic photos overlooking Bronte Beach and the baths.

Visit Bondi’s Best Eateries:

From fine dining to local mom-and-pop spots, Bondi Beach has a lot of incredible restaurants to enjoy during your trip. Below are the places I visited during my time at this beautiful beach destination:

Bills : A great place to enjoy an authentic Aussie “brekkie” is at Bills on Hall Street, down the road from The BLUE Hotel . It’s an iconic, but mellow dining spot with cute décor and delicious coffee, cocktails and Australian-favored dishes.

Bills restaurant is known for its fluffy pancakes (also called hotcakes to Aussies), which include ricotta, banana and honeycomb butter. That’s what I got for breakfast one morning, along with an oat cappuccino and it was delicious!

North Bondi Fish : Located on the beachfront with dreamy lanterns and breathtaking ocean views, North Bondi Fish is the perfect spot for a romantic evening in the Sydney coastal area. It’s an iconic seafood restaurant that serves fresh local fish and seasonal cocktails.

During my evening at North Bondi Fish , I had an Australian white wine with oysters and the catch of the day, which was a local white fish served with clams in a delicious sauce. It was incredible!

Harry’s Bondi : A good restaurant to enjoy brekkie before hitting the beach is Harry’s Bondi , right off Campbell Parade. This laid-back spot is perfect for enjoying a hot cup of coffee with a healthy meal.

During my morning at Harry’s Bondi , I had the mushroom tempura tacos with hashbrowns and an oat cappuccino. Everything was tasty!

China Diner : Another one of the most delicious restaurants in Bondi Beach that serves upscale Chinese street food is China Diner . It’s also located on Hall Street, considered the main street in Bondi Beach, and offers a trendy ambiance.

During my evening at China Diner , I enjoyed the chicken and shiitake shumai with vegetarian fried rice. It was mouthwatering!

Have a Drink Overlooking Bondi Beach:

Fun things to do in Bondi Beach are to check out the different bars offering some of the most jaw-dropping views. Even though there are numerous spots to have a drink in Bondi Beach, below are the best places I visited during my three days in this remarkable area of Australia:

Icebergs Club Bistro : Located at the southern end of Bondi Beach, Icebergs is the best-known landmark in the area. Not only is it the only licensed swimming club in the world, but it also has an Italian restaurant and bar.

After doing the coastal walk, there was nothing better than treating myself to an Aperol spritz with a view of the Bondi Baths.

Hotel Ravesis : Another great spot to enjoy a drink with a view on a warm day in Bondi Beach is Hotel Ravesis on Campbell Parade. It’s a historic pink hotel that was built in 1914.

Hotel Ravesis is one of the top “Instagrammable” locations in Bondi Beach and has scenic views of the South Pacific Ocean. I enjoyed a refreshing rosé from the nearby Hunter Valley wine region and relished the lovely ambiance.

Bondi Brewing Co. : Also, situated on Campbell Parade, overlooking the beach, Bondi Brewing Co. is a fun spot to enjoy the best craft beer in the area.

This awesome brewery has a chill vibe with different beers ranging from IPAs to lagers and stouts to hard seltzers. Bondi Brewing Co. also boasts a relaxing vibe with delicious bites.

Walk through the Bondi Markets and Go Shopping:

One of the most popular things to do during a trip to Bondi Beach, Australia is to wander through the Bondi Markets , where you can purchase fresh local produce, handmade jewelry, clothing, Australian coffee, baked goods and more.

The Bondi Markets is an open-air market where Sydney locals gather at Bondi Beach Public School on Sundays to shop for weekly necessities and enjoy live music and arts and crafts.

In addition to the Bondi Markets , the Bondi Farmers Market occurs at the exact location but on Saturdays. You can get fresh and seasonal fruits, vegetables, meats, flowers, baked goods, farm-made jams and cheeses, seafood, and more at the farmers market.

If you visit Bondi Beach on a weekday, you must also check out the boutique shops around town.

Sign Up for an Aussie Fitness Class:

Bondi Beach boasts one of the largest fitness communities in the world. When I first arrived in this beach town, I was amazed by how physically fit everyone was!

As you stroll around Bondi Beach, it won’t take long before you encounter an outdoor gym or a beach yoga session. You’ll also see many people on a run, especially on the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk. During your time in this area, it’s a must to sign up for a fitness class, whether that be yoga, Pilates, barre, physical training, boxing, etc.

Love Bondi? You’ll also enjoy these destinations:

St. Petersburg, Florida

Peniche, Portugal

Cape Town, South Africa

I hope you all enjoyed discovering the best things to do in Bondi Beach during your time in this travel guide. If you have any questions, please email me at [email protected].

Basic Facts of Australia:

Currency: Australian Dollar, Capital: Canberra, Time Zone: Australia has five time zones – Australian Eastern Standard Time (New South Wales, except Broken Hill and Lord Howe Island, Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, Tasmania and Queensland); Australian Central Standard Time (Broken Hill, Southern Australia and the Northern Territory); Australian Western Standard Time (Western Australia); Lord Howe Standard Time (Lord Howe Island) and Australian Central Western Standard Time.

*Anything could happen during your travels. Always make sure you are insured in case there are unforeseen circumstances such as lost luggage/theft, natural disasters, personal liabilities and more.  Click here  to get insured for your next trip.

Shop my Bondi Look:

Click here  to shop my  Poshmark  closet!

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Such a beautiful place with gorgeous beaches! My type of holiday ~ beaches, lap pools, surfing and great places to eat and drink! Would love to visit Australia one day. Great guide and stunning photography! Love you, mom 👩🏻 xoxo ♥️

Bondi Beach was one of my favorite places in Australia! The beaches in the area were phenomenal.

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Fun Things to do in Bondi – bondi beach guide

Looking for fun things to do in Bondi? You likely already know all about the Bondi to Coogee walk , but today we want to share some more ideas of what to do in Bondi so you can get to know this very Sydney beachside suburb. Read on and maybe consider spending some time exploring the area next time you are looking for things to do in Sydney.

So let’s go discover what to see, do and eat at Sydney’s best-known beach! But before we dig into things to do in Bondi let’s start our Bondi Beach guide with some history.

Bondi History

14 facts about bondi beach, getting to know bondi beach, bondi beyond the beach, where to stay in bondi beach, tours and things to do in bondi.

This page contains affiliate links. You can find our full disclosure policy here .

How much do you know about Bondi? We like a bit of background when we are travelling so we thought a history lesson wouldn’t hurt 😉

The original owners of the land now called Bondi were the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. It is thought they referred to this area as Bondi, although there is a variety of spelling recorded, including Boondi, Bundi, Bundeye and Boodye. Bondi reportedly means “water breaking over rocks”.

As far back as the 1850s, Bondi was a popular spot for locals to relax. Local landowner’s Hall and O’Brien, who owned most of the waterfront, allowed people to use their beach for recreation. In the 1860s, the council took the beach back from the owners and declared the area a public beach. It was then it went from local secret to its journey as the cities favourite beach. Hall and O’Brian are remembered in the names of two of Bondi’s main streets.

By 1884 a tram line bought Sydneysiders from Circular Quay or Central stations to the beach. This saw huge visitor numbers and cemented Bondi as one of the cities most popular beaches.

By the 1930s, it was not uncommon for 60,000 Sydneysiders to visit the beach over a summer weekend. These days a busy summer day is likely to hit about 35,000 beachgoers.

Much of Bondi’s architecture hailed from the first half of the 20th century when large scale development took place. Many deco-style apartments appeared, with some Spanish Mission-style homes thrown in for good measure. While walking the streets here, look up for the interesting detail and design features on the tops of many of the buildings from this time.

Throw a few of these in to impress your travelling partners with your research skills.

• Bondi became a public beach in 1882
• It was home to the oldest surf lifesaving club in the world, which was established in 1907
• The much loved Bondi Pavilion, which recently reopened after extensive renovation was built in 1928
• The last shark attack at Bondi Beach was in 1929 – there were two that year, just weeks apart.
• Shark mesh was installed across the beach in 1937
• The first bikini was worn at Bondi Beach in 1951
• Smoking was banned on the beach in 2004
• A Guinness World Record was set here in 2007 for the largest swimsuit photoshoot with 1,010 women wearing bikinis taking part
• A second Guinness Record was set for the World’s largest English lesson in 2016 with 3000 students taking part.
• Free wifi has been available on the beach since 2011
• Prince Charles had a dip here, and Harry and William have both visited with their wives
• Bondi is on the National Heritage list
• It’s illegal to drink on Bondi Beach
• Over 3000 people are rescued at Bondi each year.

This 950m stretch can be divided into three areas, each with a slightly different vibe.

North Bondi Beach

The northern end of Bondi is affectionately known as the local’s end. With a safety rating of 4 (gentle), it’s also the best part of the beach for families. There is a designated children’s pool, and a fenced playground nearby. If you have a pram, there is a great grassed area saving you from dragging your belongings down onto the sand.

If you are heading this way with kids, check out the Hello Sydney Kids review of the facilities here.

North Bondi is also where you will find the Bondi RSL; its large balcony is the perfect place to relax with a well-priced drink and watch the beach action from above.

The middle section of Bondi Beach

The middle section of the beach attracts the most visitors. In this section, you will find the local landmark, Bondi Pavilion; it was a changing room for up to 3000 bathers in its heyday. Today, it is being renovated to restore its former glory. On the sand in front of the Pavilion is the lifeguard station, made famous by Bondi Rescue. It’s the centre of lifeguard operations and also a first aid station.

If you plan on spending the day at the beach, this is where I would suggest you set up. It’s the safest spot to swim, and you are close to shops and facilities when you need strikes.

Along the wall that separates the beach from the carpark, you will find the Bondi Graffiti Wall.

With at least two dozen murals running from the Pavilion at the middle of the beach to the southern end, if you love street art as much as we do, you will not want to miss this.

Sometimes, volleyball nets are set up on this section of the beach between the lifeguard tower and South Bondi.

South Bondi Beach

South Bondi is a favourite with surfers, and you will often see the learn-to-surf school operating classes here. It is also home to the infamous “backpackers rip” named because this spot is closest to the bus stop and attracts lots of visitors who are too excited or too lazy to make their way to the flagged area nearer to the middle of the beach.

Also at the end of the beach is the Bondi Skatebowl, 10 feet deep with a 5-foot shallow bowl; this place attracts some seriously talented riders. It’s well worth stopping by for a look.

However, the best-known landmark at the south end of the beach is Bondi Icebergs.

Bondi Icebergs opened in 1929 as a men’s only swimming club. The club aimed to help members keep in shape over winter. To become a member, you had (and still are) required to swim 3 out of 4 winter Sundays for five years. I am guessing it’s a pretty small membership based on that commitment! Women were admitted in 1994.

Thankfully, you don’t need to be a member to use the club facilities , including adult and children’s pools* sauna and gym. There is also a cafe, bistro, 2 bars and a fine-dining Italian restaurant. Wednesday is Trivia Night, and Friday has acoustic sessions and $12 cocktails, both great ways to end a day in Bondi.

The pools are closed for cleaning on Thursdays.

Related: Once you have done the Bondi to Coogee walk, check out the Bondi to Manly walk

Is Bondi Beach dangerous?

Bondi can be dangerous; however, you should be fine if you use common sense. It is one of the few Sydney’s beaches patrolled year-round, which is just as well because sadly, lots of visitors get into trouble here. Follow the signs on the beach and always swim between the flags. Please don’t go in the water after drinking either; it’s a recipe for disaster.

Lifeguards patrol the beach seven days a week and “save” up to 30 people a day. Lots of people underestimate their ability and get out of their depth here. The current is powerful, and even confident swimmers can get caught in a rip.

Check out this video on backpackers rip and make sure you know how to avoid it.

When is the best time to visit Bondi?

Bondi is an excellent spot to visit year-round. It’s too cold for all but the hardiest locals to swim from about late May to October however visitors are often seen taking a dip as early as September.

My favourite time of day at Bondi is early morning, watching the sunrise. The beach attracts all sorts at this time, partygoers still standing after an all-nighter or the early bird exercise crew. If you are staying here, aim to start at least one morning with the locals for a bit of beach exercise. It’s a great way to begin the day.

Wondering when the quiet time is? While Bondi is never really calm, it is a little less frantic on weekdays. Weekends, however, are buzzing year-round if the sun is shining.

Annual festivals in Bondi

Bondi loves a celebration; it’s well set up to host events with its crescent-shaped beachfront fringed in parkland, and there are several you should have on your radar if they coincide with your visit.

• Outdoor Cinema – for several weeks every summer, catch a movie by the ocean.
• City to Surf sees over 11,000 people run 14-kilometres from the city to the finish line by the beach. – August
• Winter Magic Festival – Ice Skate at Bondi Beach each June and July
• Festival of the winds- 2nd Sunday in September
• Sculpture by the Sea – late October to early November
• Flickerfest – End of January

Related: Check out our tips for visiting Sculpture by the Sea

So once you have finished exploring the beach, it’s time to hit the streets of Bondi. There is lots worth checking out, especially if you are hungry. But first, let’s shop.

Best places to shop in Bondi

Bondi offers a brilliant mix of shops in the streets behind the beach, ranging from cheap souvenirs to activewear that will cost the same as your hotel room! My usual shopping at Bondi happens at the markets you will find on the public school grounds on Saturday and Sunday mornings.

• Gertrude and Alice – My favourite shop in all of Bondi, this little bookshop makes a great coffee and its a fantastic spot for book lovers to spend
• Aquabumps – The gallery of super talented beach photographer Eugene Tan
• Camilla – Australian fashion label best known for their flowing Kaftans
• Bondi Bather – locally made, limited edition swimwear
• Between the Flags – Beach-inspired souvenirs
• Jac + Jack – comfort and quality rule with garments in cashmere, linen and wool
• Playa by Lucy Folk – Accessories, jewellery and lots of pretty things
• Commune – Beach inspired living with homewares and accessories, all locally made
• Vinnies – St Vincent de Paul is a charity (goodwill) store that is an excellent stop if you forgot your book and need a beach read for just a few $$
• Wayside Op Shop – need an outfit for a job interview or impromptu party and the budget is tight? Check this place before you pull out the credit card.

Where to eat in Bondi

Bondi’s reputation as a hotspot for health nuts and hipsters is no more evident than in its dining options. Vegetarian and vegan options are on offer on most menus. Juices feature and protein balls sit on the counter of almost every coffee shop.

With over 250 places to eat, from takeaway to fine dining, it’s pretty easy to get yourself a happy belly here. So in no particular order, here are some spots we think you should check out.

Sorry about the lack of photos here – I am not the best at remembering to take food shots. It just means I will need to go back soon and take some more.

North Bondi Fish  If you want to eat seafood overlooking the beach, you have plenty of choices, but North Bondi Fish is my personal favourite; it’s also almost on the sand, so your beach views are front and centre. Another of chef Matt Moran’s restaurants (I love his Chiswick at the Art Gallery of NSW too). The calamari is one of the best around, and I love the pumpkin dish with dukkah and feta. I am also partial to their cocktails, which often feature an interesting mix of botanicals. Where: 120 Ramsgate Ave, North Bondi 

The Bucket List Bucketlist gets ridiculously busy on summer weekends, but if you arrive midweek at lunchtime, you should be able to get a seat. The menu has everything: burgers, poke bowls, fried chicken, and steak. It would be a fussy eater who could not find something they liked here. A seat outside with a cold beer, prosecco or a summer cocktail and this view is pure magic. Where: Bondi Pavilion, Shop, 1 Queen Elizabeth Dr, Bondi Beach.

Rocker My most recent breakfast at Bondi was here at Rocker; we usually head to Speedo’s, which we still love, but this time it was the Salmon and Avo with pumpkin and eggs, and it was epic. A perfect end to a morning walks from Bronte.  Where:  5/39-53 Campbell Parade, North Bondi

Fonda If you fancy Mexican, you ought to find some friends and head to Fonda to partake of the share plates and margaritas. They also have fantastic house sodas, including lime and turmeric and ginger and passionfruit.  Where: 85 Hall St, Bondi Beach

The Pacific Try to make time to pop into the Pacific for a weekend breakfast if you can. The menu changes often but usually include some of the local flavours. Things like Davidson plum fruit bowl, granola with lemon myrtle or the mighty fine smashed avocado on black toast. This is a lovely spot to sit and chat for a while. They also have happy hour from 4-6pm weekdays with $5 beer and $10 cocktails. Where: 182 Campbell Parade Bondi Beach

Macelleria The first time I walked past Macelleria, I thought, hmm, what an odd spot for a butcher shop, only it was not a butcher exactly. They sell meat, delicious meat ( Cape Grim steak) and wagyu and chicken, lamb, and sausages. Eat-in or take away to the beach. Where: Shop 1, 112-116 Campbell St, Bondi Beach

Bondi is perfect for a staycation or a holiday within a holiday for visitors. Consider splitting your time with a few days in the city and a couple of days at the beach. While getting in and out of the city can be tiresome when you choose Bondi at a base, if this is your second visit or you have a burning passion for being by the beach, this is not a bad choice. Just know you will spend at least 30 mins getting into town because even though it looks close on a map, the traffic is horrid.

If you love the quirky things in life and the little things matter to you, then you will love QT Bondi. Windows that open, rooms that feel more like apartments than hotel rooms, a washer and dryer, rainforest shower and a kitchenette for when you feel like eating in makes QT unique.

This luxury hotel, just 300m from the beach, opened four years ago. Rooms are bright and modern, with lots of fun touches, like a minibar that includes dominos and thongs (the footwear kind). This is a great fit if you are up for a splurge or need to impress.

Adina Apartment Hotel Bondi Beach

Offering studios, one, two and three bedrooms apartments, Adina Bondi Beach is a good choice for families or groups. While no onsite dining, you are spoilt for choice the minute you walk out the door. Local favourite Messina Gelato is adjacent, and Pasticceria Papa cheesecakes are minutes away.

Dangerous for anyone watching what they eat but don’t worry, the property has a gym and pool, and you are only 5 minutes away from the Bondi to Coogee coastal track to help burn any excess treats you consume.

Bondi 38 Serviced Apartments

While not as shiny and new as QT and Adina, Bondi 38 has a fantastic location across the road from South Bondi Beach, with many of the apartments having beach views and balconies.

These fully self-contained studios and one- and two-bedroom apartments feature kitchen and laundry facilities. They are recently renovated and are spotlessly clean and comfortable. Kids under three years are free, and they have strollers available. There is a no party policy, which helps ensure a quiet night’s sleep.

Wake Up Bondi (Previously Bondi Backpackers)

An excellent choice for solo travellers on a budget, this newly renovated property has just joined the Wake-Up family . It’s always been a popular hostel with its location across the road from the beach and rooftop chill-out zone. They also run a great free activity program that will have you making friends in no time. Everything from morning yoga on the roof to BBQs, wine and cheese, trivia and karaoke is on offer, so there is bound to be something you will enjoy.

There are twin and private rooms along with dorms. The roof is the place to be in summer, and you will probably spend most of your time there. The kitchen area is small, which can get annoying, but this is the best hostel in Bondi in my view.

While you can easily amuse yourself with plenty of things to do in Bondi if you like a bit of structure or prefer the help of a local guide, then we think you should consider these tours. We have handpicked these because of their quality. They are all small group or private experiences that would we be happy to give to or receive from our family and friends.

They also make great gifts if you are planning a unique staycation to celebrate a birthday or anniversary at the beach.

Surf lessons at Bondi

Have you been meaning to learn to surf for a while? Well, where better than one of the world’s iconic beaches. Let’s Go Surfing offer 2 hr small group classes with five students or less. They supply a wetsuit to keep you warm no matter the weather. If you are shy or want more attention, then they also offer private lessons .

Guided Bondi Headland walk

If you like the idea of a guided tour of the Bondi rather than going it alone, this tour is an affordable option. The offering by a Local Lifesaver & Surf Instructor who will explain the history and culture of Bondi, along with all you want to know about lifesaving. It includes a tour of the lifesaving club, a photo with a lifesaver, and a tour of the Aboriginal rock engravings.

Six Beaches Trike Tour

If you would rather tour the eastern beaches on the back of a trike, then check this tour out. The visit comes with commentary via headset as you travel from Bondi all the way down to La Perouse. Helmets and jackets were supplied. This 1-1.5 hour tour has a minimum of two passengers.

Check the tour prices and itinerary .

So there you have it, the Sydney Expert Guide to Bondi Beach. Have we missed your favourite spot? Let us know so we can check it out and maybe add it to the list.

Want more Sydney Beach Guides? Check out

• Brighton Le Sands on Botany Bay
• Cronulla, the only beach you can reach by train
• Sydney’s Harbour Beaches
• A Guide to the Best Things to Do in Manly
• How to visit Sydney’s best beaches by public transport

5 thoughts on “Fun Things to do in Bondi – Bondi Beach guide”

We often visit Bondi when in Sydney. It seems to suffer a bit of a reputation as overcrowded and overrated, especially from people in Sydney but really I think that’s just a bit of envy creeping in. We’ve found over the past few years it’s really cleaned up its act and always enjoy ourselves. Just one block back from the esplanade and there are some really great places, without the big price tags too. That view from Icebergs never gets tired and nor does the walk around to Tamarama.

I totally agree Sandy, lots of guidebooks still paint the area as grungy and run down but Bondi has had a new lease of life in recent years. The walks, no matter how often you take them, never get old.

Absolutely love Bondi and can’t wait to get back there sometime soon :/ Great idea about the Drone tour – different! Will be interesting to see if this takes off in other areas!! Thanks for sharing – I’m pretty envious of anyone being there right now!

I think the drone tour is great because they can be a hassle to travel with.

I particularly love North Bondi. The cafes are great with a nice selection, you can watch the surfers taking the waves and it’s a lovely walk a bit away from all the action at the main Bondi Beach and Pavilion. I know Let’s Go Surfing are great because my son had a few lessons with them when he was in high school. He now surfs as often as he can at North Bondi or Maroubra. There’s nothing like the beauty of Bondi.

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Bondi Beach Visitor Guide 2024: Everything you need to know

Located in the big city of Sydney, Bondi Beach is one of Australia’s premier tourist attractions and one of the most famous beaches in the world. And for good reason. This huge stretch of sand with its magnificent waves is the perfect place for surfing and sunbathing as well as seeing and being seen with the most beautiful people of Sydney. Australia’s beach lifestyle is perhaps nowhere better exemplified than at Bondi Beach.

Easily reached from the city, Bondi Beach is a must-visit while you’re in Sydney. But the beach is no place for heavy suitcases. Make things easier on yourself by dropping off your unneeded possessions at a luggage storage service near Bondi Beach . The lighter you travel, the easier it will be to enjoy all the fun the beach has to offer.

Bondi Beach bag policy

There’s no specific rule against bringing bags to Bondi Beach. With that said, the beach is no place for rolling suitcases or other heavy luggage. The lighter you travel, the easier it will be to enjoy what the beach has to offer. For that reason, it’s a good idea to leave your unneeded bags at a luggage locker near Bondi Beach. Bring your swimsuit, some sunscreen, a towel, and perhaps a beach chair and umbrella. Anything more than that is overkill.

Bondi Beach food policy

You’re allowed to bring food to Bondi Beach if you want. And really, the beach offers a magnificent location for a picnic. Enjoying the bright sun and the crashing of the waves while you munch on your favorite snacks is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. However, you should note that alcohol is not permitted on the beach. It’s also a good idea to avoid bringing glass bottles if possible, as these can break and cause injury to other beachgoers.

Of course, if you don’t want to bring your own food, there are plenty of restaurants along the edge of Bondi Beach that can keep you well fed. Calita, The Pacific Club, Ciccia Bella , and Milky Lane are just a few of the establishments on offer. Cuisine ranges from burgers and fish and chips to Italian, French, Chinese, Japanese, and classic Australian meat pies. Whatever you like to eat, you won’t go hungry here.

Bondi Beach camera policy

Cameras are allowed on Bondi Beach. And with its impressive scenery, it’s a good idea to bring one, especially at sunset. Capturing the scenic beauty of the beach is a great way to commemorate your trip.

However, sand and surf and heat can be very damaging to sensitive camera equipment. Once you’ve got your photos, it might be a good idea to drop off your photography gear at a luggage locker near Bondi Beach. That way, no damage will come to your camera and you can enjoy your time on the beach without worrying about it.

Bondi Beach rules

• Bondi Beach uses a system of flags to keep swimmers safe. Always swim between the red and yellow flags and never outside them. If no flags are flying, the beaches closed and it is not safe to swim.
• Bondi Beach is prone to strong currents, including rip currents. To escape the rip current, swim diagonally across it instead of fighting against it. If you find yourself in trouble in the water, raise an arm into the air so the lifeguard can see you and help.
• Police regularly patrol Bondi Beach, and lifeguards keep watch over everyone. Public intoxication and abusive behavior will not be tolerated and may see you ejected from the beach or even arrested.
• Buses run regularly to Bondi Beach from Bondi Junction. Bondi junction itself can be reached by train from Sydney Central Station. If you would prefer to walk, it takes around 25 minutes on foot from Bondi Junction to reach Bondi Beach.

Bondi Beach lockers

Spending time on Bondi Beach is a classic Sydney activity. You can make your trip easier on yourself by making sure you don’t carry more than you need to. Drop off your unneeded bags at a luggage locker near Bondi Beach and enjoy this iconic location to the fullest.

Bondi Beach is the perfect place to try surfing and perfect your skills. It’s also a wonderful location to take in the natural beauty of Australia and enjoy a key facet of the country’s culture. If you find yourself in Sydney, you owe it to yourself to visit this stunning city beach.

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Your Guide To Australia’s Bondi Beach By Correspondent Quinn Connors

December 31, 2013

If you’re coming to Sydney to escape the winter and partake in the ultimate Aussie summer experience of surf, sun and beach, then head about 15 minutes west of the city to the famous Bondi Beach. Sydney’s bronzed beauties and beachy hipsters call this eastern suburb home, attracted by the slew of trendy places to explore, shop, drink and eat. Here’s your guide to hitting Bondi like an in-the-know local.

Where to Eat and Drink

Bondi Trattoria

Tuck into Italian-Australian fusion food in a newly refurbished spot on the south end of the beach with a killer view. Stop in for breakfast and watch as the sun rises over the water and the surfers swim out to catch their first wave of the day. Order a Bloody Mary along with a breakfast pizza with smoked ham, egg, spinach, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms and provolone, or go all out with the barbecue chorizo and chili baked beans over fried polenta with spinach, a poached egg and Parmesan. If you’re not an early riser, head over as the sky begins to turn pink in the evening and enjoy one of the many pastas, risottos and other mains made with fresh seafood, such as the saffron risotto with prawns, mussels, clams, squid and dry vermouth or the angel hair with raw tuna, arugula, Parmesan and chili oil.

The Hill Eatery

Opened in 2012 by the same people who run the Bondi healthy breakfast spot Porch and Parlour , The Hill Eatery boasts a winning combination of gorgeous food with a gorgeous view of the beach. The restaurant sources its food locally from sustainably run producers such as Flinders Island Meat and provides a nice selection of seasonal dishes. Order à la carte or from the set price menu that features shareable entrées, with options such as seafood paella (chorizo, calamari, prawns, mussels and salmon) or grilled halloumi cheese with broccoli, heirloom tomatoes and preserved lemon. The Hill Eatery really knows how to keep people coming back with its designated locals nights offering $20 mains every Monday and Tuesday, live music and an early bird special where kids eat for free before 6 p.m. The space also holds cooking classes, such as the recent Xmas Cooking School , which taught how to make a three-course meal using local produce and with minimal preparation.

Neighbourhood

The former Bondi 88.0 FM studios have been transformed into this small bar, ideal for people-watching out the front window or relaxing with friends in the courtyard out in the back. Furnished with reclaimed pieces and beer crates as stools, this bar offers great cocktails such as the Poste-Haste (Stolen Gold rum, smoked honey, lemon, bitters and sparkling wine) and dishes with Americana flair, such as mac and cheese with blue swimmer crab and smoky speck. Staying true to the space’s original radio roots, the house DJ runs a radio show out of the old studios, Mixanation , which plays in the bar and on the Web. While Neighbourhood runs the risk of turning into a too-cool bar, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with its friendly, open atmosphere, dismissing any stereotypical hipster bar mentality. Plus, Neighbourhood describes its wine, beer and cocktail offerings as “left-of-center without it all being juice for snobs,” in addition to sticking by a house mantra that life is too short for boring booze.

Where to Shop

Aquabumps Gallery

The popular Bondi-based website that gave everyone serious beach envy opened its gallery in 2004. Dedicated to early morning beach life, the site and daily emails have developed a cult following with their shots of mornings in Bondi, as well as other beach destinations around the world such as Hawaii and Indonesia. Stop by the gallery to see the images in person, and maybe even purchase one of the prints to take a little piece of Bondi home with you.

This is a great one-stop shop for popular Aussie and international designers on the fashion scene. Tuchuzy is expertly curated with covetable labels such as Alexander Wang, Rag & Bone, Helmut Lang and Acne, as well as local favorites such as Christopher Esber, Dion Lee and Winston Wolfe. The undeniably chic mix of premier and emerging brands for sale gives this iconic Bondi boutique its stylish, unique and cutting edge.

Gould Street

For a full dose of top Aussie fashion and beyond, take a walk down Gould Street, where you’ll find some of the hottest boutiques and labels in Sydney. The street is filled with fashionistas getting their fix of designer duds, unique pieces and stylish threads. Embark on a boutique fashion crawl starting at Tuchuzy on nearby Campbell Parade and make your way around the corner to Gould Street, the next block over. You’ll hit one trendy store after another, such as Religion Clothing , Ksubi , Jatali , Carousel — and the list goes on.

Bondi Farmers Markets

The Bondi Farmers Markets are a Saturday morning tradition for the Bondi set. Every Saturday, the local elementary school lawns and driveways fill up with stallholders selling local, organic and sustainable goods. Grab a coffee and start browsing what’s available that day, from delicious breads and organic oils to fresh herbs and natural honeys. A must-try is the sugar cane frappé with fresh cane juice (pressed onsite), pineapple juice, lime and mint from the juicing stall. It’s the ultimate thirst quencher for a hot Australian summer day.

Bondi Icebergs

On the weekend, head to the iconic swim club, home to the Bondi Icebergs and its crew dedicated to swimming in the Bondi Baths year-round — even during the winter. However, you don’t have to be a dedicated winter swimmer to enter the club, since you can visit the pool for $5.50 ($3.50 for kids). Make a day of it by hitting Icebergs for a dip and then taking one of the yoga classes . There’s nothing quite like the outdoor yoga offered on the Icebergs deck overlooking the Tasman Sea. After class, head to the saltwater pool that sits in the sea. If you’re in need of a relaxing way to spend the weekend after touring Sydney, this is certainly the place to do so.

Bondi Beach

No trip to Bondi would be complete without sinking your toes in its famous sand. Set up on the long stretch of beach for a day with the rest of the Bondi sun worshippers. You will be among Sydney’s most dedicated beachgoers as some spread out on towels to work on their tans and the surfers gear up to catch a few waves. Be sure to pack some sunscreen, though, as the Aussie sun is hot and strong.

Photo Courtesy of iStock_Kim Pin Tan

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Australia / January 23, 2022

12 of The Best Things to do in Bondi, Sydney (2023)

Widely known as Sydney’s most iconic beach , it’s no surprise Bondi Beach attracts tourists from around the world, year-round. Bondi is a melting pot for people from all backgrounds and that makes it a diverse, interesting, and fun place to live or visit. While there are an endless number of fun things to do in Bondi, here are a few local Bondi tips for first-time visitors.

Skye Gilkeson  

There are so many fun things to do in Bondi on and off the sand.| © Skye Gilkeson

12 Epic Things to Do in Bondi Beach

1. learn to surf.

If you’re new to surfing but keen to have your Keanu Reeves moment, there’s no better stretch to learn on than the famed Bondi Beach.

One of the best places to learn how to surf in the world, t his really is one of the most iconic things to do in Bondi.

But, to avoid becoming an unscripted talent on Bondi Rescue, it’s best to book a Bondi surf lesson with a local to help get you started.

While the S outhern end of Bondi Beach can catch the inexperienced surfer or swimmer out, Bondi’s beautiful sheltered northern stretch can be the perfect spot to learn.

Choose early morning or weekday to book a lesson as Bondi is popular with locals and tourists alike.

Most companies offer private lessons, group lessons, lessons for kids, and surfing camps.

Book a surf lesson with a Bondi surf school .

2. Start with a Typical Bondi Breakfast

Bondi cafes plate up some of the most appealing meals we’ve eaten anywhere. If you are partial to farm-to-plate fare you’ll love that most Bondi Cafes showcase local produce in healthy and delicious ways.

While the cafe scene in Bondi is pretty dynamic, we have some new and more established favourite picks for the best breakfast in Bondi.

Read more in our guide to the best breakfast in Bondi .

Related: Bowral Cafes – A Foodie’s Guide to the Southern Highlands

Enjoy one of the many incredible Bondi breakfast options. | © Skye Gilkeson

3. Go for a Round of Lawn Bowls and Beers

“Let’s go for a round of lawn bowls” doesn’t necessarily scream raging Saturday afternoon straight off the page.

But, barefoot bowls are a very fun Australian pastime. And a great way to spend the day with a big group of friends, new or old.

Book a lane or two at the Bondi Bowling Club (or the Bondi Bowlo as it is affectionately known).

Settle in for an afternoon of bowls, beers, comfort-food snacks, and giggles.

This is definitely one of the most unique ways to experience Bondi. But it is such a fun way to spend an afternoon with friends or to celebrate a birthday.

4. Eat Dinner on the Grassy Knoll

Of all of the things to do in Bondi, there’s little that is more of a local activity than joining the community at one of their unofficial social gatherings on the grassy knoll.

A popular spot a lmost any night of the week you’ll find a stream of locals drawn to the Grassy Knoll as the sun starts to set.

Some come straight from an afternoon stretched on the sand, hair wet and sarong stained with saltwater.

Others, step off the bus, grab a takeaway meal from a local Bondi cafe, turn left at the B ondi Pavilion, and head north to the Ben Bucker Hill (known as the Grassy Knoll), still dressed in their suit from work (shoes optional).

It’s a beautiful unwritten tradition that locals share and something we used to do several times a week.

A takeaway drink or meal, something packed from home, a shared towel, and the epic pink peach of the breathtaking Bondi sunset makes for a perfect Bondi goodnight.

If you’re grabbing some takeaway stop at Fish Shop or North Bondi Fish for some fancy takeaway fish and chips, sashimi, and other daily fresh options.

Cafe Bondi is a good spot to pick up a sandwich or salad (they close around 4 pm), bRU Coffee has some delicious, healthy options (closing at around 2 pm), and Speedos right off the sand even has the aptly named The Grassy Knoll on their menu to try (closes at about 3 pm).

Most cafes now offer pre-orders online so you can grab your food and snag a spot on the grass without waiting.

If you are after a quieter spot, walk further up the hill to S am Fiszman Park up on Ben Buckler with panoramic views back over all of Bondi.

Find and book Sydney tours and activities

Related: What to do in Mollymook

Join the locals shopping at the weekend farmers and makers’ Bondi Markets.| © Skye Gilkeson

5. Visit the Bondi Markets

The Bondi Markets are generally split into a farmers’ markets on Saturday and a makers’ market on Sunday.

The Saturday weekend market is a lovely chance to grab some goodies for your self-contained accommodation or for snacks to take to the beach.

The produce is predominantly organic and deliciously fresh. There are also stalls selling everything from smoothies to coffee and fresh Acai bowls. Settle in on the grass for some breakfast after your shop and you’ll likely be serenaded by a local musician too.

The Sunday markets have launched the careers of many famous fashion designers.

Stop in from 10 am to shop handmade wares made by up-and-coming designers. The perfect presents to take home to family.

Find more information here.

6. Enjoy a Day at Bondi Beach

There’s nothing more ‘Bondi’ than spending the day at one of Sydney’s best beaches. But, where should you set up your umbrella?

Well, our pick is always the northern end of the beach. North Bondi offers a more sheltered place to swim.

One of the best things to do in Bondi with kids is to set up near the ocean pool, spend time in and out of the water, and explore the rock pool further around the point

While the southern end of Bondi Beach can get a bit hairy – with huge waves and strong currents the north end of the beach is much more gentle and some days can even resemble a beach in the Mediterranean it’s so smooth.

7. Do the Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk

First thing in the morning is the best time to hit the Bondi to Bronte walk, a well-worn path that winds from the southern end of the beach (grab a photo at the Bondi Beach graffiti wall before you head off) to Bronte beach (via stunning Tamarama).

While the path around the foreshore isn’t lit by streetlights, you’ll still find some locals on the track as early as 5 am getting their steps in before the day begins.

The loop is fairly gentle, with a couple of steeper sections. Those with prams will need a little help up and downstairs in parts. A baby carrier would be easier to manage.

I recommend you avoid mid-morning on Saturday or Sunday to avoid the crush of people. To learn about Bondi’s history as you go, book into a small group guided walk .

There are also many little picnic spots along the way around the headlands (or down on Tamarama Beach) with scenic views should you need a rest or want to relax with a coffee.

If you have more energy you could go even further and take on the C oogee coastal walk. You’ll be rewarded with some spectacular views as you make your way around the heads on the Coogee walk.

Stop in at the Coogee Pavillion for a coffee or lunch (they have an amazing play area for kids on the ground floor) before walking back again.

Here are some of the other most beautiful Sydney Coastal Walks you should try on your visit to see some of the best examples of Sydney’s natural beauty.

8. Shop at Bondi’s Beautiful Boutiques

Bondi is certainly a suburb overflowing with beautiful people. So, it should come as no shock that it is also brimming with stunning shops stocking designer clothing and accessories too.

Gould Street, lower Hall Street, and Curlewis Street are great places to take a retail-therapy stroll.

These are a few of our favourite places to shop;

You can’t go to Bondi without visiting the cult boutique Tuchuzy. Stocking a handful of mid-range and high-end designers alongside their in-house brand of basics, you’re bound to find something to covet at Tuchuzy.

Hope and May is a must-visit with their enviable neutral palate pieces for the home.

Watson x Watson sells elevated essentials pieces designed by Australian sisters Somer and Liberty Watson.

Nimble Activewear is the perfect place to shop fun, locally-designed athleisurewear to fit in with the Bondi crowd.

Cute meets cool at Playa by Lucy Folk. A curated concept store, this is the place to pick up a pair of retro-cool sunglasses or jewelry.

Related: A Guide to Blueys Beach

The famed Bondi Icebergs Pool on Bondi’s southern end. Image via Kevin Bosc

9. Spend the Morning at Bondi Icebergs

Join the locals at the Bondi Baths for a swim and sauna session. You’ll find that a morning spent between the pool and sauna at the Bondi Baths is a part of many locals’ routines.

There is a strong community feel at the baths – where despite its strong presence on social media, everyone is welcome and you’ll find people of all ages enjoying this iconic swimming spot.

Bondi Icebergs Club upstairs is a great place to grab lunch after a swim.

Expect RSL-style food and drinks with the trademark Bondi Icebergs views.

10. Eat at one of Bondi’s Best Restaurants

A backdrop of Bondi Beach would give any restaurant an invaluable headstart.

But, there are a few Bondi Beach restaurants that stand out as our picks when it comes to offering both delicious food and attentive service.

Icebergs Dining Room is the spot to impress if you have got a serious date or milestone to celebrate.

Book in for a long lunch and enjoy their tasting menu with the best views overlooking the ocean and their iconic pool below.

North Bondi Fish is a fun choice for lunch or dinner with friends or family and one of the more popular places for people watching, particularly during a summer weekend when it’s busy around the north end of the beach.

Whether you’re wandering off the sand for an afternoon cocktail, takeaway fish and chips, or a delicious meal, NBF caters well to the crowds.

A sunset cocktail is a must and the North Bondi Fish food menu is simple and fresh with a few options for the kids too.

Sean’s Panorama has long been a local’s favourite for an intimate dinner. Stepping into ‘Sean’s’ is like walking into a family dining room. There is a warmth and comfort that you don’t feel at other fine dining destinations in Sydney.

Sean Moran crafts his three-course tasting menu from seasonal produce sourced from their farm in Bipin.

11. Grab a Beer with the Locals at a Bondi Bar

A wonderful local gem, the North Bondi RSL offers breathtaking ocean views at a fraction of the cost of its downstairs neighbour and often a great happy hour.

While it lacks a lot of the sparkle of NBF, drinks come at RSL prices (for members), and the pub grub is served up in generous portions. There’s also always the chance to win the Friday afternoon meat raffle. Membership is about $25 per person.

Beach Road Hotel is buzzing on a weekend afternoon , particularly in the summer months so it’s best to get there early. Order some lunch from the bistro and a glass of wine or local pale ale to enjoy out in the beer garden.

Hotel Ravesis is another historic icon on the Bondi nightlife scene. Reinvented over the years, its prime position facing the middle of the beach on the Campbell Parade makes it an easy post-beach or pre-dinner spot for sundowners.

It is also home to a pretty impressive restaurant serving modern Mediterranean fare.

As the name would suggest, Ravesis also offers boutique beachside accommodation for those who want to stay at the beach a little longer.

Here are some other Bondi hotels .

Related: Yoga Inversions for Beginners

Stunning sunlit sets from above on Bondi Beach. Image via Emjeii Beattie

12. Join in a Morning workout at a Bondi Gym 

Training is almost a religion for the Bondi set. Most are up before the sun getting a sweat up on the sand or a Bondi gym or yoga studio.

Whatever your training persuasion, there’s a good chance you’ll find it in Bondi.

Bondi is blessed with a number of great yoga studios to start your day. Dharma Shala in North Bondi is a small, welcoming studio well-known to locals, particularly for its nurturing approach to pre and post-natal practice.

Yoga by the Sea is another well-established offering where yogis can flow as the sunrises next to the Icebergs pool.

It would be hard to find a better spot for a morning workout than Bondi Icebergs pool. Bondi Icebergs offers casual passes for the pool. Simply turn up at the gate and pay on entry.

There are more gyms in Bondi than you can probably count but for the true Bondi experience, try Beach Fit.

Beach Fit Bondi is as much about people-watching as perfecting your pull-ups.

The gym offers a 7-day trial pass which is a good option for people passing through. They have longer memberships for the gym and their F45 space for those who catch the Bondi bug and decide to stay on in the bubble.

The Well studio offers a bit of everything. From Pilates to Barre and boxing with casual visits and 7-day passes you can work your way through their schedule during your stay.

Of course, I couldn’t possibly mention Australia’s most famous beach without talking about North Bondi Outdoor Gym. Bond’s answer to Muscle Beach, head to this outdoor training space to get your heart rate and your Instagram followers count up.

How to Get to Bondi Beach

Where is Bondi? Bondi Beach is located in the eastern suburbs of Sydney about 20 minutes from the Sydney city centre.

Bondi Beach is such a popular tourist spot, it’s no surprise it’s very easy to get to.

Public Transport is pretty reliable with buses leaving regularly from Bondi Junction, down Bondi Road, and directly to Bondi Beach.

Westfield Bondi Junction has everything you need if you are staying locally, with many smaller food stores down near Bondi Beach too.

Read these next:

What to do in Queenstown in Winter

Where to Eat in Bowral and the Surrounding Towns

What to do in Mollymook Australia

Cover Image via Jay Wennington

Skye is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Fit Traveller.

She is a journalist, writer, photographer, intrepid traveller and a former personal trainer with a passion for helping others reach optimal health.

As a TV journalist and producer, Skye has worked for household names such as 60 Minutes, Sunrise, TODAY and Nine News. She has also written for Women’s Health, Fodor’s Travel and Yahoo7 Travel, among many others.

Equally comfortable in a 5-star resort or hiking a far-off mountain, Skye loves the unexpected and enriching life experiences that each trip brings and can often be found in a backstreet chatting to locals with her camera in hand.

Skye is based in Sydney, working to master the balance between motherhood and her appetite for adventure.

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Bondi Travel Guide

Our Bondi Travel Guide covers all the best places to eat 🍉 and drink 🍸 in the area, along with a choice of accommodation🏨

We loved Bondi so much that we felt it needed its own blog post! The famous Bondi beach is one of those places you’ve either heard of or seen on TV, mainly for Bondi Rescue! It is a beautiful beach not too far from Sydney, with lots to see and do! If we can tell you to visit anywhere in Sydney its Bondi. The whole area is very relaxed and Bondi & Brunch go hand in hand 🍳

This post might contain  our   affiliate links.   This is at no extra cost to you, but you would be doing us a solid if you did use them. It shows us your appreciation after we have written this amazing travel guide for you 😏*  

🏠Accommodation

💦 Things to do

🍳Brunch Spots

🍹 Cocktail Spots

Accommodation in Bondi Beach 🏠

Bondi Backpackers

This hostel has the best ocean views of Sydney’s most iconic beach. Bondi Backpackers is the perfect place to live the Australian beach lifestyle. Experience the culture of Bondi and its surroundings at its waterfront location, mere seconds from the sand. This is one of the best hostels we have stayed at in Australia! It is by far one of the cleanest hostels, which is unheard of in hostel life. The staff and people here are really nice and super chill. The hostel offers free morning yoga🧘🏼

Free personal training 💪

Free surfboard hire 🏄

Photo credit :@BondiBackpackers

Things To Do In Bondi 💦

Bondi beach …durr 🏖️, bondi to coogee walk 🥾.

This coastal walk is something we highly recommend. Whale season is between June – November and along this walk you are able to see Whales if you are very lucky! The areas along the walk are T amarama, Bronte, Clovelly and Coogee. Many of these areas have salt water baths/swimming pools which you can swim in as well as many cafes and toilets. The distance is 6km which roughly takes around 2 hours, this walk can take as long as you want if you stop as much as we did to take photos..it took us 6. We highly recommend stopping at Bare Naked Bowls along the way for a healthy smoothie or snack in Bronte! 

All below pictures are from each locations website., unless stated otherwise.

Bondi Brunch Spots 🍳

Menu <<

Location📍 : 286 Campbell Parade, North Bondi

Lox Stock And Barrel

Location📍 : 140 Glenayr Ave. Bondi Beach.

 Porch and parlour

Location📍 : 17-18/110 Ramsgate Ave, North Bondi.

Location: 163 Glenayr Avenue, Bondi Beach  

Bare Naked Bowls 

The menu is a dream! It is the perfect healthy stop along the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk. Technically in Bronte, its worth the extra steps. Check the menu out here <<

Location📍: 145 Macpherson St, Bronte NSW 2024

Marceleria 🥩

 Location📍 : G09/180 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach

China Diner

Location📍: 75 – 79 HALL STREET, BONDI

Brown Sugar

Menu  <<

Location📍: 106 Curlewis Street, Bondi Beach

Bavarian Bier

Location📍: 108 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach

The above photo is our own.

Gelato Messina 

Coogee pavilion  .

Great pizza! Menu <<

Location📍 : 169 Dolphin Street, Coogee

🍹Places to grab a few Drinks🍹

Looking out over the whole beach!

Location📍: 1 Notts Ave, Bondi Beach NSW 2026

Location📍: 120 Ramsgate Avenue  North Bondi 2026

Location📍: Bondi Pavilion, Shop 1, Queen Elizabeth Drive

Coogee Pavilion

Location📍: 169 Dolphin Street, Coogee

This blog post would not have been possible without Becky’s help & recommendations! 

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Things to do in bermagui nsw – our …, things to do in jervis bay – our …, 11 comments.

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I agree!! Bondi certainly deserves a blog page all to itself!! We spent the day here a few years back and fell in love with the place. But your information tells us we hardly touched it!! Very interesting to read. Keep it up 👏

Thanks guys!!

Ok…we’re defo going to Bondi…although maybe we’ll give the hostels a miss! 😃

Sent from my iPhone

Haha if only I knew Brunch would be the deal breaker in getting you out here!

Great photos guys! We’ve never visited this place but now we know about it!

Thank you very much !

Loved the blog post guys 👌🏼 Your food photography skills are amazing!! 😊

Thank you !!

What an amazingly detailed blog. Wow. The pictures are also drool worthy 🤩

Thank you so much 😊😊

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Things to do

8 things to do at bondi beach in sydney.

Bondi Beach, in the Land Down Under, is one of the most beautiful beaches on the globe and certainly the most popular strip of sand on the continent. You simply have to visit it at least once in your lifetime.

This beach is located in the beautiful city of Sydney in Australia. It’s a hidden pearl and a great touristic destination for many reasons. Below, you’ll find 8 of the best things to do on Bondi Beach to help you start day dreaming about and planning your inevitable trip to Sydney, Australia.

Bondi Beach Activities

1. witness the spectacular sunrise and sunset.

It doesn’t matter when you visit Bondi Beach, the first thing you need to do is stay outside during the sunset or wake up early in the morning and witness the most beautiful sunrise ever. Don’t think that Bondians are in bed at 6 in the morning. No way.

Everyone’s outside witnessing another colorful sunrise. Some are taking their dogs for a walk; others are hitting the beach in order to surf. The sunrise at Bondi beach really does bring people together. It’s definitely an experience that you want to have in your life, so if you happen to be there, don’t you dare miss it.

2. Eat Something Beautiful

It’s not only the sunrise that’s photographable at Bondi beach; it’s the food as well. For breakfast, head to Porch and Parlour which embodies the true essence of Bondi. It doesn’t matter which meal you choose, it’s so beautiful and tasty that you will most certainly post it online.

Speedos is another one of the best places to eat breakfast in Bondi for its beach views and gorgeous plates of food. The vegan pancakes plate is simply enormous.

If you want to have lunch at Iggy Azalea’s favorite place in Sydney, then you must visit the fancy Icebergs Dining Room  and enjoy the view. As for dinner, you have a plethora of options to choose from, such as the classy Blanca Bar.

3. Have a Drink

When you’re done with the beach activities and looking for a drink, there’s no better place than The Bucket List , probably one of the most beautiful bars we’ve ever been to. It’s situated on the foreshore of this magnificent strip of sand, so drinking cocktails while watching the amazing ocean from this location is the perfect experience.

Don’t get drawn in by all the bars along Campbell Parade, the main strip. There are some even better places further away, like La Palma or The Royal Bondi.

And of course, you can’t miss Icebergs Terrace , which is the “quintessential” bar to visit when in Bondi. With so many things to do at the Iceberg Club, you could really stay all day.

4. Enjoy the Water

The marine life in Australia is always phenomenal. When you’re visiting Bondi beach, you might want to snorkel a bit. Make sure to have a full face snorkel mask as you want this experience to be the best possible.

Even though it’s not as colorful as at the Great Barrier Reef, snorkeling everywhere in Australia might have amazing and very interesting outcomes.

5. Go Surfing – the most popular Aussie sport

Surfing is regarded as the national sport of Australia so it would be such a shame to come here and not try it out. Bondi beach is a place where many surfers come because of its iconic breaks, but you don’t have to be an expert if you want to try it out.

Bondi beach has some amazing left and right breaks that are excellent for all beginners. Simply take a beginner’s class and try to figure out why surfing is indeed one of the most popular sports in this region.

6. The Bondi to Bronte Walk

If you’re up for a walk, you’re in luck as Bondi beach offers a wonderful walking route. If you climb the steps behind Bondi Icebergs and you follow the path, you will experience one of the best walking trails in this part of the country.

The whole walk takes about 30 minutes and is around 2 kilometers long , but you will probably be making plenty of stops in order to capture the most beautiful scenery on camera. If your boots are not made only for walking, you don’t have to stop at Bronte, as you might continue further and explore the area even more.

7. Visit the Iceberg Club

Since the ocean might be quite turbulent and it might not cater for everyone’s needs and wishes, Aussies have come up with a great idea. Namely, you can always dive in the amazing ocean water in an ocean pool – practically a rectangle of ocean water that’s much more user-friendly.

Even though it doesn’t sound like that, the Bondi ocean pools are indeed spectacular as you get to swim in the ocean and still experience the whole thing firsthand. The easiest ocean pool to access from Bondi Beach is at the Bondi Icebergs Club .

You can visit the club without a membership as long as you live more than 5km away. There’s also a cafe and bar on site, for when you’re done swimming.

8. Check Out the Bondi Markets

Once you’re done with taking a bunch of selfies, eating and drinking your day away at some of the most beautiful bars and coffee places, it would be an excellent idea to hit the famous Bondi markets. Each Saturday, the Bondi Beach Public School hosts the Bondi Farmers Market where you can buy the freshest vegetables and fruit.

What’s more, you can also buy super tasty homemade jams, or artisan breads. On Sunday, go there again and you will find the Bondi Market – a place where you can buy everything from vintage clothes to handmade candles and jewelry.

So, this could be a perfect place to buy everything you need for a great Bondi photo session afterwards. The Bondi Market is the place where Samantha Wills started out – and look where she is now !

You’re probably looking to book accommodation at the moment, aren’t you? And we cannot blame you – we told you so! Sydney is amazing as it is, but Bondi Beach is definitely something out of this world. So pure, so natural, so beautiful. Every single one of us should experience this place that will definitely leave you in awe.

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

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Bondi Beach, New South Wales © Destination NSW

Guide to Bondi Beach

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• Getting to Bondi
• When to visit

This iconic beachside neighbourhood in Sydney’s east is a dynamic pocket of sun and sand, with a bustling social scene and top-notch restaurants and cafés.

Bondi is one of Sydney’s most iconic beach suburbs – and for good reason. Even to locals, the golden sands of Bondi Beach are a slice of heaven, and its proximity to the city makes it easily accessible. Each day the sunrise brings early-morning surfers, swims in ocean pools and a local ritual of delicious coffee. As the sun sets, beachside bars come to life and shoppers browse designer boutiques. From morning to night, Bondi has it all.

As a suburb of Sydney, Bondi is serviced by Sydney Airport, which welcomes domestic and international flights seven days a week.

• Sydney Airport (SYD) is 13km (8mi) from Bondi
• Hire cars, rideshare services and taxis are available from passenger terminals
• The SkyBus shuttle service departs every 30 minutes daily to Sydney’s city centre where you can then catch a train or bus into Bondi

The easiest way to reach Bondi is via public transport or a rideshare service, as parking in this popular spot can be tricky. Trains run from Central Station to Bondi Junction station, where you can catch one of many buses to Bondi Beach.

It’s no surprise that Bondi is paradise in summer. During this time the weather is warm (some days can get quite hot), making it a great time to relax on the beach or swim in an ocean pool.

In spring, days are sunny and warm but the humidity is not as high as summer, making it perfect weather for a stroll. See the renowned Sculpture by the Sea exhibition that runs through October and November along the Bondi to Tamarama Beach coastal walk.

• High season: Summer (December to February)
• Low season: Autumn (March to May)
• Don’t miss: The winter delight of spotting whales (from late June to mid-July) along the Bondi Headland and Coastal Walk, or the Federation Cliff Walk

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How To Spend A Perfect Weekend In Gorgeous Bondi Beach

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Bondi Beach is not simply a beach. Yes, it’s the world-famous crescent-shaped beach a mere 4 miles from central Sydney, but it’s also an entire suburb stretching along the coast, known not only for its stunning natural beauty but also for its relaxed lifestyle and beachy vibe.

Hop on a bus from Sydney , and within 20 minutes it’ll be like you’ve come to a different world. In Bondi you can shop, eat, go for endless walks or hikes, take a dip in the ocean, and learn to surf some of the most famous waves in Australia, if not the world. You can do all this in one day, but chances are you’ll want a few extra days, because the laid-back attitude is contagious and before you know it, you’ll have forgotten all about your to-do list.

Getting to Bondi from central Sydney is easy. The public buses are reasonably priced and run every few minutes, so you could easily stay in the big city and just pack a beach bag for a day trip. But we recommend treating Bondi as a vacation from your vacation and booking a local place for a couple of nights to really relax.

Things To Do In Bondi Beach

Bondi Beach has plenty to keep you busy, although much of it is not your typical city-break sort of cultural entertainment. In Bondi, the outdoors is everything, and many of the area’s activities center on the spectacular setting and the water.

Here are just a few of the best things to do in the area.

GagliardiPhotography / Shutterstock

Swim In The Coolest Pool Ever

There are swimming pools, and then there is the swimming pool at the Bondi Icebergs Club . In my book, this is simply the coolest pool anywhere in the world, and at times that might even be taken literally. Set in the cliffs and jutting out into the ocean, this seawater pool is open all year long, and for more than 100 years, swimmers have braved the weather and the huge waves breaking over the sides of the pool to swim their laps. With a sauna in place in case of chilly temperatures plus a good restaurant and bar, you could easily spend a few hours here.

amophoto_au / Shutterstock

Learn To Surf

When in Bondi Beach, surfing is a must. It’s great fun to go down to the beach in the morning with a coffee in hand to watch the dedicated surfers catching waves before heading into the city for work, but it is even more fun to join them. With experienced teachers aplenty, you can learn the basics quite quickly, and even if standing up on the board confidently and elegantly is beyond your reach, just hanging on for dear life while riding the waves is still loads of fun.

Leah-Anne Thompson / Shutterstock

Go For An Artsy Walk

Once a year in October, the coastline to the south of Bondi becomes an open-air sculpture park . I love to visit sculpture parks on my travels, because I feel that sculpture in a natural setting is so much more enjoyable than in a museum or gallery. With art nestled in cliff faces, coves, and pools and looming large on the sandy beach, this is my favorite sculpture trail of them all, and it’s worth timing your visit to attend.

But even if you miss the sculpture trail, the Bondi to Bronte Walk is a real treat in and of itself. A 1.5-mile walk along the coastline past coves and beaches, this is an easy 1.5-hour round trip on which you might well spot whales, lizards, and plenty of indigenous plants and birds.

Go For A Hike

If the Bondi to Bronte Walk is not challenging enough for you, consider walking from Bondi Beach all the way to the beaches on the opposite side of the natural harbor of Sydney. You’ll follow a marked trail along the coast, through suburbs with some truly awesome real estate, through the city center, across the bridge, and then onward on the northern side back to the coast. The route is roughly 50 miles long, and you can do it all in one go, with hotel stops along the way and someone taking your baggage, or simply pick and choose the segments of the walk that interest you most.

Shop At The Market

A daily market in the summer and a weekend market during the rest of the year, the Bondi Beach Market is a local market selling anything and everything you might need for the beach: sunglasses, trendy cover-ups, beachwear, beach toys, surf wear, fun and artsy knickknacks, and plenty more. This is a joy to browse and is located just steps away from the beach promenade.

tikisada / Shutterstock

Watch The Sunrise And The Whales At Ben Buckler Point

To the left of the bay as you look out toward the sea, Ben Buckler Point juts out, offering not only spectacular views across the beach but also views of the sunrise and passing whales. Grab a coffee and a croissant along the promenade, head out to the end of the point, and settle down and watch the day break. The whale migration season is between May and November, with the best time in June and July, when you can actually spot whales swimming past from the land — such an amazing sight.

Go Fly A Kite

Every September, Bondi Beach comes together for the Festival of the Winds , where you can watch hundreds of kites of all shapes and sizes on the beach. It makes for a spectacular sight against the blue sky. But while the kites are the main event, the weekend also features musical events, discussions, art, food, and lots of fun.

Where To Eat In Bondi Beach

Bondi Beach is a casual place, so you will find lots of food stalls, take-out joints, cafes, and easygoing restaurants, with a few fine dining options also in the mix. When in Bondi, it’s best to take it easy and grab some food to eat out on the beach.

Fish-and-chip shops line the beach promenade, and they are all good and offer freshly cooked fish; the most famous is Bondi’s Best . Grab some to go and sit on the benches along the beach. But be aware that you will have to share with the ibises that come and demand their share.

For a relaxed coffee and light snack, head straight to Gertrude & Alice , a bookstore and cafe. You’ll sit surrounded by books with lovely light, healthy snacks, and a delicious coffee while browsing the local authors.

For drinks and light tapas, reserve a spot at Vue , where you can sip cocktails and watch the beach world go by.

Best Places To Stay In Bondi Beach

There are plenty of great places to stay in Bondi Beach. In nearby Sydney, you’ll find all the big luxury chain hotels, if that is your preferred way to rest up, but Bondi offers plenty of self-catered and homesharing options.

For a small but perfectly located Airbnb option, look no further than this studio , which offers the most amazing views — the only problem is that you won’t want to leave and get outside!

One of Australia’s coolest hotel chains is QT , where trendy meets luxury and art meets comfort. The Bondi location is right on the beach promenade, and you’ll appreciate being pampered by the hotel staff.

For somewhere in between hotel comfort and Airbnb freedom, the Bondi 38 serviced apartments give you the extra space and kitchenette for the odd meal at home, but also amenities like room service and laundry facilities. It’s also conveniently located near the beach.

What To Know Before You Go

When you are in Australia, sun awareness is key, especially when you are thinking of hitting the beach. So, follow the advice in Australia’s famous 1980s advertising campaign — “Slip, Slop, Slap.” Slip on a shirt, slop on the sunscreen, and slap on a hat. In recent years, the campaign has been extended to include seeking shade or shelter and sliding on some glasses to block out the sun.

Also, when in Bondi, always heed the advice of the Bondi Beach lifeguards. The ocean currents along the coast are treacherous, and you must not overestimate your skills. On rare occasions, there might also be a shark warning, so always stay close to the beach and within the designated flags.

A travel writer and guidebook author for the last 20 years, Ulrike's work has been seen in National Geographic , BBC , The Independent , Australian Women's Weekly , The Telegraph , The Australian , Fodor's , France Today , CNN Travel , Lonely Planet , Travel + Leisure , CNTraveler , numerous inflight magazines, and many others.

She has written three books for Moon Travel Guides: 'Living Abroad in Australia' (3rd edition), 'Sydney & the Great Barrier Reef', and the shorter version 'Spotlight Sydney' and are all available in print and as e-books.

Having lived in seven countries (Germany, UK, Qatar, Oman, UAE, Australia, and France) to date and traveled to more than 100, she specializes in writing about travel, art and architecture, expat living, and life and style.

PARTNER CONTENT FOR DESTINATION NEW SOUTH WALES

Meet the icon: Bondi Beach

Discover the beaches of new south wales.

Surf at dawn, Bondi Beach, New South Wales

For many, Bondi Beach is the epitome of the Australian beach lifestyle. From legendary sunrises to epic surf, buzzy cafes to its irresistibly charming coastal culture, it draws sun, sand and sea worshippers from far and wide.

Whatever time of day you choose to dig your toes in the sand, the glossy appeal of Bondi never fades. Come at sunrise; the early alarm call will be worth it. Arising for an orange dawn in Sydney is almost a rite of passage for locals — the show of light and colours will leave you astounded. As the early morning hour approaches, grab yourself a coffee and toasted banana bread from one of the cafes and wander back over to the beach to watch as surfers launch themselves into the cool blue. If anything's going to inspire you to pick up your own board and paddle out, it's this golden hour, when the surfers are riding the swell. When you catch that wave – or at least attempt to — you'll feel part of the hub, and looking back to Bondi from your board, you'll know you're in Sydney.

Early morning is also the classic time to walk the 7.5-mile Bondi to Coogee coastal jaunt — a round-trip from Sydney's Bondi Icebergs swimming club and along the headland to Tamarama, with pit-stops at historic ocean pools, smaller beaches, rock pools and parkland before arriving in Coogee. Come in spring and Sculpture by the Sea, the largest annual sculpture exhibition in the world, will transform your path from Bondi to Tamarama.

As the day rolls on, the beach begins to bustle. Bronzed bathers, backpackers, school kids, A-listers, Z-listers… they come for the sun, the surf and the enduringly cool scene. It may be a tourist hotspot, but Bondi is definitely no trap.

Meet the person behind the icon: Brenda Miley, Let's Go Surfing

When you get on the beach, everyone's equal.   You could be in the water next to someone rich, poor or famous, but when you're in your 'cossies' everyone's equal. 

There are a few hidden gems. The rocks at North Bondi or Ben Buckler, as it's known to the locals, is a great place to explore. There are also Aboriginal carvings dating back thousands of years dotted around the sandstone cliffs.

Everyone has their favourite time to visit.   Mine's first thing in the morning, watching the sun come over Ben Buckler. But all times of the day have their moments.

There are lots of characters at any time wandering around. It's beautiful and it's fun with celebrities, bohemians and hipsters. The north end generally attracts the locals and in March, it's the unofficial beach spot for Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras – it really lights up. Bondi middle is a mix of locals and day tripper tourists, and South Bondi is the local surfers' mecca for experienced surfers only. Expect an anything-goes slice of Aussie life.

Watch our  video of the beaches of New South Wales.

Like this? Try these…

Murrays Beach, Jervis Bay Sheltered by Bowen Island and home to a colony of penguins, the clear waters of Murrays Beach are calm and shallow, and swimmers and snorkeller will relish the crystalline waters around the shoreline of this white curve of sand in the Booderee National Park. Walking trails wind away from the water to bring sandy beachgoers closer to the beach's flora and fauna, too.

Main Beach, Byron Bay A hippie at heart, Main Beach sports a sweep of golden sand and epic surf that is as alluring to locals and visitors alike. As well as its undeniable natural beauty with stretching sands and surfboard peppered waters, Main Beach is a vibrant destination for a host of activities: from kayaking to dance sessions at dusk.

Manly Beach, Sydney Catching the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly is worth a trip in itself. There's no better way to take in the stunning views of Sydney Harbour as you cross the water. As you arrive at this golden arch of beach, you'll see why it could easily go head-to-head with Bondi, offering world-class waves, an infectious laid-back surfer vibe and unbeatable snorkelling along Cabbage Tree Bay.

How to do it

Fly to Sydney with Singapore Airlines from £765pp return. Singapore Airlines offers four daily flights from London Heathrow and five flights a week from Manchester with seamless connections via Singapore. 

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Ways to enjoy Bondi's beach lifestyle

From sunrise to sunset, Bondi entices with its laid-back lifestyle, stunning coastal surrounds and buzzing eateries. Start the day with an early morning surf, yoga class or swim at Bondi Baths, all while being treated to a glorious sunrise over the ocean.

Swimming & surfing

This picture-postcard arc of golden sand and sparkling blue ocean is made for travel snaps or selfies at any time of the year. Just 8km from the city centre, Bondi is easy to get to by public transport – the trip from Town Hall is only 30 minutes. Or you can take a scenic ferry ride from Circular Quay to Watsons Bay for a connecting bus to Bondi.

The main beach area is in front of the Bondi Pavilion, a national heritage-listed icon. Roll out your beach towel and soak up Sydney’s relaxed beach lifestyle, then enjoy a dip between the red and yellow flags. Professional lifeguards patrol Bondi Beach 365 days a year and even have their own reality TV show, Bondi Rescue .

Bondi Beach , Sydney

You can learn to surf year-round at one of the accredited surf schools. Experienced surfers will want to head to the southern end of the beach, where southerly swells and a rocky reef create powerful waves. On adjacent Campbell Parade, you’ll find shops selling surf gear and swimwear. Surfboard hire is also available.

Lets Go Surfing , Bondi Beach

At the southern end of the beach on the rocky headland is the iconic Bondi Icebergs , one of Australia’s oldest swimming clubs, where members swim throughout the winter, giving it the name Icebergs. The 50-metre pool and wading pool for kids are open to the public. Visitors are also welcome at the bar, bistro and elegant dining room.

Bondi Icebergs Club , Bondi Beach

More things to do

Bondi boasts a year-round events calendar of festivals, markets and activities, including the Festival of the Winds in September, which is a kite festival on the beach. If you’re visiting on the weekend, the Bondi Farmers Markets on Saturday is a must to stock up on organic produce, as is the Bondi Markets on Sunday for original fashions and jewellery.

Between May and November, you can easily spot whales during their annual migration from one of the spectacular vantage points along the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk , a 6km track which links four pretty beaches. In late spring, the cliffs of the coastal walk are transformed by Sculpture by the Sea , the world’s largest annual free-to-the-public outdoor sculpture exhibition.

Sculpture by the Sea , Bondi

Eat & drink

There are oodles of delicious places to eat in Bondi, from wholesome cafes and ice-cream parlours to beachside bars and fine-dining restaurants with great ocean views. Speedos  in North Bondi was crowned the world’s most Instagrammable cafe, Sean's Panorama and  North Bondi Fish  both dish up great seafood with water views, local icon Hotel Ravesis serves Mediterranean small plates, and Bondi Trattoria is the place for pasta.

For something more casual, Pretty Biddigal Reserve, affectionately known to locals as the grassy knoll, is a great spot to enjoy takeaway fish and chips. It also has free barbecue facilities.

Speedos , Bondi

Enjoy Sydney's beaches by following these safety tips

Always swim between the red and yellow flags; surf lifesavers have identified this area as the safest spot to swim in the water. It's also a good idea to always swim with a friend.

Pay attention to the advice of the lifesavers and safety signs. Visit  SharkSmart  to understand any potential risks in the area you are swimming. You are always welcome to ask lifeguards for more safety advice. If you find yourself needing help in the water, stay calm and attract attention. Check conditions before you go. You can also find patrolled beaches by visiting  beachsafe.org.au .

Travel inspiration

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Bondi beach faqs, what’s special about bondi beach.

Bondi Beach is one of Sydney’s largest beaches and it’s the closest ocean beach to the city centre. It is easily accessible by public transport, and the area is very popular for locals and tourists alike both for the beach and for the trendy cafes, bars and shops that run through Bondi.

How much does it cost to go to Bondi Beach?

Going to Bondi Beach itself is free, as are all beaches in Sydney and NSW. If you want to get there by public transport, a bus trip from Circular Quay in the CBD to Bondi Beach will usually cost $2.61, although the price does increase during peak hour. If you want to drive there is parking, however you will have to pay and it can be very hard to find a spot during busy periods.

Can you swim at Bondi Beach?

Yes. Bondi Beach is generally safe to swim at, and on the rare occasion that it isn't there will be clear warnings given and signposted. Just make sure to stay between the flags, because this is where the lifeguards tend to be most focused.

Is Bondi Rescue real?

Yes, Bondi Rescue is a documentary style show that follows professional lifeguards who patrol Bondi Beach. All of the rescues and the other work they do are real life scenarios.

Where is Bondi Beach?

Bondi Beach is about 8km east of the Sydney CBD. It is the closest ocean beach to the city centre.

How do you get to Bondi Beach?

Buses run regularly from Sydney’s CBD to Bondi Beach. You can also drive, or catch a ferry to Watsons Bay then hop on a bus.

A guide to Bondi

This seaside haven is located at eastern Sydney, a central hub that boasts a beautiful beach and relaxed lifestyle with the cosmopolitan vibe of fantastic bars and delicious waterside dining.

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