What To Do In Bondi Beach: Everything You Need To Know
Discover the allure of Bondi, one of Australia's most iconic destinations. Whether you're drawn to the golden sands of Bondi Beach, the trendy cafes and eateries, or the vibrant local culture, there's something here for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into everything you need to know about Bondi— from its world-famous surf to hidden gems only locals know about. Get ready to plan your perfect Bondi experience.
Getting to Bondi Beach
Getting to Bondi Beach is relatively straightforward, especially if you’re starting from Sydney, which is the closest major city. Here are some common ways to get there:
By Car:
If you’re driving, Bondi Beach is about a 20-30 minute drive from the Sydney CBD, depending on traffic. Parking near the beach can be challenging, especially during the summer, so it’s advisable to arrive early.
By Public Transport:
You can easily reach Bondi Beach by public transport.
1. Train + Bus: Take a train to Bondi Junction and then catch a bus to the beach. Buses 333, 380, and 381 go from Bondi Junction to Bondi Beach.
2. Bus from City: You can also catch a bus directly from various points in Sydney, such as Circular Quay or Elizabeth Street. Again, buses 333, 380, and 381 are good options.
By Taxi or Ride-Sharing:
You can also use taxi services or ride-sharing apps like Uber to get directly to Bondi Beach. This is often the most convenient but also the most expensive option.
By Bike:
If you’re feeling adventurous and are already in a nearby neighborhood, you could even cycle to Bondi Beach. There are bike racks available for parking.
Remember that Bondi Beach can get very busy, especially on weekends and public holidays, so plan your journey accordingly.
From the airport:
If you’re travelling to Bondi from Sydney airport check out our comprehensive guide here.
Activities
Bondi Beach isn’t just a beach; it’s a microcosm of Australian culture and a hub of activity. Whether you want to experience nature, culture, or fitness, Bondi has you covered.
Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
The Bondi to Coogee coastal walk is not just a walk but an experience that will leave you awe-struck by the natural beauty of Australia’s eastern coastline. Stretching approximately 6km, this well-maintained path takes you through a series of beaches, each unique in its own way. Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer sunlight, making your photos look fantastic and your walk more comfortable and, of course, sunrise is the most stunning moment to be there. The trail is less crowded during weekdays, offering a more peaceful experience.
Photography Spots
Keep your camera ready for the panoramic views at Mackenzies Point, and don’t forget to capture the iconic Waverley Cemetery, which looks ethereal against the backdrop of the vast ocean. For more, we’ve produced a comprehensive guide on capturing the perfect Bondi photo here.
Outdoor Workouts
Who needs a gym when you have Bondi’s natural landscape to serve as your training ground? From formal training spots to open areas ideal for yoga, Bondi has something for every fitness enthusiast.
Free Gym Facilities
You’ll find various pull-up bars, parallel bars, and even some weather-resistant gym equipment installed along the beach. These are free to use and are often less crowded during the early morning hours. See our full guide to Bondi’s Muscle Beach here.
Yoga and Group Classes
The grassy knoll overlooking the beach is a popular spot for group exercise classes. Many local instructors offer sunrise yoga sessions. The ambiance created by the ocean breeze and the rising sun makes for a truly spiritual experience.
Bondi Markets
Held every Sunday, the Farmers Market offers fresh organic produce, gourmet foods, and freshly brewed coffee. It’s a food lover’s paradise where you can also find unusual herbs and spices not commonly available in grocery stores along with great souvenirs from local merchants.
Stay
QT Bondi: Chic and contemporary hotel offering spacious apartments, steps away from Bondi Beach, with a design blending beachside vibes and upscale boutique hotel amenities.
Click here to learn more and book QT Bondi
Adina Apartment Hotel Bondi Beach: Located near the beach, this apartment-style hotel offers self-contained accommodations, great for families or longer stays, with modern amenities.
Click here to learn more and book Adina Apartment and Hotel Bondi Beach
Bondi Beach House: A charming and unique bed & breakfast, providing a homey ambiance with individual character rooms, situated close to the beach.
Click here to learn more and book Bondi Beach House
Hotel Ravesis: A boutique hotel situated right on the beach, with a vibrant bar and restaurant downstairs, known for its lively atmosphere and views.
Click here to learn more and book Hotel Ravesis
The Baxley Bondi: A modern boutique hotel offering a blend of understated luxury and comfort, with stylish interiors, located a short walk from the beach.
Click here to learn more and book The Baxley Bondi
Bondi 38 Serviced Apartments: Contemporary serviced apartments offering ocean views, fully-equipped kitchens, and spacious living areas, located on Bondi Beach's bustling promenade.
Click here to learn more and book Bondi 38 Apartments
Ultimate Apartments Bondi Beach: Budget-friendly serviced apartments offering an outdoor pool, kitchen facilities in each unit, and close proximity to Bondi Beach.
Click here to learn more and book Ultimate Apartments Bondi Beach
Bondi Backpackers: An iconic hostel overlooking Bondi Beach, featuring both private and dorm rooms, a rooftop terrace, yoga classes, and organized social events.
Click here to learn more and book Bondi Backpackers
Noah's Backpackers Hostel: Situated close to the beach, Noah's offers affordable accommodation, a communal kitchen, vibrant social areas, and organizes a range of activities for guests.
Click here to learn more and book Noah’s Backpackers Hostel
Wake Up! Bondi Beach: A modern, chic hostel offering a range of dorms and private rooms, a rooftop terrace with beach views, and organized tours and events.
Click here to learn more and book Wake Up! Bondi Beach
The Village Bondi Beach: Budget-friendly hostel featuring private and shared rooms, a common lounge area, kitchen facilities, and located just a short walk from the beach.
Swim
Swimming in Bondi offers diverse options for all age groups and swimming abilities, making it a universal crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for the open sea’s thrill, the structured laps of a saltwater pool, or a safe and fun environment for kids, Bondi has a swimming spot for you.
The Main Beach
The central part of Bondi Beach is an iconic location for a leisurely swim. The water is relatively calm and there are always lifeguards on duty. For families, North Bondi is your best bet with typically small waves and a paddle ocean pool for kids.
Safety First
Always swim between the red and yellow flags, as these areas are closely monitored by lifeguards. The flags are moved throughout the day depending on the water conditions.
Bondi Icebergs Pool
If you prefer a more structured swimming environment, don’t miss out on the Bondi Icebergs Pool. This public saltwater pool is situated at the southern end of Bondi Beach and offers a swimming experience unlike any other. It’s a popular spot for photographers due to its stunning contrast against the ocean backdrop. Swimming laps here almost feels like you’re part of a moving postcard. While the pool is open to the public for a small fee, regular visitors can opt for membership to get discounted rates. The club also has a bistro and bar where you can grab a meal or a drink post-swim.
For more, we’ve produced a comprehensive guide to swimming at Bondi Beach including videos no swim safety here.
Surf
Whether you’ve never stepped on a board or you’re a seasoned pro looking for the next big wave, Bondi Beach is a surfer’s paradise. Here’s how you can make the most of Bondi’s famous surf culture.
Beginner’s Lessons
If you’ve always dreamed of riding the waves but don’t know where to start, Bondi Beach is the perfect spot to learn. Several reputable surf schools operate around Bondi Beach, offering beginner lessons that cover everything from basic water safety to catching your first wave. Schools like “Let’s Go Surfing” and “Wave Surf School” are popular choices. A typical lesson lasts about 2 hours and includes all necessary equipment like wetsuits and soft-top boards. You’ll start with some basic theory on the sand before venturing into the water under the watchful eyes of certified instructors.
It’s a good idea to book your lessons in advance, especially during peak season. Some schools offer package deals for multiple lessons, which can be a great way to commit to improving your skills. For more information and to book a surf lesson at Bondi Beach here.
Experienced Surfers
For those who know their way around a surfboard, Bondi Beach offers a more challenging surfing environment, particularly at the southern end known as the “Bondi Bowl.” The waves here can get pretty intense, especially when the swells are high. Be prepared for a fast-paced surfing experience that will challenge even seasoned surfers.
Bondi has an established local surfing community, so it’s important to be respectful. Always wait your turn, don’t drop in on someone else’s wave, and keep a safe distance to avoid accidents.
Early mornings and late afternoons during weekdays are the best times to surf if you want to avoid the crowds. However, weekends offer a buzzing atmosphere that some find exhilarating.
Board Rentals and Shops
Don’t have your own gear? No worries! Bondi Beach is home to several surf shops where you can rent or buy everything you need. From beginner soft-top boards to high-performance shortboards, these shops offer a wide range of options. You can also find wetsuits, rash guards, and other essential surfing accessories. Many of these shops are run by experienced surfers who can offer valuable advice on board selection, local surf conditions, and even some secret surf spots around Bondi.
Whether you’re taking your first surfing lesson or carving up the waves like a pro, Bondi Beach offers a surfing experience that caters to all levels. With its excellent facilities, reputable surf schools, and a welcoming surf community, Bondi is the perfect destination to catch some waves.
Eat
Bondi Beach offers a plethora of dining options that cater to various tastes and budgets. From casual eateries to fine dining establishments, Bondi is a foodie’s haven.
Breakfast Spots
Kick start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of Bondi’s numerous cafes.
Porch and Parlour
This laid-back café serves healthy and delicious breakfast options like quinoa bowls and fresh smoothies. Their signature green pea pancake is a must-try!
Bills
Home to the world-famous ricotta hotcakes, Bills offers a cozy environment perfect for a leisurely breakfast.
Speedo’s Café
Famous for its scenic beachfront location and Instagram-worthy dishes, Speedo’s Café offers everything from burgers to vegan bowls.
Fine Dining
Looking to splurge on a memorable dining experience? Bondi has some of the best fine dining options in Sydney.
Icebergs Dining Room and Bar
Perched above the famous Icebergs Pool, this restaurant offers breathtaking ocean views and an exquisite Italian-inspired menu.
Sean’s Panaroma
This small, intimate restaurant is a Bondi institution. The menu is focused on fresh, local produce and changes weekly.
Cheap Eats With A Million Dollar View
Icebergs RSL and North Bondi RSL are great places for a cheap eat and have the best views in Bondi. See our guide here.
Vegan and Vegetarian
Bondi is the home of healthy living meaning nearly every restaurant will have a good range of vegetarian and vegan options available for you to choose from.
For a comprehensive list of Bondi’s best restaurants click here or for the best cheap eat options we’ve compiled a guide here.
Desserts
For those with a sweet tooth, “Gelato Messina” is an absolute must-visit. Their handcrafted gelato flavors range from classic to wildly inventive.
