Bondi Beach

The seaside suburb of Bondi is often overshadowed by its near-mythical beach. There’s more to Bondi, however, than just its incredible stretch of sand. With fabulous dining, cool shopping, art deco architecture and residents devoted to the body beautiful, Bondi is a state of mind as well as a destination.

Flop under a beach umbrella after a night out in Bondi’s bars and clubs, or salute the sun at a dawn yoga class on the sand. Learn to surf, or join a volleyball game with Swedish backpackers.

Bondi is home to two surf lifesaving clubs, one of which, the Bondi Surf Bathers’ Life Saving Club, is recognised as the first life saving club in the world. The beach is patrolled year-round. It’s advisable to swim between the red-and-yellow flags where lifesavers are on hand to assist if need be. The northern end of Bondi Beach is safest for swimming, while the southern end is better suited to surfing. When the water’s rough, head to the Bondi Baths where an Olympic-sized swimming pool and smaller kids’ pool sit right beside waves rolling in from the sea.

After your fill of sun and surf, soak up the village atmosphere of Bondi’s streets. Wander along Campbell Parade and take in the beach views. Relax over a long lunch at one of the many restaurants. Watch skateboarders try their moves at the Bondi Skate Park or check out the biceps at the outdoor gym. If you’re in the area on a Sunday, stop by the Bondi Markets, where there’s everything from vintage clothing to local crafts.

Indulge in some serious retail therapy at Bondi Junction, home to an enormous Westfield shopping centre. Explore a wide array of shops everything from upscale designers like Chanel and Hugo Boss, to chain stores and small boutiques. There’s also an expansive food court with plenty of choices for hungry shoppers.

From downtown Sydney, Bondi Beach is easily accessed by taking a train to Bondi Junction and then jumping on a bus to the beach. If driving, arrive early as parking spaces (some metered) fill early, especially during summer and weekends.