Bondi Beach

A tour of Sydney’s beaches isn't complete without a visit to Bondi Beach, whether to take in the ocean views, hike the Bondi to Clovelly Coastal Walk, or sign up for surf classes. Many Sydney city tours include photo stops at Bondi alongside other activities such as Sydney Harbour cruises, neighborhood tours, or day trips to the Blue Mountains or Hunter Valley. The most adventurous ways to see Bondi are by speedboat or on helicopter tours.

• Changing rooms, restrooms, and showers are available, but bring your own umbrella, sunscreen, and beach towel.

• Travelers should swim only in designated areas and when the lifeguards are present, as the waves can be strong.

• Free Wi-Fi is available throughout Bondi Beach and Bondi Park.

• Bondi Beach is wheelchair accessible, and beach wheelchairs are available at the Lifeguard Tower.

Bondi Beach is set on the Pacific Coast in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, about five miles (eight kilometers) southeast of Sydney Harbour. Regular buses run to Bondi Beach from downtown Sydney, while trains run to Bondi Junction, a 10-minute bus ride from the beach. Bondi can also be reached via a 45-minute shuttle ride from Sydney Airport.

The sun shines year-round at Bondi Beach. To avoid hoards of tourists, visit outside of summer—temperatures can reach 85°F (30°C) even in spring and autumn—or get there for sunrise. Consider going on a Sunday for the famous Bondi Markets, or time your visit to coincide with an event such as the Festival of the Winds in September, the Bondi Winter Magic festival in June and July, or the open-air beach cinemas in summer.

Bondi is a hot spot for swimming, surfing, sunbathing, water sports, and other outdoor activities. Join a game of beach volleyball, take a yoga class on the shore, hike the Bondi to Coogee coastal trail, or try paddleboarding, windsurfing, or kitesurfing. You’ll also find children’s playgrounds and pools, the Bondi Iceberg Baths, a skate park, and the Bondi Golf Club.

Yes, Bondi Beach is certainly worth it, even if only for the people watching, the swell, and the energetic atmosphere. You’ll find hardcore surfers, yoga students sipping takeaway soy flat whites, all kinds of international travelers, and locals alike. Plus, there’s the crescent shaped beach and Bondi Icebergs pool for relaxation.

For a full day at Bondi Beach, combine exercise, relaxation, and a bit of nightlife. Hike the beach coastal walk to Coogee, do some yoga, or ride some waves. Follow that with a brunch at a cafe. Relax on the beach or shop during the day and grab some cocktails while watching the sunset at night.

Bondi Beach is popular because it has something for everyone. It’s a beautiful stretch of land, coming right at the end of the Eastern Suburbs Coastal walk. It has an excellent wave for surfers, and curving-crescent or soft-white sand for sun worshippers. There are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and boutiques.

Yes, it’s safe to swim at Bondi Beach if you’re a responsible swimmer. Make sure to stay within the lifeguards’ flags. If you go outside those areas, be careful of riptides. There are underwater creatures who’ll also be swimming with you and surfers out and about, so be aware of what’s around.

Yes, people are allowed on Bondi Beach at night. It’s not a good idea to swim at night though, since lifeguards aren’t on duty. While Bondi is a relatively safe suburb, it’s always a good idea to be with friends and keep your wits about you while out at night.

Anything goes at Bondi Beach. You’ll find hippies playing bongo drums with dreadlocks, hard-core athletes in spandex, laidback backpackers, surfers in wetsuits, and those dressed up for cocktails at happy hour. Thousands of people frequent Bondi Beach when it’s busy, so you’ll see all sorts of outfits.