Planning a visit to Bondi Beach? This comprehensive local’s guide covers everything from the safest swimming spots to hidden local haunts, plus essential tips for making the most of Sydney’s most famous beach. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying a week, here’s everything you need to know about Bondi Beach.
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In this guide, you’ll discover:
- Year-round events and festivals
- The best spots for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing
- Local favourite cafes and restaurants
- Where to stay, from luxury hotels to backpacker hostels
- Essential safety tips from local lifeguards
- Shopping spots that tourists often miss
But first, let’s explore how this iconic beach evolved from traditional Aboriginal land to become Australia’s most famous stretch of sand.
Bondi History
Understanding Bondi’s rich history adds another layer to your beach visit – from its Aboriginal heritage to its evolution as Sydney’s most beloved beach.
By the 1850s, Bondi had become a popular local recreation spot. The waterfront, owned by Hall and O’Brien (whose names live on in Bondi’s street names), was freely opened to the public. In 1882, the council acquired the beach and declared it public land, marking the beginning of Bondi’s journey to becoming Sydney’s favourite beach.
The arrival of a tram line in 1884, connecting Bondi to Circular Quay and Central stations, transformed the beach’s accessibility. This new transport link cemented Bondi’s status as one of Sydney’s most popular beaches.
Summer weekends in the 1930s would see up to 60,000 Sydneysiders flocking to the sand. Today, a busy summer day draws around 35,000 beachgoers, making it Sydney’s most visited beach.
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.
14 Facts about Bondi Beach
From record-breaking events to royal visits, here’s what makes Bondi Beach truly unique:
- 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.
Getting to know Bondi Beach
This 950-metre stretch of sand divides naturally into three distinct areas, each offering a different experience. Understanding these sections will help you choose the perfect spot for your beach day.
North Bondi Beach
Known to locals as “the quiet end,” North Bondi offers the beach’s safest swimming with a safety rating of 4 (gentle).
Known to locals as “the quiet end,” North Bondi offers the beach’s calmest swimming conditions, making it particularly popular with families.
- A sheltered children’s pool
- Fenced playground
- Grassed area perfect for prams and picnics
- Generally calmer waters ideal for families
The North Bondi RSL offers one of the best-value spots for a drink with a view in Bondi. Its large balcony provides panoramic beach views, reasonable prices, and a relaxed atmosphere away from the busier beach strips.
The middle section of Bondi Beach
The bustling heart of Bondi attracts the most visitors, centered around two iconic landmarks:
The Bondi Pavilion:
- Historic bathhouse that once accommodated 3,000 bathers
- Recently renovated to its former glory
- Houses cultural events, exhibitions and facilities
The Lifeguard Tower:
- Made famous by TV show ‘Bondi Rescue’
- Main lifeguard operations center
- Provides first aid services
- Located between the red and yellow flags – the safest swimming spot
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.
Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Bondi Graffiti Wall, which runs along the beach-side of the parking area.
The wall features around two dozen murals stretching from the Pavilion to South Bondi, with artwork regularly updated by local and international artists. For more urban art discoveries, check out our guide to Sydney’s street art.
Beach volleyball enthusiasts will often find nets set up in this section between the lifeguard tower and South Bondi.
South Bondi Beach
South Bondi attracts experienced surfers and surf schools, with regular classes operating throughout the day. However, swimmers should exercise caution – this area is home to the notorious “Backpackers’ Rip,” a dangerous current that has earned its name from catching out visitors who enter the water near the bus stop instead of walking to the safer, flagged area in the middle of the beach.
The southern end is also home to the famous Bondi Skate Park, featuring a 10-foot deep bowl and a 5-foot shallow bowl. Even if you don’t skate, it’s worth watching the local talent in action – you’ll often catch skilled riders performing impressive tricks.
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 to help keep the local lifesavers fit over winter. Want to join? You’ll need to swim 3 out of 4 winter Sundays for five years – no wonder the membership is pretty exclusive! Women finally got a look in back 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’s one of Sydney’s few year-round patrolled beaches, which is just as well – the lifeguards rescue up to 30 people every day. Most get into trouble because they’ve had a few drinks, overestimate their swimming ability, or ignore the flags.
Some essential safety tips:
- Always swim between the red and yellow flags
- Don’t swim after drinking – it’s just not worth the risk
- Remember even strong swimmers can get caught in rips
- Pay attention to lifeguard announcements
Check out this video on backpackers rip and make sure you kn
When is the best time to visit Bondi?
Bondi is great any time of year, though swimming is mainly a summer activity – only hardcore locals brave the water from late May to October (though you’ll spot keen visitors diving in as early as September!)
Early morning is magic here – you’ll find an interesting mix of people: dedicated exercisers doing their morning routines, night owls heading home from parties, and locals walking their dogs. If you’re staying nearby, set your alarm for at least one sunrise – it’s worth it.
Want to avoid the crowds? Visit on weekdays – while Bondi is never exactly quiet, it’s definitely less hectic than on weekends. Just remember that if the sun’s out, especially in summer, this beach will be buzzing no matter what day it is.
Annual festivals in Bondi
Bondi’s crescent-shaped beach and surrounding parklands make it perfect for festivals and events. Here are the big ones to watch out for:
Summer Events
- Carols By The Sea – mid-December
- Outdoor Cinema – Watch movies under the stars right by the beach
- Flickerfest – International short film festival (January)
Autumn Actities:
- Ocean Lovers Festival – (March)
Winter Highlights:
- Bondi Festival – Ice skating with ocean views (June-July)
- City to Surf – Sydney’s famous 14km fun run finishing at Bondi (August)
Spring Features
- Festival of the Winds – Fill the sky with kites (2nd Sunday in September)
- Sculpture by the Sea – Turn the coastal walk into an outdoor gallery (October-November)
Bondi beyond the beach
Had enough sand between your toes? The streets behind the beach are packed with great shopping and dining spots. Let’s start with retail therapy.
Best places to shop in Bondi
The backstreets of Bondi offer everything from budget-friendly souvenirs to designer activewear that might blow your holiday budget! My favourite shopping spot? The weekend markets at Bondi Beach Public School – head there Saturday or Sunday morning for the best finds.
Must-Visit Shops:
- Gertrude and Alice – My absolute favourite Bondi spot. Part bookshop, part cafe, it’s perfect for losing an hour or two over coffee and books
- Aquabumps – Eugene Tan’s stunning beach photography gallery – worth a visit even if you’re not buying
Local Fashion:
- Camilla – Famous for those colourful kaftans you’ll spot all over Bondi
- Bondi Bather – Get your swimmers here – all locally designed and limited edition
- Jac + Jack – Beautiful basics in natural fabrics (warning: not cheap, but worth it)
Accessories & Homewares:
- Playa by Lucy Folk – Gorgeous jewelry and accessories with a beachy vibe
- Commune – Local designers’ homewares that’ll make you want to redecorate
- Between the Flags – Your one-stop for Bondi souvenirs (better quality than most)
Budget-Friendly Finds:
- Vinnies – Perfect for forgotten beach reads or holiday paperbacks
- Wayside Op Shop – My go-to for last-minute party outfits that won’t break the bank
Where to eat in Bondi
With over 250 eateries, Bondi’s food scene is as diverse as its beach crowd. Yes, you’ll find plenty of green smoothies and protein balls (it is Bondi after all), but there’s so much more. Here are my tried-and-tested favourites:
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
Promenade Bondi
The star in the Bondi Pavilion, Promenade offers three different ways to dine. I love the casual Beach Bar. The breakfast menu will please pretty much everyone with the healthy Green apple and cranberry bircher or a decadent Brioche bread and butter pudding. There is also a good assortment of classic egg based breakfast options and of course some avocado.
The main dining room is perfect for a special meal (try the blue swimmer crab pasta). Where: 120 Ramsgate Ave, North Bon open from 6:30am for coffee and breakfast buns.
Glory Days If you’re looking for those holiday vibes, this is your spot. They’ve gone all out with the retro airport lounge theme, and it works. The coffee hits the spot, and whether you’re after a green bowl or something more indulgent, they’ve got you covered.
Snag a window seat and watch the world go by, or better yet, grab one of their outdoor tables – the beach views are unreal. Where: Bondi Pavilion, Shop 3, Queen Elizabeth Dr, Bondi Beach
Rocker
Rocker’s bottomless brunch is a great spot for a good catch up with friends. They do three sittings Thursday to Sunday (11:30am, 1:45pm and 4pm), plus a 4pm sitting on Wednesdays. You get 1.5 hours of free-flowing drinks and seasonal shared plates that change regularly – the perfect lazy weekend indulgence.
Hot tip: if it’s your birthday week, book a table of 4+ and your bottomless brunch is on the house (just bring ID). Or head in Wednesday/Thursday for 20% off. Where: 5/39-53 Campbell Parade, North Bondi
Fonda Mexican
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
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
Where to stay in Bondi Beach
Want to wake up to the sound of waves? Bondi makes a great base for a beach break or a change of scene from the city. Just keep in mind that while it looks close to the CBD on a map, peak hour traffic can turn a 30-minute trip into an hour. My tip? Split your Sydney stay between the city and the beach – that way you get the best of both worlds.
QT Bondi
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
Bondi 38 is right across from the beach and gets near-perfect scores for location (9.9!). The apartments are spotlessly clean (9.3 for cleanliness) and come with everything you need – full kitchen, washer/dryer, and those all-important ocean views from most balconies.
What I love about this place:
- Daily housekeeping (rare for apartments)
- Super comfortable beds (guests rave about them)
- Free WiFi and air conditioning
- Perfect for families (they even provide strollers)
- Quiet nights thanks to their no-party policy
Just a heads up – you’re only 5 minutes from Bondi Junction and parking is available if you need it (for a fee). It’s not the flashiest option in Bondi, but for location and comfort, it’s hard to beat.
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.
Tours and things to do in Bondi
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.
You can even book a private photo shoot on the beach!
So what now?
There you have it – your complete guide to Bondi Beach. Whether you’re visiting for a quick swim, settling in for a long lunch, or planning to stay a while, I hope this guide helps you experience the best of what makes Bondi special.
Remember to swim between the flags, pack your sunscreen, and don’t forget to look up from your phone occasionally – the people-watching here is half the fun!
Want more Sydney Beach Guides? Check out
- Brighton Le Sands on Botany Bay
- Cronulla, the only beach you can reach by train
- Bundeena
- Palm Beach
- Sydney’s Harbour Beaches
- A Guide to the Best Things to Do in Manly
- How to visit Sydney’s best beaches by public transport
Have questions about things to see and do in Sydney?
Head over and join our Facebook Group and we will be happy to help.
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.