Planning a visit to Sculpture by the Sea? We have been attending this Bondi Beach sculpture festival since the very first year and have made 22 of the 25 years.
Sculpture By the Sea will run from 18 October to 4 November 2024
Sculpture by the Sea is one of the biggest outdoor events on the Sydney calendar and is the biggest free public art exhibition in the world.
Now in its 26th year, the exhibition has been steadily growing in popularity, attracting over half a million visitors during its 3 weeks run last year.
This year a new but equally impressive batch of sculptures lining the 2 km walk, it’s a lovely way to spend a few hours in the Sydney spring sunshine. While the Bondi to Coogee walk is always popular at this time of year, the track becomes a slow stroll rather than the usual brisk walk/jogging track it usually is.
Sculpture by the Sea unofficially, for me at least, marks the beginning of “beach season” which in Sydney starts officially on 1 December.
We went along this morning, the first Saturday and day three of the event. Arriving at 7am after 40 minutes trying to find parking we were surprised at how few people were actually walking on the path considering the parking nightmare. I think many of the cars were there for surf lifesaving events. Sundays might be a better bet.
Some work from previous years
The best thing about going on the first weekend is that lots of people don’t realise it has started.
My advice for the best day possible at Sculpture by the Sea
- Go early in the morning – The sunrise over the ocean is worth the early wake up even without the sculpture, but you will be rewarded with a lot more space to enjoy the works if you attempt to arrive before 8 am!
- Try to go on a weekday if you can. Avoid the last weekend at all costs!
- Do not take your car – If you do, expect to park several blocks from the ocean and walk the last part. Buses operate from Coogee, Bronte, and Bondi, so there is no need to experience the headache of parking here during the festival. You can view a map showing all your public transport options and plan before you go.
- Consider going on a day that is a little overcast – the sculptures can look fantastic with a dramatic stormy sky and the less hardy will stay away waiting for better weather.
- Don’t expect to walk quickly; people stop to take photos in the middle of the path, some are considerate, some not so much – expect it and keep smiling.
- Try not to touch the sculptures – as inviting as they are, some may be easily damaged, so pay attention to the warning signs.
- Watch your footing when exploring the works on the rocks, one man today got so carried away with capturing the perfect shot he almost ended up in the ocean.
- If you or anyone in your group has trouble with stairs, check out this map showing which parts of the walk are most accessible and where the staircases are.
A selection of my favourite sculptures from previous years.
Artists talks take place each Saturday and Sunday of the exhibition from 10am-3.00pm in Marks Park or Tamarama.
Where: Along the Bondi to Tamarama section of the walk
When: Thursday 24 October – Sunday 10 November
Check out our full Bondi to Coogee walk guide if you want to walk the entire 6km track
How to get to Sculpture by the Sea
- From Bondi Junction – The 380, 381 and 333 buses run between Bondi Junction and Bondi Beach.
- From Bondi Junction to Tamarama – the 361 will take you to Tamarama Beach if you would prefer to end your walk in Bondi.
- Fancy a longer walk take the 378 to Bronte Beach and the 360 – Clovelly to Bondi Junction
If you are planning on a special meal at somewhere like Icebergs or before or after your walk, it is recommended to make a booking. Check out our insider’s guide to Bondi for ideas,
If you have any questions about anything to do with Bondi or just want some more general tips for your trip to Sydney, head over and join our Plan a trip to Sydney Facebook Group.
Doesn’t look like I will be able to make it this year. Thank you for the photos.