With sun-bronzed babes and a Pacific Ocean vista to die for, Bondi Beach in Sydney's east attracts sun and surf worshippers from around the world. The stunning crescent-shaped stretch of golden sand is a mecca for Sydney's beautiful people and, as the closest beach to the CBD, Bondi Beach is perennially popular both day and night with a buzzing atmosphere made even more famous by TV show Bondi Rescue.
Not to be confused with the neighbouring suburb of Bondi Junction, Bondi Beach is more than just poseurs and preeners. The sandbank breaks at either end of the beach draw surfers and learners, there's saltwater sea baths for a more sedate swim, and the scenic cliffside walk to Tamarama and Coogee beaches which offers stunning ocean vistas. Not unlike Venice Beach in California, you'll also find a skate ramp and outdoor workout area, and plenty of joggers, kids on scooters and rollerbladers to dodge. The two surf clubs of Bondi and North Bondi patrol the beach so be sure to avoid its notorious rips and swim between the flags to ensure you don't need their help.
Away from the beach are hotels, hostels, cafes, bikini boutiques and gelato bars which veer from touristy to high-end. Many renowned Aussie surf labels have stores along the main drag of Campbell Parade and the streets behind house more organic fare and niche labels. A popular watering hole is the iconic Bondi Icebergs on Notts Avenue, which is a winter swimming pool club established in 1929. The new premises boasts a stunning view from the bistro and sundeck. At the other end is North Bondi Italian Food on Ramsgate Avenue, a popular venue for the eastern suburbs set with cocktails and amazing views.
Lots of famous Aussies call Bondi Beach home, and many more want to. The suburb's original architecture varies from 1920s art deco to '60s brick which lends a raffish charm to the in-demand locale which is also the site of many modern apartment blocks. To visit Bondi Beach, take the 380 bus from Hyde Park on Elizabeth Street in Sydney's CBD to the final stop.
