Things to do in Bondi – how to have the best time

World famous and almost instantly recognisable, Bondi Beach is one of the most well-known beaches in the world. It will undoubtedly be somewhere you want to visit when you are on the East Coast of Australia. While the beach is fantastic, there are also many other things to do in Bondi that you won’t want to miss.

The word ‘Bondi’ evokes images of white sand, blue skies, surf and a very laid back vibe. But Bondi is so much more than just the beach; it is a very hip and trendy neighbourhood. As such, you shouldn’t visit Sydney without factoring in some time to spend in Bondi.

Things to do in Bondi

I visited Bondi twice and stayed there both times. When I returned to Sydney, I knew it was where I wanted to base myself. Some might say it is overrated, but I love the relaxed feeling and the atmosphere. It is iconic for a reason. So what are the top things to do in Bondi?

Relax on Bondi Beach

I do have to start with this one, because you can’t come to Sydney and not go to Bondi Beach. Really, if you are looking to spend any time at Bondi, this needs to be one of the first things to do. Particularly if you are a fan of ‘Bondi Rescue’. Make sure to get here early before the heat of the day, listen to the advice of the lifeguard and make sure to swim between the flags!

Take a surf lesson

If you ever wanted to give the quintessential Australian pastime of surfing a go, why wouldn’t it be at one of the most renowned places? If you are a beginner, you are most likely going to be on the north end of the beach. The South is where the more experienced go.

Top Tip: If you are a beginner to surfing, why not try this 2-hour intro lesson, which will give you lots of one on one time!

The waves and the weather are perfect all year round at Bondi, so this is the perfect place to test the surf.

Check out the Bondi Markets

At the weekends, there are two local markets you will want to check out.

On Saturday the Bondi Farmers Market will pop up. Here you will find tons of stalls selling local food produce, from bread and baked goods to vegetables. There is even a flower stall as well as coffee and snacks.

Every Sunday in Bondi, you will find the Bondi Markets. At this market, expect everything from gifts, handmade jewellery, retro furniture, and so much more.

Find both of them located. at the north end of Campbell Road at Bondi Beach Public School, right opposite the beach. Saturday for the Farmers Market, and Sunday for Bondi Market.

Wander around the Bondi Pavilion

In 2022, Bondi Pavilion underwent a $48 million renovation, transforming it into a vibrant creative hub for the community. There is plenty to get involved in at the pavilion, from events, talks, including Aboriginal ones, and history tours. It is also home to shops and places to eat with some of the best views in Bondi.

Go for a swim in the Bondi Icebergs

Another iconic Bondi spot! The Bondi Icebergs. This infinity pool, set right on the edge of Bondi Beach, is the most photographed pool in the world – and you can swim in it! It is open to the public all year around, and costs $10 for a dip. Be mindful that this is not a heated swimming pool. It is ocean-fed, so the temperature varies with the sea. Indeed, you will often see waves crashing into it! In the winter, expect it to be very refreshing. The pool is famous for its winter swimming club, where dedicated swimmers brave the chilly waters if this is your thing!

Even if you aren’t feeling up to braving the chill, make sure to head to the south of Bondi Beach to get that classic shot. No trip to Bondi would be complete without seeing the Bondi Icebergs.

Get up for a Bondi sunrise

The location of Bondi makes it the perfect spot to watch the sunrise, and there’s no more iconic place than Bondi Beach. Unlike many other places where you might be alone at this time of day, you’ll be surprised by how busy the beach gets at sunrise. The famous Aussie lifestyle of starting the day early is never more evident than at Bondi Beach at this hour.

Join others in going for a run, catching an early wave, mediating or doing yoga, and make catching a sunrise top of your list of things to do in Bondi.

Go shopping in Bondi

Bondi is packed full of independent boutique shops that is going to satisfy any shopper. A lot of these are tailored towards the surfing vibe, but there is something for everyone.

Take a look at Playa by Lucy Folk for funky jewellery, U-Turn Recycled Fashion for a treasure trove of preloved, affordable clothes and Bondi Wash, which specialises in natural, plant-based skincare.

North Bondi and the Rocks

North Bondi is more residential and quieter than the south end. Once you make it past the apartment buildings, you will find an area overlooking some rocks down by the shore. Access to these may depend on the weather and the tide, so do take care. But from here you will have an excellent view back over Bondi Beach and the coastline.

If you want to catch a sunset, this is also the best place to do so. In the evening, you will find a lot of locals chilling on the grass at the end of the beach.

Bondi Beach Run Club

One of the more energetic things to do in Bondi. If you are after something a little more active when you are visiting Bondi, then the Bondi Beach Run club is for you! They meet every Monday and Wednesday at 6.15 am at Bondi Bathers Surf Lifesaving Club. It is free to join, and very relaxed. A great way to meet people as you run a 5K in the most famous location.

Bondi walks – things to do in Bondi

Bondi is also famous for some spectacular scenery, and there are some wonderful walks you should do if you want to see some of this.

Bondi to Coogee walk

The most famous of the walks is the Bondi to Coogee walk. It is 6KM long, and advice says it will take 2-3 hours (although I did it in less than an hour and a half).

The walk starts just behind the Bondi Icebergs and goes through Tamarama Beach, Bronte Beach, and Clovelly Beach before ending at Coogee. You could take all day doing this walk, and stop at the beaches along the way. They are quieter than Bondi Beach, so perfect for a relaxed dip.

Top Tip: Find out all you need to know about undertaking this walk, including where to stop:
Bondi to Coogee Walk: Everything You Need to Know to Explore This Iconic and Beautiful Sydney Coastal Trail

Bondi to Watson’s Bay walk

This walk is less well-known and, therefore, less crowded than the Bondi to Coogee walk. Bondi to Watson’s Bay is around 7KM long, and takes around 2 hours to complete (one way).

This walk will give you a chance to see some incredible sights, and even Aboriginal carvings. Don’t miss Dudley Page Reserve, which has amazing views of Sydney. It also passes through Diamond Bay Reserve, Clarke Reserve and Macquarie Lighthouse before finishing in Watson’s Bay. From May through to October, there is often a chance of seeing whales along this walk.

Bondi to Manly walk

If you are an avid walker, and really up for a challenge, then you can chose to take on the epic Bondi to Manly walk. This is absolutely not a day trip, and will take multiple days to complete. The entire walk is 80KM, and different itineraries for different daily distances exist, from doing it in 2 days, through to 5.

There are essentially 8 sections to this walk, and you will need to plan carefully and book accommodation along the way.

Top Tip: If you’re going to take on this challenge then purchase the guide book ahead of time, which will help you plan everything for the challenge!

Food and drink – things to do in Bondi

Bondi is renowned for having some of the best places to eat and drink in Sydney. So taking some time to eat and drink in the area needs to be one of the top things to do in Bondi. Here are some of my favourites.

Gertrude and Alice cafe

My dream place! A bookstore and a cafe rolled into one. With Middle Eastern influences, it’s perfect for a coffee or brunch. Eating among the bookshelves, and a chance to pick up your latest read at the same time. It is a cafe dream!

1/46 Hall St, Bondi Beach | Map

Yo-Chi

Yo-Chi’s can be found all over Australia, but with the one in Bondi being right opposite the beach, this is the perfect place to pick up your famous frozen yoghurt or açaí. Decide on your flavour, and then help yourself to a huge range of toppings from fresh fruit, chocolate, cookie dough, and drizzle. Pay per weight at the end.

Shop 13/180 Campbell Parade, Bondi | Map

Rocker

Rocker can be found in North Bondi, and is your local neighbourhood restaurant and bar. Drop by for casual snacks and drinks, perched up on the hill. Expect fresh and seasonal dishes that take inspiration from their coastal setting as well as European influences. The perfect place to dine with friends.

5/39-53 Campbell Parade, North Bondi | Map

Bennett’s St Dairy

A cafe that offers farm-to-table food options, using local produce. However, they are now famous for their cookies. When the pandemic hit, this dairy tried to sell the cookie dough they had in their fridge – and it sold out within 2 hours. Now you can find their cookie dough in over 800 Woolworths across the country.

But when in Bondi, why not head straight to the source?

73 Bondi Rd, Bondi | Map

Bondi Icebergs Dining Room and Bar

Dinner with the best view in Bondi? Head to the Bondi Icebergs Dining Room. For a more upmarket dining experience, known for its high-quality Australian food. This place gives you a chance to sip on cocktails while looking out over the most spectacular view of the icebergs and the ocean. And even watching some surfing in action – is there anything more Bondi than that?

1 Notts Ave, Bondi Beach | Map

Totti’s

Billed as your local Italian, that is all about sharing good food, having a laugh and a drink with family and friends. A casual Italian eatery that can be found at the back of The Royal pub on Bondi Road. Simple and delicious food. It does get quite busy, so make sure to book in advance.

283 Bondi Rd, Bondi | Map

Where to stay in Bondi

If you are looking to max your time in Bondi, then I highly recommend you stay in this area. It is dreamy at sunrise and in the evening, and you are going to get much more out of your experience by basing yourself in this part of Sydney. Here are some accommodation recommendations.

HOTELS IN BONDI:
The Village Bondi Beach – For those on a budget, this hostel is excellently located just a few minutes’ walk from the beach.
The Baxley Bondi – A chic boutique hotel with comfortable and modern rooms.
QT Bondi – Spacious apartments with a modern, quirky design and fantastic views of the ocean.

How to get to Bondi

Bondi is very easily accessible from central Sydney. The 333 bus leaves from Circular Quay every 10 minutes. There are also regular buses from Bondi Junction, which is also on multiple Metro lines.

Is Bondi worth visiting?

Without a doubt, yes! Bondi is absolutely worth visiting. It is one of the most famous suburbs in Sydney, and for good reason. Despite the potentially bad rep it gets for being touristy, it is popular for good reason.

There are so many amazing things to do in Bondi; no visit to Sydney would be complete without a visit to this neighbourhood.

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