Sydney’s Bondi Beach is one of the most famous in the world, and for good reason: glistening blue ocean, a vibrant coastal atmosphere and unique eateries overlooking the coastline. Embark on a coastal stroll, relax into a sauna at one of the suburb’s many wellness studios, dine on seafood by the surf or shop for fresh produce at local markets. Here’s where to eat, stay and play.

Start the day right

There’s no shortage of wholesome cafes in Bondi and the suburb has garnered a reputation for its produce-forward mantra. In the morning, locals flock to The Depot for coffee and a bite to eat before their morning swim. While others will pick up an acai or greens bowl from Glory Days at Bondi Pavilion.

In the evening, Promenade offers relaxed yet refined coastal dining from its beachfront spot at the pavilion. Here you can find sustainable, local produce, paired with seafood such as Moreton Bay bugs and freshwater marron, touched by influences from all around the world. For those with a sweet tooth, head to Gelato Messina for a scoop of ice-cream after dinner – it’s known for its lavish specials. There’s also Mapo on Campbell Parade, which offers a more traditional, simpler style of gelato.

Visiting on the weekend? Be sure to check out the Bondi Farmers Market, held each Saturday morning from 9am to 1pm on the grounds of Bondi Beach Public School, at the northern end of the beach. Here you can meet local producers, stock up on organic produce and handmade gifts, and enjoy a feast of globally inspired morsels. 

Get active

Start the day by saluting the sun with a yoga class overlooking the beach. Join a Yoga by the Sea class of power yoga (more of a cardio workout), or opt for a mellower stretch with its relax yoga class that combines hatha, satyananda and iyengar styles with meditation.

One of the best ways to soak up the salty air and ocean views is on the 6km (one way) Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk. On this clifftop trail you’ll walk over sandstone cliffs and past Tamarama and Bronte Beaches, and the iconic Bondi Icebergs. Take a selfie in front of the retro Tamarama Surf Club and have a coffee at Bronte’s Bogey Hole Cafe, named after Bronte’s rockpool. Pack a towel and swim suit – there are plenty of swimming spots along the way.

Those looking to catch a wave can join a two-hour surf lesson with Lets Go Surfing. Choose from private or group lessons with experienced surfing instructors who will run you through the basics of paddling, catching waves and standing. Refuel at Speedos Cafe, on the northern end of the beach, with its Instagrammable menu and scenic backdrop.

Drink and dine with a view

Commanding one of the best panoramas over the beach, North Bondi Fish is a lovely spot for a long lunch in the sunshine. Indulge in a selection of Australian seafood, zesty cocktails and stunning views. Sean’s Panaroma is a must-do dining experience in Sydney, with its front-row-seat location on Bondi’s main strip and chic yet quirky dining room – striped linen tablecloths, pendant lights and coastal bric-a-brac all add to the memorable experience. The menu changes daily depending on the catch of the day, and produce is sourced from owner Sean Moran’s Bilpin farm.

A little further down the hill is Lola’s, an Italian bar serving classic Italian dishes, from antipasti to contori, alongside an extensive wine list, all served up with elevated Bondi views (it’s a level up off the ground, overlooking the beach).

For something a little more casual, Bondi Road’s Totti’s offers good wine, wood-fired bread with antipasti and platters of pasta. Snag a spot in the courtyard under the olive trees among fragrant rosemary and order its celebrated dessert: the Neapolitan ice-cream sandwich.

Back on the beachfront, Hotel Ravesis is a great spot for sun-kissed cocktails. This well-known bar features a stunning upper floor terrace, casual dining space and a plush late-night club space. It also offers boutique accommodation upstairs, with Palm Springs-inspired interiors and uninterrupted ocean views.

Rest your head

Immerse yourself in Bondi’s quintessential surf culture in design-led hotel, QT Bondi. The rooms are bright and breezy with a king bed, Bose music dock and rainforest shower. On Hall Street, Adina Apartment Hotel sits among some of Bondi’s most popular eateries, such as Bills, Belles Hot Chicken and Da Orazio. The hotel offers modern studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments, a pool and gym. 

Source: Destination NSW