Travel Hack: What Can I Do In Bondi?

World famous for its stunning curve of beach, Bondi offers just as much vibrancy in its cafes, bars and shops, too.

Destination NSW

Sep 17 -

min read

No other suburb in Australia carries quite the same weight as Bondi. Its stunning stretch of sand is known across the world; so too the white-capped waves that spill and fizz onto it, beckoning surfers by the dozen. But while its laidback lifestyle and body-beautiful looks may be legendary, it’s so easy to dip into the Bondi locals know and love.

Bondi Beach, Sydney

Want to hit those waves? Then jump on a board at Let’s Go Surfing Bondi Surf School. Want to swim with the locals? Take a dip in the shimmering pool at Bondi Icebergs. If you want to share a clifftop hike with Lycra-clad runners, then the glorious 6km Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk is the answer. And if you’d like to learn more about the Indigenous history and culture of the area, join First Nations educator Walangari Karntawarra for a fascinating Bondi Aboriginal Walking Tour.

Icebergs Pool at Bondi Beach in Bondi, Sydney East

Icebergs Pool, Bondi Beach

In search of something slightly less energetic? What about a little retail therapy? Bondi offers excellent shopping opportunities, with the likes of Playa by Lucy Folk putting the suburb’s beachy boho style front and centre, Bondi Wash selling Australian-made botanical scents and body washes, and Annex focusing on quality men’s basics. If you’re in need of a good book for the beach, look no further than Gertrude & Alice, which also serves a great breakfast.

Shopping at Bondi Wash, Bondi Beach

And talking of food, Bondi delivers here, too. For brunch that looks as good as it tastes, try Speedos, which serves some of the world’s most Instagrammable food, or cool bar and eatery Rocker, both in North Bondi. Nearer the beach, you’ll find all-day breakfasts and delicate dishes at Parida Bondi and hotcakes to die for at the Bondi Beach outpost of Sydney institution bills.

Winter Wellness Porridge at Speedos in Bondi, Sydney East

Winter Wellness Porridge at Speedos, Bondi

If you’re looking for a good coffee – and let’s face it, in Bondi you won’t be alone – try an organic brew at Meidy’s Cafe, or a beautifully poured cup at Bennett St Dairy, both up long and lively Bondi Road.

Tottis, Bondi - Credit: NIKKI TO

There’s plenty of great night dining options along this stretch, too, including Ode, which serves sumptuous share plates and organic wines until late, and Totti’s, offering Italian dishes and crowd-pleasing drinks at the back of The Royal pub.

Seans Panaroma at Bondi Beach in Bondi, Sydney East

Seans Panaroma, Bondi - Credit: ENZO AMATO

But in Bondi, all roads lead back to the beach, and what better way to cap off a day than to dine in full view of that grand stretch of sand? Options include trendy busy North Bondi Fish and small but supreme Sean’s. Or you could head back to Bondi Icebergs, and enjoy Bondi’s twinkling lights and rolling waves from the stunning glass-walled dining room.