Bondi Beach is probably Australia’s most famous beach. Its fame attracts visitors from Australia and overseas. Not only is the beach fantastic and the surf amazing but its lifeguards have their own TV show, adding to its fame.
Getting There
Getting to Bondi Beach can seem to be a little daunting. Car parking is limited and very expensive. This can be fixed by catching public transport. The problem is that the Sydney trains do not run all the way to the beach. If going by train you need to change to a bus at Bondi Junction . This bus can be packed and very uncomfortable during busy periods such as school holidays. The state government is planning to run light rail to Bondi which will fix this issue.
As well as the beach Bondi has an excellent range of bars restaurants and cafes on the street next to the beach. You certainly have plenty of choice here. The atmosphere is relaxed and you can sit outside, admiring the view.
If you need to change to go to the beach or shower afterward there is an old pavilion with showers and change rooms for you.
Street Art
On the wall facing the beach by the car park is a series of great street art . These are worth checking out even if you have looked at them before because they are often changed and renewed.
Icebergs Swimming Pool
To the south of Bondi Beach is Icebergs Swimming Pool. It is open to the public and if you are brave, people swim here even in winter. Icebergs also has a nice bar a restaurant, with great views over the ocean.
Black Sunday Memorial
Near Icebergs is a small memorial to those lost when a freak wave swept swimmers out to sea on what is now called Black Sunday. In 1938 over 250 swimmers were washed into deep water by freak waves. Due to the heroics of the surf life savers, only five people drowned.
Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk
The Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk is a 3 kilometer walk from Bondi Beach to Bronte Beach. It takes you past Tamarama Beach and fantastic views of the ocean.
Sculptures by the Sea
An annual event held here is Sculptures by the Sea. This attracts artists for all over the world to display their works. Usually held in October, the event draws huge crowds to view the sculptures. If you are visiting around this time, check to see what dates it is showing. It is worth going to see as it adds another dimension to this iconic beach.
City to Surf Fun Run
Also held annually is the city to surf fun run. Starting at Hyde Park in Sydney the 14km run ends at Bondi Beach. Crowds cheer the participants along the way. Competitors range from professional athletes to people in fancy dress people pushing prams and walkers.