A Local Girl’s Travel Guide to Bondi Beach

If you’re heading to Bondi Beach for the first time, here’s your quintessential Bondi guide for experiencing Bondi like a local. Written by Travelista Editor Jessica Ruth Gibson and full of local recommendations from a Bondi resident of 7 years.

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Devour the whole guide word for word or jump straight to what you’re looking for

• Introducing Bondi
• Reasons to choose Bondi as a Sydney base
• The Bondi Lifestyle – What to expect
• Best Things to do in Bondi for First Timers
• How to Get Around and Stay Connected in Bondi
• Best Brunch Spots in Bondi
• Best Restaurants in Bondi
• Where to workout in Bondi
• Where to Stay in Bondi – Best Hotels
• Best Things to do in Central Sydney (CBD)
• Final Thoughts

A Local Girl’s Travel Guide to Bondi Beach

Introducing Bondi

There are few places that capture the essence of Australia quite like Bondi. Just 7km from the skyscrapers and busy streets of central Sydney lies Bondi Beach. Globally known, Bondi has made a name for itself as Sydneys wellness and surf capital, and it’s an incredible place to stay and experience for any first timer in Sydney. But even if you already know the city of Sydney well, Bondi is a place to turn up in-the-know. Strong flat whites, activewear and brunch is a way of life here – and it pays to do your research to experience the best of Bondi

When I first touched down in Bondi, I was armed with a list of local recommendations that were worth their weight in gold. That’s because my sister Alanna has been living in Bondi for the last 7 years, so she shared all her top tips and invaluable local knowledge with me. That list has now manifested itself into this guide to Bondi beach – so you’ve hit on something good here – lucky you! Alongside Alanna’s amazing list of local favourites, I’ve also sprinkled in my own discoveries and favourites that I found along the way during my time in Bondi.

This guide to Bondi Beach will show you how to experience the best of Bondi – where mornings start with ocean swims, brunch is taken very seriously and life revolves around good times outdoors. 

Find the cheapest flights to Sydney

Reasons to choose Bondi as a Sydney Base

If it’s your first time in Sydney, I’d recommend starting with a few nights in central Sydney, followed by further time in Bondi as your base. This will allow you to experience the contrast between city and beach – but don’t forget they’re easily connected to one another by train and bus. From boutique aparthotels to hostels, Bondi can cater for every budget, but as with all of Sydney, eating and drinking in Bondi can be expensive. As a Brit, the exchange rate was roughly half, so it was easy to calculate the amount of things by dividing the Aussie dollar in half to get the price in GBP. I’d say the prices are similar to London, rather than regional UK cities. 

Waking up near the ocean will instantly change the pace of your trip. Instead of rushing out to tick off sights, your mornings will begin with a walk along the coast or a swim before breakfast. It feels slower, more intentional, and like a real holiday.

That said, you’re not cut off from the city. I found it incredibly easy to dip in and out of central Sydney when I wanted to sightsee. Buses from Bondi Beach take around 30–45 minutes, or you can head to Bondi Junction and be in the CBD in under 20 minutes by train. For me, it was the perfect balance. Bondi for the lifestyle, the city for the landmarks.

The Bondi Lifestyle (What to Expect)

Bondi has a very distinct rhythm, and once you tune into it, everything else falls into place.

Mornings start early. By 7am, cafés are already busy, and it’s completely normal to see people coming straight from a swim or a run, coffee in hand. If you’re travelling from the UK you’ll automatically become an early bird because of the jet lag! Brunch isn’t rushed. It’s something you build your morning around. Activewear is essentially everyday wear (whether or not a workout actually happens), and everything centres around being outside. Think coastal walks, ocean dips, long lunches that turn into afternoons. I lived in running shorts and a lycra top every day in Bondi, simply paired with trainers or flip flops. I felt so comfy and chilled. By 3pm, all the coffee shops are closed because many Aussies won’t touch caffeine after this time of day.

To put it lightly, there is a distinct demographic of people in Bondi, most of which are incredibly young, tanned and sexy. I think one of my first comments when being on Bondi Beach was ‘why is everyone 21?’. Whether that sounds good or bad to you, I came across people of different ages, stages and diversities the more I peeled back the layers of Bondi. What’s universal across the board is that these people love to keep fit, active and eat well. Let’s peel back more layers in this Bondi Beach guide.

Best Things to Do in Bondi for First Timers

Bondi isn’t about over-planning your days – it’s about leaning into the lifestyle. That said, there are a few things I’d absolutely prioritise.

1. Walk the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

I did this on my first morning, and it set the tone for the whole trip. It’s such an incredible and FREE activity, which really gives you a sense of place and helps you recalibrate after a long flight. The walk stretches roughly 6km from Bondi to Coogee, winding along ragged coastline with uninterrupted ocean views. Expect people running, walking, stopping for photos, or heading down for a swim at one of the sea pools along the way. Stop off for coffee or brunch at Sea Salt Cafe in Clovelley en route. From Bondi, the coastal path starts at Bondi Icebergs and is clearly signposted the whole way along.

2. Swim and Steam at Icebergs Pool

This is one of those experiences that feels so iconic, but is actually very affordable and accessible. Swimming here while waves crash against the pool was such a unique and exhilarating experience. Be sure to use the sauna too, which has panoramic views across Bondi Beach. There’s also a gym and a coffee shop here to extend the experience further. A swim and sauna pass costs $10 for the day and you can hire towels for $5, so it’s easy to fit into your day without carrying a whole swimming kit. 

3. Take a dip in Giles Baths at Coogee

Giles Baths feels like a slightly more low-key, local alternative to Icebergs. It’s completely free and a little more rugged, but just as beautiful. You could always take a dip here after completing the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk – for an amazing feel good factor. 

4. Go Shopping in the Boutiques on Gould Street

I always say the best souvenirs are unique things you can wear back home that will always remind you of your trip. When you want a break from the beach, Gould Street is perfect for a wander. It’s not huge, but it’s curated—think elevated beachwear and fashion boutiques that have that effortless Bondi aesthetic.

5. Take a surf lesson on Bondi Beach

If you’ve ever wanted to try surfing, this is the place. Lessons are very beginner-friendly, usually around AUD $80–120 for a 2-hour session, and take place right on the beach.

6. Sunset drinks overlooking the ocean

Bondi sunsets are more understated than dramatic, but there’s something about ending the day on the beach here that just works.

7. Lean into the brunch culture

If there’s one thing to embrace in Bondi, it’s brunch. I hereby prescribe a daily brunch for each day you’re in Bondi, and there are so many amazing options to choose from, but if you only have time for one, make sure you choose Blackwood – more info on this in the brunch section.

How to get around and stay connected in Bondi

Staying connected to 5G is essential when you’re travelling somewhere new. By staying online you always have Google Maps in the palm of your hand and an abundance of apps that will make navigating a new city so much easier. For the best possible experience whilst in Bondi, I recommend using an eSIM on your phone. You buy a data plan online, scan a QR code, and you’re connected the moment you land – no physical SIM swapping, no roaming charges

It’s easily the most cost effective way for travellers to stay connected and in control of their data spending. I purchased an eSIM for my trip to Australia and opted for a 10 day eSIM with unlimited data. This meant I never worried about connectivity during my trip and had peace of mind that I’d have no sky high phone bills when I came home.

Get organised and purchase an eSIM for your Sydney trip from Roambit. This code applies to all orders and all eSIMs. Roambit is a travel eSIM covering 200+ destinations. To give you an idea of price, the plans for Australia start from $3.99, with an unlimited option from $3.20/day where the rate drops the longer your trip is. It installed for me in under two minutes.

Use JESSICA10 for 10% off any Roambit eSIM

Some apps that I’d highly recommend for getting around Sydney include; 

• Google Maps – enough said! 
• Uber – The main taxi app in Sydney
• Opal Travel – The Opal Travel app is the official Transport for NSW
• Citymapper – Get from A to B effortlessly and efficiently with multiple transport options in one app 

Best Brunch Spots in Bondi

No guide to Bondi Beach could legally exist without paying homage to its incredible brunch destinations. Bondi does brunch exceptionally well. Expect phenomenal coffee, fresh ingredients, and menus you’ll want to come back to more than once.

Blackwood Bondi
87-89 Glenayr Ave, Bondi Beach, NSW 2026

Blackwood is my number one brunch recommendation in Bondi – we loved it so much we ended up going three times during our stay. The stylish café interiors are an absolute dream, with that effortlessly cool Bondi aesthetic, and the food is genuinely fantastic. Honestly, I don’t think you could order badly here, but definitely try the Man Crush smoothie alongside a flat white. Also – don’t skip the cookies on the counter.

The Depot Bondi
132A Warners Ave, North Bondi NSW 2026

The Depot has a more laid-back, rustic feel compared to Blackwood, but the brunches are equally as good. It’s the kind of place you could easily become a regular at — relaxed, welcoming and consistently busy with locals. It’s also just a stone’s throw from Bondi Beach, making it the perfect post-swim or post-walk brunch spot. Their coffee is excellent too, which in Bondi is obviously non-negotiable.

Glenayr Bakery
121 Glenayr Ave, Bondi Beach NSW 2026

If you’re after something quick and casual, Glenayr Bakery is a must. Their almond croissants have become pretty iconic in Bondi, and after trying one, I completely understood why. The pastries here are genuinely exceptional — flaky, buttery and impossible to stop at just one. Perfect for grabbing something to take down to the beach with a coffee.

Bills Bondi
79 Hall St, Bondi Beach NSW 2026

Bills Bondi is one of those Bondi institutions you almost have to visit at least once. I went fully influenced by the famous ricotta hotcakes — and honestly, they lived up to every bit of the hype. The atmosphere feels bright, relaxed and very Sydney, with a menu that’s simple but done incredibly well. Expect queues at peak brunch hours, especially on weekends, so it’s worth going earlier if you can.

Speedo Cafe
126 Ramsgate Ave, North Bondi NSW 2026

Speedo Cafe is probably one of the most photographed cafés in Bondi, and once you sit down overlooking the ocean, it’s easy to see why. The menu is full of colourful, healthy plates and beautifully presented smoothies, but it never feels overly try-hard. It’s a great spot if you want a slower brunch with a view, especially after a morning walk along the coastline.

Porch and Parlour
17-18/110 Ramsgate Ave, North Bondi NSW 2026

Porch and Parlour has that relaxed, effortlessly cool Bondi energy that makes you want to linger a little longer. It’s stylish without being intimidating, and the kind of place that works equally well for a quick coffee or a long brunch with friends. The menu leans fresh, healthy and seasonal, and everything feels very considered without trying too hard. A very reliable option if you want somewhere that feels quintessentially Bondi.

Expect to pay around AUD $20–30 for a dish and $4–6 for coffee.

Best Restaurants in Bondi

With the brunch standards set so high, it would only be right for the rest of Bondi’s food scene to follow suit. There is an abundance of great restaurants in Bondi, serving up fresh and flavourful food in settings ranging from casual to elevated. As I mentioned, my sister is the Bondi local who compiled this amazing list of reccos. She’s a massive foodie, so you can rest assured these restaurants are all amazing options.

Ikaria Bondi
70 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach NSW 2026

We went to Ikaria for a family dinner before my sister’s wedding and it was such a perfect experience. Located right on Campbell Parade in the heart of Bondi, this stylish restaurant serves up modern Greek cuisine in a beautiful setting. Expect contemporary décor, friendly service and generous sharing plates designed for long, leisurely dinners. There’s also a lovely private dining room at the back which would be perfect for a special occasion or group celebration.

Icebergs Dining Room and Bar
1 Notts Ave, Bondi Beach NSW 2026

Icebergs Dining Room is one of those Bondi spots you simply have to experience at least once as a visitor. Perched above the famous pool overlooking the ocean, it’s very much one for the setting as much as the food. The views are iconic, especially around sunset, and the atmosphere feels elevated without being overly formal. Definitely book ahead if you want a prime dinner time slot.

Barry’s
71 Beach Rd, Bondi Beach NSW 2026

When you want something hearty and low-key, Barrys is such a good option. Think classic Aussie pub grub, schooners, craft ales and a really lively atmosphere. There’s a brilliant special on every night of the week, from pizzas to tacos, and it has that relaxed sports bar feel that’s always busy in the best way. There’s also a great outdoor area which is ideal on warmer evenings. We actually stayed here on site here in the rooms known as Barrys Beach Road Hotel, which made it dangerously easy to pop down for dinner or a drink.

Raw Bar
72 Gould St, Bondi Beach NSW 2026

Come here for sushi, salad and sake in a compact Japanese bistro with streetside tables and glimpses of the ocean. Raw Bar has a really relaxed but cool atmosphere and feels very Bondi — understated, fresh and effortlessly stylish. It’s ideal for a lighter dinner after a beach day.

RND Bondi
2/136 Warners Ave, Bondi Beach NSW 2026

Tucked inside Harry’s by day, RND (Raw Next Door) transforms into a coastal after-dark hideaway serving refined plates, considered drinks and a quietly captivating atmosphere. The menu focuses on premium sashimi, small plates and robata-grilled dishes, making it a great option for a slightly more elevated dinner in Bondi without losing that relaxed beachside feel.

Mamasan Bondi
115 Hall St, Bondi Beach NSW 2026

This chic Asian-fusion restaurant serves up innovative cocktails, great food and a buzzing atmosphere. There are plenty of vegan options on the menu, and the bottomless weekend lunches are especially popular. This place was directly across the road from our hotel, so naturally we had to try it — and it ended up being one of our favourite easy dinner spots in Bondi.

Where to Work Out in Bondi

Honestly? Anywhere. Bondi feels like one big outdoor gym. I saw people running along the promenade at all hours, and the grassy banks above the beach are perfect for a quick workout or stretch session. There’s also a free outdoor gym overlooking Bondi Beach, which is very much part of the local routine.

If you prefer something more structured, The Well Bondi (78 Campbell Parade) is a great option that me and my fiancé discovered. It’s a premium gym right on Campbell Parade opposite Bondi Beach, with day passes at $35 and 7 day passes at $99. It’s an ideal option if you want to workout in an elevated and air-conditioned Bondi gym with plenty of natural light and all the equipment you’d ever need. 

Where to Stay in Bondi – Best Hotels

Where you stay in Bondi really shapes your experience. Here’s where I stayed, and other options I also considered booking when researching. I don’t think you need to prioritise getting a hotel with a pool when in Bondi as the sea is your pool! Find a base with a good location and enjoy the beach and all that the Bondi lifestyle has to offer. 

Browse all hotels in Bondi.

Luxury / Boutique

QT Bondi 4*
6 Beach Rd, Bondi Beach NSW 2026

If you want something more elevated, QT Bondi is probably one of the chicest stays in the area. The rooms are more apartment-style, making it ideal for longer stays, girls’ trips or anyone wanting extra space and comfort. The interiors are polished and contemporary, and you’re literally moments from the beach. It feels luxurious without trying too hard – very Bondi. Typical pricing: approx. AUD $350–700+ per night depending on room type and season

Book QT Bondi on Booking.com

Hotel Ravesis 4*
118 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach NSW 2026

Right on Campbell Parade overlooking the ocean, Hotel Ravesis is one of Bondi’s most iconic stays. The whitewashed interiors and beachfront location give it a very relaxed Mediterranean feel, and you’re perfectly positioned for beach mornings and sunset drinks. Even if you don’t stay here, it’s worth coming for a drink – but waking up overlooking Bondi Beach would definitely be an iconic move. Typical pricing: approx. AUD $300–600+ per night depending on season

Browse all boutique hotels in Bondi

Budget / Backpacker

Wake Up! Bondi Beach
110 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach NSW 2026

If you’re travelling Australia on more of a backpacker budget but still want somewhere cool and social, Wake Up! Bondi Beach is probably one of the best hostel options in Sydney. The location is incredible – directly opposite the beach – and it feels much more modern and design-led than your average hostel. There’s a really sociable atmosphere, organised events and both dorm and private room options, making it ideal for solo travellers or younger visitors wanting that classic Bondi experience without the Bondi price tag. Typical pricing: approx. AUD $60–120 for dorms, AUD $180+ for private rooms

Best Things to Do in Central Sydney

I know this is a guide to Bondi Beach, but if you’re a first timer in Sydney, you’ll still want to spend some time exploring the CBD (Central Business District). I’d set aside 1–2 days to see the main sights: the Sydney Opera House, The Botanical Gardens, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the harbour around Circular Quay. I’d also really recommend experiencing the viewing deck at the Sydney Tower Eye, the highest view point in the City. My final recommendation is to take a boat trip around Sydney harbour to really see the Harbour Bridge and Opera House from the water – it’s the most spectacular way to see these two Sydney landmarks side by side.

• Book tickets for the Sydney Tower Eye
• Book a Sydney Harbour Cruise
• Book a Sydney Opera House Tour or Show

Final Thoughts

Bondi is one of those places that feels exactly how you imagine it – but better. It’s not about doing more, it’s about slowing down and settling into the rhythm: early mornings, good coffee, time outdoors and long, easy days. For a first trip to Sydney, basing yourself here and dipping into the city for sightseeing felt like the perfect balance – and it’s exactly how I’d do it again.

My heart goes out to all those affected by the Bondi shooting in January 2026. Bondi is a place that feels so safe and full of goodness, it is hard such an unimaginable event ever took place here. 

We hope you loved our travel guide to Bondi Beach. If this article helped you at all, please leave a community comment below, or if you’re local, tell us great other Bondi gems you think also need a mention.