Why Bondi Beach?
Few beaches around the world achieve genuine icon status, but Bondi is one of them. In truth, Sydney has more beautiful beaches (although Bondi is still a cracker by the standards of most countries), but none that are as energetic and vibrant.
This is partly because Bondi has never been just about the beach. Bondi Beach as a neighbourhood encapsulates a lot about the Australian good life. Multinational residents are met with influxes at the weekends – it’s the closest surf beach to the city. Surfers, cafe terrace schmoozers, families and keep-fit fanatics all blend in together. And the ocean just laps on in, ignoring all the hubbub around it.
A comfortable bed
Bondi's accommodation scene isn't as strong as it could be, although there should be a boost now that the consistently fun and perky Aussie mini-chain QT has opened in the former Swiss Grand hotel (doubles from 280 Australian dollars [Dh746] per night). The best choice otherwise is the Adina Bondi Beach which is bright, light and feels fresh out of the box. Balconies overlook the ocean, kitchenettes are a handy extra and the pool is a decent option for those not wanting to brave the surf. Studios cost from 180 Australian dollars (Dh468).
Ravesi's aims for boutique and has an appealing split-level design to most of its suites. But it's a wee bit bland, while scuffs and scratches indicate that it's due a refurb. Rooms cost from 285 Australian dollars (Dh741), but the real focus is on the bar/restaurant downstairs. The same applies at the Hotel Bondi where the rooms are even more soul-sappingly tired and dated. Doubles cost from 185 Australian dollars (Dh481).
Find your feet
The beach itself curves round for approximately one kilometre, and the best views are from the lesser visited northern end.
North Bondi is where the surf breaks most consistently and kindly, making it a good place for beginners. Let's Go Surfing runs two-hour lessons for 99 Australian dollars (Dh257) – and that's enough time to get novices at least standing while catching a wave.
From there, you can either wander along Campbell Parade, which acts as Bondi's main promenade, or get the sand in your toes, stopping for a swim on the way. If you don't fancy it in the crashing surf, then the Icebergs Club is at the southern end of the beach. This showy, flashy joint has a rather exclusive membership, but anyone can pay as they go for a swim in the stunningly situated pool.
Meet the locals
In January and February, a giant cinema screen is unfurled next to the Bondi Pavilion, with nightly showings of new or classic films in the open air. Bean bags can be hired, and moviegoers are encouraged to bring a picnic to make it a proper outing.
Book a table
Brunch is Bondi's main meal, and the louche cafe terrace scene plays a big part in the area's character. The best cafes are along Hall Street or in North Bondi rather than Campbell Parade, but Trio is an exception. It puts plenty of twists on breakfast classics – such as a 23 Australian dollars (Dh61) eggs Benedict with flaked trout.
For seafood, TV chef Matt Moran's laid-back North Bondi Fish takes recipe ideas from around the globe – such as swordfish steaks with salsa verde – and offers superb views.
Shopper’s paradise
There are all manner of surf and swimwear shops along Campbell Parade, with Between The Flags being notable for having a strong selection for children, and the Bondi Surf Co catering for serious surfers. It sells a big selection of boards, as well as gear from major surfwear brands like Quicksilver and Billabong.
The Bondi Markets are also along Campbell Parade. Open on Sundays, the stalls veer towards crafts, with leather bags, jewellery, original artworks and floaty dresses in the mix.
What to avoid
It’s not the surf you need to worry about in the sea – it’s the currents. There are some nasty rips that even strong swimmers can struggle against. That’s why there are red and yellow flags on the beach, and signs tell you to swim between them. These are the sections that lifeguards patrol – so don’t be silly and try to swim outside the flags.
Don’t miss
From Bondi’s southern end, a magnificent clifftop walk stretches around the headlands and other eastern suburbs beaches until it drops down on to Coogee Beach, around 8km south. The stroll is one of the Sydney staples, and it makes for a marvellous day out of dramatic coastal views, the odd swim, and dodging panting joggers.
Getting there
Etihad flies direct from Abu Dhabi to Sydney from Dh6,335.
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