Rolling surf, soft white sand, glorious sunshine
Where else in the world can you live on such a beautiful beach and be within 20 minutes of a thriving city? Bondi Beach is a true blue Australian icon.
Activities on your doorstep
The Cliff Walk
From Bondi to Bronte (taking in Tamarama and McKenzie beaches) this spectacular cliff walk is a prime whale and dolphin sighting spot from June to August. There are excellent coffee shops in Bronte, but if you're feeling more adventurous, continue walking through Waverly Cemetery, around Clovelly Beach, and on to Coogee. In total, this is a light walk (some stairs) of about 45 minutes (return from Bronte, or one-way to Coogee). Suitable for jogging.
Bondi Beach
The name 'Bondi' is an aboriginal onomatopoeic word taken from the sound waves make as they boom into the shore, and then sigh away. The areas between the flags are patrolled by voluntary life guards. Interestingly, Bondi was the first beach in the world to have life savers and they take great pride in being good at what they do. However, while it's nice to know someone may be looking out for you, you're still responsible for your own safety - so make sure you know how to swim before entering the surf.
The Bondi Markets
The Bondi Beach Markets are held every Saturday and Sunday from 9am until 3pm in the grounds of the local school at the north end of the beach on Campbell Parade. Stallholders sell a large cross section of craft, clothing, collectibles, plants and food.
Seasonal events throughout the year
Flickerfest
Held in January, Flickerfest is a grass roots festival featuring local and international short films. Screened mainly outdoors in the ampitheatre behind the Bondi Pavilion, the week-long festival is accompanied by talks and workshops.
Alternative and Fringe Art
In January, Alternate and Fringe Arts events are held at Bondi Beach, in association with the Festival of Sydney. The Fringe Festival has been a lot of fun, but current status is unknown after the 'suits' in the local council took exception to nude night surfing and 10,000 people turning up for the fun. Stay tuned!
Sculptures By The Sea
An exhibition of local and international sculptors adorns the cliff walk each year, usually around late October and early November. The installation is enormously popular with locals, and worth visiting early in the exhibition, or during the middle of the week.
http://www.sculpturebythesea.com
City2Surf
A 13km run from Hyde Park in the centre of the city to Bondi Beach.
http://city2surf.sunherald.com.au