The Do's and Don'ts of Bondi

Catching the sunrise at Bondi is like seeing the beach before it fully wakes up. The light, the calm, the quiet—it’s truly magical. Early mornings here are peaceful and perfect for soaking up that fresh energy before the crowds arrive. As the sky moves from deep blue to bright orange and pink, you’ll find early-bird surfers catching waves, joggers skimming the shoreline, and the occasional yogi in a sun salutation.

Whether you’re there to reflect, get active, or simply take in the scenery, sunrise at Bondi is an unforgettable experience. Plus, you’ll snag the best beach spot, which is key when the midday crowds roll in. Pro tip: bring a coffee from one of the beachside cafés and enjoy the moment—Bondi mornings are one of Sydney’s simplest pleasures.

It’s no secret that the Aussie sun is intense. Spending a day on Bondi Beach without sunscreen is a recipe for a painful burn! Slap on some SPF (and reapply every two hours), keep your hat on and grab some sunnies. Trust us, staying sun-smart will save your skin and let you enjoy Bondi worry-free. After all, a Bondi tan is meant to be golden, not lobster red!

A trip to Bondi isn’t complete without experiencing the famous Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk. This stunning six-kilometre trek boasts jaw-dropping views, cliffside paths, and plenty of beachy pit stops. Starting at Bondi, this walk takes you past Tamarama, Bronte, Clovelly, and ends in Coogee, with each stop offering its own vibe, sights, and swims. Tamarama Beach is a great spot for a dip, and Bronte is perfect for a coffee break with an ocean view.

Take your time, snap some photos, and make memories at each lookout point along the way. This walk usually takes around 2-3 hours depending on how much you stop, so set aside some time to fully enjoy the experience. And don’t forget your camera—this is one of Sydney’s most photogenic trails.

While Bondi Beach is the heart of the action, there’s plenty to do off the sand too. The area’s art scene is vibrant, with galleries like the Bondi Pavilion’s Art Gallery and Aquabumps showcasing everything from local to international artists and stunning photography of Bondi life. Bondi’s shops are also worth a browse, with spots like Playa by Lucy Folk offering beachy fashion, accessories, and jewellery with a bohemian flair.

When the sun goes down, Bondi’s nightlife comes alive. For a casual drink, try the beachy vibe at Bondi Hardware or kick things up a notch at Ravesis, with its lively rooftop views. Looking for a true Bondi night out? Beach Road Hotel delivers laid-back vibes with DJs and a classic pub feel, while Public Bar offers a fun mix of cocktails and crowd-pleasing bites.

Feeling active? Bondi has you covered. Check out Body by Berner in North Bondi for a Pilates class that’ll have you working up a sweat while soaking up Bondi’s energetic vibe.

Bondi isn’t just a beach—it’s a foodie paradise. If there’s a café or restaurant with outdoor seating and an ocean view, chances are it’s buzzing with happy diners. Start your day at Harry’s, Up South, or Speedos Café, where you’ll find everything from healthy acai bowls to hearty Aussie breakfasts. And of course, one of their iconic matcha lattes.

When lunchtime rolls around, treat yourself to the cosy Italian flair at Bondi Trattoria, the perfect spot for pasta and a view. Craving wood-fired bread or some indulgent antipasti? Totti’s is a must-visit, or for something unique, try Mamasan for Asian fusion dishes that bring bold flavours to the Bondi food scene. For a lively dinner with a Mexican twist, head over to Mami’s Bondi for tacos, margaritas, and a splash of colour.

And for dessert? Pop over to Gelato Messina Bondi for a scoop of Sydney’s most beloved gelato with new flavours every week. Bondi is a place to indulge, so bring your appetite!

Bondi’s waters are a vibrant habitat for marine life, and the local bird population certainly adds to the beach’s character. While it might be tempting to get up close to Bondi’s fish, seagulls, and other beach-dwelling critters, remember to give them the space they need. Avoid feeding the birds (they’re well-fed without our snacks) and make sure to keep litter off the sand. Keeping Bondi clean helps protect its natural beauty and supports the delicate balance of this coastal ecosystem.

And for a true Bondi surprise, you might even spot a friendly seal lounging on the rocks!

If you’re looking for unique finds, Bondi Markets are the place to be. Held every weekend, these markets are a treasure trove of artisan goods, vintage fashion, handmade jewellery, and local art. The relaxed, bohemian atmosphere makes it easy to lose yourself as you browse the stalls, sample street food, and listen to live music.

Bondi Markets are perfect for picking up souvenirs or discovering one-of-a-kind pieces that capture the local spirit. Supporting local artisans is a great way to experience Bondi’s creative side while taking home something special.

With Bondi’s powerful waves and currents, safety is everything. Always swim between the red and yellow flags where lifeguards are watching over the beach. Bondi’s lifeguards, featured on the popular TV show Bondi Rescue, know the beach better than anyone and are there to keep everyone safe.

Taking a dip at Bondi is a must-do, but sticking to the flagged areas will make sure your swim is a safe one. Enjoy the waves, but remember that Bondi is just as strong as it is beautiful.