The Australian Bucket List

New South Wales

Bondi BeachOne of the world’s most iconic beaches, Sydney’s Bondi Beach personifies the ‘sun, sand and sea’ image of Australia and is a meeting point for both locals and visitors from all over the world.

One of the most famous beaches in the world, the crescent of golden sand and turquoise water that is Bondi Beach is just 7 kilometres from Sydney’s CBD. It is perpetually buzzing with backpackers, surfers, sunbathers and stylish locals and is a magnet for people who want to see and be seen, offering upmarket restaurants, boutique shopping, cafes, bars and that gorgeous, iconic beach. Bondi is an Aboriginal word meaning ‘water breaking over rocks’. The area initially became a popular attraction when it was made available to the public as a picnic ground and amusement resort between 1855 and 1877 by landowner Francis O’Brien, who originally named it O’Brien Estate. Even though O’Brien wanted to eventually restrict beach access because of its popularity, the council intervened and in 1882 Bondi became a public beach. Though it was a working-class suburb for much of its life, today Bondi is very multicultural and is climbing towards an upper-middle-class community. The 1-kilometer stretch of sand that defines the suburb is always at the forefront of activity. From surfing to markets, beach volleyball and many sporting and cultural events, Bondi Beach has established itself as an Australian cultural mecca.

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Things to do

Bondi Baths

The Bondi Baths are located at the southern end of Bondi Beach and have been a land mark for over 100 years. You can enjoy doing some laps in the 50 metre pool or take the kids to the kids pool. Fully qualified lifeguards patrol the pools during opening hours. The pools are usually closed on a Thursday for cleaning, please check the voicemail for information.

Lunch at Bondi Icebergs

Located at the southern end of Bondi Beach, Bondi Icebergs Club is an international landmark. Bondi Icebergs has been the home of Winter swimming since 1929 and their famous pool is open to visitors all year round. Located above the pool, their fully licensed clubhouse is open to both members and guests, and all visitors are welcome to enjoy sweeping views over the pool and Bondi beach as they drink or dine on their sunny balcony. As per licensed Club regulations in Australia all visitors who live within five kilometres of the Club will need to be a member, or signed in by a member.

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