Bondi beach, australia
Sometimes the best kind of trip is just slowing down and soaking in a new place, rather than trying to see as much as you can (my usual travel method). We did just that for a few days in Sydney and during the 4 days we were there did not leave the Bondi neighborhood the entire time. To be fair, if you are visiting Sydney in their summertime, I'm not really sure why you would need to leave this idyllic beach and surfer enclave on the east side of Sydney. The active culture is inspiring, the food is delicious and the beach is calling your name.
While Bondi is more well known, North Bondi is where the locals live. Its definitely worth basing yourself out of North Bondi as it is a bit quieter and more low key, but close enough to walk to all that Bondi (and the beach) has to offer. I love the friendly and relaxed Australian charm, and Sydney is high on my list to return for much more exploration in the future.
Pack... Haviana flip flops, a casual cover up and lots of bathing suits.
Sleep... There aren't many hotel options in North Bondi, so rent an Airbnb and pretend like you live there for a few days. We stayed in this charming bungalow, a pleasant 20 minute walk from the beach and restaurants. This spot may just be my favorite Airbnb I've stayed in yet.
Read... The Wallpaper City Guide Sydney. I love these guides. They are especially helpful if you are just going to be in a city for a few days, and prefer trying a few unique restaurants and experiences vs the whole tourist thing.
Bring home... The cool girl cult-favorite Papaw ointment and a Chuchka neoprene bag. Everyone was carrying them and I am still seriously regretting that I didn't pick one up!
{ wander }
Bondi Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world. Grab some sunscreen (the sun is very strong) and a towel to settle in for some tanning and amazing people watching.
Walk or jog the coastal trail - A stunning trail along the coast, starting behind Icebergs off Bondi Beach. You can take the trail all the way to Coogee (about 6km) or stop at any of the other beautiful beaches along the way.
Surf - Because you are in one of the surf capitals of the world.
Yoga - Body Mind Life is a cozy studio to squeeze in some downward dogs when you need a break from the beach.
Iceburgs - Swim or just people watch at the iconic pool. You can also have a cocktail or meal at the on-site restaurant, though the whole thing seemed a bit like a scene to me. We just stopped in for the photo opp and chose to spend the afternoon on the beach.
Apres beach cocktails at Bikini Cafe for amazing people watching. We found ourselves here each afternoon enjoying a jug of local beer and making friends with the cutest pup.
Hall Street - The main street of Bondi gets busy and a bit touristy, but is the main thoroughfare of the area is worth exploring for the many shops and restaurants you will discover.
{ eat }
Bonditony's Burger Joint - I'm completely obsessed with the Just A Jezabel burger. A fun place to have a beer and people watch over a late lunch.
China Diner - Not my favorite ambiance, but if you're in the mood for Asian food and don't want to venture far, China Diner has amazing service, good curries and dumplings.
Da Orazio Pizza + Porchetta - Delicious pizza (recommend the DIAVOLETTA) + red wine is the perfect combo after a leisurely day spent on the beach.
Le Paris-Go Cafe - They serve a full breakfast all day, but we just stopped in for some drinks and chips. Everything looked delicious, and their setting with large open windows on the corner of Hall Street made for great people watching.
Porch and Parlour - We ate here about 4 times and tried nearly everything on the menu. Seriously delicious, fresh, seasonal food. I can only speak to the brunch (high ratings for the BERTA sandwich and the Hash & Mash) but they are open for dinner a few nights a week as well. Across the street from the ocean, they have a few outdoor tables and a casual vibe. A great spot to stop in for a long black (or flat white) after your morning dip in the ocean.
Ricepot - You can't go wrong with simple, basic Thai food. A good spot for takeout.
Sean's Panaroma - This is an amazing restaurant for a special meal or occasion. Right across from the beach in North Bondi, the atmosphere is cozy, warm and eclectic, with a passionate and attentive wait staff. This is the perfect place to enjoy an evening over a bottle of wine (Australian Shiraz was our pick) and a fantastic meal. We ate here for brunch the day we arrived and for dinner on our last night in Bondi. The seasonal menu is written in chalk up on the wall, and each item is unique and thoughtfully prepared. Don't miss dessert. Reservations recommended.
{ december 2016 }