February 14th, 2024
4 minute read
Bondi Beach is an utter haven for backpackers passing through Sydney! Laden with cheap eats, awesome free public facilities, stunning views, great photo ops and world-famous beaches, you’re bound to have your own unique experience in this city-central coastal town. And the best news? It doesn’t have to cost you anything! With so many free and cheap things to do in Bondi, you can fill your days swimming in the Icebergs, spotting the renowned Bondi Beach lifesavers, surfing sweet waves and enjoying coastal views!
So if you’re unsure what to do in Bondi, here are our local picks that won’t leave a hole in your wallet!
Name a better way to explore the Eastern Suburb beaches than by doing a 6km coastal walk? Enjoy the beautiful scenic views of the coastal beaches by starting the walk from the Icebergs in Bondi and heading to the first beach along the way, Tamarama! Not long after Tamarama, you’ll discover Bronte Beach, Clovelly and Gordons Bay before reaching Coogee. This walk can be done any time of the year, but a personal favourite is to head out during whale watching season which runs from the end of May to the start of November!
The iconic Bondi Icebergs swimming pool is a must-do when stopping off in Bondi! The Icebergs are open to everyone, and for just a small fee you’re able to take a swim in one of the most famous open-air, ocean-neighbouring pools in Australia. Whilst you’re there, take a look at the café/bistro menus for surprisingly affordable and delicious food and coffees to complete the true Bondi vibes.
When you’re in Sydney, you have to visit the most famous beach in Australia: Bondi Beach! Only a short ride on public transport from the CBD, visit Bondi Beach and take in the spectacular views of the white sands, tanned surfers and infamous lifeguards. Bondi is host to one of the world's oldest surf lifesaving clubs in the world as well as Australia’s oldest swimming club, Icebergs.
Make sure to take a stroll along Campbell Parade, O’Briens Street and Hall Street to get a true taste of Bondi and sample some of their most famous beachside cafes and restaurants! Here are our top personal picks:
When you’re at the most famous beach in Australia, you have to join in on the fun and learn to surf to get that true Aussie experience! Join the locals for their sunrise or sunset surf and get out there. Let’s Go Surf School Bondi has over 25 years of experience and is your best option if you want to start shredding those waves in no time.
Every year Humpback Whales migrate along the East Coast of Australia, and Bondi is one of the best places to witness this! Head over the Ben Buckler Point, Bondi’s most easterly point, and look out for Humpback Whales breaching and giving everyone a magnificent show. Whale Season runs from May to November but the best time is peak season in June to July.
Meet some of the real local celebrities! Bondi Beach is home to one of the oldest surf lifesaving clubs in the world and for good reason. Bondi Beach is a beautiful beach but also comes with its dangerously strong rip currents. Make sure to research how to spot a rip before you head out and get caught in “Backpackers Rip”. Yep, there’s an actual rip named after backpackers! So spot the reality TV show lifeguards from a distance, but don’t become a rescuee star in the next season!
Combining both affordability stays with fun and stylish interiors, Wake Up! Bondi is the place to stay for money conscious travellers! Central to the partying township and boasting waterfront views, this hostel will happily surprise you when it comes to accommodation standards. Laden with perks such as yoga classes, free surfboards, free wifi and an open-air rooftop, book in for a social yet laid back stay at Wake Up!