Wondering how to make the most of a day in Bondi? Here’s your guide to eating, drinking, shopping and adventuring around Planet Earth’s most famous beach.
Bondi is known the world over for its surf and sand. But they’re just the beginning. Just a minute or two’s walk from the water, adventures a-plenty are to be had—from picnicking on swordfish steak sandwiches in a neighbourhood park to following the clifftops to nearby Bronte.
Fish and chips, eggplant scallops and Appellation oysters at FSH MKT
Contrary to what you might think, the best fish and chips in Bondi aren’t right on the water. They’re five minutes walk inland at FSH MKT. An exceptional take on traditional fish and chips is just the beginning, there’s also a cornucopia of other seafood delights on the menu, including eggplant scallops, prawn toast, and a swordfish steak sandwich. Alternatively, visit the build-your-own picnic bar for fancy snacks, including Appellation oysters and prawns, and add a made-to-order salad. Don’t forget your picnic blanket; there’s a lovely, sun-kissed park across the road.
Cocktails on a cliff at the Icebergs
Of all the venues in Bondi, not many put you as close to the water as the Icebergs Bar and Dining does. Perched on southerly cliffs, the bar looks over the Icebergs ocean pool, backdropped by sweeping views of the beach—and they’re particularly spectacular at sunset. The Italian-inspired cocktail menu is big on refreshing, summery creations, like the No 940 (tequila, agave, lime, basil and grapefruit soda) and the No 242 (gin, Campari, grapefruit cordial, lemon juice, orange juice and basil).
Cult designer fashion at Tuchuzy
Bondi’s best shopping strip is Gould Street—a laneway which runs parallel to the beach, just a minute’s walk from the sand. Among the boutiques you’ll find here is Tuchuzy, home to a handpicked collection of fashion, shoes, accessories and jewellery by cult designers. The selection ranges from beach-ready dresses and stunning bikinis to statement knitwear and party-worthy denim. Shops worth checking out nearby include Bondi Wash for Australian-inspired skin care and Playa by Lucy Folk for wearable art.
Stroll from Bondi to Bronte along the coast
No visit to Bondi is complete without a stroll along the famous clifftop footpath to Bronte, which locals and visitors have been conquering since the 1930s. The trail hugs the coast all the way, so you’re guaranteed incredible views at every turn. There are loads of spots to stop for a picnic—from pretty parks to dramatic rock formations to Tamarama Beach, where there’s also a cafe. Take your swimmers with you; it’ll be hard not to take a dip at Bronte, be that in the surf or in the ocean pool.
Sip coffee surrounded by second-hand books
Bondi’s writers, intellects, artists and alternatives have been drinking their coffee at Gerturde & Alice Cafe Bookstore for years. You’ll find this warm, cosy space in Hall Street, just five minutes walk from the beach, and, fair warning: it’s very easy to lose a few hours thumbing your way through the treasure trove of books, which range from tomes of ancient history to new age spiritual guides. If coffee’s not your thing, then do be tempted to try the G & A Famous Chai Tea.
Buy now pay later in Bondi
Wherever your adventures in Bondi take you, you can buy now pay later with bundll. Simply #tapthebear at check out—and you’ll get two weeks extra to pay. Get started by downloading the app.
