Relax Away the Day in Bondi

Posted by Brad Peterson

June 18, 2009

by Brad Peterson

Only a short distance from the New South Wales capital of Sydney, Australia lies the thriving seaside town of Bondi Beach. Pronounced “bahn-dai” with long “i” sound, this beach is the place for summer days filled with sun and surf

Founded back in the middle of the 19th century, as Sydney’s urban center began expanding, the unique name of Bondi Beach derives from an Aboriginal word meaning “waves crashing upon rocks.”

As a getaway from the urban center of Sydney, Bondi’s white sand beaches and alluring coastline are a beautiful option. If you are around during the migratory seasons, you could spot dolphins or even whales off the coast. The rarely seen fairy penguin may even catch your eye.

Start at Bondi’s Community Center located at the Pavilion, the town’s focal point and home to outdoor theaters, shower and changing rooms, food stands and tourist information.

Stroll down the shoreline and work on your suntan or watch the locals show off their bronze physiques. Bathe in the safe waters on the northern end of the beach, or head to the southern side where the more treacherous waves and tides are enjoyed by the world’s surfing community. Any surfer hungry for a taste of good waves should check out this surfing spot. Shark nets are added in the summer months for extra protection and lifeguards patrol the area constantly.

Take in a bit of Bondi Beach’s history and beauty with one of the scenic walks. Start at Bondi’s old Pavilion, begun in 1928, on the way to the cliffs of Bronte. See the Hawkesbury sandstone belt which dates back to over 200 million years B.C. Or visit the old Bronte Baths en route to Waverley Cemetery.

For a taste of Bondi’s racy beach culture, check out the southern beaches, where local ordinances are ignored by topless sunbathers on a regular basis. In fact, the beach holds the world record for biggest bikini photo shoot of all time.

Popular local events include the 14-kilometer City to Surf Fun Run which takes participants from downtown Sidney to the sandy coastline of Bondi Beach every August. In September you can enjoy the Festival of the Winds, a kite festival which is fun for the whole family.

When that beach-day hunger strikes, you can dine at small cafes or more elegant restaurants by the water’s edge. Or have a drink in one of the pubs and rub elbows with the friendly locals.

Bondi Beach has been featured as the backdrop for a number of television series, including Breakers and Bondi Rescue, which follows the efforts of the lifeguard patrols.

The eyes of the world were on Bondi Beach during the 2000 Summer Olympics, when it served as the setting for the beach volleyball games.

Visitors looking to spend a night or weeks in Bondi Beach will find accommodations in any price range. Backpacker hostels, small upscale hotels and charming bed-and-breakfasts are all options.

Only a thirty minute drive from downtown Sydney, take Oxford street from the capital and follow it as it turns into Enfield Drive and finally Bondi Road. Because parking can be so difficult, locals suggest arriving via public transportation to avoid the hassle. Numerous buses arrive from Sydney everyday.

About the Author:

If you are looking for surf travel services in Sydney’s south coast beaches, contact Brad Peterson from Sydney Surfboard Hire

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