Max Kruse
Squeaky white sand, rolling waves, sandstone cliffs and laid-back locals, Bondi is the quintessential Sydney-side destination we’ve all come to love. With over 2.6 million people visiting Bondi each year, it’s booming with an international and cosmopolitan flare like no other place in the world.
From the beach to bar, Bondi has everything you could ask for… and more.
So don’t get caught up in the tourist traps when visiting Bondi next. Take a read of our Weekenders guide to Bondi and relish in all that is good in one of the most spectacular corners of the world.
Where to stay in Bondi
QT Bondi
This funky 5-star hotel in the heart of Bondi is the perfect seaside escape; the ultimate in chic, beachside living. Each room at QT Bondi is filled with quirky decor and attention to detail to match, thanks to renowned Australian designer Nic Graham. Even the Kevin Murphy amenities will have you pleasantly satisfied.
Rooms offer a burst of natural light (see below), a stunning view of Bondi (no matter what direction you are in) and the in-room colour palette is the perfect match to Bondi’s barefoot luxury vibe – sanded timber flooring is a welcomed update to tiresome carpet found elsewhere.
And there’s plenty of activities to be enjoyed. Borrow a bike or surfboard from the lobby and hit the promenade, in true QT style.
If wining and dining is more your thing, thanks to its idyllic location, QT Bondi is just a stone throw away from some of the best restaurants, bars and cafes in Sydney.
To book your stay at QT Bondi, visit the website HERE
Where to eat
Blanca
A delicious fusion of Japanese and Mediterranean cuisine, Blanca is one of Bondi’s most elegant dining options. Opt for the 10-course tasting which is fresh, bold and extremely flavoursome. Optional sake paring advisable.
Book your table at Blanca HERE
Totti’s
Helmed by seasoned chefs Mike Eggert (ex-Mr Liquor’s Dirty Italian Disco, Pinbone) and Khan Danis (ex-Rockpool), Totti’s serves up casual Italian in a large Trattoria space.
From bowls of rigatoni with milk-braised pork & chilli to hearty cotoletta Milanese… Totti’s is utterly delicious, to say the least.
Book your table at Totti’s HERE
Porch and Parlour
After rising from the ashes (a fire forced its closure in August 2018), this beloved Bondi eatery is sporting a new menu with a bunch of seasonal creations. A local hotspot for all your brunching necessities, Porch and Parlour also serves some of Bondi’s best coffee, 7-days a week.
Where to shop
Take a stroll down Gould Street and you’ll find an international range of boutiques perfect for your time in Bondi, should shopping be on your list of things ‘to-do’
Orlebar Brown
Tailored resort wear for your pool-side hangs, Orelebar Brown has taken surf-side luxe by storm, with fantastic garments perfect for your weekend in Bondi – and every summer onwards.
Venroy
Australian designer Venroy specializes in all things linen, one of our favourite summer fabrics. Cool, wicking and extremely fresh, Venroy threads will have you blending into the scene with ease. From loose-fitting linen pants to camp collar shirting staples, Venroy is the very definition of ‘Bondi-chic’.
What to do
Rent a bike
Explore the surrounding beachside towns with a bike. If you’re staying at QT Bondi, they have them for free!
Ride a wave
But just be sure to swim between the flags, or you might become the next meme on Bondi Rescue…
Read a novel
Spend a few hours at Gertrude & Alice and get lost amongst a plethora of bookshelves, deep-diving into some unique publications. This charming bookstore/cafe is the perfect place to wind down after a busy day exploring, with a coffee in one hand, and a novel in the other.
Bondi to Bronte
The Bondi to Bronte walk is one of the most iconic walking trails in Sydney. There are plenty of vantage points overlooking the South Pacific Ocean with breathtaking views, and if you’re lucky enough, you may even spot some whales and dolphins!
Where to drink
Bondi Hardware
Once a former hardware store (if the name didn’t give it away), has now been converted into this trendy bar and restaurant. The decor is inspired by its history, with exposed brick walls, scattered tools and menus mounted on wooden boards. The perfect place to wind down and people watch the passers-by.
Heading to Bondi? Let us know in the comments below!
This guide was last updated on the 15/04/2021