An Introduction To Bondi Beach Surf
Bondi Beach surf, located just 7km (4.2mi) east of Sydney’s city centre, is an iconic destination for surfers of all skill levels. With excellent public transport, you can easily access the beach by foot, bike or public transport.
Bondi Beach itself is ideal for beginners due to its gentle waves, while the nearby Bronte Beach (25 min. walk) offers more challenging conditions for intermediate surfers. Tamarama (20 min. walk), known for its powerful surf, is also nearby for advanced surfers.
Coogee Beach offers small, beginner to intermediate friendly surf and is about 4 km south of Bondi Beach, a short bus ride away.
With reliable public transport, well-developed paths, & a compact layout, Bondi Beach is a perfect base for surfing & exploring the Sydney coastline.
In This Guide
Best Time To Surf Bondi Beach
Seasons:
- Autumn (March-May): Consistent swells & favourable winds.
- Attire Needed: 3/2mm wetsuit.
- Winter (June-August): Larger swells, perfect for advanced surfers.
- Attire Needed: 4/3mm wetsuit.
- Spring (September-November): Milder swells, ideal for intermediate surfers.
- Attire Needed: 3/2mm wetsuit.
- Summer (December-February): Smaller, gentler waves, perfect for beginners.
- Attire Needed: Boardshorts/bikini.
Surf Conditions:
- Wave Size & Swell Direction: Waves range from 2 to 6 foot, best with southeast to east swells.
- Break Type: Beach breaks with both mellow & punchy waves, depending on the spot.
- Tide & Wind: Best at mid to high tide, with west or northwest winds keeping the waves clean.
- Skill Required: Suitable for all levels, though Tamarama is recommended for advanced surfers only.
Bondi Beach Surf Spots Within a 5km Radius
| Best Surf Spots | Distance from Bondi | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Bondi Beach |
In the town centre |
2-6 foot |
Mellow to punchy beach break |
Beginner to intermediate |
|
Bronte Beach |
Approx. 2km (1.2mi) south |
3-5 foot |
Powerful beach break |
Intermediate to Advanced |
|
Tamarama Beach |
Approx. 1.5km (0.9mi) south |
2-6 foot |
Fast, hallow waves |
Advanced |
|
Coogee Beach |
Approx. 4km (2.5mi) south |
2-6 foot |
Mellow to punchy beach break |
Beginner to intermediate |
Access To Bondi Beach Surf Spots
| Best Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Bondi Beach |
5 min. |
Not required |
Not required |
|
Bronte Beach |
Approx. 25 min. |
8-10 min. |
10 min.
(Bus routes from Bondi available)
|
|
Tamarama Beach |
Approx. 20 min. |
Approx. 5-10 min. |
5-10 min.
(Bus routes from Bondi available)
|
|
Coogee Beach |
Approx. 60 min. |
30 min. |
Approx. 40 min.
(Bus routes from Bondi available)
|
Accommodation In Bondi Beach
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range per night (EUR) | Price Range per night (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€40 to €65 |
$45 to $70 |
|
Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€125 to €220 |
$135 to $240 |
|
Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€250 to €600 |
$270 to $650 |
How To Get To Bondi Beach
How to get to Bondi Beach from Sydney Airport (SYD)
The most convenient way to reach Bondi Beach is to fly into Sydney Airport (SYD) & then choose from the following transportation options to complete your journey.
Distance: 14km (8.6mi)
- Taxi or Ride-share:
- Time: 25-30 min.
- Cost: Approx. $32-$48 USD
- Public Transport (Train & Bus) (Best Option):
- Time: 45-50 min.
- Cost: Approx. $14-$20 USD per person
- Shuttle Service:
- Time: 30 min.
- Cost: Approx. $10-$17 USD per person
Discover Bondi Beach: What to Do When the Waves Are Flat
When the waves aren’t on, there are plenty of activities to enjoy at Bondi Beach. Below are some examples of things to do, from scenic coastal walks to exploring the local dining & shopping scene.
Coastal Walks:
Walk along the stunning Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, a 6km path offering breathtaking ocean views, cliffs, & picturesque beaches along the way.
Bondi Markets:
Explore the local Bondi Markets for artisan crafts, fresh produce, & vintage finds.
Dining & Cafes:
Bondi is packed with trendy cafés & beachfront restaurants serving fresh seafood, healthy bowls, & gourmet coffee. Don’t miss the famous Icebergs Dining Room for incredible views & fine dining.
Yoga & Wellness:
Join a beachfront yoga class or book a spa day at one of Bondi’s wellness centres, perfect for relaxing after a surf session.
Swimming & Pools:
Take a dip in the iconic Bondi Icebergs Pool, a saltwater pool right on the ocean’s edge, perfect for swimming year-round.
Exploring Sydney: The Best Sights and Landmarks to Visit
If the surf isn’t working for a few days, you can easily head into Sydney to enjoy its vibrant culture, famous landmarks, & incredible dining scene.
Visit the Sydney Opera House & Harbour Bridge:
Explore Sydney’s most iconic landmarks, & take a scenic walk along Circular Quay.
Explore The Rocks:
Wander through the historic neighborhood of The Rocks, with its cobblestone streets, galleries, & weekend markets.
Take a Ferry to Manly:
Enjoy a scenic ferry ride to Manly Beach, another great surfing spot, or simply enjoy the waterfront cafes & shops.
Visit Darling Harbour:
From museums & aquariums to cafes & nightlife, Darling Harbour offers plenty to do for visitors of all ages.
Royal Botanic Garden:
Relax in this beautiful garden, offering stunning views of Sydney Harbour & the perfect place for a peaceful stroll or picnic.
