Hike the Bondi to Coogee Beach Coastal Walk

The Basics: Australia's pristine beaches and coastlines are probably its main tourism attraction, and one of the most famous beaches is Bondi Beach in Sydney. It is only 45 minutes by train from Sydney Intl. Airport, or 2-3 train stops from Downtown Sydney. From Central Station, take the T4 line to Bondi Junction. Take bus 333, 380, or 381 down to Bondi Beach. 

However, with so many great beaches, I'd rather not spend my day sunbathing next to thousands of other people on Bondi Beach. That is why this adventure just uses Bondi Beach as a starting point. From Bondi Beach, this coastal walk takes you around the rugged coastline via wide sidewalks and elevated walkways, stopping by numerous beaches, until it culminates at Coogee beach. Avoid the crowds at Bondi, have a great, scenic hike, and reward your efforts at the end with a less-crowded beach!

The Walk: Beginning at the south edge of Bondi beach by the Bondi Icebergs Pool (2nd picture), the coastal track snakes down toward the water's edge and around the coastal rocks to hike's second beach, Tamarama. This leg takes around 20 minutes. From Tamarama, observe the surfers and sculptures along the coastal track as your make your way to Bronte Beach. Take a pit stop at a cafe nearby, or continue on to Clovelly beach. This section is the most picturesque as you make your way over a long, suspended boardwalk and past the historic Waverly cemetery. This section takes about 45 minutes, plus stops for pictures. The final leg of the journey from Clovelly to Coogee Beach begins with a steep uphill climb. About 45 minutes later, your final beach destination comes into view. Stop by the Coogee Pavilion to refuel after the 4 mile trek before spreading out your beach towel on the less-crowded Coogee beach, swimming, and soaking up the rays! The bus stop to take you back to Bondi Junction is located just behind Coogee Pavilion. Look for bus 353, which runs every 30 minutes. 

The Area: Bondi Junction connects to the main Sydney Trains network, and is just a few stations away from Martin Place, where you can access downtown Sydney and all the popular harbor area attractions. Another great walk in the harbor area is around the botanic gardens or across the Harbor Bridge. 

Opal Card: This card covers all public transportation in and around Sydney. Load $5 for the fare to get from Bondi Junction to Bondi Beach, then Coogee Beach back to Bondi Junction. Load more based on whatever you might need to get to Bondi Junction before/after this loop. Fares are more expensive if you don't have an Opal Card.