Tag: Bondi

  • 3 Incredible Coastal Walks You Have to Do in Australia

    3 Incredible Coastal Walks You Have to Do in Australia

    Looking for the best coastal walks in Australia? These three incredible walks in Sydney, Noosa and Byron Bay offer stunning ocean views, wildlife spotting and some of the most beautiful coastal scenery in the country.

    Australia is known for its incredible beaches, dramatic coastlines and beautiful national parks. One of the best ways to experience these landscapes is simply to get out and explore them on foot.

    Coastal walks are hugely popular across the country, and once you do a few of them you’ll quickly see why. You get incredible ocean views, the chance to spot wildlife, and plenty of excuses to stop at beautiful beaches along the way.

    From famous walks in Sydney to scenic trails in Queensland, Australia is home to some truly unforgettable coastal hikes.

    If you’re planning a trip and looking for experiences to add to your itinerary, here are three coastal walks you absolutely have to do in Australia.

    Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk (Sydney, New South Wales)

    The Bondi to Coogee coastal walk is one of the most famous walks in Australia. So whether you like it or not, you’ll probably end up doing this walk.

    Luckily…you’ll almost certainly like it.

    Coogee Beach (Bondi to Coogee walk)

    This spectacular walk stretches along Sydney’s eastern coastline, connecting several beautiful beaches including Bondi, Tamarama, Bronte and Coogee.

    Check out our full guide to this walk here!

    The path winds along dramatic cliffs with constant views of the Pacific Ocean, making it one of the most scenic walks in the country.

    Along the way you’ll pass rock pools, parks, cafés and some of Sydney’s most iconic coastal scenery. There are also plenty of places to stop for a swim if the weather is good (which, in Sydney, it usually is).

    The walk is around 6 kilometres long and usually takes 2–3 hours, depending on how often you stop to admire the view, grab a coffee, or wander down onto the beaches.

    Bondi Icebergs (Bondi to Coogee walk)

    Many people begin the walk at Bondi Beach, one of Australia’s most famous beaches and a must-visit destination for travellers visiting Sydney.

    You can read more about visiting Bondi and planning your time in the city in our guide:

    👉 Looking for more Sydney inspo? Check out our top 10 reccs here!

    Noosa National Park Coastal Walk (Queensland)

    Located on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, the Noosa National Park coastal walk is one of the most beautiful walks in Australia.

    The trail begins near Noosa Main Beach and follows the coastline through Noosa National Park, offering incredible ocean views almost the entire way.

    Hell’s Gates (Noosa National Park walk)

    One of the best things about this walk is the chance to see wildlife. Dolphins and turtles are often spotted in the water below, and if you’re lucky you might even see whales during migration season.

    The walk can be completed in sections, but the full coastal trail is around 10 kilometres return if you walk all the way to Hell’s Gates, one of the most dramatic viewpoints in the park.

    Click here for our full guide to the Noosa National Park Walk

    Noosa itself has a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere, so this walk fits perfectly into a day that might also include swimming, coffee, lunch and possibly another swim.

    👉 Heading to Noosa? Check out our Noosa weekend itinerary!

    Cape Byron Lighthouse Walk (Byron Bay, New South Wales)

    The Cape Byron Lighthouse walk in Byron Bay is another must-do coastal walk in Australia.

    This scenic trail leads visitors up to the Cape Byron Lighthouse, located at the easternmost point of mainland Australia.

    Cape Byron Lighthouse

    A quick word of warning: there are a lot of stairs. But thankfully the views make them worth it.

    The walk offers spectacular views of the coastline and is one of the best places in the country to watch sunrise over the Pacific Ocean.

    We’ve done this walk quite a few times and always seem to spot something interesting. Wallabies, dolphins, giant lizards…and we don’t mean to brag but once we saw a koala and a python in the same tree. (See below for photographic evidence).

    The most Australian picture ever?

    Once you reach the lighthouse, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views across Byron Bay and the surrounding coastline.

    👉 Still planning your Aussie adventure? Check out our Australia Bucket List!

    Why Coastal Walks Are One of the Best Ways to Experience Australia

    Australia’s coastline stretches for over 25,000 kilometres, so there’s no shortage of incredible coastal scenery to explore.

    Coastal walks allow travellers to experience things like:

    • dramatic cliffs and ocean views
    • beautiful beaches
    • wildlife sightings
    • peaceful nature escapes

    They’re also a wonderful way to slow down and really enjoy the landscape rather than rushing from one attraction to the next.

    Whether you’re visiting Sydney, travelling along the east coast or exploring Queensland’s national parks, coastal walks are one of the best ways to experience Australia’s natural beauty.

    Noosa National Park

    Final Thoughts

    Australia is home to some of the most beautiful coastal scenery in the world, and these walks offer the perfect way to experience it.

    From the iconic Bondi to Coogee coastal walk in Sydney, to the wildlife-filled trails of Noosa National Park and the stunning views from Cape Byron Lighthouse, these coastal walks are unforgettable experiences for any traveller.

    If you’re planning a trip to Australia, adding at least one of these coastal walks to your itinerary is highly recommended.

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  • Your Guide to the Bondi to Coogee Walk

    Your Guide to the Bondi to Coogee Walk

    There are more coastal walks in Sydney than you could count, and they’re all spectacular. One of the most famous (and for good reason) is the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk.

    Has its fame gone through the roof because of influencers? Yep. Is it full of people taking aesthetically pleasing shots staring out at the ocean? Also yep. But is it still completely worth it, with breathtaking views and that unbeatable Sydney energy? Absolutely yes.

    It’s not the easiest of walks, and on a hot day it can be a challenge, but it’s worth every step. Make sure you bring water (there are refill stations along the way), sunscreen, and a hat. Expect stairs, hills, and about 6 km one way. Around 2 to 3 hours depending on how often you stop for photos (which, trust us, you will).

    What You’ll See Along the Way

    • Bondi Beach
    • Tamarama Beach
    • Bronte Beach
    • Waverley Cemetery
    • Clovelly Beach
    • Gordon’s Bay
    • Coogee Beach

    The Walk

    The walk begins at the iconic Bondi Icebergs, one of Australia’s most photographed ocean pools. Even from the starting point, the views are incredible, and if you climb the short hill behind the buildings, you’ll get a stunning panoramic view of Bondi from above.

    Bondi Icebergs

    Continue around the headland and take in those ocean views (between May and November, it’s also a great whale-watching spot!). You’ll soon reach Tamarama Beach, a small but picturesque stretch of sand.

    Next up is Bronte Beach, where you’ll find barbecue areas, a café, and one of Sydney’s most popular ocean pools – Bronte Baths. If you’d rather avoid the crowds, head up the street for a relaxed coffee stop instead.

    After Bronte, you’ll pass Waverley Cemetery, a heritage-listed site and the resting place of some notable Australians. A short walk later, you’ll reach Clovelly Beach, a sheltered, narrow bay that’s perfect for swimming. There’s no sand here; instead, you’ll find concrete promenades on either side of the water, making it ideal if you prefer to avoid sandy feet. The Clovelly Hotel nearby is a great pit-stop for a mid-walk pint or lunch.

    Coogee Beach

    The next small cove is Gordon’s Bay, lined with fishing boats and known for its clear, calm water and then penultimate stop before reaching Coogee Beach. Here, you can reward yourself with food and drinks at the Coogee Pavilion, have a tipple at the Coogee Bay Hotel or simply sit at the colourful Rainbow Steps with take-out and watch the waves roll in.

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  • Sydney, Australia Travel Guide: 10 Things You’ll Actually Love Doing

    Sydney, Australia Travel Guide: 10 Things You’ll Actually Love Doing

    The Best Things to Do in Sydney (For Real People)

    There’s a reason Sydney ends up on almost everyone’s bucket list; it’s beautiful, it’s laid-back, and it has that perfect mix of city energy and coastal charm. Whether you’re here for a few days or a few weeks, there’s no shortage of incredible things to see and do.

    Here are our favourite things to do in Sydney – from the obvious must-sees to a few relaxed local picks that are just as special and not to be missed!

    Visit Sydney Harbour Bridge

    There’s nothing quite like Sydney Harbour. It’s iconic, it’s picturesque, it’s just…amazing. Walking across the Sydney Harbour Bridge (or even climbing it, if you’re feeling brave) gives you unbeatable views of the Opera House and the sparkling harbour below. But if you’re not up for the walk or the climb, just taking in the views from the harbour is enough to take your breath away.

    Have a Drink at the Opera Bar

    If you’re after the perfect spot to enjoy a drink with a view, Opera Bar is where you’ll find it. Sitting right next to the Opera House, it’s one of those places where you can happily spend an hour (or three), watching ferries come and go as the sun sets over the water. It offers a spectacular view of the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House whilst serving delicious drinks and food. Disclaimer: beware of the seagulls!

    You can even combine your Opera House tour with a meal and drink!

    Shop at The Rocks Markets

    Sticking to the Sydney Harbour area for now, The Rocks Markets are one of our favourite weekend activities. Every Saturday and Sunday, The Markets fill the cobbled laneways of The Rocks with local artisans, handmade jewellery, art, and delicious food stalls. It’s the perfect way to spend a weekend morning – grab a coffee, wander through the stalls, and soak up the history of one of Sydney’s oldest areas.

    Take the Ferry to Manly

    A ferry ride to Manly is worth it for the journey alone – the views of the harbour and Opera House are incredible. Take the Malny Ferry from Circular Quay take in the views and once you arrive, you’ll find a laid-back beach town vibe with great cafés, surf spots, and the beautiful Manly to Spit Bridge coastal walk if you’re feeling active.

    Shelley Beach is also worth a look if you’re into snorkelling!

    Do the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

    Moving to the spectacular Eastern Suburbs, this one’s a Sydney classic. The Bondi to Coogee coastal walk offers jaw-dropping ocean views, sandy beaches, and plenty of places to stop for a coffee or a swim along the way. The walk is around 6 km, but it’s easy to take your time and enjoy every bit of it.

    You can either start at Coogee Beach and finish your walk at the iconic Bondi Icebergs, or start at the famous Bondi Beach and end your walk with a schooner at the Coogee Pavillion.

    Check out our full guide to the Bondi to Coogee Walk here!

    Eat Seafood at Watsons Bay

    Watsons Bay is one of those spots that makes you wonder if you’re still in the city. Have fish and chips by the water at the famous Doyle’s, then wander up to Hornby Lighthouse for one of the best coastal views in Sydney. The Watsons Bay Hotel is also great for a drink, or if you’re visiting on a weekend, you might catch the live music at Doyle’s outside bar!

    Shop in the Queen Victoria Building

    Sydney’s CBD is great for shopping, and even if you’re not big on shopping (which we’re not!), the QVB is worth visiting for its architecture alone. Inside, it’s full of boutique shops, cafés, and that old-world charm you just don’t get in modern malls. It’s a lovely spot to escape the midday heat or rain.

    Take a Day Trip to Palm Beach

    You’ll need to hire a car for this one, but it’s totally worth it. If you’ve ever watched Home and Away, you’ll recognise Palm Beach instantly. It’s the perfect day trip from the city – golden sand, turquoise water, and the Barrenjoey Lighthouse walk for panoramic views. Bring a picnic, a towel, and plan to stay a while!

    Watch the sunrise at Coogee Beach

    Set the alarm early, this one is not to be missed! Watching the sunrise over the ocean at Coogee Beach is pure magic. The sky turns shades of pink and orange, the locals are out for their morning swims, and the day just feels better when you start it this way. Grab a coffee, sit on the iconic Rainbow Steps and take it all in.

    Drive Out to the Royal National Park

    Just an hour from the city, the Royal National Park is perfect for a day of nature. You can hike, swim, or picnic, and if you’re visiting between May and November, it’s one of the best whale-watching spots along the coast.

    It’s a lovely change of scenery and there is so much to see and do there. If you’re after something a little different, definitely add this to your list.

    Final Thoughts

    Sydney really does have something for everyone; beaches, walks, views, food, and that easy-going Aussie charm. You don’t have to rush through a checklist to enjoy it either. Take your time, pick a few of these spots, and experience Sydney the way the locals do – outdoors, relaxed, and with a coffee in hand!

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