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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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!
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!
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!
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.
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!
This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you book or purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. Read more here. – Privacy/Disclosure
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