Bondi Beach NSW Australia

Bondi beach is Australia’s most famous beach; it is located in the Sydney Suburb of Bondi which is about 7 kilometres from the centre of town (about 25 minutes ride on a bus to Bondi Junction, or 45 minutes ride from the airport).  Bondi attracts many people other than sun seeking travellers, there are many different communities living in Bondi, including old Jewish and Italian communities. Locals, and surfers from all over the country and the world, also enjoy what this famous and popular beach has to offer.

Courtesy of Hamilton Lund; Tourism NSW

The beautiful, white squeaky sands of the beach stretch for about 1 kilometre, they are 50 metres wide at the north end and widen out to twice this width at the Southend. The average water temperature in the summer is 21 degrees Centigrade; this drops a few degrees in September or October. Air temperatures range between 18 – 26 in the summer and 9 – 17 degrees in the winter.  The beach is patrolled by life guards throughout the year (Bondi Rescue on Channel 10) and it is possible to enjoy swimming throughout all of the seasons. A shark net is situated 150 metres out to sea, this protects the beach; and a children’s wading pool and a swimming pool can be found at the northern end of the beach.

Bondi is believed to be an Aboriginal name which means ‘the sound of breaking waves’. Aboriginal Rock Carvings can be seen at the northern end of the beach and also to the south at McKenzie’s Beach which is along the coastal walk.

Bondi has come a long way since 1852 when land subdivision behind the beach attracted few buyers. However the beach itself became popular and a public reserve was created in 1882. Bathing in the sea remained illegal until 1902, and in 1960 the council still sent officers to measure women’s bikinis. Women would be asked to leave if the sides of their costumes were not at least 4 inches wide. Bondi now is an expression of relaxed, easy going freedom and fun. This atmosphere is captivating and attractive to all who go there.

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