Sydney can be a glamorous place, but it’s also beautiful, as you discover on the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk. This easy and family-friendly walk takes you along the stunning coastal headland and past some of the best beaches in the region.
I grew up only about an hour north of Sydney, but it took me 35 years to do The Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach walk, and I am kicking myself for all those years I missed out!
I could have spent many more days swimming in the tropical coloured waters of the rocky headland beaches along this coastal walk.
Absolutely stunning is about all I can say.
But there is no time to dwell, and to make sure you don’t make the same mistake as me and miss out on this incredible short walk, I’ve prepared this guide to help you understand why this walk is so special, and how you can do it for yourself.
About The Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach Walk
- Where is the Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach Walk?
- Distance: The entire walk is just under 7km there and back
- How long does it take? It takes about 1 hour to 1.5 hours, depending on your walking speed and how many photo stops you take.
- How difficult is the Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach Walk? The walk is pretty easy since there are boardwalks for most of the trail, but can be quite hilly in parts with plenty of stairs. It was kind of awkward with a pram, a pregnant momma and a daddy with a bad back! But we made it and had a great day.
- Where is the trail head? The start of the trail is at Bondi Beach. There is a signpost to the east of the beach by Bondi’s Icebergs Club, just off the grassy area behind the sand. Alternatively, you can walk from Coogee Beach back the other way. There is a signpost indicating the trail on the west of Coogee Beach.
- How to get to Bondi Beach? You can take public transport to Bondi Junction, and walk from there.
- Is it wheelchair friendly? Sadly no, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users and strollers. We took a stroller and it was a bit of a challenge on the stairs!
- When is the best time to do the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk? The best time to do the coastal walk is between June and November when it’s whale season, as you can often see migrating whales in the waters in the distance (the best place to see them is Mackenzie’s Point).
Map of the Bondi to Coogee Beach Walk
The above map shows the route from Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach. As you can see it pretty much hugs the coastline along the whole way, but you can stop off for drinks and refreshments at cafes along the way.
And of course take a dip in the ocean at any of the beaches! Most beaches have picnic shelters and benches on the main path, so you can stop and take a break anytime.
Stops on the Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach Walk
Here’s a little about the stops along the way…
Stop 1: Bondi Beach
Probably one of the most famous and most popular beaches in Australia, a title which has me pleading with travelers visiting Australia,
“Please, whatever you do, don’t just hang out in Bondi and think that is our only and best beach. There are so many more beautiful beaches in Australia worthy of your time.”
Having said that though, Bondi is a beautiful beach. The water is crystal clear; the surf is usually battering away for some good body surfing, the lifesavers are famous for being on a reality TV show, and there are thousands of beautiful people enjoying all it has to offer.
On the corner as you head north is the popular Icebergs, where you can stop for a drink with beautiful views. We’ve seen whales breaching in front of us while having lunch before.
There are also outdoor swimming pools here if you fancy a lap or two. Best views for a swimming pool ever!
It is worth having a look-see but move on quickly further south on your walk. You are going to find quieter, less pretentious and far prettier coves and rocky beaches.
Stop 2: Tamarama Beach
Tamarama Beach is very pretty snow white sandy and rocky cove.
For surfers, there were some really small, yet clean breaks out the back. There were nowhere near as many surfers haggling for the wave as you would find at Bondi. It is known as Sydney’s most dangerous beach for its rips.
Overhanging rocks provided plenty of areas for shade, the turquoise water beckons you from the coastal path to sidetrack for a little while for a cool dip and break from your warm walk.
This would be the perfect spot for some morning tea and a swim. If you have children there is a small children’s park here as well.
Stop 3: Bronte Beach
“Do you want to know why this is the best beach in the Eastern Suburbs for families?”
The children’s train driver asked us as Kalyra and I alighted from the small kiddies train opposite Bronte beach.
“The wide open grass area for picnics and games of touch footy and cricket?”
“No.”
“There’s plenty of barbecues, covered picnic tables, and a great children’s playground?”
“It is good, but not the reason.”
“The Bronte Baths and natural rock pool which makes for safer swimming?”
“No. This is the only area that does not have a pub. That means no one drinking and swimming and getting out of control. We never have a problem at Bronte Beach, everyone is well behaved.”
I walked around the bend of the path to discover Bronte.
The fresh salty air, invigorating breeze, crystal clear water and pounding surf made me pining for my forgotten cozzies.
This was the place for us to stop and have lunch–a delicious vegetarian hamburger for only $8 from the surf club kiosk and a $2.50 cheese sandwich for Kalyra under the shade of the trees.
Kalyra had a play in the park and then stripped down to her undies for a swim in the rock pool and Bronte Baths which sit on the southern end of the beach.
The surf at Bronte can be quite rough and dangerous. If this is a bit daunting for you then head around a few bends, past the Waverley Cemetery, until you reach….
Stop 4: Clovelly Beach
What a delightful surprise this area was. The walk to get here takes you past the massive Waverly cemetery that takes up acres of prime headland real estate. It was a real bizarre sight and I am quite surprised that they have not yet moved all the bodies to build mansions here.
If you fancy a bit of lawn bowls, then – in what has to be the best lawn bowls location I have ever seen – on top of the headlands is Clovelly Lawn Bowls.
Clovelly beach is really strange, but perfect for swimming if you are concerned about rough water.
The beach sits at the end of a narrow bay. Concrete and natural rock retaining walls and sitting areas are on the edges of water making it look like a large swimming pool.
Swimmers were happily snorkelling around in the calm waters exploring the rocky areas and their own body parts that were clearly visible beneath them.
Stop 5: Gordon’s Bay
Gordons Bay is the place that most resembled the Portuguese Algarve for me.
Again it is a really narrow rocky bay, with crystal clear cyan water just perfect for snorkelling.
The bay is protected by an offshore reef which makes it the perfect place to explore the undersea world. It is known as the best area for diving in Sydney and if you remember to bring your snorkel mask, you can swim the Gordons Bay Underwater Nature Trail.
There are even plaques that tell divers and snorkellers what they are looking at. Pretty cool, huh?
This secluded, tiny beach is taken mostly up by small dinghies and seaweed. Most people seem to spread themselves out on the nearby rocks.
Stop 6: Coogee Beach
Just a short, yet slow and difficult walk up a steep hill along the Dunningham Reserve sandstone cliffs, and you reach the headland of Coogee Beach and the end of the Coastal walk.
Before you head down to the beach, be sure to check out the Bali Memorial along the way, which is dedicated to those lost in the Bali Bombings.
There is also a shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary on the fence just before the beach. Some people believe they have seen an apparition of Jesus when passing this shrine, so don’t just pass it by without a glance.
Coogee would be the next biggest and busiest beach after Bondi, and I think more funky and fresh.
Many Irish and backpackers can be found here as is evident by the accents heard on the beach volleyball courts, the Brazilian jujitsu demonstrations on the open parklands, and the plethora of places offering Irish breakfasts.
You can relax at the Coogee Pavilion and enjoy some well-earned shade.
We recommend an end to the walk with a late afternoon beer in the beer garden of the Coogee Bay Hotel, a legendary establishment in Sydney. In my early twenties it was the place to come watch and stage dive to live bands.
Tips for Doing the Bondi to Coogee Walk
It was a last minute decision to do this walk and we raced out of our house for the train totally unprepared and a little late in the morning.
That harried departure meant we left without a camera or swimming costumes. Go figure!
To help you make the most of your experience and not make the same mistakes as us, here are some words of advice!
- I would definitely recommending planning the day in advance and not rushing out the door. This way you won’t forget all the essentials, like we did!
- Get your butt out of bed early to start your walk and to make a whole day of it. You can start the walk either from Coogee or Bondi Beach.
- Pack swimming gear, a towel, and a snorkel mask.
- Bring plenty of water.
- Wear a sunhat as there is very little shade cover.
- Put on sunscreen and bring some with you, as the sun can get strong.
Don’t miss Sculpture by the Sea
One of our favorite things to do along the Bondi to Coogee walk is the annual SculptureByTheSea.com.
It occurs along the Tamarama stretch of the coastal walk. (It also happens in Cottlesloe Perth)
The walk is lined with sculptures in the sand, along the path, or on the cliff tops. Each piece of work adds to the dramatic natural setting, and it’s possible to see 108 works by artists from Australia and overseas exhibited.
It’s a really great activity for kids in Sydney.
The event is temporary in Bondi and Cottlesloe and the dates vary each year. Currently, the 2023 dates for Bondi are yet to be announced.
Final Thoughts on The Bondi to Coogee Beach Coastal Walk
There is no doubt that Sydney is an expensive place to visit, so you should definitely plan for some free activities while you’re there.
The Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk is one of our favourites and was one of our highlights when visiting Sydney on our 18-month road trip around Australia.
Just being able to walk along the cliffs and list to the sounds of the waves, was a breath of fresh air (literally) from the honking noises of Sydney CBD.
Why not reduce your costs on your trip to Sydney and spend a day or even more exploring the Bondi Beach to Coogee Bay Coastal Walk and relaxing at its beautiful beaches?
More Travel Tips for Sydney
Need more inspiration for your trip to Sydney? Here are some more resources…
- Ultimate Guide to Sydney
- 18 free things to do in Sydney
- 15 exciting things to do in Sydney with kids
- Places to stay in the Sydney CBD
Best Tours of Sydney
Have you done the Bondi to Coogee Beach Coastal walk in Sydney? Which beach would you like to spend the most time in along the way? Let us know in the comments.
Wow, that looks like a beautiful walk! I have this page bookmarked so I can do it myself when I’m in Sydney later this year! 🙂
We did this walk when we were in Sydney just over a year ago. Great walk. the weather didn’t cooperate and we were there in July, so no swimming and sun bathing. But beautiful walk nevertheless!
Is that dude still living on the side of the cliff overlooking Bondi? Kind of a makeshift shack with all kinds of “artwork” hanging in the trees?
I’m heading to Sydney tomorrow so will add this walk to my to do list 🙂
Great! You will love it 🙂
never been to bondi, but have watched bondi rescue a few times. i like what you say about it not being australia’s only and best beach. so, so, so true.
i like that in sydney you can surf by the city itself. something that us melbourne crew miss out on!
I was thinking that as I was walking along- how lucky the city surfers are. And then I thought about how this just might make Sydney a little better than Melbourne. You can’t beat those city beaches- they are superb.
Photos are amazing! Looks like you had fun! Can not wait till our summer!
I love that there is a beach walk, it sounds like the perfect combination. Now I just have to make it to Australia.
that is one seriously cute kiddo — o yea, the Australia stuff is pretty great also 😉
She sure is seriously cute!!
Those pictures are gorgeous!! That water looks so clear and blue. I could definitely spend all day there.
Definitely. Pretty amazing for city beaches hey!
I love the photos. I was really surprised at how much I loved Bondi Beach. I didn’t think it would live up to the hype, but it sure did!
It does have something unique about it. Did you surf at the beaches in this area? I think you would have like the waves around near Tamarama- very clean and well formed
I really enjoyed this post and the beautiful pictures you included. My friends daughter has moved to Sydney for 2 years and just relocated to an area right at Bondi Beach. It was great to see how very pretty this beach is.
I can definitely see why Gordon’s Beach reminds you of the Algarve.
Thanks Debbie! I bet your friend’s daughter is loving her new home. What a beautiful location.
Great post guys. It’s a beautiful part of the world, and very happy to say I live there (North Maroubra).
I emigrated 5 yrs ago and fell in love with the area, and often do that walk as there’s nothing quite like it in Sydney, especially when the whales are migrating north 🙂
Living by or being by the ocean is just great for the soul! So any one who reads this but is yet to do the walk, it’s a must!
Thanks Guy. Craig and I kept saying the whole time on the walk “How great would it be to live here and be able to this walk everyday if you liked.” i would love to see the whales and will put that on our list for this winter. Great tip!!
oh this is making me miss Sydney so much! 🙁
I was hoping to of been there in February!! Fingers crossed I’ll be there in April and it will still be nice and warm!
I’ve been to Sydney so many times and I have yet to do the Bondi to Coogee walk but it is definitely on my list too! 🙂
April is usually a beautiful month. You will definitely have some warm days. You have to do the walk this time. You will love it!
How funny…I was doing that walk on the day you posted this : ) I was in Australia for 2 weeks. Spent the first week in Coolangata (at Komune partly based on your blog post) taking in the Quiksilver Pro surf competition, then moved on to Melbourne and Sydney. I’ve done this walk many times before but it was first thing on my to-do list when I arrived in Sydney. It makes me so envious that people can live in such a metropolitan city and be within 20 minutes of amazing beaches.
It is such a great walk isn’t it? Cant’ believe it took me so long to do the walk. So stoked you stayed at Komune. Did you enjoy it? The Quiksilver Pro must have been awesome. I so want to do that.
The Bondi to Coogee walk was one of the best things I did while in Australia last year. I recommend starting the walk in Coogee, however, and ending it with a people-watching lunch in Bondi.
That is a great suggestion. My parents said they thought the walk was slightly easier starting at Coogee too. You could start with Brekkie in Coogee and then finish with lunch in Bondi!
Thanks so much for sharing ur coastal walk experience with us! I just returned from Australia and absolutely loved it! Can’t wait to go back! One week was just too short:) I spent some time in Bondi, but did not get a chance to do the walk. Looks like I missed out! Bummer! I was actually quite surprised by some of the pretentiousness in Bondi Beach, but I’m still drawn to the area for some odd reason lol Though there were some friendly locals here and there:) Omgosh, the Bronte Baths pool looks amazing!
What a great family outing! Thanks again for sharing and I will definitely bookmark this page for future use!
Yeah, Bondi is really pretentious but definitely a place that draws you in. You will have to do the walk next time you come over. You will love the other beach areas a lot more. Glad you enjoyed your time here in Oz. We’d love to have you back 🙂
I am lucky enough to have family over in Australia and get to go for three months every year. I have done some fantastic coastal walks along the east coast from Brisbane down to Sydney, but will certainly add this to the list when i am next in the area. Many thanks for this post
Hey guys,
Nice post. I grew up in Randwick and know the area very well. My old stomping ground so to speak. I’ve done it a few times, even ran it way back when I was unbreakable! If you go at the right time of the year, there is a funky art exhibition that happens around the Bondi side of the walk and continues to Tamarama if my memory serves me right. http://www.journeywithjessjones is paying me a visit in a couple of weeks and the walk will be top of the list for things to show off our beautiful city.
i would love to be that fit to run the walk. Maybe after the baby is born and I whip myself into shape once and for all! Enjoy your walk with Jess. I’m sure she will love it
Coogee over Bondi every time! Bronti is cool too.
Nice post! I guess you people have covered almost all the beaches there. I love bondi beach. Unfortunately, I could not have much time to stopover there when I visited Sydney last time. It looks like a real experience in life. I also like some other places in Australia like Gold coast, Melbourne, Brisbane, etc. I actually visited all these places in one visit to Australia and that was really amazing to spend time there. I pre-booked all the tickets from my place, so there wasn’t any tension of accommodation and time management except we have to plan all the places to visit before we go there; that’s also an advantage.
Great article, I have never been to Bondi Beach and now I really want to go! Beach walk sounds better than being in the office.
I’m headed to Sydney for the first time on Thursday. This is now at the top of my list. Thank you. Any chance you could tell me which train to take to get to the beginning of the walk? Thank you.
Hi Shanna, you need to take the train from Central Station to Bondi Junction. Then a bus to Bondi Beach.
I visited Bondi last year and was stunned by its beauty. I am writing about it in my next post and stumbled upon your lovely post 🙂
Would love to do the walk when I’m in Sydney starting October 22.
How do I get from Coogee back to Erskineville?
Thank you for this great Blog!
Wow these beaches look amazing! Thanks for this post. I’ve definitely got to make it to Australia one day!
Love heading to Sydney in the summer time! Coogee Beach has to be my personal favourite. It’s been a while since I have been there though, however reading these blogs takes me back to the many trips there. Well done.