Bondi Beach

Visiting

The lifeguards plant the red and yellow flags each morning over the water they judge safest, and move them as the surf changes. Look for them before you wade in, not only when you arrive. The northern end is usually the gentler half and suits children; the southern end, by the Icebergs, draws strong swimmers and surfers.

For calm water, swim at Bondi Icebergs, the ocean pool cut into the southern rocks. It is open to the public as well as to members, and entry includes the sauna and hot showers. It shuts on Thursdays for cleaning, though in summer it opens when the tides allow, so outside summer plan the pool for another day.

From the Icebergs the coastal path runs south past Tamarama and Bronte to Coogee, six kilometres in two to three hours. There are steep flights of stairs, so leave the pram behind. In the winter months, watch from the headland for humpback whales on their migration.