Bondi to Coogee: Sydney’s BEST coastal walk & what you need to know

Looking for a walk that gives you postcard perfect views every turn you make? Keen to see some of Australia’s most dramatic and stunning coastal suburbs, including, probably, the most famous beach in Australia…? Then look no further than the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk in Sydney’s eastern suburbs.
Where is the Bondi to Coogee Walk?
The famous coastal walk runs from Bondi to Coogee and is a quick 10km from central Sydney, in the iconic eastern suburbs. The best part is that after this amazing walk, you have many options for the rest of the day, whether brunch at a hip café, drinks at a local pub or a scenic drive through the impressive suburbs.
How far is the walk?
The coastal walk is around 6km in each direction. It is important to remember that if you park at one end unless you want to catch a bus back, you’re looking at a 12km return walk so be ready and wear comfortable walking shoes!!
How to get to Bondi or Coogee beach?
We always chose to drive to the beach as we were lucky enough to live only around a 20 minute drive. However, you can pick up a bus to the beaches which would be your best bet. Â Click here for NSW Transport journey planner.
If you drive, I would suggest to NOT park at Bondi beach. Besides that it is far too busy, parking is ridiculously expensive. You can pick up parking at one of the other beaches for much cheaper! Just be careful to look at the street signs to make sure you have the correct ticket otherwise you’ll get whacked with a parking ticket.
Tip: unless if you’re doing the return walk, the walk in my opinion is even more picturesque if you walk from Coogee to Bondi beach – so if you’re only planning on walking one way then this is definitely the way to go.
Can you start the coastal walk at a different spot?
Yes! The great thing about this walk is you can pick it up at any of the beaches between Coogee and Bondi.  Quite often we would park at Bronte beach and go for a morning run (quite early before the tourists get there!) and head to North Bondi and back. There are also some great cafe’s for brunch at Bronte beach which we simply couldn’t resist.
How hard is the walk?
Tough question as it will come down to your personal fitness level, it’s not easy, but it’s certainly not a difficult walk, I would say it is within the low to medium range. This walk is NOT suitable for those with prams or in wheelchairs. There are a number of stairs and the pathways are quite narrow in places. There are some steep spots as well so don’t think it’s all smooth sailing!
How long does the walk take?
I would allow 2 hours for the walk one way. This should also give you plenty of time to capture some wonderful shots.
What are some of the beaches along the walk?
If you start at Coogee, the first beach you come across (besides Coogee) is Gordon’s Bay. The great thing about Gordon’s Bay is that it is normally really quiet. The only people there are those who have gone out of their way to get there, or are passing through on the walk. It’s a gorgeous secluded beach.
Next stop is Clovelly beach. This is an interesting beach, it’s a long stretch of water surrounded by concrete with a sandy beach at the far end.
Although this next stop isn’t a beach, it is worth a mention. It is of course the Waverley cemetery and probably the most scenic cemetery in the country.
The next stop is probably one of my favourite beaches in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, Bronte. The beach is pretty sheltered and has plenty of space for the family to relax and enjoy a swim.
Tamarama is the next beach on the list. It is a gorgeous little beach, beach volleyball nets are set up and a few waves also. It gets pretty busy in the summer!
And last but certainly not least is of course the world famous Bondi Beach.
Bondi is also home to some awesome artworks along the length of the beach carpark. They change fairly often so each time you go, there is something new to look at!
What amenities are at the beaches?
The best thing about this walk is that most of the beaches in Sydney offer picnic tables and covered shelter, bathrooms, play areas and some have free BBQ’s if you fancy cooking up a storm.
Sculptures by the Sea
Each year, the Bondi to Tamarama walk is extremely popular and this is for the famous Sculptures by the Sea! To read more about this, click here for our full post. It is extremely popular with families and the kids just love it!
What to take on the coastal walk?
There are a few things you must take with you on your coastal walk. These include:
- Walking shoes
- Hat
- Sunscreen
- Water
- In winter months, you will need a jacket, or a windproof jacket!
Map of the coastal walk
For a map of the coastal walk and approximate time and distance, click here.
Sydney Secret Beaches
If you’re looking for our best secret beaches of Sydney, click here! But shh, don’t tell anyone – they are secret!!
Do you have travel insurance?
Before travelling, make sure you get a travel insurance policy – you never know when you might need it! Click here for information on travel insurance, what company we recommend and a link to get an instant quote.
Alternative accommodation
If you’re looking for alternative accommodation to either save some money or share with friends or family, click here for information on Air B&B ($50 discount on your first booking), hotel price comparison websites etc.
For more things to see and do in NSW, click here!
“Stuff your eyes with wonder, live as if you’d drop dead in ten seconds. See the world. It’s more fantastic than any dream made or paid for in factories.” – Ray Bradbury
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