Most of you will know this but last year I moved to Sydney for a while. I’d absolutely planned on staying indefinitely. Then life happened, and next thing I was all packed up on a flight to my next adventure. I really loved living in Sydney though and I absolutely plan on moving back in future. For now though, I have collated some of my insider tips and must have spots to visit for those of you who are unfamiliar with Sydney.
Where To Stay
Now I might be a little bias since I lived there, but I recommend you stay in the Eastern Suburbs. It’s really easy to access so many cool areas without hassle and it will feel like you’re on holiday, rather than nestled in a big city. Beaches, need I say more? By the way, you can get into the CBD super easy from here on the train or bus if that’s where you want to be. Download the app CityMapper and you’ll be good to get anywhere.
I’d recommend anywhere around Bondi, Coogee and even towards Rose Bay and Double Bay. They’re all really pretty if you just want to wander around cafes and are relatively easy to reach each other. I used to walk between all these areas all the time when I was bored. Plus, it’s just a short ferry into Circular Quay if you want to roam the city – or Watson’s Bay that offers a range of sites that are a little bit more relaxed.
What To Do
Bronte to Bondi Walk
Now even though it’s called the Bronte to Bondi walk, you can actually walk all the way to Coogee. If you want to see some of the best beaches Sydney has to offer and get some exercise in I’d recommend the whole walk. It’s not too long – it might take you an hour or so depending on your speed – and it’s pretty beautiful. I’d recommend starting in Bondi and walking to Coogee and stopping for breakfast there.
Tan at Tamarama Beach
Tamarama is just a short walk from Bondi and it nowhere near at crowded. I love that you can also climb around the beach rocks to find a tanning spot if you aren’t into getting all sandy.
Swim at Bronte Beach
Bronte beach has little pools right on the edge of the beach you can swim in. They’re really nice to take a dip in to break up your coastal walk – and you won’t have to deal with getting sandy after. Be warned though: they can get pretty busy on a good day.
Take the Ferry to Circular Quay
One of my favourite things to do in Sydney was take the ferry from Rose Bay to Circular Quay. You get really good views of all the amazing mansions on the hills, as well as straight past the Sydney Opera House with a clear view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Basically if you’ve only got a day it’s a great way to get into the city and a cheap cruise.
Go To Private Kutti Beach
This little beach is somewhat of a local’s secret. It has a tiny entrance at the end of the street that you have to squeeze through but once you do you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful swimming inlet. It’s a very relaxed spot and most people park up for a day of tanning or reading on the beach. Definitely a nice spot if you’re wanting something relaxed.
Bondi Icebergs
I feel like I couldn’t do a post without mentioning the famous Bondi Icebergs. On the very start of the Bondi to Coogee walk you can peer over to get the infamous Instagram shot. I would say though that if you’re looking for a good meal there’s better places in the area to go for less money.
Where To Eat & Drink
Harry’s Bondi
I still crave the famous Ricotta Hotcakes from Harry’s. It’s a super popular spot though and is particularly nice with on street seating. The menu boasts a range of different healthy foods and isn’t too badly priced considering it’s ‘the’ spot to have breakfast in North Bondi.
Hotel Ravesis
I spent an inordinate amount of time at Ravesis’ when I lived in Sydney. You might recognise it from the pretty pink and white exteriors seen all over Instagram. Despite it’s Instagram fame it is actually a really nice spot to sit, have a wine and some nibbles with friends. It’s usually not too hard to get a table too if you time it right.
The Bucket List
The Bucket List is a hot spot around Bondi Pavilion which offer both food and drink, and indoor and outdoor seating. During summer this was one of my favourite spots to come have a drink on a Saturday afternoon, or even Sunday sesh. My personal favourite cocktail was always a Amaretto Sour which will always remind me of warm nights at Bondi. They always host events here too so check out their social media to find out whats on in the area, you might be able to catch a hot DJ while you sip margaritas.
Coogee Pavilion Rooftop
This place is another drinking hot spot and perfect pre-drink place for a night out. They often play live music here too so you can also settle in for the evening, grab a seat overlooking the beach and drink to your heart’s content. I used to love this spot for people watching and bringing guests to when they’d visit. Also, Coogee is one of my favourite spots in Sydney too – it’s a lot more chilled out than Bondi but with the same beach appeals.
The Grounds Of Alexandria
The grounds are a classic spot of both locals and visitors to go see, but keep in mind it’s a little out of the city. You can easily take a train out that way though as I used to for work everyday. The grounds offer both great food, attractions (AKA animals and my favourite pet pig) plus they love a good holiday theme.
What You Should Know
Just a couple of things I thought to keep in mind when you’re in Sydney. One is: don’t get caught up thinking Bondi is all there is to see. Beaches like Coogee or Manly are great for swimming and a little less crowded. Drink prices in Sydney are pretty inflated so save some money by grabbing a bottle and taking it with you. ALSO you can get wine delivered if you’re too lazy to leave the house – my personal favourite. When you’re wanting to party do your research too. A lot of places aren’t open late and you have to be strategic about where you end up.
Anyway, that’s it from me. I’m about to board another flight so I have to run but I hope these quick tips give you some ideas on how to spend your time. Sydney remains one of my favourites homes and I’d absolutely recommend going for a weekend away!
