The Bondi to Coogee walk is deeply etched into the Sydney lifestyle and arguably a trail like no other. Natural pools, dramatic clifftops, honey-coloured beaches, whale watching in winter and glistening Pacific views hug the entire route from start to finish. So it’s hardly surprising that this coastal track remains the undisputed heavyweight of Australian day hikes. AllTrails has named it the top-rated hike among Australians and as it happens, the trail is at its very best in summer. With clear skies, warm turquoise waters and longer days, there’s no better time to hit the path, whether it’s your umpteenth walk or your very first. Before you lace up, here’s everything you need to know about the Bondi to Coogee coastal trail.
Bondi to Coogee Walk
If you’re beginning at Bondi, the path follows the headland past the famous Icebergs and around the coast toward Tamarama and Bronte. Early highlights include Mark’s Park, home to ancient Aboriginal rock carvings, and the historic Waverley Cemetery. Keen to beat the heat? Take a dip at the Bronte Baths before continuing on. From here, the trail heads south to Clovelly, a narrow, sheltered bay that’s popular with swimmers year-round.
A can’t miss highlight is Gordon’s Bay, home to Sydney’s only underwater nature trail, and perfect for swimming and snorkelling. From here, the path winds on to Coogee, a wide sandy beach with crystal-clear water and a picturesque setting backed by lush green parklands. Coogee is also home to several ocean pools, including Wylie’s Baths, Giles Baths, Ross Jones Memorial Pool and the women-only McIver Baths, all within easy reach of the track. Of course, there are plenty of coffee shops and brunch spots along the way, and the promenade at Coogee is lined with long-standing local favourites, from the historic Coogee Bay Hotel to wine bars, breezy cafes and family-friendly eateries perched right by the water.
In spring, part of the northern section is transformed by Sculpture by the Sea, with more than 100 large-scale artworks between Bondi and Tamarama as part of the world’s largest outdoor sculpture exhibition.
Key features
Route: Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach
Distance: 6km one way
Time: 2 to 3 hours
Difficulty: Easy to moderate, with stairs and short climbs
Highlights: Bondi, Tamarama, Bronte, Clovelly and Coogee
Facilities: Drinking fountains at every beach
Access: Entry points at multiple beaches, buses at both ends
Dogs: Allowed on leads
Best time to go: Year-round, with summer ideal for swimming stops
Read more about the Bondi to Coogee walk here.
Getting there
Bondi and Coogee Beach are both easy to reach by public transport, with frequent buses running from the CBD and via Bondi Junction. If you’re driving, street parking is available near both ends of the walk, though spaces fill quickly on weekends and during summer. Many walkers start at one beach and return by bus from the other. Plan your travels on Transport for NSW.