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Just a short drive outside Sydney, the capital of New South Wales, Australia, you’ll find the vibrant community of Bondi Beach. Pronounced “Bon-die,” with a long I, this beach is a center for surfing and sunbathing all summer long.

Founded back in the middle of the 19th century, as Sydney’s urban center began expanding, the unique name of Bondi Beach derives from an Aboriginal word meaning “waves crashing upon rocks.”

As a getaway from the urban center of Sydney, Bondi’s white sand beaches and alluring coastline are a beautiful option. If you are around during the migratory seasons, you could spot dolphins or even whales off the coast. The rarely seen fairy penguin may even catch your eye.

As a starting point, there is no better place than the Bondi Pavilion. Stop by the Community Center for some visitors information, get ready for your beach day in the showers and changing rooms, or see the outdoor amphitheater.

Down at the beach, take a pleasant walk along the white sand, compare your tan with the locals, or take a dip in the crystal clear waters at the northern beaches. Bondi’s southern beaches have great waves for surfers, though beginner swimmers should be very careful at these spots. Throughout the summer lifeguards patrol the beaches and shark nets are positioned out in the water to keep swimmers safe and sound.

To immerse yourself in local beauty, try one of Bondi’s popular nature walks. From the old Pavilion (ca. 1928), hike up to the cliffs of Bronte. You’ll encounter some of the oldest wonders of nature along the way in Hawkesbury’s sandstone belt, which paleontologists date to 225 million years in the past. Or make your way to Waverley Cemetery after stopping at the old bath houses in Bronte.

For a taste of Bondi’s racy beach culture, check out the southern beaches, where local ordinances are ignored by topless sunbathers on a regular basis. In fact, the beach holds the world record for biggest bikini photo shoot of all time.

Popular local events include the 14-kilometer City to Surf Fun Run which takes participants from downtown Sidney to the sandy coastline of Bondi Beach every August. In September you can enjoy the Festival of the Winds, a kite festival which is fun for the whole family.

When that beach-day hunger strikes, you can dine at small cafes or more elegant restaurants by the water’s edge. Or have a drink in one of the pubs and rub elbows with the friendly locals.

Bondi Beach has been featured as the backdrop for a number of television series, including Breakers and Bondi Rescue, which follows the efforts of the lifeguard patrols.

The eyes of the world were on Bondi Beach during the 2000 Summer Olympics, when it served as the setting for the beach volleyball games.

Visitors looking to spend a night or weeks in Bondi Beach will find accommodations in any price range. Backpacker hostels, small upscale hotels and charming bed-and-breakfasts are all options.

Only a thirty minute drive outside of Sydney, Bondi is reaches by following Oxford Street as it turns into Enfield and then Bondi Road. Due to limited parking, locals suggest public transportation, which leaves constantly from Sydney.

If you are looking for surf travel services in Sydney’s south coast beaches, contact Brad Peterson from Sydney Surfboard Hire