Bondi

Iconic, world-famous… is how any description of Bondi starts. Our most well-known beach has reincarnated itself as hip and sophisticated, from its grungier past working-class past. It deserves the praise, as the beach is truly divine and the cafes lining the surrounding streets mean that a day spent here is what Australia is about. Surf, sun and sand followed by cool beers at Ravesis.

The Icebergs ocean pool is one of the wonders of the world, and a cocktail in one of the bars situated above it will not be wasted as a special life experience, watching the waves crash over the edge.

New, luxurious apartments now line the main strip and are trading for eye-watering prices, but there are still plenty of older bungalows and art deco apartments – but no bargains!

Bondi Beach follows the streets behind the beach, flat and lined with many smaller character homes and apartment blocks and still the odd backpacker residence. North Bondi now has luxury mansions dotting the skyline. Both areas are filled with eateries and cool shops.

Bondi has a fun vibe and is a mixture of all age groups, but can be crowded and full-on, when the sun is at full tilt and coincides with the weekend. There are still some seamier elements but generally, it’s all about the chilled-out atmosphere, with green juice, yoga and surfing the most anyone has on their minds.