A guide to Australia Day at Bondi Beach

A guide to Australia Day at Bondi Beach - let’s tread carefully here as everyone has a (very strong) opinion on the day and its significance. Putting aside the politics of the day for a moment, if you can, let’s talk about what happens at Bondi on this Australian public holiday because the beach has traditionally been a magnet for visitors on the 26th of January with more than 100,000 visitors visiting on the day.

This day used to be the most festive of the year at the beach. Who could forget the hundreds of giant inflatable Haviana thongs (flip flops) or the free mangoes that were given to passers by throughout the day.

Whilst it is still a wonderful day out the festivities have been replaced by a large, generally jovial and relaxed crowd. You will find fewer flag-draped beachgoers, although there will still be some.

These days you will struggle to find any venues mentioning Australia Day in its event listings which is why we are providing this guide to assist you in planning your day.

Here are our tips for your day out at Bondi for the day.

Parking

Parking is at its worst on this day so we recommend you arrive early and set up for the day ahead.

Beach set up

Despite the huge crowds the good news is you will easily find space on the beach. Families can’t beat North Bondi whilst a little further south would be our pick for those who are kid-free. If you arrive later in the day, the middle of the beach will be the easiest spot to find space.

Police and rangers

There is always a strong ranger and police presence at the beach to help deal with the crowds and traffic, who are quick to hand out on-the-spot fines for littering and drinking alcohol at beaches and parks. Leave the alcohol at home and head to a nearby pub or bar in Bondi if you’re looking for a drink. And whatever you do, leave the antisocial behaviour behind as police are on incredibly high alert due to the tensions that exist around the day and have little tolerance for bad behaviour.

Eating and drinking

Unlike in years past no one is advertising Australia Day festivities. That said, we suggest heading to the Beach Rd Hotel, the Royal or the two RSLs if you are looking for good atmosphere on the day. The pavillion on the beach will also be a great spot for dining. Note that these venues will all fill up as the day progresses so consider your timing.

Further afield, the Clovelly Hotel is the top spot in the eastern suburbs for a party and The Sheaf in Double Bay has traditionally been fun as well. Bronte Beach is a good alternative to Bondi if you’re looking for something a little different.

Cultural Recognition

Waverley Council will be holding a Dawn Reflection to acknowledge the resilience and survival of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and their connection to Country and culture at 5:30am on the beach near the Pavilion.

Swim safety

Australia Day is notoriously tough for lifesavers with a combination of huge crowds, plenty of visitors who are Inexperienced in ocean water conditions, and occasional poor water conditions (swell, rips etc).

Whatever you do, please swim between the flags. Don’t get in the water beyond your knees if you can’t swim, and if you do find yourself in trouble remember to relax and float on your back, putting one arm in the arm for attention if that doesn’t affect your ability to float. And of course, don’t swim under the influence of drugs or alcohol.