As one of the most popular recreational tourist attractions in Australia, Bondi Beach is located in a suburb of Sydney on the east coast of Australia. The beach has been a top attraction for visitors for over two centuries and attracts surfers and beach bums from all over the world.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylW5HJUgloE
Visitors to Bondi Beach can sit on the beach, swim under the supervision of lifeguards, surf or patronize a number of local businesses. There are over 100 cafes, restaurants and other food service locations in the area plus dozens of markets, boutiques and stores for shopping. Additionally, Bondi Pavilion is located right on the beach which contains a theater, gallery and meeting rooms for a variety of events.http://www.bondivillage.com/fine.htm
Sydney native and travel expert Asha K from Mahalo explains why Bondi Beach is a favorite attraction for her and thousands of others who visit each year. She notes that people come from around the world to visit the beach for swimming, sunning and surfing as well as the shopping and dining nearby. This travel guide is one of many available on the MahaloTravel YouTube channel.
Bondi Beach, Sydney History
Taking the name of the aboriginal word bondi, meaning "water breaking over rocks", Bondi Beach was created between 1855 and 1877 by Francis O'Brien as a public recreation area for picnics and pleasure. O'Brien battled with the local government shortly after the opening, leading to the government declaring the area a public reserve in June 1882.http://www.bondivillage.com/thennow.htm#history
Throughout the years since, the area has grown in businesses and transportation to the attraction. In 1902 the first electric tram took visitors directly to Bondi Beach. While the tram system closed in 1961, many still flock to the area using public transportation in busses and by driving to the location.http://www.bondivillage.com/thennow.htm#history
Bondi Beach, Sydney Visitor Information
The official site of Bondi Beach recommends leaving the car at home or the hotel and getting to the attraction using busses. Parking is available, however meters are limited to two hours. Busses run every 10 minutes until 7:30 p.m., then every 15 minutes until midnight and once an hour after that. There is also a railway station located about two kilometers from the beach with service every 10 minutes on weekdays and 15 minutes on weekends.http://www.bondivillage.com/location.htm
Hostels and bed & breakfasts are located close to the area, however for more-upscale accommodations, visitors are urged to find a hotel within the city of Sydney. Use of the beach and restroom facilities are free. Lockers are available for a fee.http://www.bondivillage.com/bondifaq.htm
