Things to Do in Bondi Junction: A City Guide for Tourists Visiting for the First Time

Bondi Junction is a vibrant beachside suburb of Sydney, located just 7 kilometres east of the city’s central business district. The area is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, boasting amazing views, a great selection of restaurants, and plenty of fun activities to keep visitors entertained. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for an adventure, Bondi Junction has a lot to offer.

History and General Information

Bondi Junction was originally known as the “Junction of the Bondi’ when it was first developed in the late 19th century. It was named after the nearby beach, Bondi Beach, which was named after the Indigenous word for “water breaking over rocks’. In the early 20th century, the area was home to a large tram network which connected Bondi Junction to the city centre and other parts of the city. The tram network was eventually replaced by a modern bus network in the 1970s. Today, Bondi Junction is a thriving suburb with an estimated population of 11,000 people. It is well-known for its incredible views of Sydney’s skyline and popular tourist attractions like Bondi Beach, Coogee Beach, and the Royal National Park.

What to Do in Bondi Junction

There are plenty of fun things to do in Bondi Junction that will keep you entertained for days. Here are some of the most popular attractions and activities for tourists visiting the area.

Watch a Movie at Event Cinemas Westfield

Event Cinemas Westfield is one of the biggest movie theatres in Sydney and is located just a few minutes from Bondi Junction. The cinema has 16 screens with plenty of comfortable seating and offers up-to-date movies and blockbusters from around the world. The cinema also offers 3D movies and private screenings for special events.

Take in the Views at Bronte Park

Bronte Park is a stunning outdoor area located just a few minutes’ walk from Bondi Junction. The park offers breathtaking views of the Sydney skyline and nearby beaches. There are plenty of walking trails through the park, with trees and plants providing plenty of shade in the summer months. In addition to its stunning views, Bronte Park also hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the annual Bronte Winter Festival.

Explore Bondi Beach

No trip to Bondi Junction would be complete without a visit to nearby Bondi Beach. This iconic beach is one of the most popular in Sydney and attracts millions of visitors each year. It is renowned for its golden sands, blue waters, and stunning views of the city skyline. You can enjoy swimming, surfing, or just take a leisurely stroll along the shore. There are also plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars around the beach, offering up delicious food and drinks for all tastes.

Visit Woollahra Library

Woollahra Library is located in the heart of Bondi Junction and is one of the oldest public libraries in Sydney. The library features an impressive collection of books, magazines, DVDs, music CDs, audio books, and more. It also hosts regular events like book clubs, author talks, movie screenings, and more. The library also has free Wi-Fi and plenty of comfortable seating areas for visitors to relax in.

Popular Tours in Bondi Junction

If you’re looking for an immersive and unique experience while visiting Bondi Junction, then taking a guided tour can be a great way to explore the city and its many attractions. Here are two popular tours offered in Bondi Junction that you should consider when planning your trip.

Sydney Botanical Gardens Tour

The Sydney Botanical Gardens tour is a great way to explore one of Sydney’s most beautiful and iconic gardens. The tour starts at Hyde Park before heading to the Royal Botanic Gardens which are home to over 1 million species of plants from around the world. You’ll get to explore some of Australia’s rarest species and learn about their unique habitats. Along the way you can also enjoy amazing views of Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House from various vantage points in the gardens. The tour takes approximately 4 hours and is suitable for all ages. Book a Sydney Botanical Gardens Tour here.

Sydney Harbour Cruise

The Sydney Harbour Cruise is one of the most popular tours in Bondi Junction and offers amazing views of iconic landmarks like Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House from the comfort of your own boat. You’ll sail past beautiful bays, historic sites, and some of Australia’s most famous beaches while enjoying delicious food and drinks onboard. The cruise takes approximately 3 hours and is suitable for all ages. Book a Sydney Harbour Cruise here.

Conclusion

Bondi Junction is an amazing destination full of culture, history, and plenty of activities and attractions to keep visitors entertained. From movie theatres to picturesque parks, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. And if you’re looking for something more immersive and unique, then guided tours like the Sydney Botanical Gardens tour or Sydney Harbour Cruise are great options that will let you discover some of Bondi Junction’s best attractions in an exciting way.