Beach life in Sydney isn’t all that much different from what I’ve been used to the last few years living in Hermosa Beach, California. Juice bars, cafes, and surfboards line the beaches, as the chiseled bodies soak up their tan from the sunshine (hole in the O-zone and all). Getting to and around the beaches, though, is a different story. The first beach I visited was Manly beach (apropos, I know). Rather than take the easy ferry, I instead ventured on the 10km coastal walk from Spit Bridge to Manly. Accompanied by my local guide, Natalie, the walk took us through the outlying communities that dot the hills in Sydney’s outer harbour. Small beaches provide great vantage points to watch the multitudes of sailboats making the most of the sun and wind. The walk passed through all sorts of different environments: beach, rainforest, bush, finally arriving at the community of Manly, a lively promenade leading to soft sand and surf. The 20-minute ferry back to Sydney was just as enjoyable, and a lot less strenuous than the journey out. Getting up close and personal with the Opera House and the Harbour bridge by sea was just the way to cap off a great day.
Bondi Beach, Sydney’s most famous, provided a similar vibe and another great coastal walk. From the edge of the beach, the Bondi to Coogee walk hugs the Cliffside, passing through a handful of beaches along the way. Around every corner were incredible views of the surf pounding against the cliffs, followed by pockets of serenity at the local beaches. After finishing the 2-hour walk, I caught the bus back to Bondi for some proper beach activity, namely laying my towel out and getting sunburned. Throngs of tourists and locals alike find their spot on the sand, taking the necessary swim breaks as the lifeguards direct the crowds to swim between the nomadic flags placed on the shore. I ended my day swimming a couple laps in the famous Icebergs, a seawater lap pool built into the cliff side.
Who says a little exercise shouldn’t come with a view?