The gorgeous beaches of Sydney's eastern suburbs hold many treaures, from the sheltered Clovelly Beach (originally named ‘Little Coogee’) around to Gordon’s Bay, a secluded area that is great for snorkelling. Bronte and Clovelly are beautiful local favourites found between the best known environs of Bondi and Coogee.
One of the best ways to explore Bronte and Clovelly is to follow the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, Sydney’s most famous ocean-front walk. A slice of Sydney that is great for surfing and people-watching, the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk also plays host to Sculpture by the Sea, a free beachside sculpture exhibition which has been held to much acclaim every October.
Bronte is found less than a kilometre south of Bondi. Known for its challenging surf, this inlet is a favourite amongst local surfers. On the southern headland however there is a child-friendly natural ocean pool, as well as a saltwater lap pool.
If you continue south along the headland from Bronte Beach, you’ll arrive at Clovelly Beach in around half an hour, shortly before Coogee. Clovelly is set in a small and peaceful bay, with a saltwater pool on the beach’s south. Clovelly has a milder swimming beach, and features an ocean pool cut into the rocks of the headland, as well as grassy parks and picnic tables, making it a great spot for children and families.
Refuel with a bite to eat. Clovelly boasts some great food and drink, such as the Top Hat Coffee Merchants. They take their coffee seriously and also have some great brekky and lunch options. Clovelly's Out of the Blue is a much loved fish and chips and burger restaurant. The Clovelly Hotel is also a family friendly institution which serves up great pub fare. Nearby Ruby’s Diner in Waverley is another popular cafe, with everything from vegan smoothies to stellar specialty coffee. Bronte’s food and drink offerings include the award-winning Three Blue Ducks, the place to go for a long, luxurious lunch.