Sydney
Bondi drinks with the beach in view. The strip runs from the Icebergs terrace above the ocean pool to beachfront margarita bars, a Merivale pub and small wine rooms a block back from the sand. This guide covers the rooms worth a detour, what each one does best, and when to turn up.
NOTTS AVENUE · $$$ · OCEAN VIEW
Icebergs sits above the Bondi ocean pool with an open view across the beach to the headland. The bar pours classic cocktails, spritzes and a long wine list. Best for a sunset drink on the terrace. Book ahead for a window table on weekends.
BONDI ROAD · $$ · PUB
The Royal is the local pub on Bondi Road, a Merivale venue that runs live music from Thursday to Sunday. The rooms cover a public bar, a dining floor and an upstairs space for bigger nights. Best for a long, easy session close to the beach. The front bar fills early on music nights.
RAMSGATE AVENUE · $$ · OCEAN VIEW
North Bondi RSL holds one of the best ocean outlooks in the suburb from its spot on Ramsgate Avenue at the quiet north end of the beach. Drinks are cheap by Bondi standards and the deck looks straight out to the water. Best for an early beer after a swim. Members and guests sign in at the door, so bring ID.
CAMPBELL PARADE · $$ · OCEAN VIEW
Promenade faces the sand from Campbell Parade with a front yard built for ocean views. The list runs frozen margaritas, spritzes, seltzers, beer and wine, and the kitchen serves all day. Best for a post-swim drink in the sun. The front tables go first on warm afternoons.
CURLEWIS STREET · $$ · BEACH BAR
Salty's brings a Southern California surf feel to Curlewis Street a short walk back from the sand. The bar leans on margaritas and a loose, music-led room with DJs through the week. Best for a casual night that runs late. Quietest early, busier once the DJ starts.
CURLEWIS STREET · $$ · WINE BAR
The Shop is a cafe on Curlewis Street by day that turns into a small wine bar after dark. The room is tight and local, with a short by-the-glass list and cheese and snacks to match. Best for a quiet glass away from the beachfront crowd. Walk-ins work best early in the evening.
Use this guide as a route or a checklist. Bondi works best from late afternoon, when the light drops over the water and the beachfront rooms fill. Most places take walk-ins early, so arrive before the sunset rush on weekends.
For the wider city, start with the best bars in Sydney, then narrow by occasion with the best cocktail bars in Sydney, the best wine bars in Sydney and the best rooftop bars in Sydney. For another night out, see the bars in Surry Hills and the bars in Newtown.
Editorially curated by Marcus Webb. Venue details cross-checked against official sites, Merivale, Broadsheet and Time Out Sydney in 2026.