The Best Hotels in Bondi, Sydney

Who doesn’t want to live steps away from the most famous beach in Australia? That may not be possible, but a stay in these modern serviced apartments will let you feel like you do. All the studios and the one- and two-bedroom apartments are fully serviced, have keyless entry, air conditioning, fully equipped kitchens and laundry facilities, while many also have show-stopping ocean views you’ll never tire of staring at.

You’re unlikely to ever be thirsty at this hotel on Campbell Parade, right opposite the golden sands of Bondi Beach. Established in 1919, the property crams in a bistro serving a seasonal menu with paired drinks, a beer garden, a bar with live entertainment and handcrafted cocktails – and even its very own bottle shop if you’re looking to grab and go. There are single, double and twin rooms, and many have private or communal balconies – although, if you’re after a quieter night, it’s best to opt for one without.

This heritage hotel, in a former bank, is located in lively Paddington but is just a 10-minute walk from Bondi. Built in 1914, the cosy, stylish rooms have everything you’ll need to feel at home, including a Nespresso machine, Molton Brown products, rainforest showers, a desk and a small fridge. Choose a heritage room to enjoy high pressed-metal ceilings, king-size beds and mid-century furnishings, too.

Don’t break the bank just to stay in sight of Bondi. This brilliant budget option has spectacular views of the beach and offers basic double and twin rooms plus mixed and female-only shared dorms. These have secure in-room lockers, linen provided and, most importantly, include complimentary surfboard hire. There’s also a packed schedule of events on offer including guided city tours, sunrise yoga, karaoke competitions, wine and cheese evenings and rooftop barbecues.

If you’re staying a while, are travelling with friends or just prefer your own space, these serviced apartments on Bondi Junction will make you feel at home. Sleeping up to four, even the smallest studio has a well-equipped kitchenette, including a dishwasher, an open-plan living space and a DVD player. The concierge can arrange for groceries to be delivered straight to your apartment, or, if you don’t fancy cooking, there’s an on-site Italian restaurant.

With its hip styling, bespoke designer furnishings and enviable location, it’s easy to see why guests love QT Bondi. Those keen to work on the body before heading out for a surf will appreciate the access to the gym next door. Or, why not borrow the hotel’s bicycles to hop to an early class at Yoga by the Sea? Weekend visitors will particularly love the ease of this North Bondi location – QT Bondi is right next door to the arty Bondi markets (open 10am to 4pm on Sundays).

If you’re looking for an apartment in a superb location, the Adina Apartment Hotel on Hall Street is an excellent choice. Sure, the beach is close enough that you don’t really need the pool, but both it and the hot tub are a tempting option after a day on the sand. There’s a kitchenette, although you’re unlikely to use it when two Sydney foodie institutions are just steps from the hotel’s front door. Head to bills for its famous breakfasts and Gelato Messina for, let’s face it, almost anything they serve, although vegans shouldn’t miss the pandan coconut sorbet – it’s unreal.

There are plenty of reasons to come to Hotel Ravesis, and its beachside location on Campbell Parade is just the first. The two floors of boutique accommodation are perfect for those happy to stay in the thick of the action; the balcony rooms even offer coveted beach views. Outside the rooms, the wrap-around balconies of the hotel’s cocktail bar are a popular spot, especially at sunset. Just be warned, there’ll be plenty of noise from the on-site nightclub – on a Friday or Saturday night, you won’t beat them, so it’s far better to join them.

Happy to dip in and out of the action as it suits? Then, you’ll appreciate the tranquillity of the Baxley Bondi. This boutique bed and breakfast, an easy 25-minute stroll to the famous Bondi Icebergs Club at the south end of the beach, is the perfect place to flop for a few hours between outings. If you are driving, note that, while the Baxley Bondi is in a more residential part of Bondi than some spots right on the beach, that doesn’t mean parking is easy. Finding a spot for your car is notoriously difficult in all of Bondi, so plan accordingly.

This nine-room, adults-only bed and breakfast has achieved the seemingly impossible: a serene location just a stone’s throw from Bondi Beach. Start with breakfast on the greenery-enveloped rooftop terrace, then take in the ritual of the busy but beautiful walk from Bondi to Bronte – the path starts just a few hundred metres away, next to Bondi Icebergs Club, which is an ideal place to cool off on your return.