Sydney Harbour National Park

When you think of Sydney what usually comes to mind is the famous Opera House, and perhaps the Harbour Bridge.  Most tourists make sure to stop at these two landmarks, but did you know that both are located in Sydney Harbour which is actually a national park?  Created in 1975, the park includes Goat, Clark, Rodd, and Shark Islands, and also the historic Fort Denison.

The harbour is an active and busy area with lots to see.  The Royal Botanic Gardens contain thirty hectares of both native and exotic plants.   Harbourside dining allows for delicious Australian cuisine to be enjoyed with a spectacular view.  For those who wish to explore the natural areas around the Harbour, several scenic walks can be taken to explore the eucalyptus forests and heathlands.  There are also several rather secluded beaches in the area as well, with two allowing nude sunbathing.

Of course a trip to the area would not be complete without a harbour cruise, whether by kayak, ferry, or chartered yacht.  Dolphins and whales are not unusual visitors to the harbour, and this is the only way to take advantage what the local islands have to offer.  The Manly Ferry is a very affordable way to enjoy a harbour tour, and can be boarded at Circular Quay.

Fort Denison, an important historic site, can only be visited by ferry tour.  An Aboriginal fishing place, the island was first used by European settlers as a sort of jail for convicts committing secondary crimes.  They would be chained to the island and fed bread and water, creating its nickname of “Pinchgut.”  A tower was erected in 1857 to allow for better after two American ships invaded the harbour in the blackness of night several years earlier.  Today, the fort operates as a Harbour Navigation Facility, and also a museum.


Bondi Beach

No trip to Australia would be complete without a day spent at one of the world’s most famous beaches. Bondi Beach is a must for all Australian sightseers, and while the sun-worshippers will simply enjoy the white sand and excellent surfing conditions, others will enjoy the laid back atmosphere, funky shops, and fantastic dining.

Although only one kilometer long, Bondi is Sydney’s widest beach. The name “Bondi” is believed to come from an Aboriginal word meaning “breaking waves.” In fact, Aboriginal rock carvings can still be seen at both ends of the beach. Visitors to the beach can also enjoy the Bondi Community Cultural Centre which houses an art gallery, theatre, café, and souvenir shop. For those interested in seeing more of the coast line, a scenic 3.4 kilometer walk makes its way to Bronte Beach and offers spectacular views.

Bondi is home to many popular and fun events, including the annual City to Surf run from downtown Sydney to the beach. Many participants dress up in outlandish costumes for the race, which is held every August. Kites abound at the Festival of the Winds on the second Sunday in September. Sculpture by the Sea occurs in November and brings large installation artwork to the beach. And of course Bondi remains as a popular destination on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

 

No trip to Australia would be complete without a day spent at one of the world’s most famous beaches.  Bondi Beach is a must for all Australian sightseers, and while the sun-worshippers will simply enjoy the white sand and excellent surfing conditions, others will enjoy the laid back atmosphere, funky shops, and fantastic dining.

Although only one kilometer long, Bondi is Sydney’s widest beach.  The name “Bondi” is believed to come from an Aboriginal word meaning “breaking waves.”  In fact, Aboriginal rock carvings can still be seen at both ends of the beach.  Visitors to the beach can also enjoy the Bondi Community Cultural Centre which houses an art gallery, theatre, café, and souvenir shop.  For those interested in seeing more of the coast line, a scenic 3.4 kilometer walk makes its way to Bronte Beach and offers spectacular views.

Bondi is home to many popular and fun events, including the annual City to Surf run from downtown Sydney to the beach.  Many participants dress up in outlandish costumes for the race, which is held every August.  Kites abound at the Festival of the Winds on the second Sunday in September.  Sculpture by the Sea occurs in November and brings large installation artwork to the beach.  And of course Bondi remains as a popular destination on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

As with all trips to the beach, water safety is very important.  Lifeguards do patrol the beach, but it is recommended that swimmers stay within the red and yellow flags, as these are the safest areas in the water and are patrolled by lifeguards.  Because of a shark net about 150 meters off shore, there have been no shark fatalities at the beach since 1937.

Due to the popularity of the beach and the lack of accessible parking available, taking public transit or a taxi from Sydney to Bondi is recommended, particularly during busy summer months.


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