Bondi Beach

Bondi is famous and generally safe with lifeguards and lots of people around. Good for meeting other travelers and has plenty of cafes and restaurants, but expect crowds and high prices. The beach itself is nice when it's not packed.

Bondi is probably Australia's most famous beach and it lives up to the hype, though you'll share it with half the world in summer. The lifeguards here are pros - they're constantly scanning the water and know exactly what they're doing. Campbell Parade has constant foot traffic from backpackers, tourists, and locals, which means plenty of people around but also plenty of opportunities for someone to grab your stuff if you're not paying attention. The promenade is well-lit and has cameras, but the southern end gets quieter after sunset so stick to the main beach area. In summer it's absolute chaos - finding a spot on the sand is tough and everything's more expensive. The volleyball courts and skate park are good places to meet people if you're traveling solo. Buses back to the city run late and frequently, so you're not stuck if you want to head back after dark.