Living Like a Local in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs

Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs are famous for their stunning beaches, coastal walks, and relaxed lifestyle.

To truly experience these vibrant neighbourhoods like a local means embracing the laid-back beach culture, exploring hidden gems, and indulging in great food and outdoor activities. Here’s how to live like a true Eastern Suburbs local.

Start Your Day Like a Local
A typical morning in the Eastern Suburbs starts with a scenic coastal walk. The Bondi to Bronte and Coogee to Bondi walks offer breathtaking ocean views, fresh sea air, and plenty of opportunities to stop for a coffee along the way. Speaking of coffee, locals take their caffeine seriously! Some must-visit cafés in the Eastern Suburbs include the iconic beachside Speedo’s at Bondi Beach, or Barzurra in Coogee.

If you enjoy indulging in some retail, try Bake Bar in Double Bay, Jackie’s Café in Paddington or Cressida’s in Woollahra. Whether you prefer a flat white, the signature “big brekkie” or an acai bowl, these spots provide the perfect morning fuel.

Hit the Beaches
No local experience is complete without a visit to the area’s stunning beaches. While Bondi Beach is iconic, locals often favour smaller, less crowded spots:

• Bronte Beach – A family-friendly beach with a great park for picnics.
• Clovelly Beach – A calm, enclosed bay ideal for snorkelling.
• Gordons Bay – A hidden cove perfect for a quiet swim or diving adventure.
• Coogee Beach – A lively beach with a fantastic ocean pool, Wylie’s Baths.
• Tamarama Beach – A smaller, more secluded beach with a great surf break.

For those who love adventure, stand-up paddle boarding at Rose Bay or surfing at Maroubra Beach are excellent ways to embrace the local lifestyle.

Eat and Drink Like a Local
Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs are a foodie’s paradise, with everything from casual beachside eateries to fine dining. Icebergs Dining Room & Bar in Bondi offers breathtaking views and a modern menu. Along Bondi Beach there’s a plethora of fabulous eateries, suitable for all occasions and budgets.

For fresh seafood, the Watsons Bay Hotel is a local favourite, perfect for enjoying fish and chips by the water. If you’re after a casual drink, head to The Coogee Pavilion for rooftop cocktails or The Royal Hotel at 5Ways Paddington for a classic pub vibe.

Discover Local Markets' Shops
One of the best ways to soak in the local culture is by visiting the weekend markets. The Bondi Farmers Market (Saturdays) is perfect for organic produce, artisan breads, and homemade goodies, while the Paddington Markets (Saturdays) offer fashion, accessories, and unique gifts. For boutique shopping, check out Gould Street in Bondi for stylish beachwear or William Street in Paddington for high-end Australian fashion brands.

Engage in the Community
To truly embrace local life, get involved in the community:

• Join a sunrise yoga class at Bondi Beach.
• Try a surf lesson at Let’s Go Surfing in North Bondi.
• Attend local events like Sculptures by the Sea or Bondi Festival.
• Volunteer for a beach clean-up with Take 3 for the Sea.

Enjoy the Relaxed Lifestyle
Living like a local in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs is all about enjoying life at a slower pace. Take time to explore the hidden alleys, watch a sunset from Watsons Bay, or simply relax with a book at the beach. Whether you’re grabbing a morning coffee, diving into the ocean, or chatting with friendly locals at a market, you’ll soon understand why this part of Sydney is so special.

So, slow down, embrace the coastal vibes, and experience the Eastern Suburbs like a true Sydneysider!