Every spring, our favourite stretch of coastline turns into an open-air gallery, and we never get tired of it. Sculpture by the Sea is back on the Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk, and this year it’s celebrating its 30th anniversary. Here’s our local’s guide to making the most of it.
What it is
Sculpture by the Sea, Bondi is the world’s largest free-to-the-public outdoor sculpture exhibition. For 18 days, the 2km coastal walk becomes a sculpture park with 100 works by artists from Australia and around the world. You’ll find pieces perched on sandstone headlands, tucked into rock pools and spread across the lawns of Marks Park. Whether you’re an art lover or simply love a walk with a view, it’s one of the best ways to welcome summer in the East.
Don’t miss Sculpture Inside, the free indoor exhibition in a marquee in Marks Park. It showcases smaller works by exhibiting artists, many available to buy, and is open 10am to 6pm daily.
When and where
- Dates: Friday 16 October to Monday 2 November 2026
- Where: The coastal walk between Bondi Beach and Tamarama Beach
- Cost: Free
You can start at either end: from Notts Avenue at the southern end of Bondi Beach, heading south, or from near Pacific Avenue at Tamarama, heading north. Artist talks are scheduled on selected days, so check the official What’s On listing before you go.
Getting there
Our best advice? Leave the car at home. Parking is very limited, and weekend special event clearways and local road closures are in place around Bondi, Bronte and Tamarama during the exhibition.
- Train and bus: Take the T4 Eastern Suburbs Line to Bondi Junction, then hop on a bus to the beach.
- From the city: The 333 runs from Circular Quay to Bondi Beach via Bondi Junction.
- To Tamarama: The 381 loops from Bondi Junction to Tamarama, with extra services during the exhibition. On weekends, the 362 runs between Coogee and Bondi Beach via Bronte and Tamarama.
- On foot: If you’re happy with the distance, walking down from Bondi Junction can help you skip the bus queues.
- By bike: Free bike parking is available at Marks Park and Tamarama (bikes can’t be parked within the exhibition area).
Tap on and off with Opal or a contactless card, and use the Transport for NSW Trip Planner to plan your trip.
Accessibility
The walk has plenty of stairs and limited wheelchair access along its full length. Marks Park is the best spot for an accessible visit: it’s mostly flat and grassed, with a wide selection of sculptures. There’s a designated drop-off and pick-up point at the corner of Kenneth Street and Marks Lane for visitors displaying a disability permit. Large-print catalogues and manual wheelchair loans are available, and free Tactile Tours run on weekdays (bookings essential). Visiting midweek is recommended.
Tips for the best visit
- Go early or on a weekday. Weekends get very busy. A weekday morning is pure bliss.
- Catch the early light. The coast at sunrise is something special, and the soft morning light is perfect for photos.
- Slip, slop, slap. There’s not much shade on the headlands, so bring sunscreen, a hat and sunnies.
- Bring water. Warm spring days can sneak up on you.
- Wear comfy shoes. Think stairs, sandstone and plenty of stopping and starting.
- Bring the kids. Pick up a Kids’ Guide at an information marquee (Notts Avenue, Marks Park or Tamarama Park). Site plaques show which works are safe to touch, and remember, no climbing.
Where to grab a coffee or lunch nearby
- Bondi Icebergs: At the Bondi end on Notts Avenue, Bergs Bistro at the Bondi Icebergs Club has those famous views over the pool. For something more special, Icebergs Dining Room and Bar upstairs is a Sydney institution.
- Tamarama Beach Kiosk: Down in Tamarama Park, the kiosk is ideal for a coffee, a smoothie or a bite after you’ve finished the walk.
Living near the coastal walk
For us, this walk isn’t just for October. It’s where locals do their morning laps and catch up with friends. Living close to the coast means the ocean pools, the cafés and that view are part of your everyday routine. If you’d like to know more about life in the area, have a read of our Living in Bondi 2026 feature.
Thinking about life by the coast?
Whether you’re dreaming of a home near the walk or wondering what your current place is worth, we’d love to chat. Browse recent results on our historical sales page, or get in touch with us any time.
Enjoy the sculptures, and we might just see you on the walk!
Jacinta and Peter
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