For a few weeks in October and November Sculpture by the Sea turns one of Sydney’s top coastal walks into a busy sculpture park.
Every year thousands of people stroll the coast between Bondi Beach and Tamarama admiring, or just having fun viewing, the year’s crop of new sculptures. Now more than 20 years old, Sculpture by the Sea has become a bit of a Sydney institution.
Sculpture by the Sea Details
Although the date varies slightly each year, broadly speaking it is usually held in the last two weeks of October and the first week of November.
It’s free, although a gold coin donation is appreciated.
Avoid the weekends if you can, that’s when you’ll be shuffling along in slow motion, the crowds can get very big.
And, even on weekdays, go either early or late for the best experience.
Buy a program at whichever end you start if you want to know a bit about the works and the artists.
At the finish you can vote for the piece you think should win the people’s prize. And if you’re in the market for an art work, many of the pieces are for sale.
You’ll find sculptures, both large and small, along the entire length of the coastal walk between Bondi and Tamarama. You do have to look closely, some can be very small and almost hidden.
There’s a park half-way along that always has an extensive display, often with interactive elements.
The surf lifesaving club premises at Tamarama are also used to exhibit more sculptures. Don’t miss them.
More details at the Sculpture by the Sea official website
Best way to travel to Sculpture by the Sea
Public transport, of course, using your Opal card.
I recommend making it a round trip. Take any of the buses that go to Bondi Beach (333, 380, 381, 382, X81) to get there.
Once you reach the end of the Sculpture by the Sea trail at Tamarama, continue walking along the coast, just a little further, to the next bay. You’ll see Bronte beach below you.
It’s a stunner of a beach, lovely spots to sit, great coffee, lovely food, a relaxed vibe, definitely more fun than trudging back the way you came.
When you’re ready to leave take the 440 bus from Bronte back to the city. Or do the whole thing in reverse, whatever floats your boat.
Also in October
Don’t forget that Sydney’s Good Food Month is in full swing.
When you’re done at the beach, head off to the Night Noodle Markets in Hyde Park for a great selection of Hawker food.