Coogee Beach is not your typical touristy summer spot.
With a sunburnt promenade reminiscent of those on the French Riviera, it is a bustling seaside village perfect for a quiet family getaway. It is first and foremost the locals’ hangout, so if you want to fully immerse yourself in Australian summer culture and gastronomy, there is no better place than Coogee.
During the day, it is teeming with local families and teens soaking up the rays and making the most of the surf, but at night transforms into the heart of the Eastern suburbs’ cosmopolitan culture, rivalled only by the famous Bondi. There truly is something for everyone in Coogee.
Eat at…
X74
Named after the bus stop on its doorstep and voted number one restaurant in the Coogee area, family-owned X74 boasts a seasonal menu full of classic dishes with a modern twist. If you’re a traditionalist, try the crowd favourite lamb ragu and the lemon aspen pudding for dessert. For the more adventurous palate, take advantage of their locally sourced produce with the seared tuna and tempura prawn salad or seared scallops accompanied with watermelon and ricotta. Open breakfast through to dinner.
Churrasco
Be transported to vibrant, hearty Brazil at the Churrasco grill. For just $39, you can treat yourself to an all-you-can-eat fresh smoky meat extravaganza (or $35 if you’re a vegetarian). Their custom made Kansas smoker makes for succulent, melt-in-your-mouth meat that becomes a match made in heaven when you pair it with their trademark Churrasco chimmi churri.
Barzura
Barzura is the Coogee local’s usual haunt, and has been since its establishment in 1994. With north-facing views of the stunning surf, the meals are created with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten free and dairy free options. Head there for an Aussie breakfast, lazy lunch in the sun, or sunset drinks looking over the ocean.
Hydrate at…
RAW Juice
The juice craze is truly alive and well in Coogee and few do it better than RAW. Just a stone’s throw from the surf, it is the perfect spot for a quick recharge before diving back in. Whether you’re after a green juice or an icy fruit frappe, RAW will deliver.
Melonhead
There’s nothing like some healthy competition – Melonhead is the original Coogee juice bar and is certainly up there with its neighbour RAW. Frequented by local kids after their Saturday morning Nippers training, their menu boasts a variety of milkshakes, acai bowls, crushes, fresh pressed juices and their signature smoothies. Try the famous Honeybee for a smoothie experience like no other: banana and mango, blended with cinnamon and honey for a healthy dose of sweetness.
Socialise at…
Coogee Pavilion
Not many people haven’t heard of Coogee Pavilion, the sunbathed family eatery that come sunset morphs into a thriving party hub fathered by Justin Hemmes (the hospitality mogul behind Ivy, Chinese Laundry and The Beresford). Endearingly referred to as “Pav” by frequenters, it is the Disneyland of good food, good drink and good vibes – a three-level palace providing everything from breakfast and coffee, to pizza and gelato, to Aperol Spritzes and chilled out DJ tunes. A trip to Coogee is not complete without venturing into this mammoth new addition to Coogee’s promenade.
https://www.instagram.com/coogeepavilion
Coogee Bay Hotel
Don’t let the new kid on the block overshadow Coogee Beach’s steady old faithful: The Coogee Bay Hotel. Home to a number of restaurants, bars, and even boutique accommodation, the Coogee Bay has been servicing Coogee locals since 1873, and won’t be going anywhere any time soon. If Coogee Pavilion is Disneyland, the Coogee Bay is Luna Park – it may have been around for ages, but it just keeps getting better. Head there on Fridays for a drink and a meal while local bands serenade you with their live music.
https://www.instagram.com/coogeebayhotel
Little Jack Horner
This cafe/bar hybrid was inspired by the beachside bars of the world – think Mykonos, Ibiza, Sorrento, Cancun… Need I say more? Its interiors reflect that European summer culture, making you feel like you’ve stepped out of the daily grind and into holiday mode. Complete with live music on weekends, unique and tasty cocktails, and wholesome meals served all day, Little Jack Horner is the perfect place to watch the sunset, unwind and dream about Santorini…
https://instagram.com/littlejackhornercoogee
https://www.instagram.com/p/BMVNLS8AgWK/?taken-at=508331740
Shop with…
Cargo Store
One of Coogee’s best kept fashion secrets, Cargo is known for its effortless summer style – flowy sundresses and slinky silk playsuits that are perfect for a beach day or sunset drink. And while you’re at up, stock up on those homeware trinkets that you definitely don’t have too many of already.
By San Sebastian
From Superga to Assembly Label, By San Sebastian is in on all the international and Australian brands that you need in your wardrobe. Whether you’re after a new cossie, a festival outfit or just a reason to blow all your savings, this boutique will provide.
https://www.instagram.com/p/56ajS8gIXI/?taken-by=bysansebastian
Experience…
Wylie’s Baths
A fifty-yard tidal pool with 180 degree views of the Pacific Ocean, Wylie’s Baths is one of Coogee’s most iconic spots. It now offers yoga and Tai Chi by the sea to fully immerse visitors in the rejuvenating relaxation the ocean pool provides. You simply cannot visit Coogee without a dip in Wylie’s.
Gordon’s Bay
While it is one of the first stops on the renowned Coogee to Bondi coastal walk, don’t make Gordon’s Bay simply a stopover. This secluded cliff-lined bay is protected by an off-shore reef and is home to an underwater nature trail that the more adventurous beach goer can experience by snorkelling or diving.