Bondi has long been the centre of the east’s pleasure-seeking beachside lifestyle but, over the past couple of years, a new neighbourhood on the block is transforming into a vibrant village hub favoured by locals and visitors alike. The strip of Bondi Road that leads down to the beach was once the rather shabby cousin of the beachfront promenade with only a handful of cafes along with local institutions that have held their place for decades such as the award-winning Kemeny’s and the landmark Fruitoligist.

Today, the cluster of retail stores and sidewalk cafes has evolved into a fashionable local hub with a swathe of new eateries, think Totti’s Bondi and Up South Bondi, and boutiques such as Assembly Label and The Critical Slide Society. There’s a relaxed, health-conscious vibe no matter where you choose to dine or shop, from organic butchers to health food stores and artisan bakeries. The much-loved shopping strip has a friendly community feel with many family owned businesses and local shop owners with strong ties to the area.

Alexander Phillips says, “The South Bondi village precinct is rapidly evolving and we’re seeing plenty of interest in the area from families as it’s away from the crowds but still close to the action with three of Sydney’s best surf beaches all within walking distance. It’s become a destination in itself with a relaxed neighbourhood feel and a fantastic range of cafes and eateries from first-class dining to burger joints and pocket bars. The best streets in the area are Avoca Street and Imperial Avenue, both of which are wide tree-lined streets favoured by families as they’re close to the cafe strip and schools but quieter than the beachside streets. Last week, we sold 43 Avoca Street, Bondi after just eight days on the market as properties on these tightly held street rarely trade and are particularly sought after.”

If you’re looking to buy in the South Bondi precinct, we have just listed two fantastic family homes to choose from both of which feature five bedrooms and sunny child-friendly gardens. The luxurious two-storey beach house at 48 Imperial Avenue, Bondi features invaluable off street parking and a superb family focused layout with a separate lower level suite that could be ideal as au pair or teen accommodation.

Just up the road, 26 Avoca Street, Bondi is an architect-designed home with an inviting indoor/outdoor flow and an alfresco lounge that’s perfect for entertaining or just soaking up the Bondi vibes. Both properties are a level 200m stroll to Bondi Road’s village hub and in the catchment for Bondi Public School giving them broad appeal for families looking to secure their dream home.

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