If you want to stay somewhere affordable that gives you access to the best of Sydney – the beach as well as the CBD – Lyf Bondi Junction is it. Bondi Junction Station is a two-minute walk away, Westfield is right next door, and you can be on Sydney’s most iconic beach, Bondi, within ten minutes.
Why stay at Lyf Bondi Junction?
Lyf is affordable accommodation located in a prime location for both work and play. You’re moments from a train that goes to the CBD, a bus that goes to Bondi Beach, the Westfield shopping and dining precinct, and the pubs, cafés and shops dotted throughout Bondi Junction. The accommodation has a fun, social feel – it’s not so much a hotel but a lifestyle stay – with bright, playful interiors and communal spaces designed for working or hanging out. It has great amenities – including a community kitchen, a laundry and a gym. Although there are shared, social spaces, the facilities are slick and super clean. There’s also a café/restaurant/bar called Bonnibel on the ground floor, where they have specials and events throughout the week if you want to soak up even more social atmosphere (e.g. trivia on Thursdays, DJ in the courtyard on Fridays).
My favourite part? The rooftop gym, which has views out over the Eastern Suburbs – it makes for an energising way to start the morning.
What are the rooms at Lyf Bondi Junction like?
There are 197 units at Lyf, and I stayed in a ‘One of a Kind’ room – compact, smart and stylish. It has everything you’ll need during your stay: a comfy king bed, ensuite bathroom, a smart TV, mini fridge, fast wifi, a desk and seatinġ. The window let in loads of natural light, which made the room feel bigger than it is.
It’s ideal if you’re travelling solo or as a couple spending time exploring the area or working in the shared spaces. If you’re packing loads of luggage or staying long-term, you might want to size up.
Where to eat and drink
On the ground floor there’s an on-site café/restaurant/bar called Bonnibel, open for coffee, drinks and casual bites. But the real perk of staying here at Lyf is being so close to Bondi Junction’s great food options. Our favourites are a couple of excellent Japanese places, Ichi Ban Boshi and Wa Japanese; The Nelson Hotel for gourmet pub grub; Viet Senses for Vietnamese; Rosso Pomodoro for delicious pizza; and Osteria Riva, the excellent Italian next door. There’s also a Yo-Chi. If you’re looking for something more classic Bondi, hop on a bus and you’ll be at the beach in minutes, with all the seaside cafés and bars to choose from.
What’s the service like?
The service is relaxed and friendly – very on-brand for Bondi. Check-in is straightforward, the staff are happy to help with recommendations, and everything feels welcoming without being formal. When I stayed, there was a diverse mix of people in the public areas (some tourists, some solo business travellers, people young and old.)
What facilities does Lyf Bondi Junction have?
What doesn’t it have? There’s a rooftop gym (with views!), a community kitchen and dining area, co-working zones, laundry facilities, plenty of spots to chill or work outside your room, and a restaurant/bar. Free wifi throughout the hotel makes it easy to set up anywhere with your laptop.
What’s the area like around Lyf Bondi Junction?
This is a genuinely great base. You can walk to Bondi Junction Station, meaning fast connections to the city and Circular Quay. Westfield is practically next door, and you’re surrounded by cafés, bars, cinemas and supermarkets – everything you need within a few minutes’ stroll. Jump on a bus and in no time you’re on the sand at Bondi, for a swim, coastal walk or long lunch by the water.
Why you should book a stay at Lyf Bondi Junction
If you want somewhere that’s well-priced for the Eastern Suburbs, want access to shared spaces and amenities, and you travel for an experience as opposed to for luxury surrounds, this is a great base.
Address: 5-11 Hollywood Ave, Bondi Junction NSW 2022
Price per night: From around $137.70 p/night
Closest transport: Bondi Junction Station (for trains & buses)
Book now: Click here
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