Nick’s conference started today, so Susannah ventures out for her own “walkabout” – an exploration of the eastern coastline of Sydney. Minus the bus to the start and the ferry back home, the rest of the day was all on foot, something on the order of 20 km all tolled!

The morning was along the most famous section of the Eastern Beaches Coastal Walkway – the 6 km stretch between Coogee (“could” + “gee”) and Bondi (“bond” + “eye”) beaches. The guidebook authors said this hike was not to be missed, and they weren’t kidding! It travels past 6 coves with beaches, each with its own distinct personality and unique view. The entire trail is well marked and thoughtfully appointed with regular drinking fountains (including spouts at dog height), restrooms, and benches. The surfers were taking advantage of the excellent waves, and Susannah had plenty of company along the trail – local Aussies out with babies and dogs, plus tourists from all over the world. One section has a cemetery with 80,000 graves – and views to die for!?

After getting lunch in Bondi at the delectable vegan Funky Pies restaurant, Susannah headed inland and north to the South Head peninsula. There she met the bird of the day (macaw?) in a tree alongside a golf course.

South Head features stunning views back toward Sydney Harbor, and very expensive real estate! For the more plebeian, there’s a lovely nature park and trail along the water so all can enjoy. Tucked in amongst the neighborhood a bit further in, there’s a hidden little cove called Parsley Bay, that has its own pedestrian suspension bridge!

And at the tip of the peninsula, Susannah visited the Hornby lighthouse, where she caught great views of North Head, where she and Nick has walked just the day before.

At the end of the day, Susannah joined Nick and some of his colleagues for dinner at a local pub – great beer selection, including a stout made with chili peppers!