Bondi Bowling Guide

The game of lawn bowls has long been enjoyed by Aussies, young and old, rich or poor.It’s the majestic club that often accompanies the greens that holds a special place in our hearts.

Yep, a Sunday sesh at the local bowlo is quintessentially Australian… cheap beers, a chill atmos’ and a bit of barefoot fun in the sun is what we’re all about.

You can find them in almost every town in Australia and lucky for us, some of the best in the business are in our neck of the woods.

Here are some of favourites:

Bondi Bowling Club

Down on Warners Ave, less than a 10-minute stroll away from QT Bondi is the old-school local favourite, the Bondi Bowling Club. Getting yourselves a spot when you’ve got a big crew is no easy feat in Bondi but with picnic tables lining the green and a huge indoor area, you’ll always find somewhere to perch.

A terrace that hosts regular DJs, huge greens that bask in the sunshine, the beer and bowl is always a good combination and when you’ve had enough of rolling on the greens there’s plenty of indoor action. The interior has had a vintage revamp in recent years. With a pool table, pinball machine and free table tennis, alongside cheap jugs of beer, huge snitty’s and Aperol spritz on tap, you’ll never get bored.

Clovelly Lawn Bowls Club

Perched up on the cliffs between Bronte & Coogee at one of the highest vantage points of the coastal walk, the spacious old bowling club is known for having some of the best views in the city.

Even with million-dollar views, they’ve stayed true to the classic bowlo recipe of cheap beers and big food. You can get on the greens for 15 bucks and they can even teach you if it’s your first time having a crack but make sure you book ahead because you definitely won’t be alone.

Coogee Sports Club

With a modern interior and plenty of entertainment, the Coogee bowlo is much more of a social scene. Located behind the oval, right next to the tennis club and directly opposite the beach, it’s more than just a lawns club.

Bowls, Beers and Bands close to the sands is their motto and they pride themselves on being a perfect place to spend a chill arvo… whether that’s with your friends, family or Han Solo. Either way, you’ll be stoked with their selection of DJ’s and bands playing live tunes on Friday to Sunday and plenty of green space for a roll. It’s a good spot for group functions and corporate events so if you want to get a crew together there are plenty of package options to book.

words by james phillips