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I've spent the past decade living just a couple of beaches around from the famous Bondi beach.

- By Anne Davies

I will never leave.

In Sydney's east, the beaches offer an enviable lifestyle: a laid-back, tolerant society, a melting pot of nationalities, young people, families and older residents, surfers, backpackers, artists, tradies and recently, the wealthy from the tech boom. A walk down the street can be slow because people stop and chat or greet each other's dogs. Bondi beach is the heart of that community, and while not everyone can afford to live there, it is a manifestation of what Australia aspires to be.

Unlike in some other countries, the beach is free. It is treasured and shared - with greater Sydney and with visitors from around the globe - in a spirit of camaraderie.

It's hard to describe just how beautiful Bondi beach is.

The beach acts as a drawcard - it is often portrayed as the essence of Australia in movies, books and popular culture.

The kilometre-long golden crescent of sand and the promenade can fit thousands of people. Its grass verges have welcomed families for picnics over generations.

From sunrise to late at night, Bondi beach is almost always busy, with people swimming, running, walking and doing yoga or just taking a photo. Locals and visitors relax, connect with nature and spend time with friends.