The coastal walk from Bondi to Tamarama in Sydney's east is known for its natural beauty but it also holds a dark past.

Between the '70s and '90s many gay men were bashed, robbed and in some cases murdered along the picturesque stretch, including the former gay beat, Marks Park.

John Russell's body was found on rocks below Marks Park in 1989. Credit:NSW Police Media

In an example of the societal change in attitude towards the issue over the past few decades, a memorial will be built in Bondi to remember the men violently targeted years ago.