Surf's Up in Stunning Torquay
The Great Ocean Road clings to the south-western edge of Victoria, featuring tranquil bays and secluded beaches, lush national parks and unique rock formations along the way, including the internationally admired Twelve Apostles.
This incredible piece of coast is also home to more than a few fabulous towns, including the laidback beach destination, Torquay.
Torquay is more than a beach town however. It's renowned as one of the best surfing destinations in Australia and possibly on the planet.
The towering waves of Bell's Beach draw surfers from all over the globe and the striking cliffs behind the beach provide a dramatic backdrop for one of the biggest events of the surfing calendar – the Rip Curl Pro. Come and watch the professionals in action every Easter!
Away from the water, the Surf World Surfing Museum is a great way to brush up on your surfing history, and immerse yourself in the sculptural world of the board in the 'Board Room'.
You don't need to be a surfer to appreciate the spectacular coastline in and around Torquay. Swim, snorkel or relax at any number of lovely beaches, or visit the beautiful Point Danger Marine Sanctuary, which boasts a huge variety of marine life.
From Torquay you can also access the 30km Surf Coast Walk, which will take you through a variety of stunning scenery. Stroll along deserted beaches beneath towering cliffs, spot kangaroos grazing on the green at the Anglesea Golf Club, explore forests, rivers and creeks, and don't miss the distinctive Split Point Lighthouse at Aireys Inlet.
Surfing devotees – or just lovers of relaxed beach gear – may also know Torquay as the birthplace of founding surf brands Quicksilver and Rip Curl.
You'll find a huge selection of both brands, along with offerings from other surf labels at the Surf City Plaza. For more surf wear bargains, head to the Baines Court surf seconds outlets, just around the corner.
For general shopping, there is The Esplanade, Pearl and Gilbert Streets in town, or Torquay Central shopping plaza; and at Bell Street, near Point Danger, you'll also find a wide selection of cafes, shops and restaurants.
Be sure to make a meal of some local seafood, whether it's a fine dining affair or fish and chips on the beach.
The High Tide Festival is an annual celebration of local arts and culture that takes place in early December.
Museum and history buffs may also enjoy the Tiger Moth World museum and theme park, which also has its own adventure park with canoe rides, a pirate ship and flying fox, amongst other attractions. You can also book an adventure flight – choose an acrobatics flight in a vintage tiger moth, or take an aerial tour over the spectacular coast and the Twelve Apostles.
Looking for more activities? Then how about a skydive, surf class, sea kayak adventure, some golfing, or a winery tour? There's plenty of options whatever your interests!
Torquay has a relaxed, small-town atmosphere, but is large enough to offer a variety of accommodation options for families, couples or groups of friends. Choose from atmospheric beach cottages, fully-equipped holiday houses, or apartments, caravans, cabins or motels.
