Torquay: Surf Coast

Torquay marks the eastern end of the Great Ocean Road and the start of Victoria's Surf Coast. The quiet resort town is the heart of Australia's surf industry. It is home to some of the world's most renowned surf beaches – including the legendary Bells Beach. Not surprisingly, it is also the birthplace of world leading surf brands such as Quicksilver and Rip Curl, both founded here in the 60s and 70s.

Nestled between spectacular cliffs and submerged coral reefs causing huge waves, Torquay has the perfect setting for a surfing paradise. Every Easter the world's top wave riders gather at 'Bells' to celebrate the Rip Curl Pro, Australia's longest running and most prestigious surfing event. The Surfworld Museum is dedicated to the wave and thrill of the ride. It offers interactive videos explaining the nature of waves and a Hall of Fame for the world's surf legends.

In summer Fisherman's Beach and Front Beach become packed with families and tourists lazing around in the sand or cooling down in the usually quiet waters. Just a kilometre further south is Point Danger, a good lookout spot offering views to Surf Beach, where you will encounter some surf action on any fairly good day around the year. The Surf City Plaza on the Surf Coast Highway is the best place in town to shop for surfing gear and clothes. Small boutiques, cafés and restaurants patch the town centre around Gilbert Street.

Further south past the small settlement of Jan Juc is Bells Beach, which has a big carpark overlooking the coast. Jan Juc Beach and tiny Winkipop Beach are also popular surfing spots. During summer lifeguards patrol most surf beaches. The Torquay Visitor Information Centre at Surf City Plaza has the latest news on weather conditions and the surf.

Turn left off the B100 10km south of Torquay to reach Point Addis Lookout, which offers magnificent views over the coastline. The Point Addis Koori Walk (approx. 30 mins) takes you along the coast. Signs on the side of the path explain how the native Koori people made use of plants and seeds in their traditional culture.

The 30 km Surf Coast Walk commences at the western end of the Jan Juc car park and runs down to Moggs Creek via Point Addis, Anglesea and Airleys Inlet.

Go to yosurfer.com for surf reports & forecasts