Torquay, Great Ocean Road — Victoria

Torquay is a town located in the southern coast of Victoria, facing the Bass Strait. It is a town famous for its surfing beaches and is home to several international surfing companies. Because of these, Torquay is known as the ‘Surf Capital of Australia.’

Understandably, the town’s most popular attraction is the Surfworld Australia Surfing Museum. This museum complex is located along Beach Road and focuses on the beach culture and on the sport of surfing not just in the state but in the whole country. Avid surfing enthusiasts will surely have the time of their lives viewing some of the items displayed in the museum, including vintage surfing gear that dates back to the early part of the 20th century. There is also a theater that screens surfing movies, including classic ones. Other interesting items showcased are collections of surf photography, surfing posters, a Surfing Hall of Fame, and an interactive video presentation of famous surfers from all over the world. There are also several artworks displayed that were inspired by the beach and coastal life.

Walking along the beaches of Torquay, it is easy for visitors to see why beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts flock to this town every chance they get. The Fisherman’s Beach is strip of white sand that lies west of the Deep Creek estuary. Apart from fishing, this beach is also ideal for boating, with several spots excellent for picnics and barbecues. Most of the holidaymakers and their families converge to the Front Beach, where it is more sheltered and, therefore, safer for swimming and snorkeling. There is also an esplanade at the beach that is ideal for strolling, especially at night when it is flood lit. The surfing beaches of the town starts with the Torquay Surf Beach, which is located west of Point Danger. South of this beach is the estuary of Spring Creek and Rocky Point lies beyond.

Located southwest of Torquay is the Bells Beach, where the big swells can be found. Breathtaking they may be, the waves of this beach is definitely designed for the more experienced surfers and not for amateurs.

When visitors get the need to explore other types of attractions in Torquay, a short walk along Deep Creek will take them to a huge sundial featuring Aboriginal markings.

There are also several nature walks around town that lead to vantage points and interesting sights. One is the Surf Coast Walk which starts from the settlement of Jan Juc and ends at the Angahook Lorne State Park. Participants of this walk are treated to some of the most spectacular views of the coastline and beautiful hinterland sceneries. There are also walks the takes visitors along the Deep Creek and the Spring Creek and these walks provide ample opportunities for bird watching and animal viewing.

A short drive to the outskirts of the town and along the Hendy Main Road is the Bellbrae Carriages. This establishment is actually a museum displaying several Australian horse-drawn carriages.

For some tasty treats, visitors can take a drive along Portreath Road and stop by the Bellbrae Harvest, which is a working farm that offers tasty jams and sauces in their café.