The surfing town of Torquay is located on Victoria’s Great Ocean Road, only 25 minutes south of the regional centre of Geelong. If you are in Melbourne and looking for the best place to go surfing, look no further than Torquay. Less than 1.5 hours away, there is no better place in Victoria to catch a wave. No journey up the Great Ocean Road would be complete without stopping in Torquay.
Even if you don’t surf, you will still love Torquay’s golden beaches. Soak up some sun, go for a swim, or find the best surf instructor and learn how to stand up on your very own surf board. For an even wilder surfing experience head down to Jun Juc, or try surfing at the world famous Bells Beach, where the world's best surfers meet every year. If you are a surfer looking for an affordable getaway, you will love the range of budget accommodation. Reasonably priced motels and backpackers hostels are easy to find in Torquay. Stay for cheap and catch waves from morning till night. Young children will love the Surf Coast Walk where you can walk between vantage points high above the beach. Spot some kangaroos in their natural habitat and watch the locals ply their trade on the untamed waters. For families that have brought the kids along, there are numerous fantastic self contained apartments that you will love.
Torquay is also the perfect spot to start your journey along the Great Ocean Road. Torquay is the first town along Victoria’s famous coastal drive, so stay here a few nights before winding your way down Lorne. Lorne's beauty lies in its natural attractions with walks along Cumberland River or the wonder of the stunning Erskine Falls. Spend some time in the nearby Wye River, before travelling a little further on to Apollo Bay. Stay the night and head into The Otways, Australia’s most beautiful rainforest. Cruise past the 12 apostles, and spend the next night at Moonlight Heads. Veer inland and head to Camperdown to experience the view of Victoria’s Western Plains from the peaks of Mt Leura and Mt Sugarloaf. Head back to the coast to spot some whales in Warrnambool, before ending your journey frolicking with playful fur seals in Port Fairy. If you feel like being a bit different, start in Torquay and head East to Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads. The Blue Waters Lake and Begola Wetlands are always worthy of a visit.
Along the way, you can enjoy some of the best food and accommodation Victoria has to offer. Torquay offers wonderful hotel and motel options for you to start your journey from. But if you are planning on spending some time in Torquay before setting off, why not stay in one their luxury resort or hotel options? The restaurants use fresh produce to whip up delicious treats...the seafood is particularly fantastic. Whether you stay for the long term lazing on the beach and surfing your day away, or whether you are staying for a few nights before you embark on your epic journey down the Great Ocean Road, Torquay will not fail to impress.