Beaches
Torquay's beaches are the main event. Whether you're a surfer, a swimmer, or someone who just wants to sit on the sand with a book, there's a beach for you.
Whites Beach
400m from Holyday House. A quiet, uncrowded stretch — dog-friendly in off-peak hours. Great for morning walks and sunset swims.
Torquay Front Beach
The main beach. Patrolled in summer, calm waters for kids, and walking distance to cafes and shops. The Saturday market sets up nearby.
Bells Beach
10 minutes by car. Home of the Rip Curl Pro and some of the best surf in Australia. Even if you don't surf, the clifftop views are spectacular.
Jan Juc Beach
5 minutes by car. A locals' favourite with consistent waves for intermediate surfers and a scenic cliff walk.
Outdoors & Nature
Surf Coast Walk
A 44km coastal trail from Torquay to Aireys Inlet. You don't need to do the whole thing — pick a section and enjoy the clifftop views, wildflowers, and ocean lookouts.
Surfing Lessons
Multiple surf schools operate on Torquay Front Beach. Lessons suit all ages — a quintessential Surf Coast experience.
Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Hire gear from the foreshore and explore the coast from the water. Early mornings are glass-calm and magical.
Golf
Torquay Golf Club is a links-style course with ocean views. 5 minutes from the house.
Food & Drink
Torquay Town Centre
5 minute drive. Brunch spots, fish and chips, Thai, Italian, and Indian. The Bottle of Milk on the foreshore is a local institution for burgers and milkshakes.
Blackman's Brewery
Craft beer brewed in Torquay. Great taproom with pizza and a relaxed vibe — kid-friendly during the day.
Torquay Farmers Market
Saturday mornings, fortnightly. Local produce, pastries, coffee, and artisan goods. A great way to start the weekend.
Rainy Day Ideas
Australian National Surfing Museum
Interactive exhibits on Australian surf culture, ocean science, and board design. Great for all ages.
Surf Outlet Shopping
Torquay is the home of Rip Curl and Quiksilver. The factory outlets offer significant discounts on surf and beach gear.
Stay In at Holyday House
Light the wood fire, fire up the PlayStation, put on a movie on the 65" TV, or relax in the hot tub while the rain falls around you. Sometimes the best rainy day plan is no plan.
Seasonal Highlights
Summer
Beach season. Long evenings, patrolled swimming, outdoor dining, and the Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach (Easter).
Autumn
Fewer crowds, warm water, stunning sunsets. The best time for coastal walks as the heat eases.
Winter
Whale watching season (June–September). Cosy up by the wood fire and hot tub. Dramatic ocean swells for spectating.
Spring
Wildflowers along the coastal walks, warming weather, and the return of long evenings. Great for families before the summer rush.
Planning a trip along the coast? See our Great Ocean Road guide for day trip itineraries from Torquay. Travelling with a dog? Read our pet friendly Torquay guide.