Things To Do
in Torquay
Torquay is a charming coastal town located in the state of Victoria, Australia. Known for its beautiful beaches and great surf breaks, it is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. The town also boasts a vibrant shopping and dining scene, with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and boutique stores to explore.
Overall, Torquay offers a relaxing and laid-back coastal atmosphere perfect for a beach getaway.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $4 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the stunning Torquay beaches. Grab a coffee from a local café and enjoy the coastal views.
Spend your afternoon surfing or sunbathing at the famous Bells Beach. You can also visit local shops for some beachwear and souvenirs.
Wind down with a beachfront dinner at a local restaurant. Enjoy the sunset while tasting fresh seafood.
Take a surfing lesson with a certified instructor to catch some waves. It's a great way to learn the basics and enjoy the ocean.
Continue practicing your surfing skills or relax on the beach with a good book. Explore nearby beaches like Jan Juc for a quieter atmosphere.
Visit a casual eatery for dinner and reflect on your surfing experience. Consider joining a local beach bonfire if available.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and coastal scenery
- Great climate and pleasant weather year-round
- Family-friendly atmosphere with various activities
- Access to local markets and fresh produce
- Vibrant food and dining scene
- Proximity to Great Ocean Road for scenic drives
- Rich wildlife and natural reserves for outdoor enthusiasts
- Higher cost of living compared to other areas in Australia
- Tourism can lead to crowded areas, especially during peak season
- Limited public transportation options
- Job opportunities may be scarce outside of tourism and hospitality
- Some areas may experience seasonal fluctuations in population and business activity
Best Activities in Torquay
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Torquay is known as the surfing capital of Australia. Enjoy the waves at famous beaches like Bells Beach or Jan Juc Surf Beach, suitable for all levels.
Explore the scenic Bellarine Rail Trail that runs from Geelong to Queenscliff. The trail offers beautiful views of vineyards, coastal landscapes, and wildlife.
Discover the beautiful hiking trails in the Great Otway National Park, which features lush rainforests, waterfalls, and stunning coastal views.
Cast a line at the picturesque Anglesea River, where you can fish for local species while enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
Join a whale watching tour from Torquay during the migration season to experience these majestic creatures up close.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline from the Point Danger Lookout, perfect for photography and observing marine life.
Have fun with friends or family by playing beach volleyball at one of the many courts located along the Torquay coastline.
Rent a kayak and paddle along the calm waters of the Surf Coast, taking in the natural beauty and perhaps spotting some marine life.
Tours
Uncover the best of Torquay with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Torquay
Visit one of these nice places.
This iconic lighthouse offers stunning views of the coastline and is a perfect location for capturing vibrant sunset photos.
A popular vantage point for panoramic ocean views, ideal for photography of both surf and marine life.
Famous for its surf culture, this beach provides ample opportunities for action shots, sunsets, and scenic landscape photography.
A beautiful beach with stunning cliffs, perfect for capturing dramatic seascapes and beach activities.
Drive along this famous route to find countless picturesque spots, including coastal views, cliffs, and lush forested areas.
Renowned for its surf breaks, this beach is also a picturesque spot for capturing the essence of Australian coastal life.
A lush park area that hugs the beach, offering great scenery for family photos and a relaxed vibe.
Just a short drive from Torquay, this lookout offers sweeping views of the coastline and surrounding landscapes.
Food in Torquay
Torquay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Indulge in a delectable seafood platter showcasing an array of freshly caught local fish, prawns, and oysters, served with a side of crispy chips. Recommended: Fisho's Torquay or The Fisherman's Kitchen.
Must-Try!
Savor the succulent and tender slow-cooked lamb shoulder, a hearty dish often served with roasted vegetables and a flavorful jus. Don't miss: The Sticks.
Treat your taste buds to a classic Australian dessert - the pavlova, featuring a crispy meringue base topped with luscious cream and fresh fruits. Head to Frontbeach Taphouse for a delightful rendition.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the Torquay Cowrie Market for an eclectic mix of street food stalls offering a variety of global cuisines, artisanal products, and live music. Open every third Sunday of the month.
Experience the Surf Coast Night Market for an evening of food, drinks, and entertainment, featuring an assortment of food trucks serving up tantalizing street food creations. Held during the summer season.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Torquay is known for its multicultural community. It's important to respect different cultural backgrounds and practices. Be open-minded and considerate when interacting with individuals from diverse cultures.
Australians typically have a relaxed approach to communication. Use first names and maintain a friendly and informal tone. However, ensure to gauge the comfort level of others and adjust your formality accordingly.
As a coastal town, Torquay places a high value on beach etiquette. Always swim between the flags, respect lifeguards’ instructions, and clean up after yourself to maintain the beauty of the natural environment.
Safety
Tipping in Torquay
Ensure a smooth experience
In Torquay, Australia, tipping is not a common practice as it is in some other countries, such as the United States. While it is appreciated in the hospitality sector, it is generally not expected. Some patrons might leave a small tip for exceptional service, typically around 10% of the bill, but this varies widely. In casual dining settings, tipping is rare, although rounding up the bill is sometimes seen.
Payment methods in Torquay are diverse and cater to both locals and tourists. Most businesses accept major credit and debit cards, and contactless payment methods like Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely accepted. Cash is still used but is becoming less common, especially in cafes and restaurants. Payment is typically made at the counter in casual settings, while table service establishments will bring the bill at the end of the meal.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a wonderful time to visit Torquay as the weather begins to warm up. Expect mild temperatures averaging between 15°C to 25°C. The beaches are less crowded, and wildflowers bloom, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking, and exploring the coastline.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Torquay. With temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, it's perfect for beach activities, swimming, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Expect larger crowds and various events, but expect great beach vibes and plenty of sunshine.
Autumn offers mild temperatures and beautiful sunsets, typically averaging between 15°C and 25°C. The beach crowds begin to diminish, making it a great time for relaxing strolls along the shore, enjoying local festivals, and experiencing the stunning coastal scenery.
Winter in Torquay is cooler, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 18°C. While it's typically too cold for swimming, winter offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists. This season is great for hiking, enjoying local cafes, and participating in winter festivals, along with opportunities for whale watching along the coast.
Torquay at Night
Hiking in Torquay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Famous for its surfing conditions, Bells Beach also offers scenic coastal walking trails that are perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
This 104-kilometer trail follows the stunning coastline from Apollo Bay to Port Campbell, showcasing breathtaking views and diverse wildlife.
Features walking trails with stunning ocean views and access to pristine beaches, ideal for both hiking and exploring marine life.
Offers a variety of hiking trails that wind through lush forests and alongside beautiful rivers, suitable for all skill levels.
A more casual walking experience along the beach and coastal paths, perfect for families and those looking for a leisurely outing.
A spectacular 44-kilometer trail that stretches along the coast from Torquay to Fairhaven, providing views of beaches, cliffs, and wildlife.
Aiports
How to reach Torquay by plane.
Avalon Airport is located approximately 15 km northeast of Torquay and serves as a secondary airport for Melbourne.
Melbourne Airport, also known as Tullamarine Airport, is about 90 km northwest of Torquay and is the primary airport serving Melbourne.
Launceston Airport is located approximately 180 km south of Torquay on the island of Tasmania.
Hobart International Airport is about 215 km south of Torquay, located in Hobart, Tasmania.
Bendigo Airport is approximately 130 km northwest of Torquay and serves regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the demographic group, comprising those born within Australia.
Significant population of residents who were born in England.
A notable demographic group made up of individuals born in New Zealand.
Smaller community of residents hailing from Ireland.
Residents originating from Scotland, contributing to the cultural diversity.
A growing population of residents from China.
An emerging group of residents from India.
Residents born in various other countries, contributing to overall diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Torquay is known as the surfing capital of Australia, featuring famous surf beaches like Bells Beach and Jan Juc.
A popular sport in Torquay with local clubs and community involvement, especially during the AFL season.
Cricket is widely played in Torquay with local leagues and clubs supporting both junior and senior competitions.
Netball has a strong following in Torquay with many clubs and teams participating in regional competitions.
Soccer is growing in popularity in Torquay, with local clubs providing opportunities for players of all ages.
Torquay offers great cycling paths and trails, making it a popular activity for both recreation and competitive events.
With access to beaches and local swimming pools, swimming is a popular activity for residents and visitors alike.
The Torquay Golf Club offers a well-regarded 18-hole course, attracting golf enthusiasts from the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Torquay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries in Torquay offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, with plant-based alternatives readily available. Standout options include Freshwater Creek Cakes for delectable vegan cakes and Zebra Bar for diverse vegetarian choices.
Visitors with gluten-free dietary requirements can find suitable options at many establishments such as Growlers, known for its gluten-free pizzas, and Pond Cafe, which provides a range of gluten-free menu items.