Get your fix of sun and surf culture in Torquay, located at the official start of the Great Ocean Road. The seaside village is Victoria’s surfing capital and attracts holidaymakers and outdoor lovers from far and wide to its fabulous beaches.

Torquay boasts protected family beaches, and wilder, more invigorating surf beaches like Jan Juc. Bells Beach, where the big swells are best suited to experienced surfers, is the next stop along the coast. This world famous beach is the venue for the Rip Curl Pro, one of the most sought after surfing titles on the World Championship Tour, which is held every Easter.

Some of the biggest names in surf wear and accessories have their headquarters in Torquay, with huge retail outlets at Surf City Plaza selling everything connected with the sport. Keep the theme going with an afternoon at the Surfworld Museum, an inspiring place that showcases the spirit and rich history of surfing through a range of vibrant exhibits.

Walk from museum to the beach where there are plenty of opportunities for novices to learn to surf all year round. Stroll along sandy beaches beneath towering cliffs or snorkel around Point Danger Marine Sanctuary, a great way to see some of the diversity of the area’s underwater inhabitants.

The Surf Coast Walk is a well established trail stretching more than 35 kilometres from Jan Juc, near Torquay, to Moggs Creek and past Anglesea. Explore thick verdant forest and colourful heathland. Keep an eye out for the many rare and endangered native birds and other wildlife, such as and kangaroos and wallabies.

Torquay is located 95 kilometres south west of Melbourne, or around an hour-and-a-quarter by car via the Surf Coast Highway.