Where to Surf on the Great Ocean Road

Surfing Competition Beaches

Known as the Surf Coast, and located only 75 kilometres from Melbourne CBD, the Great Ocean Road is one of the best places for surfing in Victoria, in fact, it is home to some of the best surf beaches in Australia! With the best beginner surf beaches in Victoria, this coastal haven is perfect for learning to surf amidst stunning landscapes.

With a wide range of accommodation options, great food & drink and plenty of world-class attractions to enjoy, it’s hard to find a reason not to head to the region. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer and searching for the best surf beaches in Victoria or you’re new to the sport and want to learn to surf, the Great Ocean Road is the ideal spot for hitting the waves. Here is why so many people head to our coast for surfing in Victoria

Your Guide to Surf Beaches in Victoria

• Bells Beach: A must-visit for experienced surfers only, known for its challenging swells and picturesque cliffs. Located just a short drive from Torquay, Bells Beach is famous for its right-hand breaks, especially during autumn and winter.
• Fairhaven Beach: Stretching over six kilometres, Fairhaven offers an impressive backdrop of the Otway Ranges. The beach is known for consistent waves and is patrolled for safety. A gem among surf beaches in Victoria, Fairhaven is ideal for both surfing and swimming.
• Anglesea Surf Beach: Protected by the Point Roadknight headland, this beach is perfect for beginners, offering gentler waves and stunning sandstone cliffs. Local surf schools provide lessons for those new to the sport.
• Torquay Surf Beach: With diverse breaks and beautiful headland views, Torquay is a surfer’s paradise. It’s an ideal spot for beginners, offering lessons from various surf schools.
• Apollo Bay Beach: Known for its calmer waters and scenic views, Apollo Bay is another excellent spot for beginner surfers. The long beach provides ample space for practising your first waves.
• Lorne Main Beach: A bustling destination with ample space for surfing and swimming. The main beach is perfect for catching gentle waves, though swimmers should stay clear of the flagged areas.
• Black Nose Point, Portland: This location offers challenging surf conditions suitable for experienced surfers. The rugged landscape and consistent swells make it an exciting spot for adventure seekers.

Other Things You Can Enjoy While Surfing The Great Ocean Road

If you want to learn to surf in Victoria and are planning on heading to the Great Ocean Road, there are also plenty more adventures for you to enjoy during your time here. If you’re a thrill-seeker, the area is popular for mountain biking, or you could try ziplining – flying from tree to tree 30 metres off the ground.

There is a huge range of outdoor activities, tours and natural attractions to keep you busy and having fun. Be sure to drop into the Australian National Surfing Museum and the surf shops in Torquay are worth checking out too.

Learn More About Surfing in Victoria

Our Visitor Information Centres are your go-to resource for all things surfing on the Great Ocean Road. From surf lessons to local insights, our experts are here to help you plan the perfect surf trip, speak to them or plan your own trip filled with surfing and other outdoor activities.