Torquay, the surf capital of Australia, is famous for its beautiful beaches, consistent surf and friendly vibe for beginners and experienced surfers. On the Surf Coast, this coastal town is the perfect place to learn to surf with surf schools, private lessons and a range of surf hire options. Whether you’re a first timer or want to improve your skills, Torquay is the real deal. In this guide we’ll cover everything you need to know about learning to surf in Torquay and why it’s the place to start your surfing journey.
Torquay is the Best Place to Learn to Surf
Torquay is the surf capital of Australia and offers both beginner surf lessons and experienced surfers. With its famous surf beaches like Bells Beach and a range of surf schools this is the place to get into the Aussie surf lifestyle.
- Perfect Surf Conditions: Torquay’s surf beaches including Bells Beach have some of the best conditions for beginners. The gentle waves, clean water and safe beaches make it a beginner friendly surf spot. The region’s ever changing surf environment has a range of surf conditions from beginner friendly to more challenging waves for experienced surfers.
- Surf Schools for All Levels: Whether you’re a complete beginner or an intermediate surfer looking to improve your surfing, Torquay has a surf school for you. Experienced instructors will teach you basic instruction, surf survival skills and hands on sessions tailored to your level. Private lessons are also available for those who want one on one attention or a more personalized surf class.
- Surf Shops and Equipment Hire: Torquay has a range of surf shops with a variety of surf hire equipment. From beginner boards to NSP hardboards for experienced surfers, you’ll find everything you need to get started. Most surf schools in Torquay also offer wetsuit hire and the necessary surf equipment for lessons.
Best Surf Schools
When learning to surf it’s important to choose a good surf school. Torquay’s surf schools offer everything from beginner surf lessons to advanced. Here are some top picks:
- Go Ride A Wave Surf School
A local and visitor favourite, Go Ride A Wave Surf School offers beginner surf lessons and private surf lessons for those who prefer one on one attention. Their instructors are qualified surf instructors who will give you detailed instruction in a supportive learning environment. - Ride A Wave Surf School
Highly recommended for beginner surfers, Ride A Wave Surf School offers beginner group surf lessons, surf survival techniques and one on one instruction for all levels. Their private lessons allow for focused, hands on sessions to build your confidence in the water. - Torquay Surf School
Surf lessons for beginners and intermediate surfers, Torquay Surf School has a great program for kids and adults. They teach surf safety, ocean awareness and basic surf etiquette so you have a safe and fun surfing experience.
What to Expect From Your Surf Lesson in Torquay
A typical surf lesson in Torquay starts with a safety briefing. Qualified surf instructors will take you through the basics of surfing, from paddling to the pop up. Most lessons are beginner friendly and are in shallow water so you can practice safely.
- Surf Safety: Surf safety is covered in every lesson. You’ll learn how to spot hazards, how to avoid rip currents and basic beach safety skills. For those who want to take it to the next level, instructors will also teach rescue techniques and how to stay safe in deep water.
- Basic Surfing: In your first lesson you’ll learn the basics, paddling, how to position yourself on your beginner surfboard and how to catch waves. As you progress you’ll refine your basic surfing skills and work on your overall surfing.
- Private Surf Lessons: For one on one attention private surf lessons are available. These are perfect for those who want instruction from an experienced instructor. Whether you’re a complete beginner or want to take your surf skills to the next level private lessons offer more flexibility and one on one attention.
- Supportive Learning Environment: Torquay surf schools create a supportive and friendly environment where students can enjoy the process of learning to surf while developing their surfing skills in a nurturing environment. You’ll get to build your ocean awareness and understand the ever changing surf conditions.
The Best Surfing Beaches
Torquay has several world class surf beaches so whether you’re a beginner or continuing your surfing journey Torquay is the place to be. Some of the top beaches in Torquay are:
- Bells Beach: Consistent surf, iconic surf destination and some of the best waves for advanced surfers. But also areas for beginners so perfect for those looking to learn.
- Jan Juc Beach: Great for beginners, Jan Juc has gentle waves and a wide sandy beach perfect for surf lessons. The beach is also known for its chill, cruisey surf lifestyle so perfect for new surfers.
- Point Impossible: Accessible surf spot with a variety of conditions from beginner waves to intermediate surf. Clean water and gentle beach breaks so good for those just starting out.
Want to see more of the Surf Coast? Autopia Tours do great sightseeing Great Ocean Road tour 3 days to nearby iconic spots like the Great Ocean Road and the Twelve Apostles.
When to Learn to Surf
Torquay is a surf destination all year round but the best time to learn to surf depends on the conditions and you.
- Summer (December to February): Warmest months with gentle surf perfect for beginners. Summer is also great weather to be at the beach and live the Aussie surf lifestyle.
- Autumn (March to May): Waves are still consistent and the beaches are less crowded so perfect for learning.
- Winter (June to August): Water temperature drops but winter brings bigger waves for intermediate and advanced surfers. Beginner surfers can still find calmer conditions on the right beaches.
Conclusion
Torquay is the place to learn to surf, safe beaches, professional surf schools and surf for all levels. Whether you want to take your first lesson, book private lessons or progress to intermediate and advanced levels Torquay has everything you need for an epic surf experience. From beginner surf lessons to guided surf Great Ocean Road 3 Day Tour Torquay is the place to start your surfing journey.
FAQs
What type of surfboard is best for beginners in Torquay?
Soft-top beginner board is recommended for beginners as it’s more stable and easier to balance on.
How long are surf lessons?
Surf lessons in Torquay are 1.5 to 2 hours long so plenty of time for instruction and practice.
Do I need to bring my own wetsuit?
Most surf schools provide wetsuits as part of the lesson. If you prefer you can hire a wetsuit from local surf shops.
Is Torquay suitable for advanced surfers?
Yes, Torquay is home to world-famous surf beaches like Bells Beach, offering great conditions for advanced surfers.
Can I book a private surf lesson?
Yes, many surf schools in Torquay offer private surf lessons for a more personalized surfing experience.