Are you thinking about visiting Torquay, Australia? Here's what you need to know before planning your trip.
Is Torquay worth visiting?
Torquay is worth visiting for two to three days so that you can explore everything that the surf town has to offer. Torquay is a relaxed surf town that's not far from Melbourne. It sits along the Great Ocean Road coastal drive, and has many well known beaches and a great surfing culture. You can also visit Point Danger Marine Sanctuary.
Torquay
Reasons to Visit Torquay
Beaches
The town is along the Great Ocean Road, and there are a huge number of beaches that are popular for surfing. There are also nudist beaches as well as family-friendly areas. The most convenient beach is Torquay Surf Beach, which is popular with surfers. For calmer water, check out Torquay Front Beach, and for the most iconic surfing beach in the area, visit Bells Beach.
Hiking
There are many coastal walks in the area that range from a few hours to several days. One of the more well known ones is the Surf Coast Walk, which goes on for days and passes by stunning viewpoints and beautiful landscapes.
Museums
Surfing enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Australian National Surfing Museum, which goes into the sports history and influence on the region.
Food
You'll find all of the classic beach town options. There are pizza places, international restaurants, and seafood. All kinds of styles are available ranging from modern, upscale, and trendy to casual and affordable.
Nightlife
There's a laid back vibe with several great pubs, breweries, and clubs where people hang out.
Shopping
You'll find the standard shopping centers with everything from boutiques to major brands.
Authenticity
Torquay has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.
Is Torquay worth visiting in the Summer?
The weather in Torquay is fairly warm during summer, and stays around 26°C (78°F). But it can get as warm as 31°C (87°F) at times, too. It's also quite rainy during this season, so be prepared.
The peak season for travel is summer in Torquay, so expect to see more tourists than usual. This destination is somewhat popular with travelers, and in the high season it's busier than usual.
With the warmer weather this time of year, the beach is the main attraction. Spend time enjoying the waves and sand during your trip. The nearby hiking this time of year is a must-do, so take some time to get out on the trails, take in some fresh air, and enjoy the scenery. You'll also find it quite easy to get around on foot, because this is a very walkable surf town, especially in the nice weather. This is a great time of year to relax at the beach, explore the small town, and take a hike. Also, you can experience the museums and landmarks and the nightlife.
Summer Weather in Torquay
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| January | 26°C (78°F) | 164 mm (6.5 in) |
| February | 25°C (78°F) | 163 mm (6.4 in) |
| March | 24°C (76°F) | 134 mm (5.3 in) |
Is Torquay worth visiting in the Autumn?
Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Torquay. Even though Torquay is fairly busy with tourists, in the shoulder season there will be smaller crowds and better prices.
The warm weather in autumn is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 22°C (72°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 27°C (81°F).
You'll find plenty to do during autumn, as you'll be able to take in the beautiful scenery, spend time at the museums, and go hiking. Also, you can wander through the small town.
Autumn Weather in Torquay
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| April | 22°C (72°F) | 87 mm (3.4 in) |
| May | 19°C (66°F) | 78 mm (3.1 in) |
| June | 16°C (61°F) | 64 mm (2.5 in) |
Is Torquay worth visiting in the Winter?
This is the low season for travel in Torquay. This destination is fairly touristy, but in the low season you can find fewer crowds and better deals.
You'll find the weather to be very nice here during winter with average temperatures around 15°C (59°F).
During this season it's fun to experience the museums and landmarks, the cuisine, and the nightlife.
Winter Weather in Torquay
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| July | 15°C (59°F) | 59 mm (2.3 in) |
| August | 16°C (61°F) | 45 mm (1.8 in) |
| September | 19°C (65°F) | 29 mm (1.1 in) |
Is Torquay worth visiting in the Spring?
The warm weather in spring is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 21°C (71°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 28°C (82°F).
Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Torquay, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. Even though Torquay is fairly busy with tourists, in the shoulder season there will be smaller crowds and better prices.
This is a great time of year to browse the shops, wander through the museums, and take in the beautiful scenery. Also, you'll be able to take in the local charm and enjoy an evening out.
Spring Weather in Torquay
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| October | 21°C (71°F) | 75 mm (2.9 in) |
| November | 23°C (74°F) | 106 mm (4.2 in) |
| December | 25°C (77°F) | 134 mm (5.3 in) |
Related
What is Torquay most famous for?
Torquay is most famous for its world renowned surfing scene and its relaxed atmosphere. People visit this impressive surf town for its great beaches. It's also known for hiking. And many travelers come for the museums, food, nightlife, and shopping, as well. It is often described as hip, thriving, outdoorsy, trendy, casual, and laid back.
What is the most famous sight in Torquay?
The most popular sight in Torquay is Bells Beach. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Torquay on our travel costs page.
Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for Bells Beach and other attractions here.
How touristy is Torquay? Is it a popular surf town to visit?
Torquay is more popular with local tourists than with international visitors. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)
- Three-Quarter Day Hervey Bay Premium Whale Watching Cruise: $119
- K'gari (Fraser Island) West Coast Half Day Cruise from Hervey Bay: $93
- Hervey Bay Whale Watching Experience: $93
- Fraser Island & Dolphin Sailing Adventure: $73
- Spirit of Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruise: $92
- Milbi Sunset Cruise with Champagne and Prawns: $52
- Turtle Discovery & Great Sandy Marine Park Adventure: $83
How long should I spend in Torquay?
The ideal length of time for a trip to Torquay is two to three days. Since Torquay has a variety of activities such as beaches, most people need this much time to see and do everything here.
If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Torquay?, Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Torquay?, and Should I spend 1 or 2 weeks in Torquay?.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.