Tread the path of frothing surfers who cut through coastal shrubbery on foot in the 50s to get to the epic waves of Bells Beach.

 

We acknowledge that this adventure is located on Wathaurong Nation, the traditional land of the Wathaurong people who have occupied and cared for this land for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them as the Traditional Custodians and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

Highlights

  • Tracing the steps of the area’s early surfers
  • Endless coastal views
  • Watching the locals carve up the waves

A Stroll Along The Surf Coast Walk

Torquay, Australia’s surfing capital, is an easy day trip from Melbourne. As the traditional land of the Wathaurong people, Torquay is home to awesome beach breaks, a progressive surf industry, and some great walking trails. 

 

 

On this section of the Surf Coast Walk from Jan Juc to Bells Beach you can trace the steps of the area’s pioneering surfers. Start at the Little Bird Rock lookout in Jan Juc and follow the trail along the top of the cliffs. The harsh coastal conditions mean the shrubs grow low and dense, giving you endless ocean views as you walk!

The trail is an easy 3.25km to get to Bells Beach. It’s a popular track for locals, dog walkers, and mountain bikers – you won’t be walking alone! Look out for birds, wildlife, and the distant whitewash of waves breaking further along the coast.

 

 

As the popularity of Bells Beach grew and a road was built, the vegetation along the coast has paid the price. In the 80s SANE (Surfers Appreciating Natural Environment) set out to revegetate the area – you can see the great work they’ve done as you walk along the trail!

Read more: Remember to leave no trace!

When you reach Bells Beach, make time to head to the lookouts and watch the local surfers carving up the famous waves. 

Hot tip! Check the swell forecast before you go. The trail is great in any weather but epic waves will have you frothing when you reach Bells!

 

Essential Gear

  • Good walking shoes
  • Water
  • Hat and sunscreen in summer
  • Wind/rainproof jacket in winter

How To Get There

Take the M1 from Melbourne, bypass Geelong and take the Torquay/Anglesea exit.

Follow the signs to Torquay and then head through town and into Jan Juc. Park at the Bird Rock Lookout car park on Sunset Strip to start your hike.

Skill Level

Beginner

Distance Covered

This is an easy 6.5km return hike on the well-marked and well-made gravel trail.

It makes up part of the Surf Coast Walk so you can add extra distance to your hike by either starting in Torquay or continuing on past Bells Beach.