Bells Beach, which is located in the breathtaking state of Victoria, is a well-known hotspot in Australia that has won the affection of surfers all over the world. There have been a great number of enthusiasts who have visited its beaches and ridden the beautiful waves, and there are an infinite number of others who are eager to experience the excitement of this famous Australian coastline. Bells Beach is pleased to be the location of the famed Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach surfing tournament, which attracts the most accomplished surfers in the world to its seas that are both tough and thrilling.
On the southern coast of Victoria, in the Great Ocean Road area, surfers congregate in the parking lot of the beach, with their arms crossed and their sunglasses on, to watch the waves wash in around the point. The others wait for their turn to perform, while some shake their heads and drive away. To take advantage of the shifting tides, a couple of surfers grab their boards and make their way down the worn stairs to Bells Beach, which is often considered to be among the greatest surf breakers in Australia.
The clifftop bluffs are where the majority of pilgrims sit, anxious to witness Australia’s greatest surfing break and watch the surfers who ride it. There are no swimmers here; the only thing that is accessible is the clifftop.
The Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach professional surfing event takes place every year over the Easter vacation season. This is a helpful piece of information for planning purposes. To ensure that you have a place to stay, make your reservation well in advance.
Bells Beach is located where?
From Torquay, which is located in the state of Victoria in Australia’s southern region, Bells Beach can be reached in about ten minutes by car. The location, which is tucked away along the shore, provides breathtaking vistas and tremendous waves.
It is possible to travel southward along the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne, which is a very beautiful road. The majority of tourists choose to stay in the adjacent town of Torquay, which is a cool surf town that has a large number of beaches, a variety of outdoor activities, and contemporary cafés and restaurants.
Bells Beach, Victoria, Torquay to Bells Beach.
Driving from Torquay to Bells Beach is a simple and straightforward journey. Starting from the central business district, go south on Geelong Road/Surf Coast Highway in the direction of Price Street. Proceed down Geelong Road/Great Ocean Road for 2.8 kilometers until you reach Bells Boulevarde. At the roundabout, take the second exit onto Geelong Road/Great Ocean Road. Make a left turn into Bells Boulevarde and go for an additional 3.6 kilometers till you come across signage indicating for Bells Beach. To get there, you only need to take another left.
For those who do not own a vehicle, there is also the option of taking a bus from Torquay to Bells Beach. It takes just ten minutes for the bus to reach to Jarosite Road/Great Ocean Road, which is the destination of the direct bus that departs from Torquay Holiday Resort/Surf Coast Hwy every four hours. Bear in mind, however, that you will have to walk for around one hour further from the stop to the Bells until you reach your destination.
Bells Beach: A Brief Backstory
Throughout the course of thousands of years, the indigenous Wadawurrung people have called the long stretch of golden limestone and golden sand that is now known as Bells Beach their home. According to their customs, this Indigenous Australian community would hunt for crayfish and abalone, and they would also use Bells as a location to socialize and do business.
It was the entrance of European settlers in the region that had a significant impact on the community. These immigrants eventually called the beach after an English family that went by the name of Bell. When it came to establishing a pastoral range in the region, they were the pioneering family.
The beach was not found for surfing until 1939, when it was discovered for the first time. As they made their way through the undergrowth and down to the beach, a group of locals who were members of the Torquay Surf Lifesaving Club discovered the mystery treasure. During the subsequent twenty years, the word spread about the exceptional surf conditions that Bells had to offer, and as a result, an increasing number of surfers started to visit the region.
The first formal Bells Beach surfing tournament, which later became known as the Easter Classic, was hosted by the members of the community in the year 1962. The tournament has evolved into a world-class event throughout the course of its history, and it is now known as the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach, which holds the title of being the world’s oldest continuously operating surf competition. Bells was first designated as a Surfing Recreation Reserve by the Australian government in 1973, making it the first place in the world to get such a designation.
For the same reason that the beach was popular among surfers, it was also a magnet for big surf brands and manufacturing enterprises. Bells Beach was utilized by major surf firms like Rip Curl to test the development of surfboard and wetsuit technologies. These companies had their start in Torquay, which is located beside Bells Beach.
In 1981, professional surfer Simon Anderson triumphed in the Bells Beach Pro competition while riding a brand-new surfboard that had three fins. Since then, this particular design of board has risen to the position of the worldwide standard for high-performance boards. Today, Torquay has developed into a center for the headquarters of surf companies as well as the manufacturing business, which is worth multiple millions of dollars.
Amenities available
Visitors are able to bring their four-legged companions with them to the beach since it has public bathrooms and accepts dogs. In addition, Bells Beach has a cozy café on the premises, where guests may enjoy delectable coffee and snacks.
Things to do
Guests that come to Bells Beach have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities, such as surfing, swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the rock pools that are located nearby.
To swim in Bells Beach, located in Victoria
Swimming may be done at times of low waves, when the beach is quite safe and the water is near inshore. However, the waves often crash right on the beach, and the water becomes extremely deep very rapidly; thus, if you are not a good swimmer, it is advised to approach the sea with caution or to avoid it altogether.
A tour of Bells Beach in Victoria
Nearly every itinerary for the Great Ocean Road should include a stop at Bells Beach as a must location. Views from the cliff-top parking lot are breathtaking, and it is an excellent location from which to observe surfers of all skill levels, including locals, ride waves.
The natural amphitheater that is the beach below is quite stunning, and the lofty view point gives a fantastic background for it. After reaching that point, you may go down the stairs to the beach, secure in the knowledge that you are following in the footsteps of surf heroes from all over the globe.
At Bells Beach in Australia, surfing is fun.
You are going to have a great time surfing at Bells Beach, regardless of whether you are a beginner or a more experienced surfer. As a result of the enormous cliffs that surround the beach, the ocean bottom offers the ideal shape for massive, famous waves that originate from the Southern Ocean.
The beach is a reef that is exposed and is well-known for its right point, which breaks on practically every tide, any wind, and any significant surf that approaches from the southeast to the southwest. It is crucial to note that Bells has two breaks: Rincon and The Bowl. It is possible for the wave to begin at Rincon and break all the way through Outside Bells and into The Bowl if the conditions are favorable.
In spite of the fact that the waves may be breathtaking to look at, they are notorious for being very challenging to master and for needing a great deal of force and technique. Beginners may begin their surfing careers in the relatively shallow seas of Bells while polishing their abilities. However, Bells is best suited for experienced surfers who are known for their ability to handle challenging conditions. It is important to be ready for a challenging paddle out, as well as the chance of receiving a flogging from an outside set on the head.
Spend your vacation during the months of October and March, when the storms that originate in the Southern Ocean are at their peak, to experience the greatest waves. On the off chance that you are a passionate surfer, you should make it a point to visit Bells Beach before you depart Victoria.
Cam of the Bells Beach Surf:
It is unfortunate that Bells Beach does not have a surf cam, however you may check out the surf report available on the Bells Beach website. You may also check out the Torquay surf cam, which is the surf cam that comes the closest to being comparable to the one that is located at Bells Beach.
Bells Beach Surf Competition
Here at Bells Beach, the most accomplished surfers from all over the globe compete for the opportunity to ride their wave to victory on an annual basis. The Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach is an iconic Australian event that has been going on for the longest amount of time in the contemporary period. The beach is the location of the tournament. One of the most prestigious awards in the sport of surfing is the Bell trophy, which is considered to be one of the greatest levels of performance in the sport. In point of fact, it has even been often referred to as “the Wimbleton of surfing.”
Within the context of the World Surfing League (WSL), the very first surfing tournament to take place at Bells Beach took place in the year 1962. As is customary, the Rip Curl Pro has been held annually around the time of Easter. This event provides tourists from all over the nation with the opportunity to take a break from their busy schedules in order to go to Torquay, a tiny town, and see some of the greatest surfers in the world compete at the Bells Beach Pro.
There is often a free shuttle bus that travels between Torquay, Jan Juc, and Bells Beach. This makes it possible for guests to get between the various places in a comfortable manner. This is a trash-wise event, which means that there will be no plastic at all. This is an effort that has helped divert 73% of garbage away from landfills in 2019. A visit to the websites of Rip Curl or the World Surf League will provide you with the most recent information on event prices and timetables.
Beach Sports & Other Water-Based Activities
What makes Bells Beach so well-known is its surfing. But there are many other water sports and beach activities that you may participate in there. A complete look at the options available to you is as follows:
The sport of surfing
- Intermediate to advanced levels of skill are required.
- Boards for surfing are available for hire at Torquay, which is located close.
- Lessons are offered by local surf schools for those who are just starting out.
- Bells Beach main break, Winki Pop, and Southside are examples of the best spots.
(SUP) stands for “stand-up paddleboarding.”
- This skill level is between beginner and intermediate.
- The best location is on days when Bells or Jan Juc Beach, which is adjacent, is quieter.
- There are rental options available for equipment in Torquay.
How to Kitesurf:
- Intermediate to advanced levels of skill are required.
- The best location is in close proximity to beaches such as Ocean Grove or Thirteenth Beach.
- Lessons may be obtained from the local schools that specialize in specialization.
Using a bodyboard:
- This skill level is between beginner and intermediate.
- While in Torquay, you have the option to either purchase or rent bodyboards.
Volleyball on the beach:
- Bells Beach or Torquay Beach, which is located close, are both great places to play a game on the beach.
- Please bring your own equipment, or rent it from one of the nearby sports stores.
Taking a Fish:
- The best places to go rock fishing are Bells Beach (only for expert fishermen) and the beaches in the surrounding area.
- Species of interest include the Australian Salmon, Snapper, and Whiting.
- Licenses: A license to fish for recreational purposes is necessary and may be obtained online.
The sport of snorkeling:
- Best Location: The Point Danger Marine Sanctuary, which is located nearby.
- Come prepared with your own gear, or rent it from one of the many diving shops in Torquay.
Hiking By the Coast:
- The Surf Coast Walk is the trail.
- The whole distance is 44 kilometers, and it may be broken up into pieces.
- Moderate to easy in terms of difficulty.
When participating in water activities, you should always put safety at the top of your list of priorities. Check the circumstances at all times, be aware of your limitations, and if at all possible, avoid going by yourself.
The best way to surf and kitesurf at Bells Beach is to have previous expertise in the sport. If not, you should enroll in classes taught by certified teachers.
The Essentials for Packing
For a trip to Bells Beach that is both comfortable and pleasurable, it is essential to have the appropriate equipment with you. Here is a detailed list of items that you should bring with you to guarantee that you are well-prepared for your beach excursion:
A Few Beach Essentials:
- Bring an additional set of swimwear with you.
- Beach towels are available.
- An umbrella or sun cover for the beach.
- The beach bag.
- For objects that are wet, a waterproof bag.
Shelter from the sun:
Seaweed-safe sunscreen with a high UV protection factor (SPF).
Lip balm with SPF.
Headgear or cap with a broad brim.
Sunglasses that provide protection against ultraviolet light.
Wear a sun shirt or a rash guard.
Shelter from the sun:
- Seaweed-safe sunscreen with a high UV protection factor (SPF).
- Lip balm with SPF.
- Headgear or cap with a broad brim.
- Sunglasses that provide protection against ultraviolet light.
- Wear a sun shirt or a rash guard.
Cloths Item:
- Clothing that is relaxed and comfy.
- The layers are light and breathable.
- Especially for the early mornings or nights, a warm jacket or fleece is recommended.
- Windbreaker or raincoat of some kind.
- Boots that are suitable for walking.
- either sandals or flip-flops.
Objects of Safety:
- A fundamental first-aid kit.
- any drugs that are your own.
- It is insect repellant.
- The water bottle may be reused.
- A powder or tablet form of electrolytes.
Electronics and entertaining activities:
- a camera or a GoPro…
- This phone cover is waterproof.
- Chargers and power banks are included.
- Binoculars (for the purpose of observing whales).
- Book or electronic reader.
Dishes and beverages:
- There are energy bars and snacks.
- For those who are arranging a beach picnic, picnic materials.
- Esky or cooler for beverages and other perishable items.
Unrelated Subjects:
- It is possible that some local merchants may not take credit cards.
- The shopping bag may be reused.
- Documents and identification for travel.
- Is there a map or guidebook of the region?
- For the purpose of keeping damp objects or safeguarding electrical devices, use Ziploc bags.
Items That Are Not Required:
- A yoga mat for doing yoga on the beach.
- Frisbee, volleyball, and other beach sports that may be brought along.
- Pencils and sketchbooks are essential for artists.
- With a hammock, you may unwind in between bouts of surfing.
Be as light as efficient as possible. A wide variety of products are available for purchase or rental in the immediate area. On the other hand, it is important to be well-prepared, particularly for sports such as surfing.
Parking spaces
There is a parking area that is specifically allocated for use at Bells Beach, and parking is uncharged. Nevertheless, during the busiest times of the year, the parking lot may rapidly get full, so guests should make plans to arrive early in order to acquire a place.
An Interesting Fact
You probably already know this, but did you know that the annual Rip Curl Pro surfing tournament takes place at Bells Beach? The competition is held on waves that are renowned all over the globe, and it attracts the best surfers from all around the world.
Attractions to visit
Visitors to Bells Beach have the opportunity to explore the adjacent Great Otway National Park, which has hiking trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking views of the coast. In addition, Bells Beach is home to some of the best surfing in the world. In addition, the adjacent town of Torquay is well worth a visit since it has a variety of restaurants, cafés, and boutique stores.
Has Bells Beach parking?
Although there are a limited number of parking spots available, this beach does provide free parking at the entrance. Street parking is also available in the vicinity, making it convenient for guests to go to the beach.
Has Bells Beach lifeguards?
If you are going to swim on this beach, please exercise caution since there are no lifeguards present to keep an eye on the water.
Is Bells Beach family-friendly?
Sadly, this beach does not have any amenities that are suitable for families, like bathrooms, lifeguards, and food that is located nearby.
Is Bells Beach swimmable?
This beach does, in fact, provide great swimming conditions, and it is a popular destination for swimmers of all ability levels due to the fact that it has clear seas and calm waves.
Has Bells Beach bathroom facilities?
At this beach, restrooms are located either directly on the beach or in close proximity to the main beach.
Which Bells Beach activities exist?
There is no doubt that this beach is well-known for its lively beach scene, which includes a wide range of activities that anybody can enjoy, such as fishing, surfing, and several bike paths.
Can Bells Beach accommodate disabled people?
Unfortunately, this beach does not provide any amenities for those who have impairments.
Are dogs allowed at Bells Beach?
At this beach, you are welcome to bring your dog along with you.
Does Bells Beach allow surfing?
It is true that surfing is a popular pastime that is loved by many people at this beach.