Bells Beach, Victoria

Located on the Great Ocean Road, Bells Beach is more than just a famous surf spot – it’s a natural amphitheatre showcasing the Australian coastline. Famous for its big waves and rich history, this bucket list beach attracts surfers, nature lovers and tourists from all over the world. As a region steeped in cultural and ecological significance, Bells Beach is a must see.

Tracing the Origins of the Name

Bells Beach got its name from early settlers John Calvert Bell and William Bell, who owned and farmed the land in the 19th century. Initially used for grazing cattle, the area’s rugged coastline soon attracted attention for its beautiful beach and surf. By the 1930s, surfers were visiting, and it wasn’t long before the area’s reputation grew. Today, Bells Beach is in Wadawurrung Country, part of the traditional lands of the Eastern Maar & Gunditjmara peoples. Efforts to acknowledge and honour the spirit of reconciliation are ongoing, including land management transfer initiatives to preserve the area’s ecological and cultural significance.

Natural Values

Bells Beach is more than a surf spot; it’s a natural wonder. The coastline has cliffs, a wide beach and pristine waters full of marine life. The area is a haven for wildlife, including seabirds, dolphins and seals. The surrounding vegetation is native grasses and shrubs that help maintain the ecosystem. This famous surf beach is part of the Surf Coast Shire’s conservation efforts, which focus on sustainable land management to protect its natural values for the future.

What Makes Bells World-Famous?

Bells Beach is a pinnacle of surf excellence, attracting professional surfers like Kelly Slater, Mick Fanning, and Stephanie Gilmore to its legendary waves. Known for its big swells and hollow waves, it remains a premier destination for both surfing competitions and recreational surfers. Featured in iconic films like Point Break and countless documentaries, Bells Beach has cemented its status as a must-visit location for Great Ocean Road day trips. Beyond its surfing fame, the beach is renowned for fostering cultural understanding and equity of outcomes, especially through meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities.

The Birthplace of Surfing Legends

Surfing at Bells started to take off in the 40s when local surfers carved a path through the cliffs to get to the waves. By the 50s, Bells was a gathering spot for surfers to test their skills on the waves. The introduction of surfboards that could handle the waves further cemented its popularity. Over the years, Bells has become a mecca for pros and many surfers who see it as a rite of passage in their surfing journey.

Rip Curl Pro Beach Event

Bells is the home of the Rip Curl Pro, the longest-running professional surf comp in the world. Held every Easter, this legendary surf comp attracts the world’s best surfers to battle for the winner’s bell. We’ve seen some epic performances from Aussie champions and international icons. The Rip Curl Pro is more than just a comp. It’s a surf culture fest, with big crowds and the beach transforming into a party and community hub.

Best Time to Surf

If you want to surf the ultimate wave, the best time to visit Bells is between March and October. During this time, the conditions at Bells are perfect, with big waves for pros and plenty of surfers looking for an adventure. Torquay Beach and town beaches have smaller waves, but Bells is the crown jewel for those who want legendary waves and a concrete wave experience.

How to Get to the Beach

Bells Beach is just off Bells Boulevard and Bells Beach Road, 90 minutes from Melbourne. The area is well serviced so you can get around easily. If you’re using public transport, take a V/Line train to Geelong and then a bus to Torquay. From there, you can get local transport or take a guided tour of the surf beach.