Bells Beach

## The spot Bells Beach is Australia's most famous wave, a powerful right-hand reef break on Victoria's Surf Coast near Torquay. It has hosted the world's longest-running professional surf competition (the Rip Curl Pro) since the 1960s. The wave breaks over a limestone reef shelf, producing long, powerful walls with barrel sections on bigger swells. The cliff amphitheatre above creates a natural stadium. Cold water, powerful waves, world-class quality. ## When it works Needs solid south-westerly groundswell from the Southern Ocean. A northerly wind is offshore. Best at mid to high tide. The 4-8ft range produces its famous walls. Works primarily in autumn and winter (March through September) when the biggest Southern Ocean storms track through. Summer can produce smaller rideable waves. ## Where to sit The main take-off is at the top of the point (the Bowl). The wave then runs right along the reef through the Rincon section and down to the inside. The Bowl is most powerful; Rincon is more workable. Choose based on your ability. ## Hazards Powerful waves over limestone reef. Cold water (wetsuits year-round in Victoria). Strong currents sweep along the reef. The Bowl section is heavy and fast. Rocks throughout. Sea urchins. This is a serious wave on bigger days. ## Parking and access Large car park at the cliff top. Steps lead down to the beach (5-10 minutes). National surfing museum nearby. The Great Ocean Road runs past. ## The crowd Crowded on good days. Bells Beach is iconic and attracts surfers from across Victoria and beyond. The Bowl section is competitive. 20-40 people on a solid swell. The local Torquay crew are skilled and experienced. Dawn patrol helps. ## Local tips Bells is best on a solid SW groundswell with light offshores. The Rincon section offers slightly easier access to quality waves than the heavy Bowl. The competition window (Easter) draws the world's best. Torquay (10 minutes) has excellent surf shops and cafes. The Great Ocean Road drive is one of Australia's best.