The ultimate guide for a day trip on the Surf Coast
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08.03.2023

The ultimate guide for a day trip on the Surf Coast

Credit: Ash Hughes Photography via Surf Coast Walk Socials
Words by Bethany Long

As the summer comes to a close there’s never been a better time to squeeze in a day trip down to the Surf Coast.

With iconic beaches, great shopping, and even better food and wine there are so many things to get out and do. So, while the water is still warm, the waves are still pumping, make the most of the sunny days. We’ve compiled a list of things to give you the perfect day trip to hit up some of the Surf Coast’s best. 

Head to the Surf Seconds in Baines Court

Start the day with some bargain hunting in Baines Court. The ultimate local shopping experience, score awesome discounted beach essentials from all of your fave surf brands including Ripcurl, Roxy, Quicksilver, and Ghanda. If you haven’t been before, allow a bit of time because you’ll be rifling through racks and boxes in search of that perfect fit.

Bonus tip: if you’re a fan of cool vintage finds, make sure to stop off at The Garage while you’re here. Featuring some of the coolest and most eclectic finds, The Garage is the most fun place to window shop and explore a slice of surf history.

Head to Point Addis

If you’re in need of a holiday but can’t quite find the time, Point Addis has the magical ability to make you feel like you’re on a tropical, deserted island.

The cliffs, bushland, crystal blue water, rock pools (depending on the tide), and waves make Point Addis one of those beaches that has it all. And its short distance from Torquay and Anglesea makes it just that tiny bit less busy than other beaches in the area.

Bring a game (Finska on the beach is always a hit), a magazine (maybe Forte….), and your dog (on a lead). 

Just remember to pack sunscreen in your bag, because trust me, you’ll only want to walk up those steps once.

 

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Bellbrae Estate

After spending some time in the sun, you’ve probably worked up a bit of a thirst. Bellbrae Estate is the gorgeous, bushy spot to quench that thirst, escape the sun and refuel with some pizza or a cheese platter.

If you’re a wine drinker, the wine-tasting paddle is the ultimate post-beach treat. And as a fussy rose drinker, this one passed the test! So sit back, sip up, relax, and enjoy your day trip holiday!

Surf Coast walk from Bells Beach to Jan Juc

If you’ve got some extra energy after your wine tasting (or want to get some steps in!) head to the iconic Bells Beach and walk along the Surf Coast back into Jan Juc. A beautiful way to spend the late arvo/ early evening, this clifftop walk will make you feel truly lucky for the beaches we’ve got.

If you’re feeling extra, extra lucky, keep an eye out for local wildlife. According to one of my besties, ‘there’s definitely echidnas around here. You’ve just gotta be looking out for them.’ I’m not so convinced. 

When doing this walk I like to grab a coffee at Swell Coastal Foods in Jan Juc before turning around and enjoying the walk back.

Dinner at Bird Rock in Jan Juc

If you’re still going after that wining, walking, and beaching then head back to Torquay for dinner at the incredibly delicious Roku Den.

Featuring some of the best and freshest Japanese around, Roku Den is the perfect spot for both a little nibble or a big bite. My must orders include any of the sashimi, the miso udon noodle, and the spicy tofu fries, but really with this menu, I don’t think you can go wrong!

 

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