Australia
Torquay
A Victorian seaside resort where palm trees meet English weather and surfers chase Atlantic swells.
Torquay carries the peculiar charm of England's attempt at the Riviera—complete with palm-lined promenades and cream tea served within sight of wetsuit-clad surfers. The town moves between two seasons: summer's crowded beaches and fish-and-chip queues, and winter's moody coastline where waves crash against red sandstone cliffs.
Perfect for
- —Surfers seeking consistent breaks
- —Families wanting traditional seaside holidays
- —Those drawn to dramatic coastal walks
Atmosphere
beaches•water•historic
The rhythm of the day
morning
Mist lifts from the bay as surfers check breaks and dog walkers claim empty beaches
afternoon
Families colonize sandy coves while walkers trace clifftop paths above crashing waves
night
Pubs fill with wetsuit-peeled surfers and holidaymakers escaping seaside B&Bs
Signature experiences
- 01Watch surfers tackle winter swells from harbour walls while nursing hot tea
- 02Follow clifftop paths where Victorian villas overlook churning Atlantic waters
- 03Browse surf shops tucked between traditional seaside arcades and ice cream parlors
- 04Walk empty beaches at dawn when only dog walkers and early swimmers brave the shore
- 05Navigate narrow streets where palm trees cast shadows on terraced houses
How to experience Torquay
Walk the South West Coast Path for unfiltered views of red cliffs and churning seas
Time visits between peak summer crowds and winter's atmospheric storms
Explore beyond the main beaches to find quieter coves and rockpool corners