Rip Curl Pro

The Rip Curl Pro (formerly the Bells Beach Surf Classic) is held annually in Victoria and is a professional surfing competition that attracts visitors to Bells Beach every Easter.

Commonly known as the “Rip Curl Pro”, this event is the longest-running professional surfing contest in the world and is one of the best competitions on the pro circuit due to the giant swells produced by the Southern Ocean.

The longest-running event in competitive surfing, The Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach is an iconic stop on The World Surf League Championship Tour. As the legend goes, “You’ve got to win it to ring it!” And in 2025, the best surfers in the world will once again have their chance to ring their way into history.

It’s also held in Torquay, the birthplace of Rip Curl. The storied list of former champions includes Rip Curl athletes such as Tyler Wright and Mick Fanning. Suffice it to say that the event holds a special place in our hearts and is part of the brand’s zeitgeist.

In celebrating over 60 years of competition, the Rip Curl Pro brings together the best professional surfers worldwide in one major competition.

There are plenty of activities for visitors at sea and on the sand. The popular Bells contest site draws many visitors, as the dunes create a natural amphitheatre that gives spectators a great view of the competition.

For those who want to relax, the scenic view of the hanging red cliffs against the turquoise blue waters of the ocean makes a magnificent background in which to unwind and enjoy the sun and sea.

Facilities available on-site include a kiosk and a first aid centre. Toilets, showers, and parking spaces are located nearby. However, travellers should arrive early to get a parking spot, as they will fill up fast.

Due to capacity limitations at Bells Beach, Festival Passes do not guarantee entry on the day. Capacity limitations are implemented to ensure the continued preservation of the Bells Beach surfing reserve. Unfortunately, no dogs are allowed on site unless they are a qualified, accredited assistance dog and serving the person they are with.

Getting There

Driving & Parking Directions
From the Rip Curl Flagship Store in Torquay, get on the Surf Coast Highway. Drive all the way down past the footy oval. Then, take the second exit, heading up the hill towards Jan Juc. You’re now on the Great Ocean Road.

Stay on the Great Ocean Road, take a left down Bells Boulevard. Take it slow, there are some concealed driveways along this stretch and these roads are often thoroughfares for local wildlife too. Keep your eyes peeled for echidnas and kangaroos.

Soon enough you’ll hit a T-intersection at Bones Road, turn left! By now you’ll see the official car park Bells-adjacent, a perfectly groomed 8-10ft swell (we hope!), and many others like yourself eager to watch the action… Follow the bouncing ball from here into the car park.

The staff will collect a parking fee and usher you to the best available spot. You made it!

Walking In
Prefer to stretch your legs? Take the Bells Track!

This scenic stroll runs from Jan Juc, where there’s ample free parking, to Bells Beach, where the competition is held. It’s relatively low-intensity and beautifully scenic, with local vegetation and ocean views for the majority of the trek. There are a few benches along the way for those keen to stop and take it all in or catch their breath.

Spanning a little over 3kms long (or 2 miles), the Bells Track is also part of a more extensive network of Surf Coast Walks that connect from Point Impossible to Aireys Inlet, if you want more.

Riding The Bus
Shuttle Bus running Easter weekend (Friday 29th – Monday 1st) only.

The shuttle bus is a great way to get into the event with the whole crew. There are hourly services from the Rip Curl Car Park (on the half hour). The daily bus service may stop running earlier if the event is called off for the day.

What To Bring

Wondering what to bring to Torquay? Well, predicting the weather on the Surf Coast is notoriously fickle—five seasons in a day. If you don’t like the conditions, wait 20 minutes… they’re bound to change! Below we’ve got our picks for embracing the elements, fending off the sun, catching a few waves, and generally winning at the event.

Official Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach Merchandise
Celebrate the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach with this epic collection featuring the latest artwork of surfing’s most iconic competition. Bring a piece of the action home with our Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach merchandise.

The Anti-Series Collection
A warm, windproof & water resistant jacket is a must when you’re on the beach. The Anti-Series collection is perfect for braving the cold, wind and rain. Get one sorted for the event, you won’t regret it! Shop Anti-Series Range

Hats, Caps, and Sunscreen
The sun is sneaky down our way. If you’ve posted up on the sand and are watching heat after heat, even if there’s a chill in the air, there’s a good chance you’ll get burnt. Protect yourself from all of the above.

Bags and Backpacks
Beware the front row seats! If you plonk down on the sand, keep your wits about you. The Easter full moon makes for king tides that gradually reach higher up the beach. So, when the tide’s coming in, the surge may try and steal your flip-flops or significant other. A waterproof beach bag is perfect for keeping your favourite things safe, dry, and on land.

Water/Drink Bottle
The Rip Curl Search Stainless Steel Drink Bottle is an epic insulated flask. Whether it’s quenching a summer thirst with something ice cold, or warming up from the wintry dawn surf, this is an essential in every surfer’s quiver. Shop Drink Bottles

The Perfect Wetsuit
This year we’re calling the best wetsuit for Bells is the Flashbomb Fusion. Featuring Rip Curl’s latest E7 neoprene with Thermo Lining throughout the entire suit, combined with zip-free entry system for maximum paddling freedom and water seal. It’s the perfect balance of warmth and stretch.