Torquay favourites
The Torquay Sundial
We are based in Torquay, the place we have called home (whenever we’re not travelling) for five years now. You’ll find us in the industrial estate which has plenty of goodies. Below we’ve listed all our fave haunts. Hopefully we’ll see you here sometime soon.
For supplies - Dusty’s Bulk Foods
Dusty’s is still relatively new to Torquay but has cemented itself as an absolute favourite of ours. The range is SO good. If you’re headed to Torquay make sure you go straight to Dusty’s to stock up.
For coffee - Ocean Grind
Boy, are we lucky to work a few doors down for the best coffee in Australia. Mark and his team are wonderful baristas/coffee roasters as well as wonderful people. We love what Ocean Grind stands for and the impact they have in our community.
For a lush meal- The Kyn
The Kyn had a rough start prior to opening but the community has well and truly rallied around them. The menu is lavish and the fit-out is next level. Cocktail of choice - Yuzu Sour. Make sure you order some focaccia too!
For a simple, quality dinner - Pearl
With their ever-changing menu, you can always be guaranteed your meal at Pearl will be FRESH. They always have a vegan and vegetarian option available as well as a unique wine menu.
For laid back drinks - Bells Beach Brewing
There are always good vibes at the shed on Baines Crescent where the beer is brewed on site. The BBB crew are passionate about their beer and about the Surf Coast - all the beers are named after local surf spots. It’s the perfect spot for a Sunday sesh.
For beachside fish and chips - Fisho’s
Fisho’s is not your average fish and chips. They only use fresh, locally sourced, sustainable seafood. They always have a few specials as well as a vego/vegan offering. You can find them on The Esplanade for lunch and dinner each day. Both dine in and takeaway options are available.
For a sweat sesh - Upstate Studios
If either yoga, mat pilates or HIIT training are you thing, Upstate is the place to go. The heated room combined with awesome instructors offer the ultimate sweat sesh. There is no need to sign up for a membership, you can get one off drop in class passes for your visit.
For the mums - Village Birth
Talia has created the most inclusive space at Village Birth. The brand new studio located above the paint shop on Cylinders Drive could not be more welcoming. Village is more than a yoga/Pilates studio - it’s a motherhood community.
For fresh food - Torquay Farmer’s Market
Torquay Farmer’s market is on 8am-1pm every Saturday, rain, hail or shine. Some stalls are there each week, some are rotating but you’ll always find fresh fruit, veg and baked goods. Some weeks you’ll find fresh pasta, dog treats, artesian cheese and relishes. There are some ready to eat options there too. You can’t miss the market on a Saturday morning, it’s right as you drive into Torquay in front of the council offices.
For shopping small - Cowrie Market
There is something for everyone at the Cowrie Market - stalls, live music, performances, food. It runs once a month in the warmer weather from September to March directly on the foreshore.
For dog hangs - The Salty Dog Cafe
If you’ve got a pooch, be sure to head on down to the most dog-friendly café in Torquay. Salty Dog is located right on Fisherman’s Beach which is dog friendly all year round, albeit with some time restrictions in peak periods :(. They serve from 6am.
For views - Surf Coast Walk
The Surf Coast walk is a 44km walk that begins (or ends depending which way you look at it) in Torquay. It can be broken up into 12 distinct sections between Torquay and Airey’s, the longest of which is 8km. There is lots to see along the way including wildlife, wildflowers and even whales at the right time of year.
For more tips, ask away!