Great Ocean Road Events 2026
A calendar led by the sea — the Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach each Easter, coastal running festivals, Lorne’s summer swims, and the winter whale season out west.
The Coast’s Calendar
The Great Ocean Road’s calendar is led by the sea. The Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach — the world’s longest-running surf contest — draws the crowds each Easter near Torquay, while running festivals, summer swims and coast-town events fill the warmer months. All dates are set by organisers and change each year, so treat the below as a guide and confirm the current schedule before you book.
Key Events
Rip Curl Pro, Bells Beach
The world’s longest-running surfing competition, on the famous Bells break near Torquay.
GOR Running Festival
A coastal running festival with distances up to a marathon along the road.
Lorne Summer Events
Beachside summer happenings at Lorne, including the Pier to Pub swim.
Whale Season
Not an event as such, but winter–spring whales off Warrnambool draw visitors west.
Event Tips
- Confirm current dates with organisers — they change every year
- Book accommodation early for Easter (Bells) and summer events
- Allow extra travel time on the coast during big weekends
- Combine an event with the Twelve Apostles and the Otways
- Want it organised? Ask about a tailored trip — enquire
Events 2026 — FAQ
What are the big events on the Great Ocean Road?
The Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach — the world’s longest-running surfing competition, held over Easter near Torquay — is the headline event, alongside the Great Ocean Road Running Festival and Lorne’s summer festivals. Dates change yearly — check current details.
When is the Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach?
It’s traditionally held over the Easter period near Torquay. Exact dates follow the world surfing tour calendar and change each year, so confirm the current schedule and book accommodation early.
What is the Great Ocean Road Running Festival?
A popular running event along the coast (usually held in autumn), with distances from short courses to a marathon. Dates vary each year — check the current program.
Are there summer festivals on the coast?
Yes — Lorne hosts summer events including the Pier to Pub swim and the Falls Festival period around New Year historically; programs change, so check current listings.
Does the coast get busy during events?
Very — Easter (Bells) and summer events fill accommodation across the coast. Book well ahead and allow extra travel time. See where to stay.
The Great Ocean Road, Planned Around You
The Twelve Apostles, the surf coast, the Otway rainforest and the wildlife — with the driving and bookings handled by the family that’s toured Australia since 1974.
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