Torquay: The seaside town where house prices have jumped 36 per cent

Life in the buzzing beachside town of Torquay emits the type of carefree temperament that most of us reserve only for the summer holidays.

It’s where residents relish the stunning natural wonders, uplifted by a perpetually sunny disposition, with days either beginning or ending at the beach or, perhaps, even both.

Located just under 90 minutes’ drive from Melbourne, Torquay is the gateway to Victoria’s Great Ocean Road and the Surf Coast’s beating heart. Tim Carson of McCartney Real Estate says it offers all the modern creature comforts that one would expect in Melbourne, but has the feel of a relaxed, close-knit coastal community.

“The local population consists of long-term permanent residents, families, professional couples, and city folks who’ve come for a change of pace,” he says.

“It has a great sense of belonging that promotes diversity and inclusion, where everyone makes the most of its laid-back way of life.”

Although Torquay’s uniform typically involves boardies, wetsuits and thongs, the town’s current median house price of $1.305 million means serious business, growing 35.8 per cent year on year. According to the latest Domain House Price Report, this has contributed to its staggering 86.4 per cent rise over the past five years.

“It’s no wonder Torquay has become one of the most desirable locations; it’s only 30 minutes from Geelong CBD and has easy access to Melbourne via the M1,” Carson says. “There’s a wide variety of properties dotted within the township, expanding from the traditional white weatherboard, ’70s-style beach houses to the more modern, architect-designed homes.”

Adding to Torquay’s burgeoning cafe and restaurant scene, The Kyn, co-owned by longtime local Yasmin Burton, serves a Middle Eastern-inspired menu and overlooks the iconic esplanade’s beachfront.

“I have lived in Torquay/Jan Juc for 10 years now, and it’s definitely no longer a sleepy coastal town,” Burton says. “My ideal weekend would often include a coffee and produce pick-up at the Torquay Farmers Market, a walk along the cliffs of Jan Juc to the beach to watch my partner surf, and a night out at The Kyn with a group of friends for some cocktails and good food.”

Burton says Torquay is a beautiful place year-round, though winters are becoming busier and there’s no better time than summer.

“I love the sunshine and the busyness at that time of year; everyone’s swimming, catching up with friends, and heading out to eat and drink locally,” she says.

One to watch

$3,200,000 - $3,400,000

185 The Esplanade, Torquay VIC 3228

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Illuminated by a wall of windows, this seaside property capturing breathtaking views of Torquay’s coastline has three separate living areas and a main bedroom suite with a separate balcony perched in the north-east corner.