March to May: the sweet spot, with consistent Southern Ocean swell, relatively mild water, and favourable winds; Bells and Winkipop become increasingly reliable through autumn.
June to October: the most powerful and consistent period, with large south-west groundswell lighting up Bells and the surrounding reefs; best suited to intermediate and advanced surfers.
November to February: generally smaller and more manageable, with warmer weather and better conditions for beginners around Torquay’s more sheltered beach breaks.
