Your guide to the 2026 Rip Curl Pro

The Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach returns in 2026 with added significance, marking the first stop on the World Surf League Championship Tour for the very first time and celebrating 50 years of professional surfing.

Held in Torquay, the birthplace of Rip Curl, the event is the longest-running competition in the sport and a cornerstone of surfing culture. Past champions include icons such as Stephanie Gilmore and Mick Fanning, reinforcing its place at the heart of the sport.

Here’s what’s on:

Wednesday 1 April

The waiting period begins, with competition to begin as conditions allow.

From 1–7 April, fans can catch live coverage on the jumbo screen at the Rip Curl Torquay store.

At 5pm, Darren Handley hosts a DHD Board Night alongside special guests.

At 6pm, Feast Studios hosts the Decal Exhibition, showcasing surf-inspired graphic art.

Friday 3 April

The TRACKS Party takes over Torquay Surf Lifesaving Club from 7pm, headlined by Beddy Rays.

Saturday 4 April

A major day for fan engagement across Torquay.

At 4.30pm, Rip Curl Torquay hosts a team signing featuring surfers Molly Picklum, Stephanie Gilmore, Erin Brooks, Tya Zebrowski, Crosby Colapinto and Dane Henry.

Strapper Surf at Surf City Plaza hosts 2025 world champion Yago Dora from 4pm to 5pm, alongside the Rusty Surf Team and a live heat press station.

Boardriders Torquay also hosts signings with Quiksilver, Roxy, Volcom and RVCA athletes.

Fans are encouraged to bring a wetsuit to recycle and skip queues at the Rip Curl store.

 

Sunday 5 April

The ‘Sketchy’ film premieres at 5pm at the Torquay Hotel.

A Q&A with former world champion Tom Carroll takes place at 4 Pines Torquay.

Saturday 11 April

The Swell Sessions wrap up the festival at 4pm at Torquay Surf Lifesaving Club, headlined by The Terrys.

Surf fans will have multiple chances across the Easter long weekend to meet world champions and rising stars, offering rare access to some of the sport’s biggest names.

All appearances remain subject to change depending on competition conditions.
For fans unable to make the trip, the entire event will stream live via the World Surf League website.