The Australian National surfing Museum opened its doors in December 1993. Australia's first dedicated surfing history museum was soon recognised by the International Surfing Association as A place of surfing significance.

The ANSM is the largest museum of its kind anywhere in the world and is the only accredited surfing museum. The museum is dedicated to telling the story of Australian surfing through permanent displays and temporary exhibitions and is also the home of the Australian Surfing Hall of Fame which recognises significant Australian surfers and the contributions they have made to industry, sport and culture.

The museum is run under the auspices of the Surf Coast Shire Council and managed by a team that combines full time paid staff and enthusiastic volunteers.

Situated in the heart of Torquay's Surf City precinct the museum is open 9-5, 364 days and welcomes locals, visitors and international travellers keen to explore Australia's rich surfing heritage.