If you’re after a swim that feels like a secret, tucked between headlands, hugged by cliffs, and filled with friendly faces, the Bilgola ‘Billy’ is it. One of the most charming and low-key swims on the Northern Beaches calendar, this event is all about community, connection, and that boutique beach energy you don’t find just anywhere.
It’s the kind of swim where you’ll spot familiar faces, get a warm welcome from the surf club crew, and walk away with salty hair and a big smile. With two distances on offer, it caters to everyone, whether you’re dipping your toe into ocean swimming for the first time or chasing a solid summer hit-out.
The water is usually crystal clear, the beach is tucked away from the crowds, and the setting is pure postcard, natural, unspoilt, and backed by bushland. Add in the laid-back vibe, great local support, and a course that lets you really enjoy the beauty of the bay, and it’s easy to see why the Billy has such a loyal following.
It’s a local favourite for a reason, and once you’ve done it, you’ll be back next year too.
*The courses on this map are approximate; the final courses on the day may differ
Bilgola Beach is nestled between Avalon and Newport, protected by steep headlands that often help reduce swell and block the wind. It’s a beautifully quiet pocket of sand with a gentle slope and usually clean, small surf.
In January, the water sits around 22–24°C, perfect for skins or wetsuits. Conditions are typically manageable, making this swim ideal for those newer to open water or just getting back into it post-holidays.
Wetsuits are welcome but rarely needed in January. Water temps are swimmer-friendly, and the beach is well patrolled with lifesavers and water safety along the course. Be confident in basic open water skills, especially for the 1.5km swim. Bring your goggles, hat, sunscreen, towel and post-swim clothes.
Bag Drop
You can leave your bags at the Bilgola Surf Club bag drop area (gym side door) during the swim.
Event Merchandise
Bilgola “Billy” club merchandise will be for sale on the day.
8:00 am – Registration opens
9:00 am – 500m swim start
10:00 am – 1.5km swim start
10:45 am – Presentations and prize draws
Have A Go: 1km Training Program
Whether you’re coming back after a long break or you’re completely new to swimming, we’ll help you prepare for your 1km swim. Learn more
Learn online with the OceanFit Academy or join a hands-on ocean clinic to improve your surf and open water skills.
Highlight reel
Bilgola’s secluded setting is part of its charm, but it does mean a little extra planning to get there smoothly. There’s very limited parking near the beach, so if you’re after a close spot, arrive early. Otherwise, there are a few solid options nearby with easy access.
Your best bet is Porter Reserve at North Newport. You’ll find the entry via Burke Street, just off Barrenjoey Road on the left as you leave Newport heading north. From there, a free shuttle bus will run regular loops to and from Bilgola Beach, starting at 7:45 am and continuing until around 12 noon. Look for the friendly Billy Swim volunteers holding signs. Free parking at Porter Reserve (current at time of writing this).
You can also park at the Newport Beach car park (Northern Beaches Council parking fees apply). From here, take the beautiful walking track over the headland between North Newport and Bilgola Beach, about a 15 minute walk. Join the track from the north end of Newport Beach car park and enjoy one of the prettiest pre-swim strolls around.
The shuttle bus service operates from Porter Reserve only.
Whichever way you’re getting there, be sure to allow enough time to reach the beach, check in, and soak in the atmosphere before your race kicks off.
Bilgola is the kind of place that gently insists you stay a little longer. After your swim, grab your towel, kick back on the soft sand, and soak up the coastal calm. The heritage-listed ocean pool at the southern end is perfect for a cool-down lap or a quiet float while you watch the waves roll in.
Feeling Peckish?
Enjoy a delicious bacon and egg or sausage sandwich in the club garden, thanks to our Nippers chefs.
Visit Zuby’s at Billy for your favourite coffees/teas/drinks and a great all-day menu
Stroll or drive over the headland to Avalon Village, just five minutes away and packed with post-swim treats. Brunch at Nourished is always a winner (their acai bowls are as photogenic as they are delicious), or grab a strong brew from The Sneaky Grind and watch the village go by. Other local gems include Classic Coffee, La Banette for pastries, or Poke Bros for something fresh and filling.
Got time to spare? Wander through Avalon’s boutique shops, take the scenic headland walk for some stunning photo ops, or head back to Bilgola for one more dip, just because you can. It’s the kind of swim morning that turns into a full-blown coastal escape.
Pre-event: Use the event support contact form for all event queries.
Event day: For support on the day of the event, talk to an event official. Urgent event updates will be communicated via SMS. If you don’t hear from us, the event is on as and where scheduled.
Transfers: You can transfer yourself to a different distance or transfer your entry to another person via your Race Roster dashboard up until 12 pm the day prior to the event. Fees may apply. Visit your dashboard
Refunds: View the event’s withdrawl and cancellation policies.
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