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Coogee Island Challenge

Coogee SLSC

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At a glance

Sun, 30 Nov 2025

Coogee Beach, Coogee NSW

Ocean Swim

800m, 1km & 2.4km

Around A Feature
Around The Buoys
Dash For Cash

Hold The Date Details for this event will be finalised when entries open

Why this event?

The swim that kicks off Sydney’s ocean season, clean, crisp, and oh-so-Coogee

The Spring Coogee Island Challenge is your seasonal warm-up to summer swimming. With Sydney’s ocean swim calendar kicking off, this event brings clean conditions, relaxed energy, and a satisfying challenge to swimmers of all levels.

The 2.4km course loops around Wedding Cake Island, a reefy, wave-kissed landmark that gives the swim its punch. With 800m and 1km options inside the bay, it’s also the perfect day out for juniors or first-timers.

What's on offer

800m Ocean Swim

Junior Dash

This swim is a great introduction for the kids and the rectangle course sits just off the beach, with loads of surf lifesavers in the water providing support and comfort for the junior swimmers.

10 - 12 Years Old

1km Ocean Swim

Splash and Dash

This swim is encapsulated within the surf-free waters of Coogee Bay. This swim is perfect for beginners or those experienced ocean swimmers wanting a warm-up for the Challenge later in the morning.

13 Years Old

2.4km Ocean Swim

Wedding Cake Island

This swim is one lap circumnavigating the famous (in the Eastern Suburbs) Wedding Cake Island. Starting at the north end of the beach, swimmers will head out past the northern headland to swim clockwise around the island. Once around the back, buoys will mark the course straight back to the beach, this time finishing in the middle of the beach to a roaring crowd lined up along the walkway. When swimming around Wedding Cake Island, you may experience some mild to challenging conditions, including a sweep and wave reflection. But don’t fear, the beautiful underwater views and stunning views of the island make for an exceptional swim.

13 Years Old

What to expect in the water

Coogee Beach faces southeast and is flanked by headlands, with the island providing natural protection. Spring conditions are typically calm in the early morning, with clear water and light surf. Water temps average 19–21°C, fresh, but manageable.

Swimmer essentials

Wetsuits optional. The 2.4km swim requires good open-water skills and confidence in variable ocean conditions. Full water safety coverage in place.

The run sheet

7:30am – Registration opens
8:30am – Junior swim start
9:00am – 1km swim start
10:00am – 2.4km Island Challenge start
11:30am – Presentations and community BBQ

Getting there & around

Coogee Beach is well-serviced by public transport and has limited street parking. Get there early, walk down to the surf club, and soak up the energy. Family-friendly and flat access all around.

Coogee Beach

Coogee NSW, Australia

While you're there

After your swim, stroll to Coogee Pavilion, pick up a coffee at The Diver Café, or soak up the sun on the grass. It’s a full morning of community, coast, and connection.