The Mount Martha Annual Diamond Swim, better known as the MMAD Swim, is one of those events that feels like summer done right. Calm bayside waters, a welcoming beach atmosphere, and a strong sense of community make this a favourite on the Victorian open water calendar.
Hosted by the Mount Martha Life Saving Club since 1997, the MMAD Swim has built a reputation as one of the safest and most inclusive swims around. With a huge team of water safety personnel and clearly marked courses, swimmers can focus on enjoying the ocean rather than worrying about what’s ahead.
This is a swim that truly lives by the idea that fitness is a way of life, not a list of goals. Whether it’s your first ocean swim, a family day at the beach, or a longer endurance challenge, there’s space for everyone here.
New for 2026 is the Swim With a Friend, Family or Team category in the 1.2km swim, designed for those who want to share the experience side by side. Laugh, chat, and cross the finish together, because some swims are better shared.
Join the fun, friendly statewide challenge linking this swim and 9 other iconic Victorian swims and go in the draw for amazing prizes, including a Swim the Whitsundays tour, the new 2026 Pier to Pine Norfolk Island escape, and post-event giveaways all season. Plus, the first merch range of the new era has landed! Sign Up Today
Mt Martha Beach sits in the sheltered waters of Port Phillip Bay, making it a friendly and confidence-building location for ocean swimming. Conditions are typically calmer than open coast swims, with minimal swell and clear sighting.
Water temperatures are usually comfortable for summer swimming, with wetsuits allowed for those wanting extra warmth or buoyancy. The beach entry and exit are straightforward, and the course layout keeps swimmers close to shore with plenty of support on hand.
This swim suits first-timers, returning swimmers, families, and seasoned ocean swimmers alike, all enjoying the same beautiful stretch of coastline.
6.30 am – Registration opens
8.00 am – 5km Male start
8.05 am – 5km Female start
9.30 am – Nipper Boys 200m
9.35 am – Nipper Girls 200m
9.45 am – 400m Novice Boys/Men
9.50 am – 400m Novice Girls/Ladies
10.15 am – 5km awards
10.20 am – Nipper awards
11.00 am – 1.2km wave starts
12.02 pm – Swim With a Friend, Family or Team wave
12.30 pm – 1.2km awards
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.
The event is based at the Mount Martha Life Saving Club, located right on the Esplanade at Mt Martha Beach. It’s an easy-to-find, beachfront base and the heart of the day’s activity. Registration takes place on the ground floor of the clubhouse and is accessed via the front car park. Due to space limitations, only swimmers are permitted in the registration area, so supporters are encouraged to enjoy the beach surrounds while check-in is underway.
Off-street parking is available at the Mount Martha Cricket & Football Ground on Seppelt Avenue. From here, it’s a flat 1km walk to the clubhouse with no road crossings, making it a stress-free option on swim morning. The final 100 metres takes you along the beach, and the walk through the Balcombe Estuary boardwalk is a lovely way to ease into the day and soak up the coastal scenery.
There is also limited street parking available along Watson Road near local community facilities, including the tennis courts, preschool, and bowls club. These spots are a little further away but still walkable. Parking regulations will be enforced on the day, so be sure to park legally, allow extra time, and arrive early to avoid any last-minute stress.
If you’re travelling by public transport, trains run regularly to Frankston Station, where you can connect with local bus services heading towards Mt Martha and the Esplanade. From the nearest bus stop, it’s a short walk down to the beach and clubhouse. It’s a great option for swimmers and supporters who want to avoid parking altogether and enjoy a relaxed start to the day.
Mt Martha is a gem on the Mornington Peninsula, offering peaceful beaches and scenic coastal trails. Start with a visit to Mt Martha Village, where you’ll find a selection of charming cafes and shops perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
For a bite to eat, try Mr. Curtis, a cozy spot with ocean views, or the Little Birdy Cafe for fresh, local flavours. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a walk along the Balcombe Estuary Boardwalk, which winds through beautiful wetlands and bushland, or explore the iconic colourful beach boxes along Mt Martha Beach.
This is a GVSS Event
A new format, Masters club comp, and exciting new prize draws.
WIN an OceanFit Swim The Whitsundays tour!
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