Pier to Pine Ocean Swim Norfolk Island

Swim the reef, feel the island magic

If you’re looking for an ocean swim experience that feels worlds away, Pier to Pine is it. Set inside the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Kingston precinct, this Easter break unfolds in the turquoise waters of Emily and Slaughter Bay – a sheltered, reef-protected paradise with a backdrop of convict-era ruins, rolling green hills and Norfolk’s famous pines.

Each swim takes place safely inside the reef, including the unique passage through the ‘channel’, giving swimmers of all levels the chance to glide across crystal-clear water in one of the most historically rich and visually stunning locations on earth.

With distances for kids, newcomers and seasoned ocean swimmers alike, Pier to Pine is all about community, connection and the simple joy of being in the water. Come for the swim, stay for the island culture, the warm hospitality and an Easter escape you’ll talk about long after you’re home.

On the day

What's on offer

200m Ocean Swim

Around the Raft

10 years

A fun, confidence-building loop that’s ideal for kids, new swimmers and anyone wanting to join the action. Held close to shore in Emily Bay’s calm shallows, with plenty of cheering from the sand.

600m Ocean Swim

The Channel

12 years

A fast, exciting point-to-point swim starting in Slaughter Bay and threading through the heart of the channel before curving into Emily Bay. Great for developing swimmers or those keen on a shorter, scenic challenge.

1.2km Ocean Swim

Pier to Pine

15 years

Start your swim in the calm, turquoise waters of Emily Bay, then glide through the natural sandy channel toward the historic pier. Take in glimpses of coral and marine life as you loop back through the channel, heading toward the iconic Lone Pine and back to the Beach.

2.5km Ocean Swim

Pier to Pine + Raft

15 years

For those wanting to stretch things out, this longer adventure combines the Pier to Pine route with an extended section around the raft. A rewarding swim that showcases the best of the bay.

What to expect in the water

Emily and Slaughter Bay provide some of the safest, clearest water you’ll ever swim in. The reef forms a natural barrier, smoothing out the swell and keeping conditions calm and glassy. Expect:

Protected, shallow water ideal for all levels
High visibility, often allowing glimpses of reef life below
Gentle, manageable currents inside the reef
A unique swim-through moment as you pass through the historic channel
Excellent spectator viewing from the beach and foreshore

It’s ocean swimming at its most approachable, picturesque and memorable.

Prepare for this event

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

Up The Ante: 2km Training Program
Step up in distance with this training program designed to build you up & guide you all the way to the finish. Learn more

Learn online with the OceanFit Academy or join a hands-on ocean clinic to improve your surf and open water skills.

Getting there & around

Norfolk Island is an easy flight from Australia’s east coast, with regular services from Sydney and Brisbane. Once you’re on the island, everything is close – Emily Bay, the pier and the event hub are all within the Kingston precinct.

A hire car is the best way to explore, giving you access to beaches, clifftop lookouts, local cafés and historic sites at your own pace. Travel packages are available and include flights, accommodation, car hire, transfers, tours, plus optional welcome dinner and recovery breakfast.

Find out more about Norfolk Island and travel packages here.

Emily Bay

Norfolk Island

While you're there

Turn your Pier to Pine weekend into a proper island holiday. Norfolk is small, friendly and overflowing with natural beauty and culture. Make time for: