Boxing Day done differently. Swap the Christmas leftovers for a refreshing ocean swim on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula.

There’s no better way to shake off the Christmas Day food coma than diving into the ocean, and the Point Leo Swim Classic has been helping Victorians do just that for more than 30 years. Held every Boxing Day at Point Leo Beach, this much-loved ocean swim is the perfect excuse to swap the couch for the coast and kick off the summer swimming season.

The event brings together swimmers of all ages and abilities for a morning of salty fun, friendly faces and that unmistakable summer holiday atmosphere. With the beautiful Mornington Peninsula as your backdrop, it’s as much about enjoying a day at the beach as it is about the swim itself.

There are three distances to choose from: 400m, 1.2km and 2.5km, making it a great option for everyone from younger swimmers finding their ocean swimming feet to seasoned regulars ready to stretch out after Christmas. And if swimming isn’t your thing, there’s also a 4km beach run, so the whole family can get amongst the action.

The sheltered waters of Western Port Bay and Point Leo’s sandy shoreline create a welcoming setting, with plenty of room for spectators to spread out along the beach, cheer on their favourite swimmers and soak up the atmosphere.

Once you’ve crossed the finish line, there’s no need to rush off. Grab a coffee, catch up with your swim mates or settle in for a relaxing afternoon by the water. After all, Boxing Day is made for beach days, and Point Leo knows how to do them well.