Hosted just south of Port Macquarie, the Rainbow Gold Ocean Swim is more than just a dip, it’s a celebration of community, coastlines, and the joy of open water. Set on the sparkling shores of Rainbow Beach in Bonny Hills, this event is all about inclusion, connection, and good vibes.
Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just starting your ocean swimming journey, there’s a distance for everyone, from a breezy 400m splash, a 1km hit-out, to a satisfying 2km loop that lets you truly settle into your stroke. The event is welcoming to all swimmers, from confident kids and first-timers to salty veterans who live for the feel of a clean line through blue water.
There’s something undeniably special about a morning swim at Rainbow Beach. Maybe it’s the soft, golden sand underfoot, the steady break rolling in with gentle rhythm, or the wild beauty of the surrounding headlands. Maybe it’s the easygoing vibe of the Bonny Hills SLSC, tucked between bushland and sea, where community spirit runs deep and friendly faces line the sand.
With calm, clear water and a supportive crew on hand, this event is the perfect excuse to kick off your summer (or your school holidays) with purpose and a smile. Whether you’re road-tripping the coast or planning a relaxed weekend with friends, Rainbow Gold is a reminder that ocean swimming isn’t just about distance; it’s about doing something that makes you feel alive.
So grab your togs, rally your swim mates, and get ready to soak up one of the Mid North Coast’s most scenic swim spots, you’ll leave saltier, sunnier, and smiling from ear to ear.
*The courses on this map are approximate; the final courses on the day may differ
Rainbow Beach is known for its wide sandy stretch, friendly surf, and stunning outlook. It’s a consistent beach with manageable conditions and clear water, great for a spring swim.
In late September, water temps usually sit around 19-21°C, making it a fresh but swimmable experience. Conditions vary, but the beach is patrolled and supported by experienced water safety teams.
Wetsuits are welcome, and likely preferred in early spring. The swim is suitable for ocean swimmers with basic surf confidence. Water safety includes IRBs and board paddlers throughout the course.
Timing
Manual timing by WBHSLSC volunteers.
7:00 am – Registration opens
8:00 am – 400m swim start
8:30 am – 1km swim start
9:30 am – 2km swim start
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.
Bonny Hills is just a cruisy 20-minute drive south of Port Macquarie, making it an easy day trip or the perfect excuse for a weekend coastal escape. There’s free public parking around Rainbow Beach, near the surf club, and along surrounding streets, just get in early if the sun’s shining.
Facilities like toilets, showers, and shady grassy spots are all within easy reach of the start line, so you can set up your post-swim chill zone with ease.
Public transport options are very limited in the area, so we recommend driving or carpooling with your swim crew. If you’re travelling from out of town, plan to base yourself in Port Macquarie or one of the charming local beach towns and enjoy the scenic drive in.
Stick around after your swim for beachside vibes and community cheer. With live music on the grass, local food stalls, and plenty of salty high-fives going around, Rainbow Beach becomes one big ocean-loving celebration.
Wander up to the Bonny Hills Garden Café for a post-swim brunch or grab takeaway fish and chips and settle in under a shady tree with your crew. If you’re feeling energetic, take a walk up the headland for stunning coastal views, or head south to explore Bartlett’s Beach and the nearby Grants Head walking trails.
Make a weekend of it and dive into the relaxed rhythm of the Mid North Coast. Port Macquarie is just up the road, packed with cafes, coastal walks, and that laid-back charm that ocean swimmers love.
It’s the kind of day that starts with a swim and ends with a full heart.
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