The Leisure Coast Kitchens Shellharbour Ocean Swim feels like a warm handshake from the South Coast. Scenic, inclusive, and set against the reefy beauty of Shellharbour’s Main Beach, just 90 minutes south of Sydney, it’s a swim that blends natural charm with easygoing community vibes.
From first-timers taking on the 400m, to cruisy 1.2km swimmers, to those stretching out over the 2km course, there’s a distance for everyone. The relaxed pace, clear water, and welcoming atmosphere make it a feel-good day in and out of the ocean.
Shellharbour always turns it on, so expect sunshine, friendly faces, and plenty of post-swim banter on the sand.
Why not turn it into a South Coast double and head down to Gerringong on Sunday for the Captain Christie Ocean Swim? Make a weekend of it, two iconic coastal swims, one beautiful stretch of coastline.
*The courses on this map are approximate; the final courses on the day may differ
Shellharbour North Beach is a local favourite, with a mix of reef and sand underfoot, clear water, and typically calm conditions. In April, water temperatures sit around 21–23°C, and early mornings are often glassy and mild.
Courses run either parallel to the beach or across the reef, depending on the day’s conditions. Lifesavers, IRBs, and board paddlers provide strong water safety coverage throughout.
Conditions are typically calm, though some reef sections and light swell exposure mean swimmers should be comfortable in open water.
The 2km course is best suited to intermediate and experienced ocean swimmers, while the shorter distances are welcoming and beginner-friendly.
Wetsuits and fins are permitted in the Anything Goes category only. Swimmers in this category are eligible for prizes in the overall Anything Goes division, with separate male and female awards, but are not eligible for age category prizes.
New Swim Caps!
All entrants will receive an event-branded hi-vis silicone cap to mark their achievement.
Prizes
Cash prizes for Male and Female Open winners in 2km ($250 – 1st, $150 – 2nd, $75 – 3rd)
Age Category prizes for 1.2km swim.
7:00–8:00 am – 400m registration open
7:00–8:15 am – 1.2km & 2km registration open
8:15 am – 1.2km & 2km swim briefing (Shellharbour SLSC)
8:30 am – 400m swim start (Shellharbour Beach)
9:15 am – 1.2km & 2km swim starts (Shellharbour Boat Harbour)
10:30 am (based on final finishers) – Presentations 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.
Highlight reel
Just 90 minutes south of Sydney, Shellharbour blends coastal escape with event-day ease. Come for the day or make a weekend of it, either way, it’s an easy trip with plenty of room to move.
There’s ample free parking near Shellharbour Surf Life Saving Club, which doubles as the event hub and finish line. Arrive early to secure a spot and enjoy a warm-up wander along the coastal track before the action begins.
Swimmers will walk over the hill to Shellharbour Boat Harbour for the start, while supporters can follow the rock platform back toward the surf club, offering elevated views of the course and prime cheering positions.
Prefer public transport? Regular trains run from Sydney to Shellharbour Junction, with local buses, taxis, or rideshare connecting you to the beach. It’s a relaxed, scenic option if you’d rather skip the drive.
With beaches, walking trails, and the vibrant Shellharbour village all close by, it’s a smooth and scenic setup for swimmers and supporters alike.
After your swim, don’t rush off, Shellharbour is the kind of place that invites you to slow down and soak it all in.
Start with coffee and brekky at The Sands at the surf club. Or, if you’re ready to celebrate, head to the newly renovated deck at the Ocean Beach Hotel for a laid-back lunch and sweeping ocean views that make every stroke feel worth it.
Stretch out on the grassy foreshore, relive the swim with your crew, or wander through Shellharbour Village, packed with boutique shops, bakeries, and easy coastal charm. The Shellharbour Ocean Pool is just around the corner if you’re keen for a gentle float or cool-down dip with a view.
Feeling active? The coastal walk hugs the headland with breezy ocean outlooks, perfect for an easy leg stretch. Or grab a picnic and laze the morning away beneath the Norfolk pines.
It’s a welcoming beachside town with a relaxed pace and plenty to explore, whether you’re staying for the day or making a full weekend of it. One swim here and you’ll see why Shellharbour is more than just a stop, it’s a vibe.
Why not turn it into a South Coast double and head down to Gerringong on Sunday for the Captain Christie Ocean Swim?
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