2km
2km
The South Curl Curl Ocean Swim is one for the purists, a 2km point-to-point surf swim that delivers on challenge, scenery, and that unbeatable journey feel.
Starting at South Curl Curl and finishing at Freshwater, this iconic course hugs the headland, giving you plenty of room to find your rhythm as you cruise through open blue water with the coastline on your right and freedom on your left.
Along the way, you’ll glide over a small reef, spot fish beneath you, and enjoy a mostly sandy bottom, perfect for those who like to keep an eye on the sea floor as they go.
You’ll ride the swells, maybe catch a bump or two, and come into the beach to the sound of cheers from the classic surf club crowd waiting on the sand. It’s a swim that feels both raw and rewarding, a little wild in all the right ways, and pure Northern Beaches magic.
If you’re into surf swims with soul, this is your kind of Sunday.
This one’s a proper ocean swim adventure, a 2km point-to-point journey that kicks off on the sand in front of South Curl Curl Surf Club and finishes with a classic beach run-up at Freshwater.
You’ll start by diving through the South Curly breakers, then head south around the headland, with cliffs and reef shelves to your right and open blue water stretching ahead.
After rounding the point, a sharp right-hand turn lines you up for your final run into the middle of Freshie, where the finish line, the crowd, and that first post-swim breath of victory await.
This is a one-way swim, so no turning back, just settle into your stroke, ride the swell, and enjoy one of Sydney’s most beautiful coastal stretches. If the weather doesn’t play nice, organisers may reverse the course or offer an alternate route, because safety comes first, but the swim must go on.
*The courses on this map are approximate; the final courses on the day may differ
The swim starts at South Curly and finishes at Freshie – two iconic Northern Beaches surf spots. Expect rolling swell, light currents, and crystal-clear water.
Conditions can vary, so confidence in moderate surf is recommended.
In April, water temps are around 22–23°C and morning conditions are often clean and sunny.
Wetsuits are allowed but not necessary. This swim is best for confident ocean swimmers due to the point-to-point format and variable conditions. Plenty of water safety will be in place, including IRBs, boards, and lifeguards.
Gear Transfer
Gear can be transferred to the finish at Freshwater. If you need to return to Curl Curl, it is recommended that you use the boardwalk, as there is limited scope to safely transfer swimmers by car.
Timing
This event will be professionally timed, with accurate results available shortly after you finish. You’ll be able to check your time on the day and relive the swim once you’re wrapped in a towel and soaking up the post-swim atmosphere.
Gear Transfer
Gear can be transferred to the finish at Freshwater. If you need to return to Curl Curl, it is recommended that you use the boardwalk, as there is limited scope to safely transfer swimmers by car.
7:00-8:00 am – Registration
8:15 am – Pre-swim briefing
8:30 am – Swim start
10:30 am – Presentations & Sausage Sanga @ South Curl Curl surf club
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.
This is a point-to-point swim, so a little planning will make your morning smooth sailing. The swim starts at South Curl Curl Surf Life Saving Club and finishes at Freshwater Beach, so it’s a good idea to sort your transport before the starting horn blows.
Most swimmers park at Freshie, then enjoy the walk over the headland to the start at South Curly. It’s a great warm-up with epic coastal views. If you’re not up for the stroll, grab a lift or take the bus.
The 167 bus route is your best bet; it runs right past South Curl Curl (ideal for start-line drop-offs) and is only one block from the Freshwater finish line, making it easy for post-swim returns. Buses run frequently between Manly, Dee Why, and surrounding suburbs, and can save you the stress of parking altogether.
That said, if you’re driving, both South Curl Curl and Freshwater Beach offer plenty of public parking; just get in early, especially if the sun’s out and the surf is pumping.
However you get there, give yourself time to soak up the buzz, check in, and enjoy the view, because it’s not just about the swim, it’s about the whole morning by the sea.
After your swim, wander back up to the South Curl Curl Surf Club for a complimentary sausage sanga and a relaxed yarn with fellow swimmers and volunteers. Expect friendly faces, a few salty stories, and maybe even a grin from a mate who finished just ahead (or just behind).
Presentations kick off at 10:30 am, with prizes awarded across age categories and overall placings. Stick around, soak it in, and enjoy the post-swim buzz.
2025 | 2024 | 2023 (PDF)
Featured reads
Ratings
Reviews
Copyright © 1999-2026 oceanswims.com. All rights reserved.
‘OCEANFIT is a registered trademark of OceanFit Pty Ltd.
