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 left and freedom on your right.
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.
*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.
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.
Pre-event: Use the event support contact form for all event queries.
Event day: For support on the day of the event, talk to an event official. Urgent event updates will be communicated via SMS. If you don’t hear from us, the event is on as and where scheduled.
Transfers: You can transfer yourself to a different distance or transfer your entry to another person via your Race Roster dashboard up until 12 pm the day prior to the event. Fees may apply. Visit your dashboard
Refunds: View the event’s withdrawl and cancellation policies.
Want extra peace of mind? Enhanced Refund Protection is like registration insurance; think travel insurance, but for your event entry.
Click here to read the full details and see if it’s right for you.
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