The Stanwell Park ocean swim challenge is one of the most extraordinary open water swims you’ll ever do.

The 2.3km swim starts at the beautiful Coalcliff Beach and runs along the foot of the Illawarra Escarpment to another stunning beach – Stanwell Park. The course takes swimmers over incredible reefs and sea life.

To take part, competitors must be at least 14 years of age and must be confident in the ocean. If the seas are high, both beaches may pose difficult challenges for swimmers.

Stanwell Park is the perfect place for a weekend getaway. With spectacular beaches, walking trails and picnic spots, there is plenty to do to keep the whole family entertained.

Swim courses

The Stanwell Park ocean swim challenge is one of the most picturesque open water events.

The 2.3km swim takes competitors from the stunning Coalcliff Beach along the Illawarra Escarpment to the beautiful Stanwell Park Beach. The course takes swimmers over striking reefs and sea life.

Athletes must be 14 years and above to do the open water event and must be confident in rough conditions. If sees are high the course can be challenging. Coalcliff has a reef break and Stanwell Park has a beach break with rips and banks. Between the two beaches, the swim is a magnificent clear water journey.

While you’re there

Stanwell Park is the perfect destination for a weekend away. Head there before a couple of days before or stay after the swim to enjoy everything the area has to offer.

With beautiful beaches like Stanwell Park and Coalcliff, the seaside town is complete for the whole family appreciate.

Take the short walk to Madden Falls for breathtaking views of the waterfall running into the pools below.

The area offers a number of exciting and fun trails. The Forest walk to Sublime Point track is amazing, lacing through cliff-top rainforest and dry eucalyptus. The Wodi Wodi walking track is another incredible hike.

Travel and parking

Catch the train to Stanwell Park station via the Illawarra Line, or drive. If you drive from Sydney you can take the tourist drive through Royal National Park, or head straight down the Princes Motorway (M1) for the most direct route.