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Mon, 21 Apr 2025

Terrigal Beach, Terrigal NSW

Ocean Swim

400m, 1km & 2km

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Last held on Mon, 21 Apr 2025

Terrigal Ocean Swim Classic

Terrigal SLSC

How to enter

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At a glance

Mon, 21 Apr 2025

Terrigal Beach, Terrigal NSW

Ocean Swim

400m, 1km & 2km

Around The Buoys

Why this event?

A fun and exciting set of open water events for all ages at Terrigal

The Terrigal Ocean Swim Classic is the kind of event that just feels good. A long-standing Central Coast favourite, it blends scenic beauty, surf club spirit, and a course that’s as enjoyable as it is rewarding. Whether you’re a first-time ocean swimmer eyeing off the shorter option, or a seasoned swimmer ready to take on the 2km classic, there’s a course here that fits.

Terrigal Beach itself is a stunner, protected by a headland and watched over by a solid team of lifesavers, it makes for smooth conditions and great spectator viewing. And the atmosphere? It’s a perfect mix of laid-back local and buzz-of-the-day excitement. Think beachside banter, towel-wrapped kids cheering on parents, and swim squads out in force to wrap up the season on a high.

Held just after Easter, it’s a great way to balance out the choc-fest, shake off the autumn cobwebs, and take advantage of the lingering warm water before winter creeps in. Plus, with plenty of cafés, rock pools, and post-swim hangs nearby, it’s an easy one to turn into a full Sunday out.

From salty first-timers to old-school swim legends, the Terrigal Ocean Swim Classic is the kind of event where everyone’s welcome, and everyone leaves with a smile (and maybe a sandy pair of thongs).

On the day

What's on offer

1km Ocean Swim

10 years

Ideal for younger swimmers or those new to ocean conditions, this 1km swim is the perfect way to dip into the ocean swim scene with confidence. Set against the stunning backdrop of Terrigal Beach, one of the Central Coast’s most iconic stretches of sand, this swim follows an around-the-buoys course designed to be friendly, achievable, and full of good vibes. The protected bay offers relatively calm conditions, making it great for juniors stepping up from the pool or adults keen to try their first open-water event. With solid water safety on hand and plenty of cheers from the sand, this is the kind of swim that turns nervous first-timers into ocean swim fans for life.

2km Ocean Swim

10 years

A looped course off Terrigal Beach with clear buoys, IRB support, and plenty of space to settle into your stroke. Swimmers will kick off from the sand before heading out into a well-marked around-the-buoys course that showcases the best of Terrigal’s picturesque bay. Whether you’re chasing a time or cruising for the scenery, this 2km swim is equal parts challenge and charm. The water’s usually clear, the vibe’s relaxed, and there’s enough room to find your rhythm and enjoy the ride. With experienced water safety crews keeping watch and the cheers of the crowd drifting across the waves, it’s a satisfying swim that always finishes with a smile.

400m Ocean Swim

Daffodil Dip

10 years

This one’s for everyone, swimmers, dippers, paddlers, and those just here for a good time. The Daffodil Dip is a 400-metre loop around the cheerful ‘Goldie’ daffodil buoy, floating proudly just off the beach. Whether you freestyle your way around the course or take it slow and soak in the salty serenity, this is the swim that’s all about community spirit and joyful movement. Not up for the full loop? No worries. Non-swimmers can still join the fun with a splash in the safety zone, surrounded by surf lifesavers and good vibes. It’s the perfect way to start your morning, with salt on your skin, a smile on your face, and the whole beach cheering you on.

What to expect in the water

Terrigal is a northeast-facing beach, which usually means smaller swell and gentle currents. The bay is partially protected by the Skillion headland, giving swimmers a calm but open water experience. In April, water temps average 22–23°C, perfect for a skin swim or a comfy wetsuit cruise.

Swimmer essentials

Wetsuits optional. This event is beginner-friendly with solid safety measures in place. Ideal for first-time ocean swimmers and regulars wanting a relaxed, scenic course.

What’s on when

7:00 am–9:45 am: Registration opens at Terrigal Surf Club

9:00 am: 1km Junior/Novice Swim start

10:00 am: 2km swim start

11:00 am: Daffodil Dip

Medal ceremony following the completion of the 2km swim

Prepare for this event

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.

Photo highlights

Highlight reel

Getting there & around

Terrigal Haven is your main hub for the swim, and it’s well set up for a cruisy morning. There’s all-day free parking available right at the Haven, just a stone’s throw from the event site. From there, it’s a short and scenic stroll along the new boardwalk to Terrigal Beach, ideal for a pre-swim warm-up or a post-swim wander with your coffee in hand.

If the Haven fills up (and it often does during holidays), head to the Wilson Street multi-storey car park. It’s got all-day free undercover parking and is just a few minutes’ walk down to the action.

Cafés, public toilets, and showers are all nearby, so you can rinse off, refuel, and relax without needing to go far. If you’re travelling in, aim to arrive early for the best parking options and time to enjoy the beachside buzz before your swim.

Terrigal Beach

Terrigal NSW, Australia

While you're there

Terrigal is more than just a swim spot; it’s a full-blown weekend escape wrapped up in beachy charm. After your swim, refuel at Bellyfish Café or grab a seaside bite at The Haven Beach Café, both just steps from the finish line. For something a little fancier, there are plenty of waterfront restaurants ready to serve up brunch with a view (and maybe a cheeky mimosa to celebrate your swim).

Keen to stretch out the legs? Walk it off with a stroll along the scenic Boardwalk from the Haven to Terrigal Beach, or head up to The Skillion Lookout for panoramic views of the coastline. It’s a local favourite and a must-do while you’re in town.

If you’re making a weekend of it (and why wouldn’t you?), bring your surfboard, snorkels, or fishing rod, or simply pack a picnic and spend the arvo relaxing on the golden sand. With local markets, boutique shops, and plenty of good coffee, Terrigal delivers that salty, relaxed energy that keeps people coming back.

Whether you’re here for a hit-out or a holiday, there’s no better way to spend your swim day.