The Mornington Twilight Swim is summer magic, bottled. With the sun dipping low over the water, swimmers dive in for an evening dip unlike any other. It’s a community favourite, laid-back, welcoming, and a little bit magical.
Held at Mills Beach on the Mornington Peninsula, this swim offers something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned swimmer after a 2.5km workout or a first-timer giving the 400m a go. The late start time means you get to experience the beauty of golden-hour ocean swimming, with the water warm, the light soft, and the post-swim chats stretching into the night.
It’s a swim, a celebration, and a local tradition all in one. Stick around after your dip for music, food, and that unbeatable Friday feeling.
Join the fun, friendly statewide challenge linking this swim and 9 other iconic Victorian swims and go in the draw for amazing prizes, including a Swim the Whitsundays tour, the new 2026 Pier to Pine Norfolk Island escape, and post-event giveaways all season. Plus, the first merch range of the new era has landed! Sign Up Today
*The courses on this map are approximate; the final courses on the day may differ
Mills Beach is a Mornington gem, tucked away, golden-sanded, and framed by colourful bathing boxes. The beach faces Port Phillip Bay, meaning the water is usually calm, clear, and protected from big ocean swell.
Twilight in January brings pleasant water temps (around 21–23°C), often glassy conditions, and a relaxed vibe that makes this the perfect introduction to ocean swimming, or a scenic setting for your first big distance.
Wetsuits are optional, most swimmers go without in the summer warmth. All swimmers must be capable of completing their chosen distance unaided. Water safety will be in place, and lifeguards are stationed across all swim legs.
5pm – Rego opens
6pm – Swims start
Post-swim festivities with food and entertainment
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.
Mills Beach has a spacious car park and is just minutes from Mornington town centre. Parking can fill up quickly, so arrive early if you want to grab a prime spot. There are toilets and change facilities available, plus plenty of space to relax pre- and post-swim.
After your swim, head up into Mornington for dinner or a drink with mates. Grab some takeaway fish and chips or hit one of the many local wine bars or cafés. The whole area comes alive in the evening, perfect for toasting your twilight swim with a sunset view.
This is a GVSS Event
A new format, Masters club comp, and exciting new prize draws.
WIN an OceanFit Swim The Whitsundays tour!
Upcoming events in the series
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