The Jetty to Jetty Cold Water Classic is more than just a swim; it’s a ritual on the Sapphire Coast. Set in the pristine waters of Merimbula Lake, this 1.2km lake crossing blends community spirit with a genuine cold-water challenge.
Swimmers travel from one iconic jetty to another, navigating both with and against the tide. The flatwater setting removes the unpredictability of surf and swell, but don’t mistake calm for easy. Cool water and tidal currents ensure the course still asks a question of you, especially if you’re chasing a meaningful fitness marker.
That’s part of its appeal. When organised open water swims in this part of the world can be few and far between, Jetty to Jetty offers something rare: a safe, scenic cold-water challenge without the anxiety of heavy surf or open ocean conditions. For newer swimmers, the lake environment feels approachable and contained. For seasoned athletes, it’s a refreshing test of resilience, pacing, and adaptability.
Over time, it has become a social badge of honour. Clubs, colleagues, and groups of friends rally together for a weekend away, a bit of friendly rivalry, and the quiet satisfaction of doing something most people wouldn’t even consider. The result is a unique mix of tourism, local pride, and personal achievement that keeps swimmers coming back.
There’s no stopwatch stress required, just the buzz of braving the chill, swimming side by side, and emerging with that unmistakable post-swim glow. Clear water, crisp air, good company. Open water swimming at its most invigorating and wonderfully local.
Merimbula Lake is tidal, connected to the ocean via a bar, so water movement is influenced by the tide. Swimmers can expect sections where the current assists and sections where it provides added resistance. The event is organised and marshalled on water by Pambula Surf Life Saving Club, ensuring a well-supported and professionally managed swim.
Festival-branded swim caps are included for participants, with official event towels and T-shirts also available. Finisher medals and category prizes will be presented to winners onsite during the event presentations.
Prize categories include Male and Female divisions, wetsuit and non-wetsuit classifications, and an Under 16 category.
8:00 am – Registration opens
9:00 am – Ripple Racers start
9:30 am – 200m Mitches Jetty Salty Swim start
10:30 am – 1.2km Jetty to Jetty Lake Swim start
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
Learn online with the OceanFit Academy or join a hands-on ocean clinic to improve your surf and open water skills.
There is ample free parking close to the swim site, with easy pedestrian access to Mitchies Jetty and the event hub. The start area is within comfortable walking distance of most accommodation in Merimbula, making it simple to leave the car parked for the weekend.
If you prefer not to drive, a range of local transport options are available, including taxi and rideshare-style services operating throughout the area.
The Jetty to Jetty Cold Water Classic is part of the WinterSun Festival’s vibrant Waterfest, held each year over the June long weekend in Merimbula. What starts with a lake swim quickly rolls into a full weekend of activity, energy, and coastal celebration.
Waterfest also features the Splash and Dash, a 150m plunge open to all comers, Pups on SUPS, an on-water challenge for people and their four-legged crew, and the Ripple Racers, a kids beach run and swim event that keeps the next generation moving.
From midday, Streetfest on Market takes over the heart of the Merimbula CBD with live local bands, food trucks, and a licensed area pouring regional brews from local distillers, winemakers, and breweries. It’s a relaxed, lively way to experience the flavour of the Sapphire Coast.
If you’re staying on for the full weekend, there’s plenty more to explore. On Sunday, the Wharf to Wharf Challenge runs from historic Tathra Wharf to Merimbula Wharf, a 27km journey across bush trails and remote sandy beaches. On Monday, the Light to Light Trail stretches 33km from Boyds Tower at Edrom to Green Cape Lighthouse, weaving through breathtaking coastal terrain and finishing at one of the region’s most iconic landmarks.
Swim, run, eat, explore. It’s a long weekend that showcases the Sapphire Coast at its active, adventurous best.
Reviews
No results available
Copyright © 1999-2025 oceanswims.com. All rights reserved.
‘OCEANFIT is a registered trademark of OceanFit Pty Ltd.
