The Bondi to Bronte Ocean Swim is one of those bucket-list events that every ocean swimmer wants to tick off. Each summer, thousands of swimmers take on the iconic 2.2km journey along Sydney’s eastern coastline, gliding past sandstone cliffs, rolling swell, and sparkling blue water between two of Australia’s most loved beaches.

But in 2025, things are going to look a little different. With Bronte Surf Life Saving Club beginning an 18-month redevelopment of its clubhouse, building works will be taking place on Bronte Beach. To keep the event safe and enjoyable for everyone, the course will flip direction for one year only, creating a Special Edition Bronte-to-Bondi swim.

What’s new in 2025

The big news is that the classic 2.2km swim will run in reverse – starting at Bronte and finishing at Bondi. It’s the same distance, but with a whole new perspective on this iconic stretch of coastline. As the organising team put it, “For those who breathe to the left, this is your year to see the coastline!”

The popular 5km marathon event will take a pause for 2025, with plans to bring it back in future editions once the Bronte works are complete.

Meanwhile, the 1km and Junior Ocean Swims (500m & 1km) will continue as usual at Bondi, giving younger swimmers and newcomers their chance to join the day.

And the fast-paced Dash for Cash will also flip for one year, running at Bronte Beach just before the main event. All entrants in the Bronte-to-Bondi swim are eligible to take part, adding an extra buzz to the morning.

Why it’s special

This isn’t just a small change – it’s a rare opportunity to experience the Bondi to Bronte like never before. The organisers say they’re excited to share something truly unique.

“We’re thrilled to offer this one-off Special Edition swim. To maintain safety and enjoyment for everyone, entries will be capped, so we encourage swimmers to register early.”

For long-time swimmers, it’s already shaping up to be a memorable milestone. Bondi resident Rozanne Green, who has swum in every Bondi to Bronte since the very first – where she swam breaststroke because she hadn’t yet learnt freestyle – says she can’t wait to see the course flipped.

“I’m really looking forward to swimming it in reverse after all these years. It’ll be such a unique experience,” she says.

Rozanne will be travelling down from a wedding in Harrington on the Saturday, leaving at 4am to make it to the start.

“If the pressure wasn’t already on not to miss one, this makes it even more of a must-do!”

Key details

• Date: Sunday, 7 December 2025
• Main event: 2.2km Bronte-to-Bondi Special Edition
• Other swims: 1km & Junior swims at Bondi, Dash for Cash at Bronte
• Entries: Capped – opening Tuesday 9 September

Stay connected

The organising team promises to keep swimmers in the loop as the big day approaches: “We’ll be sharing more updates in the coming weeks and right up to event day. Stay connected through the official website, our social media channels, and the event newsletter. If you’re already subscribed, keep an eye on your inbox for updates.”

So whether you’re new to ocean swimming and looking for a safe and fun way to experience it, or a seasoned swimmer eager to add a once-in-a-lifetime twist to your story, this year’s Bondi to Bronte promises to be one for the memory books.