In recent years diving into the chilly waters around the Cornish coast at Christmas time has become something of a tradition for many families.
Though this is certainly not for the faint of heart, with a little preparation many swear that an icy dip in the sea is a really wonderful and life affirming thing to do during the festive celebrations. With that in mind we have gathered together all the locations where you can join in on a Christmas or Boxing Day swim in Cornwall. Plus some top tips to help you to get the most out of your experience!
Top Tips for a Jolly Holiday Sea Swim this Winter:
- Dress for the conditions – if you are used to swimming in the sea all year round you might be fine in just your swimming costume but for most people this is something they only do once a year. Although most people like to just brave it, there is no shame in coming prepared and wearing a wet suit!
- Wear fancy Dress – Getting in the Christmas spirit while not compulsory is very much encouraged so dig out those Santa jumpers, woolly hats and tinsel!
- Give your body time to acclimatise – at these events most people just charge in and out of the water very quickly but if you can resist the urge you might find it less painful and more enjoyable to slowly ease yourself in . . .
- Don’t stay in to long – your core body temperature can fall very quickly in cold water so just beware and go and warm up whenever you feel you need too.
- Bring lots of things to help you warm up – It is a really lovely idea to bring hot drinks to warm you from the inside as well as towels and lots of warm, dry clothes. Some people like to bring hot water bottles or hand warmers too. A little bit of sugar helps to give you a boost, so don’t forget the mince pies!
- Always swim at an organised event – it might sound obvious but always swim with others, especially if you are new to sea swimming and are not familiar with the beach or the tides.
- Give generously – many of the organised swims have an entrance fee or ask for a donation and all that money goes to a local charity. So you can feel good about yourself too, once your toes have thawed out!
Christmas Day Swims
- Gyllyngvase Beach, Falmouth – 10am
- Sennen – 11am
- Poldhu – 11am
- Charlestown harbour – 11.30am
- Cadgwith Cove – 12pm
- Coverack Harbour – 12.30pm
Boxing Day Swims
- Perranporth – 10.45am
- Porthtowan – 11am
- Polzeath – 11am
- Trevaunance Cove, St Agnes – 11am
- Crooklets Beach, Bude – 11am
- Porthminster Beach, St Ives – 12pm
And finally . . .
For those feeling really brave, wanting to blow away the cobwebs and really start 2024 with a splash then there are a few New Year’s Day swims too.
Newquay Harbour
Readymoney Cove
Gyllyngvase Beach
Harlyn Bay.