Take the plunge: FREE swimming communities around Perth
by Brooke Pree, Nutrition and Health Promotion student
- August 19, 2024
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When considering low-cost exercise options, swimming is often overlooked, despite it being a fantastic form of fitness. There are some well-priced public swimming pools out there, or you can head to the beach and swim for free!
We understand that heading for a solo swim in the ocean might not be everyone’s cup of tea. But never fear, there are lots of great local groups out there that can help make ocean swimming feel a little more comfortable.
Find a local group
Depending on your area, you might like to join a local swimming club or social group. Cold Nips is a community group that meets early Wednesday mornings for a cold plunge in the water at different coastal locations around Perth. They regularly have free yoga, Pilates and silent disco parties as well if you want to join extra early - these are announced (in addition to their location of the week) on their Instagram. Hang around afterwards to grab a coffee at a local cafe and meet some new likeminded people.
Sea Gals is a women's-only group that meets for sunrise swims on different days at various locations around Perth. Their mission is to create a community in which women can connect with others, themselves and nature through cultivating a sense of belonging and community. If you’re looking to connect with other women, get outdoors and get active, Sea Gals is a great place to start. See their Instagram for location and date announcements.
If you’re near Cottesloe, the North Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club Pod Squad swim around 2 km every morning (or more) and meet 365 days of the year (starting 6:15 am on weekdays during summer, 6:45 am on weekdays during winter and 7 am on weekends and public holidays). Check out their Facebook page for updates.
For Freo locals, the Port Beach Polar Bears are a swimming club established in 1992 that swim year round (hence the name) at Port Beach. They meet each morning from 5:30 am – 8 am for a swim and post-dip tea and toast in the clubrooms. As numbers are capped, it is best to reach out directly.
To find another swim group in your area, see the Ocean Swims page.
Stay safe
Swimming between the flags is super important, whether you’re swimming alone or not. The red and yellow flags indicate a safe and patrolled area to swim in, identified by lifeguards both for your safety and theirs. Thanks to technology, it’s now easier than ever to find a patrolled beach, just download the Beachsafe App from the App Store or Google Play (or visit their website).
Surf Life Saving Australia also has some great tips to stay beach safe:
- Swim at patrolled beaches
- Swim between the red and yellow flags
- Follow the STOP, LOOK and PLAN approach: STOP to check for rips. LOOK for other dangers. PLAN how to stay safe.
- Ensure children are supervised in and around water
- Always wear a lifejacket when boating, fishing or paddling
- Avoid alcohol and drugs around water
- Check the water conditions and weather forecast
Swimming with others is a great way to stay safe and finding an empowering community to support your swimming journey can be key. It also has some amazing health benefits and is a great way to move your body without breaking the bank. You can read more about the benefits of swimming here. And if the water isn’t for you, check out our other blog post on finding free fitness classes in Perth.
[Photo by S O C I A L . C U T on Unsplash]
DISCLAIMER: the information included in this article was correct at the time of publication. For up-to-date information please reach out to event coordinators and organisations directly.
