Winter is only a few months away in Australia, and to the cold water enthusiasts, that means it's almost polar plunge season! A polar plunge is a swim in water that is 15 degrees Celsius or less, that can deliver the same mental and physical health benefits of an ice bath. If you're looking for the best beaches or rivers to do a polar plunge in Australia this winter, then we have you covered:
Bondi Beach, Sydney Bondi Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Australia and the perfect spot for a winter dip. During the winter months, the water temperature at Bondi Beach drops to around 15 degrees Celsius, making it right at the appropriate temperature to get the proven benefits of cold water exposure. The Bondi Icebergs Club is also nearby, offering a heated pool for those who need to warm up after their swim.
St Kilda Beach, Melbourne's St Kilda Beach is a popular destination for Melburnians looking to polar plunge in Port Phillip Bay. The water temperature can drop to around 12 degrees Celsius during winter, making it a perfect spot for a polar plunge. The nearby St Kilda Sea Baths also offer heated indoor and outdoor pools for those who need to warm up after their swim.
Cottesloe Beach, Perth Cottesloe Beach is a stunning spot for a swim any time of year, but during the winter months the water temperature drops to around 15 degrees Celsius. The beach is also home to the annual Cottesloe Polar Bear Swim, which takes place on New Year's Day and draws crowds of brave swimmers who take the plunge together.
Lake Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains For those who are little more hard core and prefer fresh over salt water, Lake Jindabyne in the Snowy Mountains is a great spot for a polar plunge. The lake is fed by the Snowy River and has an average water temperature of around 10 degrees during winter. It's also surrounded by stunning alpine scenery, making for a beautiful winter swim experience.
Plunge ANY TIME OF YEAR, AT HOME with a VITALICE Ice Bath, a lot of us want to experience the benefits of cold water therapy daily without having to schlep it to a nearby watering hole. Those folks should consider ordering a VITALICE ice bath to set up at home and easily plunge on a daily basis (in winter AND summer!)
Make sure you follow our tips for a safe and enjoyable polar plunge:
- ALWAYS check the water temperature and conditions before entering.
- Enter the water slowly to avoid shock to your system
- Limit your time in the water to a few minutes and get out if you start to feel too cold.
- Have warm clothes and a warm drink waiting for you when you get out.