SANTA MONICA—The city of Santa Monica posted on its website on Tuesday, December 16 that the eighth annual Polar Bear Plunge will take place on Saturday, January 10, 2026. It is an opportunity for community members of all ages to dive into the new year with an invigorating ocean plunge.
The day starts at the Annenberg Community Beach House Guest Services kiosk for check-in before heading to the beach. At around 10:15 a.m., participants can take an energizing group plunge into the Pacific Ocean, followed by a 300-yard swim out and back around a buoy for those who want to test their stamina.
After the ocean experience, participants can head to the Annenberg Community Beach House pool, open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., to warm up, grab a hot chocolate, or take a photo with Pat the Polar Bear. Admission is required for entering the pool, deck area, and heated showers: $10/adult, $5/senior adult at age 60, $4/youth age 1 through 17.
Event schedule:
10 a.m. Beach house pool opens, check in at Guest Services before heading to beach
10:15 a.m. Ocean plunge
10:25 a.m. 300-yard buoy swim
2 p.m. Event ends
Santa Monica Harbor Patrol, Los Angeles County Fire Department Lifeguards, and city of Santa Monica lifeguards will be on hand to support the ocean plunge and buoy swim.
Advanced online registration is available here. In-person registration may be limited on the day of the event. For event details and information visit: https://www.santamonica.gov/events/4a4rq5j26pfbfrtrbpxrgmjnmr/202601101000.
By Danny Jones