Would you brave a swim in the icy Atlantic on a winter’s day? For Polar Bear enthusiasts, a plunge into the icy cold Atlantic Ocean is an annual New Year’s tradition.
If you’re looking to participate in a Polar Bear Plunge this year (yes, we know it’s not for everyone – but you can bundle up and watch from the shoreline), here are a few to choose from along the Jersey Shore, or you can head to New York and join the polar bears at Coney Island.
Make sure you check for updates before heading to the Shore.
January 1
Sons of Ireland Polar Bear Plunge
The Berkeley Hotel, Asbury Park
This event supports Hazlet’s Hope Network and The Samaritan Center at The Jersey Shore.
Polar Bear Plunge – Plunge for a Purpose
Landshark Bar & Grill, Resorts Casino & Hotel, Atlantic City
The plunge raises money for the Cancer Support Community New Jersey at Gilda’s Club.
Brigantine Polar Bear Plunge
16th/17 Street Beach, Brigantine
Celebrate 100 years of service from Brigantine’s police, fire, public works and lifeguard members during this plunge.
Polar Bear Plunge
Essex Avenue Beach, Margate
Robert’s Place will hold its 31st annual plunge into the ocean.
First Day Plunge
Music Pier, Eighth Street side, Ocean City
Part of the First Day (New Year’s Day) festivities in Ocean City include the Polar Plunge and First Day 5K.
Ventnor City Polar Plunge and Winter Festival
Polar Plunge: Newport Avenue Beach, Ventnor City
Winter Festival: St. James Memorial Hall, Ventnor City
Start your afternoon inside the church hall, where there will be inflatable games, music, a chili cookoff, and food and beer specials. Head out to the Atlantic for the plunge. Then, warm up at the afterparty at Ventnor Social.
Polar Bear Plunge
Coney Island Beach, Brooklyn, NY
The Coney Island Polar Bear Club is the oldest winter bathing club in the U.S., dating back to 1903.
January 17
Special Olympics New Jersey Polar Bear Plunge
Wildwoods Convention Center, Wildwood
Plungers should dress up in costume, break out their plunge props, and make banners and signs before jumping into the icy waters of the Atlantic. After, plungers (and kids under 12) and have lunch inside the convention center. Note: spectators are free, but plungers must fundraise.
2026 LADACIN Plunge
Manasquan
Lifetime Assistance for Developmental and Challenging Individual Needs (LADACIN) Network hosts the plunge, which invites you to warm up at Leggett’s Sand Bar and Restaurant for a party after your swim.
February 7
Patriot Polar Plunge
Sea Girt
Support the LIFT Fund for veterans at Habitat for Humanity, which provides critical home repairs for veterans in Monmouth County. The ceremony is in honor of State Trooper and National Guardsman Juan Fajardo. There is an after-party with breakfast at Rod’s Tavern.
Valentine Plunge
Manasquan
Show your “love” by collecting donations for ALS patients.
February 28
Polar Bear Plunge
Seaside Heights
Dress up, bring props and join thousands of brave jumpers from around the state who are supporting Special Olympics New Jersey athletes.
Fallen Hero Plunge
15 Street Beach, North Wildwood
The Fallen Hero Plunge is dedicated to the memory of law enforcement heroes who lost their lives in the line of duty. Dress up in costume before dipping into the ocean; prizes will be awarded. After, the post-plunge party happens at Keenan’s Irish Pub and other restaurants.
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Read More:
Where to Spend New Year’s Day in New Jersey
Free Things To Do in January in New Jersey
Best Fairs and Festivals in New Jersey in January
