22 June 2026 Chess Damant

Wim Hof, the legendary Iceman, who’s captured the world’s attention with his incredible feats of endurance in extreme cold environments. Combining cold exposure, breathing techniques, and meditation, Wim Hof has inspired countless people to push their limits and tap into their full potential.

Take the plunge or go for a winter surf at these spots around Geelong and The Bellarine, not only are you braving the cold; you’re embracing a mindset of resilience, strength, and vitality.

Geelong

Enjoy Geelong’s iconic waterfront promenade and stunning views of Corio Bay, Eastern Beach is the perfect place to dip your toes into cold water swimming. Whether you’re looking to swim laps in the enclosed swimming area or float, Eastern Beach is the perfect spot.

Geelong Waterfront Swimming

The Bellarine

Ocean Grove & Barwon Heads

Ocean Grove Main Beach is popular for swimming and a great spot to learn to surf. Those with a bit more experience under their leg rope should head around to Thirteenth Beach in Barwon Heads of RAAFs Beach in Ocean Grove. The Barwon Estuary is ideal for paddling on the right tide. Watch your step, ankle deep can become hip deep in a flash.

Queenscliff & Point Lonsdale

Surf at Point Lonsdale Back Beach or enjoy the more protected family-friendly Point Lonsdale Front Beach opposite the main street. Enjoy the tranquillity of Santa Casa Beach in Queenscliff with small waves and rock pools, excellent for snorkelling.

Clifton Springs, Portarlington & St Leonards

Clifton Springs was named for the mineral springs spa resort which operated between the 1870’s and the 1920’s. The Dell is a natural amphitheatre with views across the bay to the You Yangs (Wurdi Youang) and Melbourne. Its the perfect spot for swimming, picnics and walking – make sure to check out the new artificial reef. Head to Portarlington Beach beside the pier for the gentler waves or to the strip of sand from Indented Head to St Leonards – clear, gentle and great for snorkelling.

The Bluff, Barwon Heads
Salty Bitches, St Leonards
Salty Bitches, St Leonards

Don’t just dip your toes, take the plunge and experience the rush of resilience, strength, and vitality that comes with cold water swimming. Make this winter the season you step out of your comfort zone and into the refreshing embrace of our beautiful coastal waters. See you out there!

Stay

After all that cold water swimming you'll want to warm up in a cozy hotel. Here are some places to stay.

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Timber Door Luxury Accommodation

Seeking luxury in the heart of Geelong CBD? Timber Door Luxury Accommodation has curated a…

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Cedar Cottage

This 1850's cottage is located 40 kilometres from Geelong in the township of Shelford. This…

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Eden Oak Geelong Hotel

Nestled in the botanical gardens within the Eastern Park Precinct, Eden Oak in Geelong is a…

Spa Room

Parkside Motel Geelong

Parkside Motel Geelong is a welcoming and conveniently located accommodation option in the…

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Quest Geelong Central

Quest Geelong Central is Geelong's newest hotel, offering premium apartment style…

Abbotswood Motor Inn

Abbotswood Motor Inn

Abbotswood Motor Inn offers affordable, comfortable, and convenient accommodation within close…

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Barwon Heads Caravan Park

A relaxed beachside getaway that is so close, yet somehow world's away.Barwon Heads is a…

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Bayside Geelong Hotel and Apartments

Just a short walk from Geelong's city centre, Bayside Geelong Hotel and Apartments feature 79…

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The Queenscliff Hotel

Established in 1888, The Queenscliff Hotel is a heritage-listed landmark in the heart of…

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Seaview House - Queenscliff

Seaview House, built in 1875, is a boutique group accommodation located in the heart of…

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Kerleys Coastal Holidays

Kerleys Coastal Holidays is one of the Bellarine Peninsula’s premier Holiday Rental…

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Regional Escapes

Regional Escapes provides booking services for an extensive range of Geelong, Bellarine…

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13th Beach Golf Lodges

13th Beach Golf Lodges is the only accommodation owned and managed by 13th Beach Golf Links.…

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Lon Retreat & Spa

Escape the busyness of life on over 250 acres of rural and conservation land, hidden away on a…

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The Oxley Estate

The Oxley Estate is conveniently located just opposite the Portarlington Golf Course, offering…

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Barwon Heads Resort at 13th Beach

Barwon Heads Resort at 13th Beach is the ideal place to spend quality time with family and…

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Benambra Boutique Accommodation Queenscliff

Stepping into Benambra, you are greeted by a blend of Victorian elegance and modern…

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Ocean Grove Holiday Park

Ocean Grove Holiday Park is a great place to stay all year round. Offering three bedroom…

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Bellarine Holidays

At Bellarine Holidays, we offer more than just a place to stay – we provide memorable coastal…

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Comfort Inn Geelong

Welcome to Comfort Inn™ Geelong, one of the city's most distinctive places to stay. Housed…

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