Polar Bear Plunge 2026
Your complete guide to Polar Bear Plunges at the Jersey Shore. Brave the icy Atlantic and start the new year with an unforgettable tradition.
Quick Facts
~40F
Water temperature
6+
Plunge events
$2M+
Raised for charity
10,000+
Annual participants
What is a Polar Bear Plunge?
A Polar Bear Plunge is a cherished winter tradition where brave participants run headfirst into the frigid ocean waters during the coldest months of the year. At the Jersey Shore, this typically means plunging into the Atlantic Ocean when water temperatures hover around 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius).
The tradition dates back over a century, with organized plunges becoming popular in coastal communities throughout the United States. Today, many plunges serve as charity fundraisers, with the Special Olympics Polar Bear Plunges being among the most successful, raising millions of dollars annually for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
Whether you're seeking a thrilling start to the new year, supporting a worthy cause, or crossing an item off your bucket list, a Polar Bear Plunge is an unforgettable experience that captures the adventurous spirit of the Jersey Shore.
2026 Polar Bear Plunge Schedule
Asbury Park
Berkeley Hotel
January 1, 2026
Afternoon
Organizer: Sons of Ireland
Traditional New Year's Day plunge with Irish heritage celebration
Ocean City
Music Pier
January 1, 2026
2:00 PM
Organizer: City of Ocean City
Family-friendly event in America's Greatest Family Resort
Atlantic City
Tropicana Beach
January 1, 2026
12:00 PM (Noon)
Organizer: Tropicana Atlantic City
Plunge with post-event casino celebrations
Sea Bright
Sea Bright Beach
January 10, 2026
TBA
Organizer: Save Coastal Wildlife
Benefits wildlife conservation efforts
Wildwood
Wildwood Beach
January 17, 2026
TBA
Organizer: Special Olympics NJ
Major charity plunge, fundraising minimum required
Seaside Heights
Seaside Heights Beach
February 28, 2026
TBA
Organizer: Special Olympics NJ
Largest NJ Polar Plunge, raises $1M+ annually
* Dates and times subject to change. Check with individual event organizers for confirmed details and registration information.
How to Participate
Choose Your Plunge
Pick a location and date that works for you. Consider whether you want a charity plunge (requires fundraising) or a casual community event.
Register
For charity plunges, register online and start fundraising early. Community plunges may allow walk-up registration. Check event websites for details.
Prepare & Plunge
Bring warm clothes, towels, and a great attitude. Many plungers wear costumes for added fun. Arrive early to check in and find your wave group.
Pro tip: Form a team! Plunging with friends makes fundraising easier and the experience more memorable. Many events offer prizes for best team costumes and top fundraisers.
What to Expect
The Water
January and February ocean temperatures range from 38-45 degrees Fahrenheit. The initial shock is intense, but brief. Most plungers describe a rush of adrenaline followed by exhilaration. You won't be in long - typically under a minute.
The Crowds
Major plunges draw thousands of participants and spectators. The Seaside Heights Special Olympics plunge alone sees over 5,000 plungers. Arrive early for parking and check-in.
The Festivities
Expect DJs, food vendors, costumes galore, and an incredible atmosphere. Many plunges have pre- and post-party celebrations. The energy is contagious.
The Aftermath
After plunging, you'll want to dry off and warm up quickly. Most events have warming tents or nearby venues. The sense of accomplishment lasts much longer than the chill.
What to Bring
Swimsuit
Your plunge attire - many wear costumes for added fun
Towels
Multiple towels for drying off quickly after the plunge
Warm Change of Clothes
Dry underwear, sweats, warm layers - easy to put on with cold hands
Warm Coat, Hat & Gloves
For before and after the plunge - you'll want layers
Water Shoes or Flip-Flops
Protect feet from cold sand and shells
Warm Beverage
Hot chocolate, coffee, or tea in a thermos for afterward
Plastic Bag
For wet swimsuit and towels after the plunge
Cash
For food vendors and donations
Safety Tips
Important: If you have heart conditions, high blood pressure, or other medical concerns, consult your doctor before participating in a Polar Bear Plunge.
Know Your Limits
If you have heart conditions, high blood pressure, asthma, or other medical conditions, consult your doctor before participating.
Don't Go Alone
Bring friends or family. There's safety in numbers, and it's more fun together.
Stay Near Shore
Don't swim out deep. The plunge is about getting in and out, not swimming.
Enter Gradually If Needed
It's okay to walk in rather than run. Your body's reaction to cold water is intense - ease in if needed.
Exit When Ready
Don't stay in longer than comfortable. Most plungers are in for under a minute.
Warm Up Properly
Get dry and dressed immediately after. Your body temperature drops quickly. Move around to generate heat.
Avoid Alcohol Before
Save the celebratory drinks for after. Alcohol impairs judgment and affects body temperature regulation.
Watch for Hypothermia Signs
Shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and drowsiness are warning signs. Get warm immediately if you experience these.
Supporting Special Olympics
The Special Olympics New Jersey Polar Bear Plunges are among the most successful charity plunge events in the nation. Together, these events raise over $2 million annually to support more than 27,000 Special Olympics athletes across New Jersey.
Seaside Heights
The flagship event draws 5,000+ plungers and raises over $1 million annually. Features costume contests, team competitions, and post-plunge party at local venues.
Wildwood
A January alternative with the same great cause. Smaller crowds mean a more intimate experience while still supporting Special Olympics athletes.
Fundraising minimum: Participants typically need to raise $100-$150 to participate. Top fundraisers earn prizes and recognition. Visit sonj.org to register and start fundraising.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Polar Bear Plunge?
A Polar Bear Plunge is a winter tradition where participants run into the cold ocean water, typically in January or February. At the Jersey Shore, water temperatures average around 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Many plunges are charity events supporting organizations like Special Olympics.
When are the Polar Bear Plunges at the Jersey Shore in 2026?
In 2026, major plunges include: Asbury Park, Ocean City, and Atlantic City on January 1; Sea Bright on January 10; Wildwood on January 17; and Seaside Heights on February 28. Most New Year's Day plunges happen around noon or early afternoon.
How cold is the water during a Polar Bear Plunge?
Ocean water temperatures at the Jersey Shore in January and February typically range from 38-45 degrees Fahrenheit (3-7 degrees Celsius). While very cold, exposure is brief - most participants spend less than a minute in the water.
Do I need to register for a Polar Bear Plunge?
Registration requirements vary by event. Charity plunges like Special Olympics require advance registration and fundraising minimums. Other community plunges may be walk-up events. Check the specific event website for details.
What should I wear to a Polar Bear Plunge?
Wear a swimsuit for the plunge itself. Many participants wear costumes for fun. Bring warm, easy-to-change-into clothes for afterward, including a warm coat, hat, gloves, and dry shoes. Flip-flops or water shoes are helpful for the sand.
Is the Polar Bear Plunge safe?
For most healthy adults, a brief cold water plunge is safe. Those with heart conditions, high blood pressure, or other medical conditions should consult a doctor first. Stay near the shore, enter gradually if needed, and exit when you feel ready. Medical personnel are present at organized events.
How much money does the Special Olympics Polar Bear Plunge raise?
The Special Olympics New Jersey Polar Bear Plunges collectively raise over $2 million annually. The Seaside Heights plunge alone typically raises over $1 million, making it one of the largest charity plunge events in the country.
Can kids participate in Polar Bear Plunges?
Many plunge events allow children to participate with parental supervision. Check specific event rules for age requirements. Some events have separate "Polar Bear Cub" plunges for younger participants. Always ensure children can safely handle the cold water.
Ready to Take the Plunge?
Whether it's for charity, tradition, or the thrill, a Polar Bear Plunge is an unforgettable Jersey Shore experience.