Everything you need to know about this year’s Cooly Classic Ocean Swim

When: 12 - 13 April 2025

Part of the annual Gold Coast Swim Week, the Cooly Classic Ocean Swim is one of the largest ocean swimming events in the country. Now in its 15^th year, the Cooly Classic is a series of four ocean swim races set against the breathtaking natural backdrop of the glistening southern Gold Coast.

The Cooly Classic attracts some of the country’s most decorated swimmers (Olympians and triathletes alike have been spotted over the years) but that doesn’t mean it’s only for the pros; there’s an ocean swim for everyone, for swimmers of all ages and abilities, with prizes up for grabs in all races.

Which Cooly Classic Ocean Swim is right for me?

Races on the day will take over the Gold Coast’s Snapper Rocks, Coolangatta, Kirra, and Rainbow Bay beaches – achingly picturesque locations for a vigorous morning swim. Set yourself the challenge and dip your toe in. Will it be the 5km, 3km, or 1000m short course from Coolangatta to Kirra Beach?

The 2.0km Cooly Classic is the most popular event, testing your endurance in a race to the finish line. Your route spans all four iconic beaches: Snapper Rocks, Rainbow Bay, Coolangatta and Kirra, past Snapper Rocks and Greenmount and Coolangatta beaches before onto your final turn directly in front of Kirra Beach.

The 5.0km and 3.0km ocean swims both start at Snapper Rocks heading past Kirra Beach (5.0km competitors will head further on to North Kirra) before turning south and heading back to Kirra Beach for the big finish.

The 1.0km Cooly 1000 is a flash-in-the-pan, beginning on Coolangatta Beach and finishing at Kirra – the perfect introduction for ocean swimmer newbies, or if you fancy a more leisurely paddle.

The best bit about the day is even the kids can get involved with the Junior Giants 1000m swim ideal for 10–16-year-olds. Sign up here.

How to get to the Cooly Classic

The 2.0km, 3.0km and 5.0km all start at Snapper Rocks, with the 1.0km beginning at Coolangatta Beach. All races end at Kirra Beach. There are a handful of public car parks behind Kirra Beach on Musgrave St, while Snapper Rocks is street parking only.

Plan your day at the Cooly Classic

First up, fuel up at one of the Gold Coast’s best breakfast spots to get the best start on the big day.

Know when and where your race starts. Comprehensive course maps to mentally prepare yourself can be found here.

Before race day, you’ll receive a personalised Competitor Briefing via email one week before your event, outlining all event schedules, course information, site maps and on-site support services. Consider this your Ocean Swim race day cheat sheet. The Competitor briefing will also tell you when you’re able to collect your pack, available from the Kirra Surf Club.

What to see and do in Coolangatta 

Home to some of Queensland's best ocean swims and beaches it’s no wonder this stretch of sea and sand is home to this year’s Cooly Classic. There’s also plenty to see and do at the ‘quiet end’ of the Gold Coast; eat at some of the region’s best cafes and restaurants, take a trip inland to the breathtaking Gold Coast Hinterland, or stay local and seek out hidden local gem, Froggie’s Beach (just south of Snapper Rocks before the New South Wales border).

Just one beach over is Kirra; all quiet sandy beaches, hole-in-the-wall local cafes and a gorgeous lookout at Kirra Hill and Kirra Point. All in all, one day isn’t long enough to experience Coolangatta; get to know this gorgeous part of the world over a long weekend.

If the Cooly Classic’s got you frothing for more ocean action, check out all the events as part of Gold Coast Swim Week. Group sessions and clinics with guest coaches will be happening right across the week between 14 and 24 April 2024. 

Where to stay on the Gold Coast

A world-renowned destination, it’s no surprise that the Gold Coast boasts some incredible accommodation options – no matter your budget or party size. If you prefer the finer things in life, five-star luxury hotel The Langham should be top of your list. Searching for a more boutique experience? Book a stay at newly renovated 60s charmer, The Mysa Motel. Otherwise, base yourself in the heart of the action at Club Wyndham right on Kirra Beach or Reflection on the Sea, a 4-star hotel on Coolangatta’s Marine Parade – walking distance from the start line.

More Gold Coast events to check out

From epic surfing events held year-round to the to the AFL opening round Suns vs Richmond game and WFDF 2024 World Ultimate Championships (yes, we’re taking pro frisbee), the Gold Coast has a sporting event for everyone.

Looking for more experiences to fill up your calendar? Check out these unmissable Gold Coast events.