Coney Island Starts 2025 With a Cold-Water Plunge
At a Glance
- What
Coney Island Polar Bear Plunge 2025
- When
- January 1, 2025
- Where
Coney Island beach and boardwalk, Brooklyn
- Experience
Organized cold-water swimming and community fundraising.
- Coverage
- Explore coverage
- Details
- What to Know
TheNakedNYC coverage
TheNakedNYC documented the beach crowd, costumes, waves, and first plunge of 2025.
Swimmers entered the winter ocean as spectators watched from the sand.
What to Know
A Club Founded in 1903
The Coney Island Polar Bear Club dates to 1903. Its winter-bathing tradition predates the large New Year's Day fundraiser.
A Brief Swim in Cold Water
The reported water temperature was approximately 37 degrees Fahrenheit, with air temperatures in the low 40s. Participants generally returned to shore after a short time in the surf.
Entry in Successive Groups
The main plunge unfolded over roughly an hour. Registration, volunteers, and safety personnel managed groups approaching the water rather than one simultaneous entry.
Costumes on the Beach
Superheroes, holiday figures, and other outfits appeared alongside swimwear. The boardwalk and beach accommodated spectators as well as swimmers.
Support for the Neighborhood
The event raised money for local organizations working in education, health, and community services. The club also swims beyond New Year's Day; its official site provides history and current participation information.
