Asbury Park Polar Bear Plunge
Ring in the New Year with the Sons of Ireland! This beloved tradition has been welcoming brave souls to the Berkeley Hotel beach since 1994. Start 2026 with an icy splash and warm community spirit.
Sons of Ireland Tradition
Over 30 years of welcoming the New Year with courage and community!
Quick Facts
Jan 1, 2026
New Year's Day
12:00 PM
Plunge Time
Berkeley Hotel
Location
All Welcome
Registration
About the Asbury Park Polar Plunge
The Asbury Park Polar Bear Plunge is one of the Jersey Shore's most cherished New Year's Day traditions. Organized by the Sons of Ireland since 1994, this annual event brings together hundreds of brave souls who start their year with an invigorating plunge into the Atlantic Ocean.
Held at the historic Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel at the south end of the Asbury Park boardwalk, the plunge combines Irish-American camaraderie with the thrill of facing the cold January surf. The Sons of Ireland, a prominent New Jersey Irish-American organization, has made this event a cornerstone of their community service.
The atmosphere is festive and welcoming - plungers of all ages gather on the beach, many in costume or green attire, before making the dash into the frigid Atlantic. After the plunge, participants warm up with hot beverages and celebrate the start of a new year together. The nearby Ocean Grove community and greater Asbury Park area offer plenty of post-plunge dining and entertainment options.
Plunge Day Schedule
Location & Parking
Plunge Location
Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel Beach
1401 Ocean Avenue
Asbury Park, NJ 07712
South end of the Asbury Park boardwalk
Parking
Street parking along Ocean Avenue and side streets. The Berkeley Hotel has limited parking for guests. Arrive early - New Year's Day can be busy!
Paid parking available in municipal lots along the boardwalk
Where to Stay
Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel
Plunge site
Historic hotel right at the plunge location
Asbury Park Hotels
Walking distance
The Asbury, Asbury Ocean Club, and more
Ocean Grove
0.5 miles
Charming Victorian B&Bs next door
After the Plunge
Warm up and celebrate at these nearby Asbury Park venues:
Stone Pony
Live Music Venue
Asbury Park Boardwalk
Boardwalk
Silverball Museum
Arcade & Museum
Wonder Bar
Bar & Live Music
Other New Year's Day Plunges
If you can't make Asbury Park, there are other New Year's Day plunges along the Jersey Shore:
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Asbury Park Polar Bear Plunge 2026?
The Asbury Park Polar Bear Plunge takes place on New Year's Day, January 1, 2026. The plunge typically happens at noon, with registration beginning at 11am at the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel.
Who organizes the Asbury Park Polar Bear Plunge?
The Asbury Park Polar Bear Plunge is organized by the Sons of Ireland, a New Jersey-based Irish-American organization. They've been hosting this New Year's Day tradition since 1994, making it one of the longest-running polar plunges on the Jersey Shore.
Do I need to register for the Asbury Park Plunge?
Registration is recommended but walk-ups are typically welcome. Register at the Berkeley Hotel starting at 11am on New Year's Day. There's usually a small registration fee that supports local charities.
Where exactly is the Asbury Park Polar Plunge held?
The plunge takes place on the beach directly in front of the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel at 1401 Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park, NJ 07712. The hotel is located at the south end of the Asbury Park boardwalk.
Is there parking for the Asbury Park Polar Plunge?
Street parking is available along Ocean Avenue and surrounding streets. The Berkeley Hotel also has a parking lot for guests. Arrive early as New Year's Day parking can fill up quickly, especially near the boardwalk.
How cold is the water on New Year's Day in Asbury Park?
Ocean temperatures on January 1st in Asbury Park typically range from 40-45°F (4-7°C). While cold, the brief exposure is manageable for most healthy adults. The shock only lasts a minute!
What should I bring to the Asbury Park Polar Plunge?
Bring a swimsuit for the plunge, warm clothes to change into immediately after, a towel, and water shoes or flip-flops. Many plungers wear costumes or festive New Year's attire. Don't forget a waterproof bag for wet items.
Are there places to warm up after the plunge?
Yes! The Berkeley Hotel offers warm-up space for plungers. The Asbury Park boardwalk and downtown area also have numerous bars and restaurants open on New Year's Day, including popular spots like The Stone Pony and Wonder Bar.
Start 2026 with a Splash!
Join the Sons of Ireland for their annual New Year's Day tradition.