Atlantic City Polar Bear Plunge
Start 2026 with an icy splash at the Tropicana, then warm up with world-class entertainment! Atlantic City's New Year's Day tradition combines beach thrills with casino excitement.
Plunge & Play in AC!
Take the icy plunge, then warm up with slots, table games, and world-class dining!
Quick Facts
Jan 1, 2026
Wednesday
12:00 PM
Plunge Time
Tropicana
Location
FREE
Beach Access
About the Atlantic City Polar Plunge
Atlantic City offers a unique polar plunge experience that combines the thrill of an icy ocean dip with the glamour of casino entertainment. Hosted at the Tropicana, one of Atlantic City's premier casino resorts, this New Year's Day tradition draws participants from across the region.
What makes Atlantic City's plunge special is the immediate access to warm-up venues. Steps from the beach, plungers can duck into the Tropicana to thaw out with hot drinks, grab a meal at one of the resort's many restaurants, or try their luck at the gaming tables. It's the perfect combination of outdoor adventure and indoor entertainment.
Atlantic City's beaches are FREE and open to the public year-round - no beach badge required. The famous 4-mile boardwalk connects all the major casinos, making it easy to explore after your plunge. For those looking for a quieter experience, neighboring Ventnor and Brigantine offer beautiful winter beach walks.
FREE Beach Access
Atlantic City is one of only a few Jersey Shore towns with completely free beaches - no beach badge required, ever! Enjoy unlimited beach access for the plunge and year-round visits.
See all free beaches →Plunge Day Schedule
Schedule is approximate - check Tropicana's social media for exact timing.
Location & Parking
Plunge Location
Tropicana Beach
2831 Boardwalk
Atlantic City, NJ 08401
Access the beach from the boardwalk near Tropicana's main entrance
Parking
Tropicana has a self-parking garage (fees apply, but often validated with casino play). Street parking available throughout Atlantic City. The AC Jitney runs along the boardwalk.
Where to Stay
Tropicana Atlantic City
Plunge site
Casino, restaurants, and warm-up right at the venue
Caesars Atlantic City
Boardwalk
Connected to Tropicana via skybridge
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
1 mile
Former Trump Taj Mahal, boardwalk location
Warm Up at Tropicana
After your plunge, the Tropicana offers plenty of ways to warm up:
Tropicana Casino Floor
Gaming
Cuba Libre Restaurant
Cuban Dining
The Palm Restaurant
Steakhouse
IMAX Theatre
Entertainment
Other New Year's Day Plunges
More January 1st plunge options along the Jersey Shore:
Can't Make New Year's Day?
The biggest polar plunges happen later in January:
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Atlantic City Polar Bear Plunge 2026?
The Atlantic City Polar Bear Plunge takes place on New Year's Day, Wednesday, January 1, 2026. The plunge typically starts at noon at the beach in front of the Tropicana Casino.
Where is the Atlantic City Polar Plunge held?
The plunge takes place on the beach directly in front of the Tropicana Atlantic City at 2831 Boardwalk. The beach is accessible from the boardwalk near the Tropicana's main entrance.
Do I need to be a Tropicana guest to participate?
No! The polar plunge is open to everyone, not just Tropicana hotel guests. However, staying at the Tropicana or a nearby casino hotel makes for a convenient experience with easy access to warm-up facilities.
Is there registration for the Atlantic City Polar Plunge?
The Atlantic City plunge is typically a walk-up event. Simply arrive at the Tropicana beach area before noon on January 1st. Check Tropicana's website or social media for any specific 2026 requirements.
Where can I warm up after the Atlantic City Polar Plunge?
The Tropicana casino and resort is steps away from the beach - perfect for warming up with a hot drink, grabbing a meal, or trying your luck at the tables. The entire Atlantic City boardwalk and its casinos are within easy reach.
Is parking free for the Atlantic City Polar Plunge?
Tropicana offers self-parking (fees may apply). Free street parking can be found in Atlantic City, especially in winter. The AC Jitney provides affordable transportation along the boardwalk if you park elsewhere.
How cold is the water in Atlantic City on New Year's Day?
Ocean temperatures in Atlantic City on January 1st typically range from 40-45°F (4-7°C). The water is cold but the exposure is brief. Most plungers spend less than a minute in the ocean.
Can I watch the Atlantic City Polar Plunge without participating?
Absolutely! Spectators are welcome to watch from the boardwalk or beach. Cheer on the plungers and enjoy the festive atmosphere without getting wet. It's a fun way to start the New Year!
Start 2026 in Atlantic City!
Take the plunge, then roll the dice on a lucky New Year!