Ocean City Polar Bear Plunge
Start the New Year at America's Greatest Family Resort! Ocean City's annual Polar Bear Plunge at the iconic Music Pier is perfect for families looking to make memorable New Year's traditions.
America's Greatest Family Resort
A safe, fun, alcohol-free New Year's Day tradition for the whole family!
Quick Facts
Jan 1, 2026
Wednesday
2:00 PM
Plunge Time
Music Pier
Location
Free Parking
In Winter
About the Ocean City Polar Plunge
Ocean City has earned its reputation as "America's Greatest Family Resort," and the annual New Year's Day Polar Bear Plunge perfectly embodies that spirit. Held at the iconic Music Pier - one of the most photographed spots on the Jersey Shore - this family-friendly event draws participants of all ages.
What makes Ocean City's plunge special is its welcoming, alcohol-free atmosphere. As a dry town, Ocean City offers a safe environment where families can focus on fun and creating lasting memories together. Parents don't have to worry about rowdy crowds, making it ideal for bringing children of all ages.
The Music Pier beach features a wide, gently sloping shoreline perfect for wading in. The shallow water near shore means even the youngest plungers can participate safely (with adult supervision, of course). After the plunge, many families take a boardwalk stroll or visit year-round Ocean City restaurants for a warm meal.
Ocean City is conveniently located between Sea Isle City and Atlantic City, making it easily accessible for day-trippers from throughout the region.
Family Polar Plunge Budget
What to expect for a family New Year's Day trip:
| Expense | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Plunge Participation | FREE | Walk-up event, no registration fee |
| Parking | FREE | Winter parking in OC is free! |
| Hotel (family of 4, NYE) | $120-200 | Off-season rates, Flanders or local motels |
| Lunch/Dinner (family of 4) | $60-100 | Downtown Asbury Ave or Somers Point |
| Hot Chocolate & Snacks | $10-20 | Bring your own or local coffee shop |
| Beach Towels/Gear | $0 | Bring from home |
| Total (Day Trip) | $70-120 | Family of 4, just food costs |
| Total (Overnight) | $250-420 | Family of 4, hotel + meals |
💡 OC is a great budget option - free parking, free plunge, no alcohol expenses
Family Plunge Mistakes to Avoid
First time bringing the kids? Avoid these common pitfalls:
Letting kids run straight into deep water in the excitement
Cold water shock is real. Kids can gasp, panic, or lose their footing. Scary moment that ruins the fun.
✓ Hold hands and walk in together. Stay in knee-deep water. The thrill is the same, the risk is way lower.
Forgetting the post-plunge warmup plan
Shivering kids in wet swimsuits, no towels, no dry clothes. The 5-minute walk back to the car feels like an hour.
✓ Stage dry clothes, towels, and warm layers at the boardwalk or in a beach bag. Bring a thermos of hot chocolate.
Assuming OC restaurants are open on New Year's Day
It's a dry town with limited winter hours. You're hangry with hungry kids and nothing is open.
✓ Check restaurant hours ahead. Somers Point (5 min away) has more year-round options. Pack snacks just in case.
Showing up exactly at plunge time with no buffer
Parking is easy, but finding the group, getting set up, taking photos - all rushed. Kids are stressed, not excited.
✓ Arrive 30-45 minutes early. Walk the boardwalk, take photos at Music Pier, build anticipation. Make it an experience.
Tips for Families
- ✓Bundle kids in layers they can quickly remove for the plunge
- ✓Bring extra towels and a change of dry clothes for everyone
- ✓Hot chocolate or warm drinks in a thermos are a hit
- ✓Take a boardwalk walk after to warm up
- ✓The beach is wide and shallow - great for kids
Plunge Day Schedule
Schedule is approximate - check Ocean City's official channels for exact times.
Location & Parking
Plunge Location
Music Pier Beach
Moorlyn Terrace & Boardwalk
Ocean City, NJ 08226
The iconic Music Pier is unmistakable - look for the distinctive arched building
Parking
Free winter parking throughout Ocean City! Municipal lots near the Music Pier and street parking are readily available. No meters in effect during winter months.
Where to Stay
Ocean City Hotels
Walking distance
Several oceanfront hotels open year-round
Flanders Hotel
0.5 miles
Historic oceanfront hotel, year-round
Somers Point
3 miles
Additional hotel options just over the bridge
Some links may earn us a commission. Learn more
More Things to Do in Ocean City
Make the most of your New Year's visit to Ocean City:
Winter Boardwalk Walk
2.5 miles of car-free strolling with ocean views
Downtown Asbury Avenue
Year-round shops and restaurants
Other Polar Bear Plunges
Frequently Asked Questions
Start 2026 in Ocean City!
Join families from across the region for this memorable New Year's tradition.