By Lookout Staff

December 18, 2025 -- It's too early to forecast the weather for next month's annual Polar Bear Plunge at Santa Monica Beach, but chances are it'll be more than 100 degrees warmer than where real polar bears live.

January temperatures in Santa Monica reach an average high of 68 degrees, downright hot when compared to the average temperatures in the North Pole, which is -40 degrees.

Still, on January 10 Santa Monicans will flock to the shoreline "to dive into the new year with an invigorating ocean plunge" as they do every year, City officials announced Tuesday.

The day starts at the Annenberg Community Beach House Guest Services kiosk for check-in before heading to the beach.

At around 10:15 a.m., participants can "take an energizing group plunge into the Pacific Ocean, followed by a 300-yard swim out and back around a buoy for those who want to test their stamina."

"At this no-judgement zone, all participants and spectators have a shared experience that gets the blood pumping and the excitement popping," officials said.

After the invigorating ocean experience, participants can head to the Annenberg Community Beach House pool, which is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., to warm up, grab a hot chocolate, or take a photo with Pat the Polar Bear.

Admission is required for entering the pool, deck area, and heated showers: $10/adult, $5/senior adult at age 60, $4/youth age 1 through 17.

Santa Monica Harbor Patrol, Los Angeles County Fire Department Lifeguards, and city of Santa Monica lifeguards will be on hand to support the ocean plunge and buoy swim.

For event details and information, click here.