Burgh Island Swim

Come and join Team Devon Sea Swim’s social adventure swim round South Devon’s iconic Burgh Island.

On calm days, we leave the sandy spit to explore hidden gullies and skirt the cliffs on the channel side of the island, where you can spot crabs, starfish, and shoals of colourful fish. When the ocean brings swell and wind chop, the swim transforms into a thrilling open-water challenge, offering an exhilarating experience with stunning coastal views. Both conditions promise unforgettable moments and a true connection with the wild sea.

The swim is carefully scheduled at slack tides to avoid fast-moving channel waters, ensuring safety while embracing the ocean’s natural rhythm.

Participants should be comfortable swimming an 1.5km and prepared to be in the cooler South Devon waters for up to 1.5 hours. Note that water temperatures here are cooler than in nearby Torbay, so wetsuits are recommended. This swim is delivered in partnership with the Bantham Mobile Surf School safety team, providing expert lifeguards who are qualified, insured, and intimately familiar with Burgh Island and the surrounding bay and river mouth waters.

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful wildlife encounter or an invigorating ocean swim with friends, the Burgh Island Swim offers a uniquely beautiful way to connect with the sea and the rugged coastline of Devon. Dive in and discover the magic beneath the waves!

You can make it a full day of adventure with a post-swim brunch on the beach followed by a surf lesson at additional cost. Surf lessons will be booked separately through a link I can forward.

1. Swimmers must be able to swim 1.5km continuously and comfortably in the sea and be acclimatised to spending up to 2hrs in the sea.
2. Please contact me if you want to discuss if you are suitable for this session.

1. Wetsuits, googles, bright coloured swim hat and tow floats are essential. Non wetsuits swimmers must be confirmed before booking.
2. Booties/wetsuit socks are not essential but advisable to protect feel from rocks, shells, weaver fish etc.
3. Towel and / or changing robe
4. Warm loose layered clothing including warm hat and socks for post swim warming up.
5. Post swim snack and warm drink.
6. Waterproof pouch for car keys/electronics
7. Any medications that may be required pre/during/after swimming
8. Consider carrying personal safety equipment such as a whistle (to attract attention) and a mobile phone (to call for assistance).

1. Swimmers will be ready to enter the water at the start of session.
2. Session begins with safety brief at waters edge
3. Swim will take place within swim area set by lifeguards
4. Sessions end at the waters edge.