Swim Around Keppel (SAK2026)
- Jul 24, 2026
- Last edition date
- Distances from 1km to 20km
At a glance
- Last edition date
- July 24, 2026
- Distances
- 1 km · 6 km · 20 km
- Where
- Sea · Great Keppel Island, Queensland, Australia
- Entry fee
- 440 AUD
- Registration
- iswimhappy.com
About the race
The Swim Around Keppel is an exhilarating open water swimming experience held amidst the breathtaking beauty of Great Keppel Island, off the Capricorn Coast of Queensland, Australia. This event is a weekend-long festival celebrating endurance, community, and the pristine marine wonderland of the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Conceived by former Latvian Olympian Val Kalmikovs, it has grown into a cherished annual tradition attracting swimmers from around the globe.
The highlight of the weekend is the challenging 20km circumnavigation of Great Keppel Island, which takes participants past 17 stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and an abundance of marine life. Beyond the main event, the festival offers shorter distances, including a 6km swim around Middle Island and a 1km novice swim, ensuring that enthusiasts of all levels can join the fun. The weekend also features guided bush walks, family scavenger hunts, kayaking, snorkelling, and live music.
Sources: Great Keppel Island · Capricorn Coast · Sea Hill Light
Course
Swim around Middle Island.
Circumnavigation of Great Keppel Island, passing 17 beaches and coral reefs.
How to get there
Swim Around Keppel (SAK2026)
Frequently asked questions
- When was the last edition of Swim Around Keppel (SAK2026)?
- The last edition of Swim Around Keppel (SAK2026) took place on July 24, 2026.
- What distances does Swim Around Keppel (SAK2026) offer?
- Swim Around Keppel (SAK2026) offers 1 km, 6 km, and 20 km.
- How much is the entry fee for Swim Around Keppel (SAK2026)?
- The entry fee is 440 AUD.
- Where does Swim Around Keppel (SAK2026) take place?
- Swim Around Keppel (SAK2026) is a sea swim. Location: Great Keppel Island, Queensland, Australia.
- How do I register for Swim Around Keppel (SAK2026)?
- The reference page for registering for Swim Around Keppel (SAK2026) is https://www.iswimhappy.com/sak.
Where to stay
Accommodations on Great Keppel Island range from modest beachside cabins to established island resorts overlooking the main anchorages. Prices fluctuate significantly depending on proximity to the ferry terminals and the amenities offered, with mid-range options typically costing between $180 and $350 per night. Many visitors opt for the self-contained units near the island's main harbor, which allow for easy access to the race start. Early booking is recommended as island capacity is limited during the July event weekend.
Things to do nearby
The Capricorn Coast offers a variety of activities to complement the race weekend. Swimmers can explore the marine environment via kayak or stand-up paddleboard, providing a different perspective on the volcanic rock formations. For those interested in history, the area surrounding Joskeleigh provides insight into the South Sea Islander heritage. Additionally, the mainland coastal trails offer moderate trekking with views of the Keppel Bay islands, while local operators organize boat trips to the outer reef for snorkeling and diving.
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