Take the Plunge: The Bawah Reserve wild swim challenge

Ready to make a splash?
For guests who are both swimming-fit and up for a challenge, we’ve come up with the ultimate island-to-island experience – the Bawah Wild Swim Challenge! So far, over 200 guests have taken up the challenge… and loved it!

It’s a simple concept: swim 2 kilometres (1.24 miles) from Bawah Island to the neighbouring Sanggah Island. By the time you step ashore, you will truly have earned your exclusive “I Survived the Wild Swim Challenge” T-shirt – not to mention a deep sense of satisfaction and some serious bragging rights.

For a seasoned swimmer, this is an unforgettable way to experience Bawah’s lagoon from an entirely new perspective.

Why try wild swimming!

Wild swimming – or open-water swimming – isn’t just about fitness; it’s about feeling alive. Here are some of the amazing benefits:

• Boosts mood: Seawater and sunshine release endorphins and serotonin, leaving you refreshed and uplifted.

• Improves circulation: Gentle temperature shifts between warm air and cooler water boost blood flow and give you that healthy post-swim glow.

• Strengthens immunity: Regular sea swimming enhances immunity, eases tension, and promote better sleep.

• Reduces stress: High levels of magnesium in nature’s biggest swimming pool helps calm the nervous system by reducing cortisol.

• Naturally exfoliates: Sea vitamins and minerals purify and soften the skin for a fabulous radiance.

• Connects you to nature: Glide over coral gardens, schools of fish and perhaps a turtle or two – a reminder of our world’s living beauty and your place within it.

Your wild swim adventure

Your swim starts from the beach at Bawah Island lagoon and takes you across crystal-clear waters to lovely Sanggah Island. The swim is about 2 kilometres, depending on tides and route, and usually takes from 30 to 45 minutes at a relaxed pace.

When you reach the shore, you’ll be greeted by warm smiles, a sense of achievement and your well-earned Wild Swim T-shirt – a souvenir that says: You did it!

🌿 Top tips for a safe and enjoyable wild swim

1. Swim with a guide or buddy – Never go alone; our team will accompany and support
2. We will have a boat available, too, should you need to stop.
3. Warm up and stretch – Loosen your shoulders and legs before you dive in.
4. Acclimatise slowly – Take a minute to let your body adjust to the water temperature.
5. Wear reef-safe sunscreen – Protect your skin and the ocean. We also recommend wearing a rash guard. (We sell these in The Six Islands Trading Post shop, should you need one.)
6. Stay relaxed and steady – As any seasoned swimmer knows, long, calm strokes will carry you further than splashing.
7. Breathe rhythmically – Find your natural pace; it’s not a race, unless you want it to be. We have had a few uber-competitive siblings and partners!
8. Spot the markers – Our team will show you the best route for visibility and safety in the prevailing currents.
9. Enjoy the view below – You’re swimming over vibrant reefs and marine life: nature’s aquarium!
10. Refuel afterwards – Drink plenty of water and enjoy a coconut or other healthy snack when you return.
11. Collect your reward – You’ve earned it. Wear that T-shirt with pride!

A swim to remember...

Wild swimming at Bawah Reserve is an experience that reconnects you with the elements. The rhythm of your breath, sparkling sunlight on the water, the buoyant freedom of the sea… it’s pure joy.

So take the plunge.
Challenge yourself.
And join the growing tribe of swimmers who can proudly say,
“I survived the Wild Swim Challenge.”