Some Manxies are hardcore enough to sea and waterfall dip all year round. Now’s that time of year when everyone should be able to brace the cold and take the plunge. It’s not only super exhilarating but cold water therapy also has many physical and psychological benefits.

Ian Kirk from Inner Alchemy explained that cold water exposure increases the hormone norepinephrine which leads to feelings of happiness and euphoria. Other benefits include: reducing muscle pain after exercise, improving risk factors for cardiovascular disease such as cholesterol levels and blood pressure, boosting the immune system, and overall, improving general well-being. Plus you feel absolutely buzzing when you re-emerge. So if you’re looking for new places to take a dip or want to begin, here are the top 5 places to try.

Spooyt Vayne Waterfall

A hidden gem which makes you feel like you’re in some sort of fantasy novel. Spooyt Vane translates to “white spout” in Manx Gaelic. It rests in Glen Mooar and is the highest waterfall on the island. With three tiers, the water crashes from a height down to a large pool where you can swim around. Step in from the ledge and swim towards the waterfall. Duck your head under the white spout, even for a moment, and experience the thrilling feeling of the water rapidly falling against you. This is one way to make yourself feel alive. 

White Strand Beach

This beach lies on the West Coast of the island just off Ramsey Road. Just far enough to escape the poo-filled Peel waters but not too far that you can enjoy the view of Peel Castle. The beach can be accessed by a path made and cut back by a local Peel man, Gary Smith. The path takes you down a steep grass bank where you’re first hit by the picturesque scenery. On a clear day, you can see the hills of Northern Ireland and wave over at Finn McCool. 

Parts of the beach are rocky but other parts are soft sand which makes it nicer to wade into the water. It’s a secluded beach and often very quiet so it’s a lovely spot to hitch up for the day with a picnic.

Niarbyl 

Niarbyl is one of 26 Dark Sky Discovery Sites on the island – with the minimum light pollution, it is the perfect place to star gaze. It is also a wonderful place to have a wild dip. Niarbyl has the best of both – a beach and a waterfall. The waterfall is a bit of a climb and very hidden so traverse with care. The water cascades from a high drop into a shallow pool meaning you’ll have to get under that waterfall. It seems scary at first but once you’re in you’ll be so glad you did it. This is one way to silence an overactive mind and really be present. 

Afterwards, warm up from the inside with Wim Hoff’s signature side-to-side dance (don’t worry no one’s watching). The other option is swimming in the sea whilst looking out towards the Calf of Man. Niarbyl beach is quite rocky so take care when wading out – shoes or sea boots should be worn to stay safe. 

Port Erin Beach

One of the cleaner beaches on the island, Port Erin Beach is always a firm favourite for a dip. An evening dip watching the sunset on Bradda Hill as the waves gently wash over you is just spectacular. There is now the option to warm up quickly by trying out the new mobile sauna on the beachfront (this needs to be booked).  If you fancy more sea activities there is plenty to do. At 7th Wave, you can hire kayaks in singles or in doubles if you want to sit back and let your partner do the work. At Port Erin Paddleboards, you can learn how to stand-up paddleboard and explore the bay. They also hold twilight sessions which are just magical.

Cornaa Waterfall

Situated on the North East of the island, between Maughold and Laxey, Cornaa is one for thrill seekers. Cornaa Waterfall (or waterpark) has a rope swing for any brave Manxies to swing and throw themselves into the deep pool. There’s also a ledge to jump from. For those who wish for a less intense adrenaline rush, you can walk into the pool from the side. However, I often think that just ripping the bandaid off and jumping in is far better than slowly surrendering.

The waterfall is surrounded by luscious greenery with the sun peeking through the trees. After you’ve had your fill of thrills, walk down towards the rocky Cornaa Beach and take in the fresh sea breeze.