Diving In With Pier Club

Newport Beach Pier Club

“The only rule is there are no wetsuits”

While most people find solace in simply gazing at the ocean, the crazy crew at Pier Club takes their love affair with the sea to new depths. Rain or shine, they dive into the waves, embracing the waters of Newport Beach every Wednesday without fail. For them, the ocean isn't just a sight to see – it's a playground, a place to bond with others and get a little salty.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

My name is Dougie Mann, I’m a father of 4 great kids - Buck, Dolly, Sonny, Winnie, husband to Hayley Mann.

  How and when did Pier Club come to be?

November 2012… My water polo pal Ross Sinclair, who was a lifeguard then, now head water polo coach at Newport Harbor High School decided the pier needed to be swum on a regular basis.He is a huge part of the Newport community and his endorsement drew some really great folks over the years. Pier Club is simple, the goal is the Pier must be swam every Wednesday at 7:45 am… with all life throws at you it would be nice to have more than just one or two people.

No wetsuits, fins are ok.It has become a community of like minded people who want to have a regular relationship with the ocean.  Since then we’ve had olympians, lifeguards, SEALs, celebrities, artists, all manner of interesting people.Our goal has been to keep it simple. The only rules are no wetsuits and if you want to buy some gear, you need to complete at least 3 pier swims. Just a humble swim around the pier, with coffee after if you have time.

We have seen you guys swimming in the middle of winter, do you meet rain or shine?

Yes, we only didn’t make it around one time.

What do you do to encourage a sense of community and camaraderie among club members?

We are bonded with cold and caffeine… get nice and cold then drink a nice hot cup of coffee. That puts everyone on the same page.

Members of Pier Club after a winter swim

Is Dory Deli the warm up/cool down spot?

Typically we go there for coffee and breakfast.

Do you have a favorite or funny memory from a swim?

Where do I even begin? Recently a homeless guy stole one of our swimmers’ trunks while we were swimming. He was wearing them right in front of everyone, stretching. We asked him where he got those really cool shorts and he offered us surf lessons… Dennis Rodman has never fired up, but we have seen him in the bar next door a lot.  We hope this reaches you, Dennis, we want you on our squad.

Do you have Merch for purchase? If so, where can we buy it?

Typically it is available only for members who have swam at least 3 swims.

How does one join the club?

Just come on down to Tower 22 every Wednesday at 7:45 am. We gather there and then swim out usually on the south side of the pier.