1,000 people take the plunge at Polar Bear Dip in Cayucos. See the pictures

Thousands of people flocked to Cayucos on a cool and sunny New Year’s Day to take a quick dip in the chilly waters of the Pacific Ocean — or watch others take the plunge.

Now in its 43rd year, the Carlin Soule Memorial Polar Bear Dip invites community members to don swimsuits and silly costumes before welcoming the new year by running into the waves.

The cherished North Coast tradition has persisted even during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, although the event drew a smaller crowd than usual in 2022. The Polar Bear Dip was canceled in 2021 due to coronavirus.

Sunday’s event, held next to the Cayucos Pier as in past years, featured music, dancing, prizes and participation certificates.

Phil Howard of C & H Productions has served as master of ceremonies for the Polar Bear Dip for 24 years.

He estimated that about 3,400 to 3,500 came to Saturday’s event and about 1,000 took the plunge.

Many were repeat visitors.

Polar Bear Dip participants weren’t the only ones braving the waves on Sunday.

To the south, community members gathered east of the Avila Beach Pier for the 11th annual Avila Beach Polar Bear Plunge.

This story was originally published January 1, 2023 at 1:53 PM.