The small group was formed in March via a Facebook page created by Port Macquarie resident Clarissa Morris.

Mrs Morris said the swim is an amazing way to start the day, while also connecting with members of the local community.

"I read the book by Julia Baird called Phosphorescence and one of the first chapters talks about the benefits of going swimming in the ocean," she said.

Mrs Morris described the shock of the cold water as "exhilarating".

Stacy Hall moved to Port Macquarie three years ago and has made new friends since joining the group.

"I liked the idea of getting to know the locals," she said.

Mrs Hall said it's a great way to kick off the morning.

"It almost feels like you're starting your weekend on a Friday," she said.

"It's a psychological thing.

"It's also the health benefits of getting into the ocean and washing off the week to start afresh."

Another member, Bernadette Worner joined the group despite not being a "morning person or a swimmer".

However she continued to swim all through winter, seeing the morning dips as a challenge.

The sunrise swimmers say they're not serious distance swimmers, rather they enjoy the "dunk and giggle" meet up.

The group is open to new members who are interested in joining the weekly dip.

For more information, please visit the Lighthouse Beach Sunrise Swimmers Facebook group.

Alternatively meet the group at 6.30am on Fridays at the Lighthouse Beach carpark.

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