How to Go Swimming in Animal Crossing: A Detailed Guide – Animal Crossing is one of the most beloved simulation games, offering players a tranquil and engaging experience on their very own island. While fishing, gardening, and decorating are standard activities, swimming is another exciting feature that adds a layer of adventure and exploration. Introduced in Animal Crossing: New Horizons, swimming lets you dive into the surrounding ocean, collect sea creatures, and expand your horizons beyond the beach.

This guide will provide a detailed, step-by-step explanation of how to unlock and enjoy swimming in Animal Crossing. Whether you’re a newcomer to the game or a seasoned player revisiting your island, here’s everything you need to know.

What You Need to Start Swimming in Animal Crossing

Before diving into the ocean, you’ll need a few essential items and meet specific requirements. Here’s a checklist:

1. Update Your Game

Swimming was introduced as part of the free summer update in July 2020. Ensure your game is updated to the latest version to access this feature. Follow these steps:

• Connect your Nintendo Switch to the internet.
• Go to the home screen, highlight Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and press the + button.
• Select Software Update, then Via the Internet to download and install the latest update.

2. Obtain a Wetsuit

To swim, you’ll need a wetsuit. It’s not possible to swim in your regular clothes, so this item is mandatory. Here’s how to get one:

• Visit Nook’s Cranny: Head to the shop on your island and check the cabinet where tools and other miscellaneous items are sold. Wetsuits are available for purchase here and typically cost 3,000 Bells.
• Use the Nook Shopping App: Open the app on your NookPhone or visit the kiosk in Resident Services. Navigate to the seasonal items section to find wetsuits.
• Look for Special Designs: Occasionally, unique wetsuit designs will be available for a limited time, so keep an eye on seasonal updates.

3. Equip Your Wetsuit

Once you’ve obtained a wetsuit, follow these steps to equip it:

• Open your inventory by pressing X.
• Highlight the wetsuit and select Wear.
• Your character will change into the wetsuit immediately, ready for swimming.

How to Start Swimming in Animal Crossing

With your wetsuit equipped, you’re ready to explore the ocean. Here’s how to begin:

Step 1: Head to the Beach

Walk to the shoreline of your island. The best swimming spots are where the sandy beach meets the water, but you can enter the ocean from rocky areas as well.

Step 2: Approach the Water

Stand near the water and press the A button to walk into the ocean. Your character will wade in gradually until they start swimming.

Step 3: Swim Around

Use the left joystick to navigate the water. Holding down the A button will make your character paddle faster, while releasing it allows for a slower, leisurely swim.

How to Dive While Swimming

Diving is one of the most exciting parts of swimming, allowing you to explore beneath the surface and collect sea creatures. To dive:

• While swimming, press the Y button. Your character will submerge underwater.
• Use the joystick to move underwater and approach bubbles or shadows, which indicate the presence of sea creatures.
• When you’re close to a shadow, your character will automatically collect the creature and bring it to the surface.

What Can You Do While Swimming?

Swimming isn’t just about paddling around. Here are some activities you can enjoy in the water:

1. Collect Sea Creatures

Diving allows you to find a variety of sea creatures, including scallops, sea stars, and jellyfish. These creatures can be donated to the museum, sold for Bells, or kept as decorative items.

2. Encounter Pascal

Pascal is a friendly red otter who appears when you find a scallop while diving. He will trade you for it, often giving you unique mermaid-themed DIY recipes or furniture in return.

3. Expand Your Critterpedia

Swimming and diving introduce a new category in your Critterpedia for sea creatures. This is perfect for completionists aiming to catalog every species in the game.

4. Decorate Your Island

Use the sea creatures you collect to decorate your home or island. Some can be placed in tanks, adding a unique aquatic touch to your spaces.

Tips for Swimming in Animal Crossing

Swimming is straightforward, but these tips will enhance your experience:

1. Swim at Different Times

Some sea creatures are only available during specific months, times of day, or seasons. Experiment with swimming at different times to expand your collection.

2. Watch Your Stamina

While there’s no stamina bar for swimming, it’s a good idea to bring snacks like fruit or coconuts. Eating these can give you an energy boost if you plan to swim for an extended period.

3. Explore the Edge of the Map

The ocean surrounding your island has invisible boundaries, but you can swim close to them. Look for rare creatures or enjoy the serene beauty of the open sea.

4. Use the Map

Open your NookPhone and check the map to see where you are relative to your island. This can help you plan your swimming route or return to shore quickly.

Why Swimming Is a Must-Try Activity

Swimming in Animal Crossing: New Horizons is more than just a feature—it’s an invitation to explore the aquatic world surrounding your island. Here’s why you should make it a regular part of your gameplay:

• Relaxation: The soothing sound of waves and the gentle motion of swimming create a calming experience.
• Discovery: Each dive brings the excitement of uncovering new sea creatures and treasures.
• Creativity: Use your finds to enhance your island’s aesthetic or craft unique furniture.

Conclusion

Swimming in Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a delightful way to expand your island experience. With just a wetsuit and a bit of curiosity, you can dive into a world of underwater adventure. Whether you’re collecting sea creatures, encountering Pascal, or simply enjoying the serene ocean, swimming adds a new layer of fun to the game.

Follow this guide to unlock the full potential of swimming in Animal Crossing and make the most of your time in the water. Dive in, explore, and enjoy everything your island’s ocean has to offer!