How To Swim In Link's Awakening Complete Swimming Guide

Exploring Koholint Island in The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening features many geographic obstacles, including deep rivers and surrounding oceans. Early in the game, attempting to enter deep water results in Link drowning or resetting back to shore. To cross these aquatic barriers, players must unlock the ability to swim through main story progression.

How to Unlock the Swimming Ability

Unlocking the ability to traverse deep water requires acquiring the Flippers item. These special flippers are hidden within the fourth main dungeon, known as Angler's Tunnel. Once you defeat the mini-boss and retrieve the item from a chest inside the dungeon, the swimming mechanic activates automatically.

Basic Swimming Controls and Mechanics

In the modern remake, Link automatically equips the flippers as soon as he steps into deep water. Pressing the swim button grants Link a brief burst of speed to move through currents faster. Additionally, players can press the dive button to submerge underwater for brief periods.

Exploring Submerged Items and Secret Locations

Diving underwater allows players to retrieve submerged Heart Pieces and hidden collectibles scattered across Koholint. It also plays a vital role in navigating 2D side-scrolling sections found within dungeons and subterranean passages. Knowing when to submerge helps players bypass underwater hazards and reach previously inaccessible dungeon entrances like Catfish's Maw.

Combat and Limitations While in Water

While swimming on the water surface, Link cannot use his shield or most equipped gear to defend himself. However, Link can still strike underwater enemies with his sword during side-scrolling aquatic segments. Navigating waters carefully ensures you avoid taking unnecessary damage while exploring deep waterways.