Hundreds of revellers gathered at Elbow Beach this morning to celebrate Christmas with sun, sand and champagne.

Santa hats and swimsuits lined the beach as part of what has become a modern tradition.

Doug Watford, who is visiting the island with his family, said he was told about the festivities only after arriving earlier this week.

“As soon as we heard, we knew this was something we had to do,” he said.

“The sun is out, the weather is good, the kids are having a blast. I don’t know if I can go back to winter in New Hampshire.”

As of 11.30am, parking had already become a challenge with the steady stream of beach goers showing no signs of slowing.