La Jolla Cove Swim
La Jolla Cove Swim
La Jolla Cove Swim
La Jolla Cove Swim
La Jolla Cove Swim
La Jolla Cove Swim
La Jolla Cove Swim
La Jolla Cove Swim
La Jolla Cove Swim
La Jolla Cove Swim
La Jolla Cove Swim
La Jolla Cove Swim
La Jolla Cove Swim
La Jolla Cove Swim
La Jolla Cove Swim
La Jolla Cove Swim
La Jolla Cove Swim
La Jolla Cove Swim
La Jolla Cove Swim

Since 1916

Open Water Swim

La Jolla Cove Swim

You found it—one of the longest-running open water swims in the United States. The La Jolla Cove swim is held on the first Sunday after Labor Day, September 13, 2026, in the beautiful coastal community of La Jolla, San Diego. This iconic open water swim event has been a beloved tradition since 1916. There is a reason it’s been held almost every year for over 100 years. The calm, protected waters of the Matlahuayl State Marine Reserve provide a spectacular venue for open water swimmers and spectators alike. We are proud to offer three race distances: a 250-meter “Garibaldi Grommets” kids’ race for 6-12yo, the 1-mile “Sea Lion,” and a 3-mile “Leopard Shark.” There is also an option to swim the 1-mile and 3-mile events (with a break in between). We call this the “Whole Enchilada.” Whether you are a seasoned open water swimmer or this is your first open water race, we invite you to embrace your inner fish and join us for this one-of-a-kind event.

Events

Open Water Swims

Event Information

Get Involved

Volunteer

Volunteer

Sponsorship

Become A Partner

Sponsorship

The Ocean Awaits

For the open water swimmer, the La Jolla Cove Swim offers an unparalleled experience. The calm, warm (avg. 73º F) late summer waters of the Pacific Ocean, the thrill of swimming alongside vibrant marine life, and the challenge of navigating some of the most iconic open water courses in the US.

Open Water Swims

  • Garibaldi Grommets (250m): For swimmers (8-12yo).

  • Sea Lions (1-mile): The classic open water swim.

  • Leopard Sharks (3-mile): For seasoned swimmers.

  • Whole Enchilada (3mi + 1mi w/break): When you want more.

Ready to Dive In? Register today!

La Jolla Cove Swim Swimmer

Photo Credit: lajolla.ca

La Jolla Cove Swim Swimmer

Photo Credit: lajolla.ca

Video Credit: lajolla.ca

Video Credit: lajolla.ca

Not just a Great Swim, a Great Cause.

The La Jolla Cove Swim is a proud non-profit event, operated under The Kiwanis Club of La Jolla. All proceeds from this event support The Prevent Drowning Foundation of San Diego. Join us in making a difference.

5 Reasons to Register…

  • To test yourself in a legendary open water swim.

  • To swim alongside vibrant sea life.

  • To join a passionate, supportive swim community.

  • To create lasting memories and make new friends.

  • Because when you do, you help people learn to swim!

Make a difference, register today!

Kiwanis Club of La Jolla

“Serving the children of the world”

The Kiwanis Club of La Jolla carries out this mission in its broadest sense. We serve the children by making our community a better, child friendly place.

Our Organization

“Help us make a difference”

Help us make the future brighter by supporting our events and programs. Become a member, volunteer, give, or sponsor this event. Make a difference!

Immerse yourself in a unique underwater world, swimming alongside colorful fish and playful sea lions.

Garibaldi Groms

250 Meter Swim

Spark their passion for the ocean! The 250-meter swim is the perfect introduction to the open water for young swimmers. This fun and safe course allows kids to experience the joy of open water swimming in the calm waters of the La Jolla Cove, surrounded by the beauty of the Pacific and a couple dozen of America’s Finest City’s lifeguards. It’s a chance to build confidence, create lasting memories, and discover a love for open water swimming. The swim starts and finishes in the Cove so you can watch your swimmers for the whole swim.

Sea Lion

1 Mile Swim

The Sea Lion 1-mile swim is a classic open water swim challenge, an actual test of your open water swimming skill; this is not the pool; there are no walls to push off. Unlike a pool, where you can push off walls, this course starts and finishes in La Jolla Cove. It features a triangular route with two course markers, providing breathtaking views and a unique open water swimming experience. Whether you are an experienced open water swimmer or a motivated beginner, this open water race offers a rewarding experience for all participants.

Leopard Shark

3 Mile Swim

Is one mile not enough? Are you looking for a bigger challenge? Push yourself and take on the 3-mile swim. The Leopard Shark open water swim is the original swim held during the 1916 California Panama Exposition. The course will take you on a round trip from La Jolla Cove to the Scripps “Biological” Pier and back to the La Jolla Cove. You will be escorted by San Diego Lifeguards and a couple dozen volunteers from the Wind-and-Sea Surf Club. This swim is not for new open water swimmers.

Whole Enchilada

Combo Swim: 3 + 1 Mile

Hungry for even more? We have something for you. The Whole Enchilada combines the Leopard Shark 3-mile and Sea Lion 1-mile swims, with a brief recharge in between. This event is for the hardcore open water swimmers who want more. You will swim the 3-mile open water swim event first; then there is a break (about 1 hour) while we complete the 250-meter open water swim Garibaldi Groms event, after which you will swim the Sea Lion 1-mile open water swim event.

running is 100% mental, your body won’t go where your mind doesn’t push it…

Running Is 100% Mental, Your Body Won't Go Where Your Mind Doesn't Push It...

This Is Your Moment, Your Challenge. This Is The La Jolla Cove Swim.