Race Day September 13, 2026
Sea Lion
1 Mile Swim
The Sea Lion 1-mile swim is a classic open water challenge. No flip turns. No lane lines. Just you, the ocean, some Kelp bass, Garibaldi, and Cormorants. Starting and finishing at the La Jolla Cove, this course takes swimmers through the naturally protected waters of the Matlahuayl State Marine Reserve, offering a unique open water swimming experience.
Feel the energy of the ocean, swim along side your “fellow” sea creatures, and enjoy a wonderful opportunity push your limits in this iconic swim.
Whether you’re a seasoned open water veteran or a determined newcomer, the Sea Lion mile provides a rewarding and unforgettable experience, embodying the spirit of the La Jolla Cove Swim.
- Distance: 1 Mile (approx. 1609 meters)
- Location: La Jolla Cove and surrounding coastal waters.
- Ideal For: Swimmers with previous open water experience looking for a rewarding and beautiful challenge.
- Safety First: Our event prioritizes participant safety with comprehensive lifeguard and water safety personnel coverage throughout the course.
COURSE MAP & DETAILS
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, no walls to push off. This course starts and finishes in the La Jolla Cove, a triangular route around two course markers, offering breathtaking views and a unique swimming experience. Whether you’re a seasoned open water veteran or a determined newcomer, this race provides a rewarding experience.
Race Details
Event Date: Sunday, September 13, 2026
Event Location: Scripps Park/La Jolla Cove – 1160 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037
Race Day Check In: 6:30 AM – 10:45 AM
Free Guided La Jolla Cove Familiarization Swim: 10 AM on Saturday led by local swimmers.
Saturday Check In: You may check in for your event the day before at Scripps Park/La Jolla Cove 9AM-2PM . You do not need to check in twice. But you must wear your timing chip and issued swim cap for your event. Do not lose them.
Line Up Time: 10:45 AM
Start Time: 11:30 AM (first wave), 11:05 AM (second wave), 11:10 AM (third wave), 11:15 AM (fourth wave, if needed)
Parental Approval: A legal guardian needs to register all swimmers under age 18.
All Races: Begin and Finish on the Beach of La Jolla Cove.
Time Limit 60 Minutes: Swimmers have one hour to complete the 1 mile “Sea Lion” event. Swimmers must follow lifeguard directions and may be removed from the course at lifeguard discretion.
Race Day Info
Check-In: Each swimmer must check in prior to their event. Swimmers will receive a t-shirt, swim cap, timing chip ankle band, and wave assignment. Your race number will be written on both arms or hands. Timing is used for all awards and official results. Race Day Check-in will open at 6:30 AM. Check in for each event closes 15 mins prior to scheduled start time of the event. Swimmers may check in on Saturday and receive their timing chip, swim cap, race number, etc. Swimmers who check in on Saturday do NOT need to check in again on Race Day.
The Course for the Swim: The 1-mile course will be clearly marked with large, visible buoys, guiding swimmers around a scenic route within the La Jolla Cove area. The course is designed to offer a dynamic open water experience while keeping safety as the primary concern.
Swim Gear
- Swimsuit “Tech suits” are not permitted. (Speedo LZR, Arena PowerSkin etc).
- Swim goggles Masks are allowed, but snorkels are prohibited.
- Swim cap (provided by the event)
- Wetsuits ARE permitted. Swimmers who wish to wear wetsuits or swimwear that provides buoyancy must register for the “Wetsuit” division. Wetsuit Division swimmers are not eligible for age group awards.
- Fins are prohibited.
- Swim Buoys are prohibited.
Awards
All participants who complete their event will receive a finisher’s medal. Age group awards will be given the top three finishing (Gold, Silver, Bronze) male and female REGULATION division swimmers in each age group based on United States Masters Swimming & USA Swimming age group guidelines. (13-14,15-17,18-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80-84, 85-89, 90-94). Sorry, Wetsuit Division swimmers are not eligible for age group awards.
Safety
- Lifeguard Supervision: Over 20 San Diego Fire-Rescue Lifeguards will be assigned as dedicated safety personnel for the event. They will be actively monitoring the swimmers from Rescue Boats, Paddle Boards and specialized Personal Water Craft for duration of the event.
- Pre-Race Briefing: The Beach Team will review safety instructions and course details prior to the start of each wave.
- Parental Supervision: We encourage parents to remain in designated viewing areas to cheer on their young swimmers.
- Medical Support: On-site medical personnel will be available to provide any necessary assistance.
Important Safety Tips
It is strongly encouraged that all swimmers have recent open water swimming experience at or beyond the 1-mile distance.
Pay attention to the instructions of the Beach Team and lifeguards. They are here for your safety.
Make sure you are well hydrated before and after the race.
Sunscreen is highly recommended.
If you are new to swimming at the La Jolla Cove, take advantage of our Saturday guided “Cove
Familiarization” swim at 11am.
FAQs: Questions & Answers
