Combo Swim

The Whole Enchilada is the ultimate La Jolla Cove Swim challenge: you’ll complete the Leopard Shark 3 Mile Swim, take a short recovery break on shore while the Garibaldi Groms 250 Meter Swim runs, then return to the water for the Sea Lion 1 Mile Swim. You’ll swim in the iconic waters of La Jolla Cove, supported by professional lifeguards and water safety teams, with clearly marked courses for both swims.

How the Combo Works

1. Swim #1: Leopard Shark 3 Mile Swim (morning start)

2. Recharge Break: approximately 1 hour (Garibaldi Groms 250m runs during this time)

3. Swim #2: Sea Lion 1 Mile Swim (late morning start)

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 – 9:45 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.

• Combo Event Window: 8:00AM – 12:30PM
• 3 Mile Swim Time Block: 8:00AM – 10:00AM
• Garibaldi Groms 250m: 10:30AM – 11:00AM
• 1 Mile Swim Time Block: 11:30AM – 12:30PM

Age: Open to ages 18+.
All Races: Begin and Finish on the Beach of La Jolla Cove.

This event is best for swimmers with recent open water experience and training for longer distances.

Check-In Options

• Saturday Check-In: You may check in the day before. You do not need to check in twice. (Bring your timing chip and issued swim cap on race day.)

• Race Day Check-In: Check in before the 3-mile start so you’re set for both swims. You’ll keep the same timing chip and cap requirements for the day.

Race Day Info

Check-in is required. Swimmers receive a t-shirt, swim cap, and timing chip ankle band. Your race number will be written on both arms or hands. Timing is used for awards and official results.

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 finishers receive a finisher’s medal, and all swimmers receive an event t-shirt. Age group medals follow U.S. Masters Swimming age brackets.

​Safety

Your safety is our highest priority, especially in a race of this distance. The following protocols are in place to ensure a secure environment for all athletes.

• Lifeguard Supervision: Certified lifeguards will actively monitor the entire course, from kayaks to paddleboards.
• Pre-Race Briefing: We require all participants and parents to attend the pre-race briefing, where we will review safety instructions and course details.
• Medical Support: On-site medical personnel will be available to provide any necessary assistance.

Important Safety Tips

• We highly recommend that all participants have extensive recent open water swimming experience and are fully trained for this distance and a variety of ocean conditions.
• La Jolla Cove is home to diverse marine life, including leopard sharks. They are harmless, and their presence is a unique part of the experience. Please do not touch or disturb any wildlife.
• Familiarize yourself with typical ocean conditions (currents, swells) if possible.
• Arrive early for check-in and the mandatory briefing.
• Stay hydrated before, during, and after the race.
• Apply ample sunscreen to prevent sunburn.