Programs | Off-Season

From first-time open water swimmers to experienced athletes refining technique, our programs offer training, safety, community support. Scroll down to read detailed descriptions of each type of program offered.

Turn your “ocean nerves” into ocean joy. Do waves make you wary? If the idea of the open sea feels daunting, this program is designed specifically for you. Seasoned CIBBOWS experts provide a supportive environment to help you build confidence at your own pace.

We start on the beach with strategies for managing fear and tips for navigating the surf. In the water, staying close to the shore, we practice entering and exiting safely, and using floating techniques to rest and stay calm.

Requirements: You must be able to swim 200 yards without stopping, tread water comfortably, and float on your back without assistance.

Learn the basics of open water swimming. Join experienced CIBBOWS leaders for a hands-on introduction to the ocean. The group begins on the sand with a safety briefing, a brief round of introductions, and a review of the current conditions. Once in the water, we’ll practice treading, short-distance swims parallel to the shore, and basic sighting with the help of landmarks.

  • Duration: 1 hour (approx. 45 minutes in the water).
  • Requirements: No open water experience needed. You must be able to swim 200 yards continuous freestyle without stopping, tread water comfortably, and float on your back without assistance

Note: This is not a “learn to swim” class. If you feel significant anxiety about the ocean, please see our Learn to Love Ocean Swimming program.

Connect, pace, and explore. Our group swims are the perfect way to meet fellow members and build endurance in a social, supportive setting. Led by experienced CIBBOWS swimmers, in these sessions we swim freestyle and move at a medium pace parallel to the shore, with regular check-ins at every jetty to keep the group together.

  • Distance: Typically 1 mile, depending on conditions.
  • Requirements: Must have previous open water experience and be able to swim 200 yards continuous freestyle, tread water comfortably, and float on your back without assistance.

Important: This swim takes place in deep water. Beginners should start with Intro to Open Water, and those with ocean anxiety are encouraged to join Learn to Love Ocean Swimming.

CIBBOWS is excited to offer a stroke technique clinic for swimmers looking to level up their form this summer! Maybe you’re setting a goal to swim Grimaldo’s Mile this year?

Join our focused clinic series, taught by professional race coaches, designed to help you build confidence and technical precision. These sessions use a unique “land-to-water” approach to refine your stroke whether you are training for an event or want to improve your open water efficiency.

What You’ll Learn:: 

  • Power & Efficiency: Master a strong catch and body rotation to maximize your speed and glide.
  • Endurance: Learn specialized kicking techniques to save your energy for long-distance swims.
  • Adaptability: Adjust your stroke for choppy conditions with recovery techniques built for the ocean.
  • Navigation: Learn efficient sighting and breathing methods to stay on course without losing your rhythm.
  • Gear: Adjust your stroke if you are using a wetsuit.
  • Resources: Registration includes access to a library of instructional videos and curated materials to support your practice between sessions.

Please note: All swimmers must be able to swim at least 200 yards freestyle in a pool without stopping. We will swim rain or shine, but we do not swim in thunderstorm conditions. Registration is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Longer Swims for you and your Swim Buddies!

Every season we offer a number of Swim Challenges for small groups of experienced swimmers looking to complete longer distances. CIBBOWS plans the routes, obtains the necessary permits, lines-up boat and kayak escorts, and helps to connect swimmers to train and swim together.

All swimmers must be CIBBOWS members and all event costs are shared by the swimmers. Learn More

  •  August 30, 2026
     10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Registration has ended because the event is over.

  •  August 23, 2026
     10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Registration has ended because the event is over.

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