December 2024 –– Available Alcatraz to SF Swims
- Friday – December 20, 2024 ($25.00 off!)
- Saturday – December 21, 2024
- Sunday – December 22, 2024
- Monday – December 23, 2024 ($25.00 off!)
Tuesday – December 24, 2024Sold out!
How to Register? Complete our Inquiry Form for your preferred date, and we will reply with booking information or answer any questions you have.
Interested in a 2025 Alcatraz swim?
We have over 70 Alcatraz swims scheduled for 2025, including special Alcatraz training swims in April and May to prepare for the Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon. Complete the Inquiry Form with your travel dates or desired swim dates and we will reply with booking information.
Alcatraz is the most famous and iconic open water swim available, attracting athletes worldwide. The challenge of tackling the cold waters of San Francisco Bay provides a unique and memorable experience. It’s an ideal swim for experienced open water swimmers, offering a refreshing challenge that you’ll never forget.
With the stunning backdrop of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and gorgeous San Francisco skyline views, Alcatraz provides an unbeatable swimming experience.
Affordable and Enjoyable
Our Classic Alcatraz Escape swims start at $295 per person for groups of six or fewer. Non-swimming guests over 18 can join for $125 per person if space allows. We also offer solo and private swims with pricing tailored to your needs. Please enquire.
Traveling to San Francisco? Ask about our Cancel for Any Reason plan for flexible refunds.
For group swims with friends or family, we strongly recommend participants swim at a similar pace for the best experience. On regular group swims, we’ll match the course to your ability and speed to ensure a successful and enjoyable swim.
Swim Alcatraz Today!
Explore the variety of Alcatraz swim routes we offer, including the classic Alcatraz to San Francisco Escape, Golden Gate Bridge to Alcatraz, and Alcatraz to Angel Island swims, as well as special event routes like Alcatraz to Horseshoe, Pt. Bonita, Mile Rocks, and Round-Trip Alcatraz. Whether you’re a first-time Alcatraz swimmer or looking for a new challenge, Pacific Open Water Swim Co. provides professionally guided swims for all levels.
Alcatraz Swim Favorites…
Alcatraz to SF Escape
Difficulty: 3.5/10
Duration: 45-Mins +/-
It’s the most popular Alcatraz course for good reason. This 1.8-mile cross-current swim is challenging but not particularly difficult if you’re a moderately experienced swimmer. It takes about 45 minutes to complete.
GGB to Alcatraz
Difficulty: 2.5/10
Duration: 40-Mins +/-
The Golden Gate Bridge to Alcatraz swim is a 2.9-mile (4.7 km) route and our favorite Alcatraz course. With a strong tidal push, calmer waters, and unbeatable views of San Francisco, it’s the easiest and most stunning swim in the Bay.
Alcatraz to Angel Island
Difficulty: 3.5/10
Duration: 45-Mins +/-
The Alcatraz to Angel Island swim is a 2-mile (3.2 km) route ideal for flood currents, offering stunning views and a perfect alternative when the ebb current doesn’t align with your schedule. It’s just as fun though, so give it a try!
Mile Rocks to Alcatraz
Difficulty: 5/10
Duration: 90-Mins +/-
The Alcatraz to Mile Rocks swim is a 6-mile (9.7 km) open ocean adventure “Outside the Gate,” with rolling swells and challenging conditions. Perfect for experienced open water swimmers looking to push their limits. It can be swum the reverse, too.
Prison to Prison
Difficulty: 5.5/10
Duration: 3-Hrs +/-
The Prison to Prison swim is a 9-mile (14.5 km) current-assisted route from Alcatraz to San Quentin State Penitentiary. A local favorite, it features varied conditions and iconic views and makes for a perfect training swim—Johnny Cash music on the escort boat is optional.
Round Trip Alcatraz
Difficulty: 4/10
Duration: 2-Hours +/-
The Round-Trip Alcatraz swim is a 4.2-mile (6.75 km) route from San Francisco, around Alcatraz, and back. A fun, two-hour challenge, it’s only available during a tide swap. We love this one! Available as a solo/tandem only and upon special request.