Experience the breathtaking beauty of the bay with a scenic swim from Belvedere Cove in Tiburon to Ayala Cove on Angel Island. As you glide through the historic waters of Raccoon Strait— once a riverbed during the ice ages — you’ll be surrounded by stunning views of the San Francisco skyline, Mount Tamalpais, and the Marin hills. Did you know? Raccoon Strait is named after the British ship HMS Raccoon, which was repaired at Ayala Cove in 1814. This thrilling open water swim offers the perfect mix of adventure and natural history, guided by expert support teams for a safe and unforgettable experience. Don’t miss your chance to connect with the bay’s rich past and stunning scenery on this iconic aquatic journey.
RACCOON STRAIT
JUNE 7 & SEPTEMBER 6, 2025
A scenic north bay swim from Belvedere Cove off the coast of Tiburon to Ayala Cove on the shore of Angel Island! Use the code BF15OFF to take 15% off the price of registration for either of these swims - Sale ends January 1st, 2025!
AT A GLANCE
- June 7 and September 6, 2025
- 2-mile swim
- Max. 49 swimmers
- Swimmers board the boat in San Francisco
- Water start at Belvedere Cove
- Finishes at the beach in Angel Island’s Ayala Cove
- Swimmers board the boat to return to the wharf in San Francisco
THE DETAILS
See and swim in a part of San Francisco Bay that people rarely see. We think you will really enjoy the views in the beautiful stretch between Angel Island and Tiburon. This non-competitive swim is supported by an experienced team of boat pilots, kayakers, paddle boarders, and swim coaches.
WHERE TO PARK & MEET
Garage parking is available at the Ghirardelli Square Parking Garage on Larkin, or the Anchorage Square Garage on Beach Street. Free Parking is available on Beach Street behind the Maritime Museum or at the end of Van Ness Avenue.
We meet in front of the Chucky’s Pride charter boat at Fisherman’s Wharf at the corner of Jefferson and Jones Streets.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Upon arrival, we will check you in and assign you a participant number. Once all of our participants have arrived, there will be a short briefing containing instructions about the swim. The briefing will cover the swim start, water conditions, course navigation and landmarks to sight on. We will also talk about safe behaviors during the swim. The information at the briefing is very important so please pay attention. Our team of experienced kayakers will never be too far away and can help direct you during the swim.
WHAT TO BRING
- Suit or wetsuit
- Warm/dry clothes for after the swim
- Goggles
- Neoprene cap (optional)
- Small snack, water, and a warm beverage for recovery after the swim
- Towel
- Sense of adventure
- Smile
We will supply a latex cap to all swimmers.
YOUNG SWIMMERS
Participants under the age of 8 are not eligible to swim in this event. Participants under 12-years of age must complete an evaluation with a San Francisco Swim coach at a Sunday morning or Thursday evening swim. At the evaluation, it will be determined whether additional safety features are needed for the swimmer. These features may include a personal “swim angel” or personal kayaker during the swim event. For underage swimmers coming from outside of the area, a signed evaluation from their certified swim coach stating that they are capable of completing this swim (with or without close guidance) is acceptable. If the underage swimmer is not approved for the swim, the registration fee will be refunded.
Contact us with any questions about younger swimmers.
PROUD PARTNER
Raccoon Strait | San Francisco Swim
