Access Without Safety Isn’t Access

Opening the coast to everyone means making sure everyone can be safe when they get there. In California, drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages four and under, and the second leading cause for children ages five to fourteen.

The families with the least access to swim instruction are overwhelmingly the same communities SJC works to connect with the ocean. That’s why water safety is inseparable from our access mission.

Swim Directory

Compare programs based on cost, ages served, eligibility, and format.

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Org / Program Name
Program Type
Cost Range
Ages Served
Community Focus
Location
Lesson Format
Who leads the program
Accessibility Notes
Skill Level
Queer Surf
Sliding scale
$80-$250 sliding scale (scholarships for POC)
Adults (LGBTQIA+)
LGBTQIA+ (queer, non-binary, trans); POC scholarships
Northern & Southern California (Bay Area-based with expansion)
Beginner surf lessons (includes water safety)
Community-led; founded by Kyla Langen (former pro surfer)
Gender-affirming; "all bodies, all boards"; 20+ years lifeguard/teaching experience
Beginner surfing + water safety (not pure swim lessons)
YMCA - California (Multiple Locations)
Full price (financial aid available)
Paid (scholarships/financial assistance vary by location)
All ages (6 months - adults)
General public (financial aid for low-income families)
Statewide CA (San Diego, LA, Orange County, etc.; year-round)
Group & private lessons, parent-child classes
YMCA (national nonprofit; local branches)
Multiple heated facilities; financial aid varies by location
All levels (infant water safety to competitive)
San Diego Schools to Pools
Free
Free
School-age children
Low-income neighborhoods (equity-focused)
San Diego, CA (low-income neighborhoods)
In-school group lessons during school day
City of San Diego Parks & Recreation
During school hours (accessible to working parents); targets neighborhoods with rising drowning deaths
Water safety + beginner learn-to-swim
Kaiser Permanente Operation Splash
Free
Free
Youth & Adults
Low-income communities in Southern California
San Diego area, CA (including Chula Vista)
Group lessons, junior lifeguard training
Kaiser Permanente (health equity initiative)
Removes cost barriers; ~$7M investment; serves ~1,200 kids in Chula Vista
Water safety + beginner learn-to-swim
City of San Diego Learn to Swim Program
Full price
Fee-based (sliding scale available)
All ages (children, teens, adults)
General public (all communities)
San Diego, CA (multiple pool locations citywide, year-round)
Group lessons (assessment-based placement)
City of San Diego Parks & Recreation
Requires SDRecConnect account; assessment required
All levels (water safety, skill progression, endurance)
Wolfie's Swim School
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Houston area, TX (Bellaire: 5230 Cedar St; Spring Branch: 9336 Westview) - 2 indoor locations
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Ripples Swim School
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Rhode Island (Bristol: 15 Gooding Ave; West Warwick: 255 Legris Ave) - 2 indoor locations
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Safety Before Skill
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Arkansas (West Little Rock, Conway at UCA) - 2 indoor heated pools, 86°F
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Kids 1st Swim School
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Mid-Atlantic: 21 locations in MD, PA, NJ, VA, SC (Hunt Valley, Dundalk, York, Cherry Hill, Springfield, Charleston, etc.) - Indoor
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Chicago Blue Dolphins
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Chicago, IL (2222 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60614) - Indoor heated facility with 2 Endless Pools
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Splash Swim School
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
East Bay, CA (San Ramon: 2411 Old Crow Canyon Rd; Walnut Creek: 1531 3rd Ave) - 2 locations, year-round
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
America's Kids In Motion
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Clovis, CA (Fresno area: 1205 N Willow Ave, Clovis, CA 93619) - Indoor, 35,000+ sq ft facility
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
AquaPros Swim Academy
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
San Diego, CA (4635 Clairemont Mesa Blvd) + Mesa, AZ (1126 S Gilbert Rd) - 2 locations, indoor
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Silver Bear Swim School
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Northern Nevada (Reno, Sparks, Truckee) + Utah - 3+ indoor heated facilities
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
The Swim Center
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
McDonough, GA (Henry County: 1090 Regency Plaza Blvd inside Fitness 2020) + satellite locations - Indoor
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
MSB Aquatics
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Prosper, TX (Dallas-Fort Worth area: 3311 Preston Hills Circle, Prosper, TX 75078) - Private heated pool
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Speer Swim School
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Greater Philadelphia, PA (Broomall, Malvern, Newtown Square) - Multiple locations, indoor/outdoor seasonal
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Kiso Swim
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
South Florida (Boca Raton, Fort Myers) - 2+ locations
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Aquatic Adventures Swim School
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Southwest Virginia (Roanoke, Blacksburg) - 2 locations, indoor 90° pool
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Quality Swimming
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
South Florida (Boca Raton, Coconut Creek, Boynton Beach) - 3 indoor locations, year-round
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
The Joys of Swimming
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Bentonville, AR (may be closed/relocated)
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
UR Swim
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Long Island, NY (Huntington, Farmingville) + at-home lessons across Suffolk & Nassau Counties - Indoor, year-round
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Barron Swim School
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
St. Louis area, MO (St. Louis, O'Fallon, Ballwin) - 3 indoor locations
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
WI Swim Academy
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Appleton, WI (3411 E Evergreen Dr) + Howard, WI planned - Indoor/mixed facilities
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
AKSC
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Bakersfield, CA (3622 Allen Road & 4401 Ride St) - 2 locations, indoor
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Lori's H2O Skills
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Milford, OH & Crestview/Valparaiso, FL - 2-3 locations
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Little Waves Family Swim School
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Omaha, NE (17602 Wright St #102, Omaha, NE 68130)
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Swim2Shore
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Murrieta, CA (25395 Madison Ave, Suite D-101, Murrieta, CA) - Indoor, warm pool
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Deep Blue Swim School (Long Beach)
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Long Beach, CA (3640 Atlantic Ave, Long Beach, CA 90807) - Indoor, 92°F pool
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Chico Water Sprites
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Chico, CA (2280 Ivy St, Suite 110, Chico, CA 95928) - Indoor, year-round
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Propel Swim Academy
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
South Riding, VA (Northern Virginia: 43160 Amberwood Plaza) - Serves Ashburn, Aldie, Chantilly areas
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Evolution Swim
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Orange County, CA (Mission Viejo, Rancho Mission Viejo year-round; Aliso Viejo, Laguna Hills, Ladera Ranch seasonal) - 2 year-round + 3 seasonal
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Little Kickers (Swim)
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Denver, CO (1423 S Holly St, Denver, CO 80222) - Indoor, private lessons
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
SwimAmerica Davis
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Davis, CA (2121 2nd St, Suite A101, Davis, CA 95618) - Indoor, year-round
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
WaterSafe Swim School
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Southern California (Los Alamitos, Long Beach, Seal Beach, Huntington Beach, Yorba Linda, Tustin, Lakewood) - 6+ indoor locations
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Rincon Swim School
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Carpinteria, CA (Santa Barbara County at Cate School) + in-home lessons
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
I Heart Swimming
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Tustin, CA (Orange County at Tustin Hills Racquet Club)
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Baby Otters Swim School
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Orlando area, FL - Mobile service + Westgate resorts
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
DolphinU
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Los Angeles, CA; Baltimore, MD; DC/Virginia area - 3+ regions, indoor partner facilities
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Fishtails Swim School
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Stuart, FL - Single location, indoor
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
SwimPossible
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Minnesota (Lino Lakes, Saint Paul, Plymouth, Saint Louis Park, Lakeville) - 5+ locations
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Swimtastic
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Wisconsin (Menasha/Fox Cities), Florida, Nebraska - Multiple locations, indoor
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Swim SRQ
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Sarasota area, FL (Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, University Park) - 3 indoor locations, 88-90°F pools
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Dolfun Swim Academy
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Pacific Northwest: Portland & Tualatin, OR; Vancouver & Fishers Landing, WA - 4+ locations, year-round
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Aquabilities with Jennifer
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
New York (Riverdale, Dobbs Ferry, Mahopac, Somers, Yonkers, Bronx) - 6+ locations, warm water year-round
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
DeMont Swim
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Tucson, AZ (2850 W Ina Rd, Suite 130, Tucson, AZ 85741)
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
AquaDuks
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Orange County, CA (Anaheim, Yorba Linda, Brea) + Tampa, FL - 4+ locations
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Liquid Lifestyles
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Cleveland area, OH (Westlake, North Royalton, Reminderville) - 3 indoor locations
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Small Fish Big Fish Swim School
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
West Palm Beach & Jensen Beach, FL (2 locations)
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Salem Gym
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Winston-Salem, NC (4870 Country Club Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27104)
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Imagine Swimming
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
New York City (Manhattan: TriBeCa, Upper West Side; Brooklyn: Crown Heights) - Indoor pools
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
British Swim School
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
National franchise: 200+ locations in CA, TX, OR, AZ, IL, VA, MD, NJ, PA, NY, FL, IN, GA, WA, MO and others
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Oklahoma Swim
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Oklahoma (location details needed - verify)
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Little Otter Swim School
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Huntersville & Charlotte, NC (2 locations: 14415 Reese Blvd, Huntersville; 8200 Tower Point Dr, Charlotte) - Indoor, year-round
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
SwimKids USA
Scholarship-based (Hope Floats partner) + full price options
Need-based scholarships available via Hope Floats (amount/fees vary by provider)
Youth (typically 2+); some providers also serve adults (see website)
Underserved / low-income youth via scholarship (general community access)
Virginia (Leesburg, Gainesville, Woodbridge, Fredericksburg), Florida (Tampa, Orlando, Pinellas), Arizona (Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler) - 10+ locations
Group and/or private lessons (varies by provider)
Swim school leadership (see provider 'About'); participates as Hope Floats scholarship partner
Varies by provider (ask about language/disability access; some offer adaptive programming)
Beginner learn-to-swim; many also offer stroke development (varies)
Outdoor Afro — Making Waves Swim Scholarships
Scholarship-based
Up to $200 per participant (reimbursement model; see program details)
Youth & Adults
Centers/prioritizes Black children & caregivers (scholarships open to all, per program)
Nationwide (choose any provider; some vendor partners)
Intro/beginner lesson series (provider-dependent)
Nonprofit-led (Outdoor Afro)
Removes cost barriers; provider accessibility varies
Intro/beginner learn-to-swim only
Black Star Polo (Asante / Black Star Water Polo)
Community-based (varies; often free/low-cost clinics)
Varies (program/event-based)
Youth (program-based)
African & African-American communities (as described)
San Diego, CA (City Heights at Iftin Charter School, Jackie Robinson Family YMCA) + Ghana programs
Clinics / group instruction (water polo + swim fundamentals)
Community-led; founded by Asante Prince (self-described)
Varies by event; mission focuses on access/opportunity
Beginner water comfort + pathway to water polo
Oshun Swim School
Sliding scale / scholarship-based
Sliding scale (varies by class/session)
Adults & Youth (varies by class)
BIPOC (Afro-Indigenous-centered); womxn & non-binary people (as described)
Seattle, WA area (PNW; see class listings)
Workshops + group classes (varies)
Community-led; Black women/POC-centered leadership (self-described)
Healing-/trauma-informed; safer-space framing (per mission)
Water comfort + beginner skill acquisition (program focus)
Tank Proof
Free
Free (program-based)
Youth (varies by site/program)
BIPOC / underserved communities (focus on equitable access)
San Francisco, Austin, Dallas, Nashville, Brooklyn, NYC, Gonzales LA (multi-city summer programs)
Group lessons (varies by partner site)
Nonprofit-led (founders: Thurman & Torrence Thomas)
Provides free lessons; local partner delivery (details vary)
Water safety + beginner learn-to-swim

What Families Need to Know

This section provides practical water safety resources and will be updated as the AB 1005 voucher program launches.

Drowning Prevention Foundation

Prevent Drowning Foundation of San Diego believes that drowning is preventable and it is our mission to engage the community in a continuum of water safety programs and initiatives that provide access to the life-saving skill of swimming.

Visit Website

California Water Safety Action Plan for Children

The CA-WSS aims to reduce drowning and aquatic injuries by fostering collaboration among local communities, government agencies, and organizations.

Visit Website

Life jacket loaner programs

California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW) partners with public and private entities to make life jackets available to the public on a loan basis.

Visit Website

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