SDOWSA - a one-stop resource for open water swimming services in San Diego.

Founded by International Marathon Swim Hall of Fame Coach Dan Simonelli, the San Diego Open Water Swimming Association is designed to provide swimmers with all the resources they may need for open-water swimming in coastal San Diego. Whether working directly with Dan or another individual on our list, you can rest assured that Dan “Swimonelli” has vetted and approved each participating individual based on their experience, training and combined qualifications.

We offer:

  • A pool of qualified open water coaches

  • Assistance with training plans

  • Swim safety guidelines and checklists

  • Group swim locators

  • Lists of swim routes and events

  • Nutrition guidance

  • Cool water acclimation training

  • Access to trained escort kayakers for swim assists

  • Swimmer escort kayaker training programs

Two people in the water swimming or playing while a person in a kayak paddles nearby on a calm body of water, with trees and boats along the shoreline in the background.

Following is a list of trained, experienced and vetted open water swim coaches and/or kayakers serving the SDOWSA community:

Please contact these individuals at their email addresses in reference to their available services.

A table with names, emails, and various certifications and qualifications related to water safety and training.
A person kayaking on a calm body of water during sunset, with a building and trees in the distance and a clear sky overhead.
A paddleboarder sitting on a kayak and a person swimming in the ocean during sunset.