Alameda Open Water Swimming Meetup Group (Flounderers!)

Can't figure out where to open water swim in the East Bay? Join us at Crown Beach for friendly swimming. We call ourselves the "Flounderers", a group of people who love to swim in the Bay!

WELCOME — PLEASE READ BEFORE JOINING
We’re a friendly group of swimmers who enjoy open water swimming in the Bay, and we love welcoming new people—especially those newer to open water.

That said, this is not a guided or supervised activity, so before joining any swim, please carefully read the information below. Your safety—and the safety of the group—depends on understanding and following these guidelines.

***

PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY
By joining us, you agree that you are swimming entirely at your own risk. Each participant is responsible for their own safety, decisions, and wellbeing. We are an informal group of recreational swimmers. There are no lifeguards, coaches nor medical personnel present.

***

DISTANCE & CONDITIONS
Our typical swim is about 1,600 yards, following an out-and-back route parallel to the shoreline.
If you’re newer to open water, you can choose to stay in shallower water with a sandy bottom for the entire swim.
To participate, you should:

• Feel comfortable swimming independently
• Have some regular pool or open water swimming experience
• Be able to swim at least 1,000 yards without stopping

This is not a swim lesson group, but we are supportive of swimmers building confidence in open water.
Slower swimmers are supported by more experienced members, and we make a strong effort to ensure no one is left alone. If at any point you feel tired, dizzy, unwell, or decide to exit the water early, you must let another swimmer know before leaving. For safety, never exit the water without telling someone.

***

SWIM BUOY
Many of us use a tow float (swim buoy) for visibility and safety, and to carry small personal items.
If you’re new to the group, we strongly encourage you to use one.

***

MEETING TIME
We meet at 9:00 AM sharp every Saturday, rain or shine.
Arriving on time helps us start together and look out for one another.

***

MEETING LOCATION
We meet at Crown Beach in Alameda, at the corner of Grand Street and Shoreline Drive.
Before entering the water, we gather briefly for a Welcome Circle so everyone can be present. If you arrive late, please do not enter the water alone.

***

BELONGINGS
Please avoid bringing valuables to the beach. If needed, you can store small items in a swim buoy or ask another swimmer for help, but this is informal and at your own risk.

***

RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT
We suggest bringing:

• Goggles
• Swim cap
• In colder months: a neoprene wetsuit and neoprene cap

Water temperatures typically range from about 50°F in winter to the high 60s°F in summer.

***

MARINE ENVIRONMENT
We are guests in the Bay. You may occasionally encounter seals, rays, or seasonal sea grass and pelicans overhead! Stay calm, give wildlife space, and enjoy the experience.

***

We’re glad you’re here and excited to swim together. With awareness, preparation, and mutual support, open water swimming can be an incredibly rewarding experience.

Water quality is good and can be monitored here:

Our group of Flounderers has fallen in love with being in the Bay and enjoys this incredible gift with others!

And.... if you'd just like to take a dip in the water and see what it's like, check out our sister Meetup group: the East Bay Dipping Society!

Hint: A lot of our regular swimmers don't RSVP to posted Saturday swims. So, even if you don't see many RSVPs to a given Saturday, please know that our group will be there!