Join us for the 2026 Alcatraz Open Swim, an exhilarating open-water challenge that has become a beloved tradition among swimmers from around the globe. On Saturday, September 13, brave the legendary waters of San Francisco Bay and navigate your way through the iconic Golden Gate Bridge as you make your way from Alcatraz Island to Aquatic Park. The event offers not only an unforgettable physical test but also a stunning visual experience. Participants will be rewarded with breathtaking views that capture the essence of this historic city, making every stroke more rewarding than the last. Preparation and camaraderie are key components of this adventure. For those eager to prepare or simply mingle before the big day, the Alcatraz Open Swim offers several pre-event activities: On September 12: - From 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, packet pickup and merchandise sales will be held at South End Rowing Club (SERC), located at 500 Jefferson Street (corner of Hyde). - Enjoy a pasta dinner from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm for those who wish to socialize or refuel before the swim. On September 13: - Early check-in begins at 5:00 am, with body marking and bag check available in front of South End Rowing Club (SERC), also located at 500 Jefferson Street. - The final check-in will close by 6:00 am. Swimmers are then invited to a pre-swim walk from SERC to Pier 43, where the ferry departs at 7:30 am. The swim itself kicks off promptly at 7:45 am as participants board the ferry for their journey across San Francisco Bay. The swim begins shortly after departure and is expected to conclude by around 9:15 am, with breakfast available throughout this period until all swimmers have reached shore. After crossing the finish line, celebrate your achievement with a well-deserved meal before the awards ceremony at 10:00 am, where top performers will be recognized for their dedication and perseverance. Whether you're an experienced swimmer or new to open-water challenges, the Alcatraz Open Swim promises an unforgettable experience that combines natural beauty, athletic prowess, and community spirit.
Races Offered
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for September in SF.
thermostatTemperature
14.3° / 20.8°
wb_sunnyFeels like
12.8° / 18.5°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
10h 44m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
0.1 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
14.2 km/h (Gentle breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Moderate
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (5.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
80.5%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
06:51
nightlight
Sunset
19:16
About SF
Learn more about the host city, SF.
San Francisco, officially the City and County of San Francisco, is the fourth-most populous city in California and the 17th-most populous in the United States, with a population of 826,079 in 2025. Among U.S. cities with a population of 200,000 or more, San Francisco is ranked first by per capita income, third by population density, and sixth by aggregate income as of 2024. Some 4.6 million residents live in the city's metropolitan statistical area, which is the 13th-largest in the United States. Around 9.2 million live in the San Jose–San Francisco–Oakland combined statistical area, the fifth-largest in the United States.
