The La Jolla Rough Water Swim

July 7, 2008 | By Elizabeth Hansen | Reply More

The La Jolla Rough Water Swim, America’s premier event of this type, takes place at the La Jolla Cove every year on the first Sunday in September.

More than 2,000 swimmers churning up the water make for a memorable sight, and it’s not surprising that this is one of La Jolla’s most popular spectator events.

Most competitors follow a triangular one-mile course, but elite swimmers opt for a more grueling Gatorman three-mile challenge. Juniors have a 250-yard option.

This event has been part of La Jolla’s history since 1916, and it’s taken place almost every year since 1931. (Concerns about polio and sharks caused cancellations in 1948 and 1959 respectively.)

I first saw the La Jolla Rough Water Swim because I happened to be having Sunday brunch with friends at Azul La Jolla on Prospect Street, which has a great view of the Cove. I still think Azul is the best viewpoint – so book early and request a window table.

Click here for more information on the Rough Water Swim.

Tags: About La Jolla, advice, competitive swimming, insider, insider's guide, La Jolla travel information, Rough Water Swim, spectator events, tourism, tourists, travel, travelwriter, visitor info, writer

Category: dining with a view, Events

About the Author (Author Profile)

I live in La Jolla and I'm a travel writer, so in addition to enjoying my home town's great weather, beautiful surroundings, and range of cultural and recreational options, I also see La Jolla - and the rest of San Diego - as a travel destination. And what I see sometimes drives me batty. People vacation in La Jolla, but don't take advantage of everything our community offers, so I decided to start this blog and provide insider advice for out-of-towners. Hey. I figure if I can write insider tips about exotic destinations on Authentic Luxury Travel, I ought to be able to lead readers off the beaten path that starts just outside my front door. In the process, I'm having fun revisiting my favorite places and discovering some new ones. Travel writers are naturally snoopy, and this blog is my excuse to have a good ol' sticky beak around my home town. I hope you find it helpful. If you are coming to La Jolla or another area of San Diego and would like my help in planning your trip, please read "Need Help Planning Your Trip" and then email me at ehansen298@aol.com. Elizabeth Hansen