Swimming Events in New York
New York has 12 upcoming open water swims scheduled for 2026. That is the 2nd-highest event count for open water swimming of any state. New York City is the busiest city with 7 swims, ahead of Long Beach (1) and Brightwaters (1).
Showing all 12
Swimming
Kiefer Swim Paddle Run
Long Beach, NY
Swimming
Kiefer Swim Paddle Run
July 26, 2026
Long Beach, NY
Top Cities for Swimming Events in New York
Swimming Events in Nearby States
Frequently asked questions
What types of open water swimming events are there?▾
Events range from short 1-mile swims to marathon distances of 10+ miles. Categories include bay crossings, lake swims, ocean swims, river swims, and channel crossings. RACE lists open water events across the US.
What is the Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming?▾
The Triple Crown consists of the English Channel (21 miles), the Catalina Channel (20.2 miles), and the Manhattan Island Marathon Swim (28.5 miles). The Catalina and Manhattan swims are both listed on RACE.
What gear do I need for open water swimming?▾
Essential gear includes goggles, a brightly colored swim cap, and a wetsuit (if water temperature allows). Many swimmers also use a safety buoy for visibility. Some events require specific gear — check the event page for details.
What are the biggest open water swims in the US?▾
Notable events include Escape From Alcatraz (Sharkfest), Swim Around Key West, the Waikiki Roughwater Swim, and Swim Miami. The Manhattan Island Marathon Swim is one of the most iconic distance events. Find them on RACE.