Long Island Sound Open Water Swim

The waters off Larchmont are defined by a complex interplay of tidal movement and protected harbor geography. As you navigate the harbor, you will notice depths shifting from roughly 12 feet at the entrance to a shallow 6 feet near the shoreline, a variance that dictates the path for those swimming the longer distances. The entrance is bisected by the Hen and Chickens reef, which remains partially exposed at low tide and requires swimmers to maintain a clear line through the 300-yard-wide eastern channel. The harbor area is also densely populated with mooring buoys for yachts, creating a rhythmic course of markers that guide your progress toward the finish at the Larchmont Shore Club.

Historical currents and coastal landmarks

Tracing the shoreline toward Manor Park, you swim past a landscape that has long been a focal point for the region. The coastline is punctuated by over 5,000 feet of striated rock formations, a stark visual contrast to the surrounding water. This area holds deep roots; as early as 1614, Dutch captains documented the campfires of the Siwanoy indigenous people burning along this exact stretch of the coast. Today, the tidal flats of the Premium River-Pine Brook Wetlands serve as a vital nursery for striped bass, bluefish, and winter flounder, and it is not uncommon to spot an osprey circling above the shallows as you maintain your pace.

Race day mechanics

This annual benefit event offers distances ranging from 805 meters to a 10,000-meter challenge for experienced swimmers. Participation requires meeting specific fundraising minimums, which support oncology research at institutions like Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. For those seeking a shorter or more localized experience, the Fairfield County Open Water Swim offers a nearby alternative during the early summer season. Logistics are precise: the 10K course requires committee approval and a personal kayaker, while all swimmers must be aware of the mandatory check-in times to ensure a safe departure from the Larchmont Yacht Club docks before the morning boat traffic increases. Safety protocols are rigorous, with stationary kayaks and inflatables marking the channel to ensure all participants reach the finish line at the Larchmont Shore Club safely.