Sharks
Sharks are strong, confident swimmers who know how to read and move with the ocean. At this level, swimmers are comfortable getting in and out through the break, clearly identifying rip currents, and understanding how waves, currents, and changing conditions affect the water around them. They take on longer open water and buoy swims, practice swimming through lateral currents, maintain direction in moving water, and build endurance away from shore. Swimmers also strengthen their body surfing skills, learn to choose the right waves and timing for their return, and become more independent and confident navigating their way back to the beach.
Gear Checklist:
- ✓ Snug-fit goggles
- ✓ Bright-colored swim cap
- ✓ Towel
- ✓ Water bottle
- ✓ Sunscreen applied before arrival
- ✓ Wetsuit (especially during the colder months)
- ✓ Fins
Prerequisites
Beyond the Break
Comfortable making it through the break and remaining calm in open water away from shore.
Open Water Control
Able to complete short open water swims while maintaining direction, breathing, and control in moving water.
Ocean Awareness
Able to read incoming wave sets, recognize basic rip and lateral currents, and understand when conditions make entering or returning to shore more difficult.
Passing to the Next Level
- ✓Confidently navigate through the break and return to shore in changing conditions
- ✓Clearly identify rip currents and lateral currents and explain how to respond to them
- ✓Complete longer open water and buoy swims while maintaining direction, breathing, and control
- ✓Swim effectively through lateral currents and adjust course when being pushed off direction
- ✓Read wave sets and choose the safest timing and route for entering and returning to shore
- ✓Body surf back to shore with control and confidently select appropriate waves
- ✓Demonstrate strong ocean awareness, including changing waves, currents, hazards, and personal limits
- ✓Remain calm, confident, and independent while swimming beyond the break