About

Shadowcliffs Orcas… Open water swimming for the rest of us.

Shadowcliffs Orcas is an open water swimming club. The function of the club is to provide an opportunity for open water swimming  at Shadow Cliffs Eastbay Regional Park. As a member of the club, you will have the opportunity to swim in Shadow Cliffs lake outside of the designated swim area, allowing you to swim without stopping, for as far as 1200 yards at a time. No lane lines, no chlorine, just sunshine and fresh air.

Membership is simple:

• download the membership information packet
• read it carefully and learn the rules and requlations
• fill out and sign and date the copy of the release form
• contact us by e-mail (sign_up@shadowcliffsorcas.com ) and we will send you the latest swim testing schedule.
• e-mail  or phone and let us know that you are coming on one of the specified testing days
• show up on testing day with a signed copy of your release form, a check for $25, and be prepared (ie have your swimsuit) for the swim test
• Your $25 pays for a cool all silicone Orcas swim cap and helps to cover the club’s insurance and park costs.
• if you pass the swim test, we will collect your release form and your check and issue your Orcas swim cap

The Swim Test

• the swim test is conducted in the swim lane of Shadowcliffs swim area. the length of the swim is about 150 yards, depth of the water is about 8 feet
•  you will be asked to swim one lap (about 300 yards) and will need to complete it in under 10 minutes. Wet suits*, flotation devices and  swim fins, or other aids will not be permitted  during the test. We will observe you during your swim test and assess your general swimming ability, comfort in the water and endurance. * wetsuits will only be allowed in the event that the water temp in the lake, as determine by testing personnel, is 62° F or less.
• the swim cap MUST be worn whenever you are swimming outside of the designated swim area, it shows park personnel that you are qualified to swim outside the designated swim area.