Our Mission

The Santa Barbara Channel Swimming Association's mission is to see that the history of swims to, from, around and between the 7 Channel Islands (excluding Catalina Island, which is governed by the CCSF) is preserved and to promote safe swimming from these islands. These islands include Anacapa, San Clemente, San Miguel, San Nicolas, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa.

Facts about our Channels - “Swimmers' Paradise”

• The distance from the Islands to the mainland varies from 12 to 60 road miles as the crow flies.
• The best time to attempt a crossing is from July through early October, but it is possible to swim anytime of the year.
• The Channel has mild currents, but strong winds.
• The average water temperatures in winter is 50-60 degrees F (10-15 C); in summer 55- 70 degrees F (13-21 C). Temperatures are warmest in September.