Adult swim lessons inSan Rafael
Whether you are a total beginner or looking for an advanced swimming course, Sunsational Swim School offers private, at-home swim lessons for adults in San Rafael to ensure rapid progress!
Thousands of
5-star reviews
swimmers
Sunsational Swim instructors
For total beginners or advanced swimmers!
Sunsational Swim School offers adult swim lessons at home or in your community pool in San Rafael. Whether you're an adult beginner dipping your toe into the pool for the first time, working to overcome a fear of water, or seeking advanced swim training to complete the 1500-meter swimming split of a triathlon, we’ll be with you every stroke of the way to get you to your goals! Our expert swim instructors provide personalized, 1-on-1 adult private swim lessons to help you reach your goals. Learn to swim at your own pace with America’s #1 swim school.
Start swimming faster with a Sunsational private swim instructor in San Rafael
Getting to swim classes can be tough – that’s why we bring baby swim lessons to you! We want your baby to be comfortable in the water, so we offer private parent and baby lessons or the option to create a small baby group (3 to 6 babies) with your friends. Our instructors make it easy for everyone to have fun while learning key water safety skills together. Babies will receive a certificate after completing their lessons. What's more fun than your baby earning a certificate with their friends?
Private adult swimming lessons are great for…
- 1
Adults in all swimming levels
- 2
Fear of water or aquaphobia
- 3
Adults with near drowning/traumatic experiences
- 4
Training for a triathlon or other swim competition
- 5
Learning stroke technique
- 6
Training for a swim test (military, school, etc.)
Why choose Sunsational Swim School to learn to swim?
- 1
Quick Results
- 2
Our adult swim students generally learn to swim within just 6 to 12 swim lessons
- 3
Built-in Convenience
- 4
Sunsational swim instructors travel to you & work around your schedule
- 5
Top Instructors
- 6
All Sunsational instructors are CPR/First Aid certified with a minimum of 2 years of experience teaching adult lessons
- 7
Satisfaction Guaranteed
- 8
Love your lessons or choose a new instructor or refund
Benefits of adult swimming lessons with Sunsational
If you want to learn to swim and you’re afraid or embarrassed to try in a group, the Sunsational Swim School’s private swimming lessons for adults can help you develop a strong set of basic swim skills quickly.
Private swim lessons are the most effective way to learn
Our adult swim lessons can take place at your community pool or even in your own home swimming pool—at the times and days that work best for you.
We make it convenient to learn
Our private adult swim lessons are tailored to your comfort level and learning style. We create a relaxed environment where progress is easy and fast.
We tailor our lessons for you
You can choose a time slot for adult swimming lessons that fits with your own schedule and even book multiple lessons in advance at the same time.
Flexible scheduling
From the first splash to the last dive, our private swim lessons for adults help you advance at your pace in an encouraging and safe environment.
Non-swimmers to advance technique training
Our instructors are CPR/First Aid certified, background checked, and trained in swim safety. They’re patient and experienced at teaching adults.
Highly qualified & patient instructors
You’re never too old to learn
Learning to swim is an achievement to be proud of at any age, especially considering that nearly half of all American adults fear the deep end while 37% can’t swim at all. Our private adult swim lessons use personalized programs and proven methods to help adults of all levels build confidence, overcome their fear of water, and master essential swimming skills in a supportive environment.
Adult Beginner
How to be comfortable in the water
Water safety/survival techniques
Introduction to treading water
Proper floating, kicking, and breathing underwater
Front crawl/freestyle swim stroke
Adult Intermediate
Breaststroke, backstroke swimming techniques
Rotary breathing
Endurance building
Mechanical stroke refinement on established swim strokes
Adult Advanced
Advanced stroke techniques for improved efficiency and speed
Butterfly arm and kick coordination, flip turns, and diving
Speed, endurance and stamina
Specialized Training
Endurance-based interval training for long-distance and military swim tests
Swim training for swimmers participating in triathlons
Water aerobic exercise with stretching and strength training routines to improve all elements of fitness (flexibility, muscular strength, and cardiovascular fitness)
Recommended lesson plans for adult Swim Lessons
After teaching thousands of adults how to swim, we’ve found that these lesson plans work best based on skill levels and goals:
For beginner adult swim students
Lesson Length:
60 minutes
Recommended Lessons:
12-18
If you’re new to swimming or overcoming a fear of water, our 6-pack of 1-hour lessons is ideal for building your confidence. For adult beginners looking to master basic skills and progress to strokes like freestyle, our 12-pack offers extended practice and faster results.
For advanced adult swim students
Lesson Length:
60 minutes
Recommended Lessons:
6-12
For advanced swimmers training for competition, tests, or triathlons, as well as those who just want to improve their swimming skills, our 12 or 18-pack provides focused practice to refine your stroke technique. Better technique will help you swim faster with less effort.
100% Satisfaction Guarantee
We're so confident in the quality of our swim instructors that we stand behind them with our Sunsational Instructor Guarantee!
If your first lesson is anything less than sunsational, just let us know and we can either refund your unused lesson time or re-start your lesson package with a more suitable Instructor, your choice!
Adult Lessons
1 Hr or longer (add in 30 minute increments). Each hour can be divided by up to 4 students (max of 2 beginners at one time; both beginners must be age 4 yrs or older). 30 minutes private lesson per student to qualify for the guarantee.
1 - 4 Student
60 Minute private or semi-private lessons
(1Hr+ Can be divided by multiple students)
18 lessons
106
/ HOUR
BEST VALUE
12 lessons
112
/ HOUR
MOST POPULAR
6 lessons
125
/ HOUR
Need help? Call 1-888-788-2140
Private swim lessons vs. Group swim lessons
Learn about why parents choose Sunsational for their Private Swimming Lessons
Private Swim Lessons
vs
Group Swim Lessons
Quick Results with 30+ minutes of individualised instruction
vs
Slow Progress with limited 1-on-1 attention
Flexible scheduling, book multiple kids back-to-back
vs
Flexible scheduling, may vary for each child
Save time lessons at your home or community pool
vs
Time-Consuming - travel required to and from lessons
Faster Progression saves money in the long run
vs
More Sessions Needed Needed to see real progress
Search Nearby Instructors
*If you'd like to work with a specific instructor, we'll do our best match you with your request. However, instructor availability is not guaranteed. If the instructor is unavailable, we'll pair you with a swim instructor who's equally qualified!
Alena S.
San Anselmo, California 94960
Sunsational Certified Since 2023
Hi, my name is Alena Sharp and Ive been swimming since age 5. I started teaching lessons when I was 14 years old and I have been swimming competitively for 14 years. I currently am a Division 1 swimmer. I have worked with children in various group sizes and ages (3 - adults!). I love teaching swimming because it has been a passion of mine and I believe in the positive life skills that can be learned from learning to swim and also competing on a team.
Paige S.
San Anselmo, CA 94960
Sunsational Certified Since 2021
Hi, my is Paige and I grew up on a competitive swim team from age 6 to 17 years old. It was such an amazing experience as a sport and I made friends for life. I actually taught basketball (my favorite sport) for over 20 years for kids ages 3 years old to adult. I have taught teams, camps and private one-on-one lessons in basketball. I went to St. Mary's College and received a degree in Business Administration. I look forward to working with you and/or your kids.
Sarah v.
San Rafael, California 94903-1092
Certification N/A
Hello! My name is Sarah, and I'm a college student. I have worked with children my whole life because I am the eldest of four children. I have been teaching swimming lessons since February 2023, and I am a certified lifeguard. I have taught children from 18 months to 9 years old. I have been swimming since I was very young and have been on multiple swim teams. I look forward to meeting families and students!
james a.
Mill Valley, CA 94941
Sunsational Certified Since 2025
Lifetime swimmer in Northern California. Water Polo coach at both the club and collegiate levels.Member of the South End Rowing Club. Completion of more than 30 Club-sponsored Alcatraz swims.
Andrea P.
Richmond, California 94805
Certification N/A
Hi and welcome! My name is Andrea, and I'm excited to be your swim instructor. Ive loved being in the water since I was a kid, and swimming has been a big part of my life ever since. I started as a swimmer myself, and over time, I turned that passion into teaching. Since February 2021, Ive had the joy of helping both kids and adults learn how to swim. I focus on building confidence, staying safe, and making sure every lesson is a fun and positive experience. No matter your age or skill level, Im here to support you and help you feel strong and comfortable in the water. Im looking forward to working with you and being part of your swim journey!
Claire B.
El Cerrito, California 94530
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hi, Im Claire, and Im going to be your swim instructor for all of your lessons. I was on a swim team from 4-16 and have continued to swim recreationally since. I taught swim lessons in Davis for ages 3-adults the past two summers and am excited to continue instructing. I love being in the water and helping students of all ages achieve their goals. My other job is aiding recovering PT patients, so positivity, care, and kindness is always my priority for you. I look forward to working with you!
Amelia W.
El Cerrito, California 94530
Certification N/A
Hi! My name is Amelia, and Ive been a swim instructor and lifeguard since February 2018. I joined the swim team when I was 12 and havent stopped swimming since! I swam on my high school varsity team and my college club team, and I currently swim with the US Masters team. My favorite strokes are freestyle and breaststroke. I cant wait to meet you!
Alejandra R.
El Cerrito, California 94530
Certification N/A
As a lifelong swimmer, I have been teaching swim lessons since September 2016 with children aged 2-18 and adults. I was a competitive swimmer and am now a coach, so I can teach all levels from getting comfortable in the water to swim team technique. I have also been a lifeguard for 9 years, so I am also able to maintain and teach water safety. I love the water, and I hope your student will too!
Nicole L.
San Francisco, California 94121
Certification N/A
Hi, Im Nicole Levin! I have experience working as a swim coach and have over 7 years of experience as a swimmer. I work with all ages and skill levels, and Im passionate about helping others improve their technique, build confidence in the water, and reach their goals. Looking forward to working together!
Anjelica V.
San Francisco, California 94109
Certification N/A
Hello! My name is Anjelica, and I absolutely love teaching swim lessons. Over the past 10 years, I have taught students of all ages, from 6 months up to adults. I especially love teaching special needs swim lessons and designing lesson plans that accommodate and challenge students of all abilities. My personal swim experience includes swimming for the UPenn club swim team at Nationals, swimming with the UC Berkeley Cal Masters Swim team, and also competing in open water swimming at the Collegiate Nationals with Cal Triathlon. I currently work at SF General Hospital in clinical research full-time but realized I was missing that joy of interacting with kids and seeing them grow confidence in the water.
Bobby K.
San Francisco, California 94115
Certification N/A
I began teaching swim lessons as a teenager at my local community center and summer camp, helping kids build confidence in the water. Later, I continued sharpening my skills by teaching swim and PT lessons in the Marine Corps. Whether youre just starting out or looking to improve your techniquelets swim!
Sarah T.
San Francisco, California 94118
Certification N/A
Hello, Im Sarah! I learned to swim when I was seven and joined a swim team when I was 13. Ive taught swim lessons since May 2018, instructing students ranging from 3 months of age to adult students. I coached a swim team to swim fast while maintaining great technique for three years. Additionally, I have three years of experience as a lifeguard. Im so excited to work hard while having lots of fun!
Briggitte K.
San Francisco, California 94121
Certification N/A
Ive been swimming since before I could walk and teaching since January 2010. As a Red Crosscertified lifeguard and instructor, I work with all ages, abilities, and special needswhether its building water confidence, teaching safety, or fine-tuning competitive strokes. No matter where life takes me, I always find my way back to the water.
Milos R.
San Francisco, California 94109-2751
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Im a former college water polo player and lifelong waterman. One of the most rewarding experiences Ive had was teaching over 150 toddlers water safety and foundational swimming skills. I also have a 6-month-old son whom I have already been introducing to basic water skills.
Matthew Y.
San Francisco, California 94109
Certification N/A
I recently graduated from UCLA with a BA in Philosophy. I have been swimming since I was 5 in swim teams, club swim, and US Masters Swimming, and I have been a lifeguard since June 2019. I have been teaching children as young as 2 years old to teenagers and adults how to swim since February 2023, both privately and with the YMCA. In terms of skill level, I have taught everything from absolute beginners and parent-child classes to junior lifeguards and swim team.
Rachel M.
San Francisco, CA 94115
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hi! My name is Rachel and I have been a swim coach for over 5 years teaching ages 4-adults. Let's swim!
Gemma M.
San Francisco, CA 94118
Sunsational Certified Since 2021
Hi! My name is Gemma, and I have four years of experience teaching private lessons, as well as three years of experience as a swim coach, lifeguard experience, and a competitive swim background. I have worked multiple jobs in my life, but teaching swim lessons will always have a special place in my heart -- it's incredibly rewarding to see my students become more comfortable in the water and improve their skills!
Kim H.
San Francisco, CA 94122
Sunsational Certified Since 2018
Kim has been teaching swimming for many years. She taught for 5 years at the YMCA. She spent 12 years as a competitive swimmer. She loves to teach beginners ages 4 and up. She also has experience with special needs students and helping more advanced students improve their efficiency in the water and ongoing enjoyment of swimming.
Lian J.
San Francisco, California 94117
Certification N/A
Hi there! My name is Lian, and I am a Division 1 swimmer and rising junior at American University. I am a passionate athlete who loves helping others in the pool, whether it be fine-tuning their skills or simply becoming more comfortable in the water. My swimming experience of over 15 years has taught me all about the water and the sport, with expertise ranging from water safety to the smallest techniques that can drastically improve stroke and breath efficiency. I have been teaching kids and babies of all ages, including those with special needs and disabilities, since February 2022. If youre interested in starting or improving your journey as a swimmer, then I hope to see you in the pool!
Oliver M.
San Francisco, California 94122
Certification N/A
Hi, nice to meet you! My name is Oliver, and I have been doing both lifeguarding and swim instructing since February 2021. I have experience working with clients from the ages of 8 months to 45 years, as well as experience working with both kids and adults with special needs. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions, concerns, or specific requests!
Tess W.
Berkeley, CA 94703
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
My name is Tess and I am very passionate about teaching children of all ages water safety skills. I have been swim instructing for 4 years and have experience with ages 1-15. In addition to teaching, lifeguarding, and coaching, I have tutored and provided daycare for almost 10 years. With 5 years of competitive swimming experience and 3 years on a water polo team. I enjoy sharing the love of water with children and supporting them in becoming safe, independent, confident swimmers!
Loading...
Search our Serviced Locations
Find out if a Sunsational Swim instructor is in your area
Available all across the USA!
Got questions?
We have answers. When is the best time for adults to start swim lessons?
We make scheduling easy. Morning, afternoon, evening, and weekend lessons are avaialble 6AM-8PM to fit your family’s lifestyle. You choose the days, times and number of lessons per week that works for you. Because all lessons are private, scheduling is completely flexible and can be adjusted for vacations or weather. In San Rafael, our instructors teach year-round, so you can start lessons whenever you’re ready.
Yes — adults can absolutely learn to swim at any age. Sunsational Swim School specializes in private, at-home adult swim lessons that meet you where you are, from complete beginner to stroke refinement. Our certified, background-checked instructors use a safety-first approach and one-on-one instruction to build confidence, comfort, and efficient technique.
Many adult learners see meaningful progress in just 4 to 12 lessons with regular practice. If you’re searching for “private swim instructor near me” or swim lessons in San Rafael, our flexible scheduling, mobile swim instructors and personalized lesson plans make it easy to fit learning into your life.
While everyone learns at their own pace, we can give you a realistic timeline based on thousands of adult students. We see most beginners who take consistent private lessons in San Rafael achieve these milestones:
- Within 1-3 lessons: Comfortably submerge their face, control their breathing, and perform a supported back float. The initial fear begins to fade.
- Within 4-8 lessons: Can swim a short distance (10-15 feet) unassisted using a basic freestyle or elementary backstroke. They can also safely recover to a standing position.
- Within 8-12 lessons: Develop the endurance and technique to swim the length of a typical backyard pool with confidence.
We understand that a real fear of water is not something you can just "get over." Our entire approach is built on trust and control. Here’s what it looks like:
You Are Always in Control: We start where you can comfortably stand, often on the pool steps. Your instructor will never push, splash, or rush you.
It Starts with Breathing: The very first skill your Sunsational instructor works with you is often breath control—learning to blow bubbles. This one simple action calms the nervous system and gives you a sense of command in the water.
We Demystify Floating: We explain the physics of why your body wants to float. We then guide you through it with full support, so you can feel the water holding you up without any risk. This is the "aha!" moment for most anxious swimmers.
One-on-one lessons are tailored to your objectives: water confidence, breath control, stroke mechanics, endurance, or open-water readiness. Safety skills such as floating, treading water, and emergency recovery are emphasized from day one. Your instructor will break complex skills into manageable drills, correct body position and timing, and add focused practice to accelerate improvement.
Our instructors are certified, background-checked, and CPR-trained, and lessons are delivered privately at your home pool for convenience. If you search “private swim instructor near me,” you’ll find Sunsational Swim School offers flexible lesson lengths and scheduling to match your lifestyle.
Your first lesson is all about comfort and confidence. Your instructor will assess your current ability, demonstrate proper breathing and floating techniques, and help you relax in the water. There’s no pressure to perform—just a calm, step-by-step introduction to swimming safely and efficiently.
Absolutely. Our advanced coaches teach the nuanced mechanics that define an efficient stroke. For freestyle, we move beyond the basics and focus on key areas of propulsion, like the high-elbow catch (early vertical forearm). We also offer advanced training for breaststroke, butterfly, backstroke, triathlon and more in our private at-home swim lesson programs available in San Rafael.
We understand if you're concerned about selecting the right swim instructor for your lessons, because we are too! Our full-time, dedicated matching team carefully reviews your registration and hand selects a swim instructor for your lessons based on your swimmer's age, goals and your schedule. You'll receive a detailed instructor profile with experience, certifications, and reviews. If you'd like to request a specific instructor in San Rafael, we'll do our best to accommodate. But rest assured that we stand behind each of our swim instructors and selections with our Satisfaction Guarantee.