Our Story
40 years of aloha, one swimmer at a time.
40 Years in the Water
Shaka Swim School was founded over four decades ago with a simple idea: Swimming is a necessity and learning it should feel like family teaching you.
Our founders grew up surfing and swimming in Hawaii and along the California coast, raised with the tradition of shaka — a gesture of friendship, gratitude, and the laid-back spirit of the ocean. That same aloha spirit guides everything we teach today.
We've taught hundreds of Bay Area swimmers of all ages and abilities. Some came to us terrified of the water. Others came chasing their personal best, but every single one left a stronger, more confident swimmer.
Our Mission
At Shaka Swim School, we believe every person deserves to feel confident and safe in the water. We bring the spirit of aloha to every lesson — patient, encouraging, and genuinely invested in each swimmer's journey. From a child's first splash to a competitive racer's personal record, we're here for all of it.
What We Stand For
Aloha Spirit
Every swimmer is welcomed with warmth, patience, and genuine encouragement — no matter their starting point.
Expert Instruction
All coaches are Red Cross certified with years of experience teaching swimmers from 6 months to 60+ years old.
Safety First
We maintain the highest safety standards in and around the pool. Every lesson is supervised and structured.
Bay Area Roots
We're proud to be a local Bay Area institution — community-driven, family-owned, and here for the long haul.
Our Optional Pool
We primarily travel to wherever is most convenient for you — your backyard pool, HOA pool, or any private facility in the Bay Area. We also have an optional on-site pool available for swimmers who need one.
- Heated pool, open year-round
- Changing rooms & restrooms
- Poolside seating for parents
Come Swim With Us
Whether you're just starting out or training to compete — there's a place for you at Shaka.
Book a Class