Beaufort River Swim and 5K Run
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Event overview
The 20th Annual Beaufort River Swim and 5K Run takes place Saturday, June 6, 2026 in Beaufort, SC at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, Bay Street. The event offers multiple race options, including:
- 3.2-mile River Swim
- 1-mile Swim
- 3.2-mile swim / 5K run single participant
- 1-mile swim / 5K run single participant
- 3.2-mile swim / 5K run relay
- 1-mile swim / 5K run relay
All proceeds benefit the Wardle Family YMCA's Learn to Swim program. Registration closes May 28, 2025; there is no same-day registration. Packet pick-up is available the Friday before the event at the YMCA at Port Royal and on race day at the downtown marina check-in area.
Courses, rules and safety
The 3.2-mile swim follows the Beaufort River estuary, starting at Safe Harbor Port Royal Landing Marina and finishing at the day dock adjacent to the waterfront park, with the route run with the tide. The 1-mile swim follows the same path and begins at the Beaufort Memorial Hospital dock; both swims finish at the same day dock. Water temperatures are usually mid 70s and surface conditions can range from calm to choppy. Swimmers must check in before boarding transport to starting points, wear the assigned swim cap, and cross the timing mat at the boat ramp to finish. Wetsuits are permitted but make swimmers ineligible for awards. The Beaufort Search and Rescue Squadron provides primary safety support, with kayaks, stand-up paddle boards and lifeguards monitoring the course. The 5K run follows the waterfront park, crosses Woods Memorial swing bridge (which remains open to traffic), turns on Meridian Road and finishes along the seawall. Age minimums apply: 1-mile swim - 10 years; 3.2-mile swim - 13 years. Fees are non-refundable. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.