Join the Ultimate Faster Freestyle Swim Camp Experience in

KONA, HAWAII

“Karlyn’s Faster Freestyle Swim Camp was a dream come true! I can’t imagine a better swim experience. Not only did I enjoy swimming in beautiful, clear, warm water with an abundance of marine life, I also received quality coaching and technique tips from a true professional. I left Hawaii a better swimmer!”

~Wanda Bogin

Imagine a week in paradise—clear, sparkling water, an abundance of friendly marine life, and expert coaching from Hall of Famer Karlyn Pipes. Karlyn isn’t just a great swimmer; she’s also a world-renowned swim technique coach who loves to help swimmers and triathletes learn the secrets as to how to swim faster with less effort. Through private and group sessions, you’ll gain confidence, improve technique, and build speed and endurance.

It’s more than just swimming. With Karlyn and her husband Christopher as your guide both in and out of the water, you will experience a slice of the Big Island that most tourist never see. You will untether from land and venture into the big blue. You’ll go outrigger canoe paddling, hike through a misty cloud forest, and travel across vast lava fields that also serve as the bike course for the Ironman World Championships. You will fall in love with the island’s natural beauty as you visit ancient fish ponds, dip your toes in a sacred alkaline Queen’s Bath and discover local culture and time honored traditions.

As you can see, it truly is MORE than just swimming.

Are YOU ready for the ultimate Hawaii adventure?

All Kona, Hawaii camps include:

• Five to six stunning and unique open water swims await you in warm, crystal-clear waters, alive with colorful tropical fish and friendly marine life. While we’ll visit a select few world-famous beaches on the Big Island, much of our time will be spent exploring lesser-known, secret swim spots that Karlyn is thrilled to share.

  Each swim will range from approximately 2 to 4 kilometers, with final distances tailored to current conditions and your personal energy levels—ensuring a challenging yet enjoyable experience for every swimmer.

• A Faster Freestyle Swim Clinic will take place on the first day of camp so you can get a jump start on improving your technique. Video analysis will be provided.

• A private swim technique session in Karlyn's Endless Pool will take place mid-week with comprehensive video analysis. Your session in the Endless Pool will allow you to SEE and FEEL the significant improvements you have already made in your swimming technique, and then we can build on that. More details about your AMAZING Endless Pool session is found here.

• Experience OUTRIGGER canoe paddling with our amazing local club KAI’EHITU. One thing you will notice is that the Faster Freestyle techniques you are learning are VERY similar to outrigger canoe paddling!

• Cloud Forest Tile! After as swim along the Kona coast, we will go up to an elevation of about 2,700 feet to the Cloud Forest for a lovely, COOL hike.

• Day trip NORTH to the Mauna Lani Resort area to explore the fish ponds and delightfully refreshing “Queens bath.” FYI — we avoid wearing sunscreen in this alkaline pond to help protect the fragile waters and the sensitive life they support.

• Throughout the week you will be receiving additional freestyle technique tips and feedback from Karlyn and her assistant coaches. We will also cover open skills and drills and work on those “other” strokes!

• Staff will be using Go-Pros and underwater cameras providing you with video feedback of your stroke, capture marine life in action and to provide you with daily footage of our adventure! Pics and videos will be texted to you later that day.

• Two healthy and delicious dinners hosted at Karlyn’s home in Kona. Meet and greet welcome party and a final night farewell party. Spouses/partners/friends are welcome to join in.

• Food: Brunch will be served after each swim along with drinks, fruit, nuts, bars, etc. Previous campers have RAVED about the food offerings and we promise…you will never go hungry!

• Camp sized is limited 10 so you will receive the attention you need to feel more comfortable in the open water and improve your technique.

• Safety first! At least two Red Cross rescue-trained lifeguards will accompany every swim along with one person a SUP.

• SWAG: Custom long sleeve dry-tech tee shirt, BOCO custom visor, a silicone swim cap and an Aloha tote bag.

• An autographed copy of Karlyn’s memoir The Do-Over, My Journey from the Depths of Addiction to World Champion Swimmer. More info here.

• Our camps are limited to ten people so everyone gets personal attention. This helps you feel comfortable in open water and focus on improving your technique.

  Where we swim:

  We are blessed to have plenty of warm, clear water available for our open water swims. However, due to the ever changing ocean conditions, the daily schedule will be decided a few days prior to the camp and is also subject to change.

Swim ability:

All Faster Freestyle Swim Camps are open to adults and youths aged 13 and older. You don’t need to be a fast swimmer to join us—what’s most important is that you feel comfortable in open water and can swim continuously for 500 yards or meters at a steady pace.

If you’re wondering whether you’re “fast enough” to participate, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re happy to discuss your individual situation and any concerns—after all, the focus of every camp is helping you discover an easier, more efficient, and faster way to swim.

For those who feel a small-group camp might be outside their comfort zone, a private mini-camp offers a personalized experience tailored just for you. Learn more about mini-camps here.

Week-long camps offered in 2027

I’M DONE WITH SNOW CAMP - February 2–8, 2027

The Best 🎄Gift? A Week in Paradise! Ready to trade snow boots for swimsuits? Give yourself (or a swimming buddy!) the gift of sunshine, crystal-clear water, and a week of swimming in paradise. Escape the winter blues, sharpen your freestyle, build confidence in open water, and soak up everything Hawaii’s Big Island has to offer. It's part swim camp, part island adventure, and 100% something to look forward to. Forget another pair of socks this Christmas—give yourself the gift of swimming, sunshine, and a little Hawaiian magic. Better yet, bring a friend and make memories together!

🐠 PISCES CAMP – Tuesday, March 9 – Monday, March 15, 2027

Make a splash this spring! While everyone else is waiting for warmer weather, you'll be swimming in Kona's beautiful, warm waters under the Hawaiian sunshine. Pisces Camp is the perfect excuse to set a new swimming goal, shake up your training routine, and give yourself an unforgettable adventure. With Karlyn’s expert coaching you'll refine your freestyle, build confidence, and discover how to swim faster with less effort. Add in the beauty, culture, and traditions of Hawaii's Big Island, and you'll head home with more than improved swimming—you'll take home incredible memories, new inspiration, and a whole new appreciation for the water.

NO LAVAMAN CAMP IN 2027. With the Lavaman Olympic Distance Triathlon falling close to Easter in 2027, airfares and hotel prices will be considerably higher. We've decided to skip this year's camp and look forward to welcoming everyone back in 2028.

“SCHOOL TEACHERS SPECIAL” + 4TH OF JULY
Tuesday, June 29 – Monday, July 6, 2027

Hey friends and clients in the education system! You asked, and we listened. Come to Kona for a fun-filled summer vacation filled with sunshine, beautiful beaches, ocean adventures, and 4th of July festivities. Your camp registration also includes entry into the local Kamakahonu 1-Mile Swim, right in the heart of Kona and on the iconic Ironman World Championship swim course. And please, don't come alone. Bring your family, your partner, or a few friends and turn this into a Hawaiian vacation for everyone. While you enjoy your time in the water, they'll have the beaches, snorkeling, sightseeing, and island adventures to enjoy at their own pace. The more, the merrier so let’s make it a summer to remember.

Post-IRONMAN World Championship CAMP
Tuesday, October 11 – Monday, October 18, 2027

What sets this camp apart is that if you arrive EARLY and VOLUNTEER, you will have the opportunity to experience the iconic Ironman World Championship by becoming part of the athletes' journey and helping make their big day unforgettable. Volunteers will also receive an invitation to the Mahalo Banquet on Monday evening, a special celebration honoring the 5,000+ who helped make race day possible. Ironman week is busy on the island, but you can arrive as late as Friday and still enjoy the race-day excitement on Saturday, Oct.9th. It's a wonderful combination of swimming, adventure, and being part of one of the most prestigious events in triathlon.

MORE INFORMATION

CAMP START: Our camps begin on a Tuesday, allowing you to take advantage of lower-cost Monday flights or even arrive Tuesday afternoon. We'll kick things off with a WELCOME DINNER at Karlyn and Christopher's home on Tuesday evening at 5:30 pm. Wednesday begins with a Faster Freestyle Swim Clinic, including video analysis, from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm.

CAMP ENDS: Our camp wraps up on a Monday, starting with a fun finale swim in the morning, followed by a memorable farewell dinner that evening. In between, we'll explore and swim in some of the most beautiful waters Hawaii has to offer.

WHEN TO ARRIVE / DEPART: For planning purposes, you can arrive in Kona one day before camp begins or even on the first day of camp. For your departure, you may choose to stay an extra day or longer. A red-eye flight departing after 9:00 pm on the final Monday is also an option.

RESERVING YOUR SPOT: A deposit is all that's required to secure your place in camp. You can take care of the remaining balance closer to the camp date, making it easy to reserve your spot and plan your Hawaiian getaway.

Cost:

Week-long swim camps are $1895 per person. Cost does not include airfare, hotel, airport TRANSFERS or race registrations.

DEPOSIT: TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT, FOR US RESIDENTS PLEASE MAIL A CHECK MADE IT OUT TO AQUATIC EDGE AND SEND TO: KARLYN PIPES, 77-6479 KILOHANA ST., KAILUA KONA, HAWAII, 96740. FINAL PAYMENT MAY ALSO BE MADE BY CHECK. For Canadians, please contact Karlyn for e-transfer options.

PAYMENT: FULL PAYMENT IS DUE THREE MONTHS PRIOR TO CAMP START AND PAYMENT OPTIONS WILL BE SENT TO YOU VIA EMAIL ONCE YOUR DEPOSIT IS RECEIVED.

Cancelation policy: Cancel two month prior to the camp start date and you will receive a refund, minus the $500 deposit. CANCEL LESS THAN one month OUT AND YOU WILL HAVE A 50% CREDIT TO APPLY FOR A FUTURE CAMP. At any time, reservations are transferable to another person with no fee.

It’s going to be an amazing week. Please join me! Book your spot today!

Places to Stay in Kailua Kona:

We have a wide variety of places to choose from when it comes to accommodation options in the beautiful Kailua Kona and Keauhou area. You can select from oceanfront resorts, traditional hotels as well as a plethora of Airbnb condos and homes that cater to different group sizes and preferences. Please note that accommodation is not included in the overall cost of the camp. If you enjoy preparing your own meals, we are fortunate to have a Costco conveniently located near the airport, as well as a Walmart and Target, which allows you to keep your food costs relatively low and manageable. It’s also quite pleasant to make your own coffee and whip up breakfast in the comfort of your living space in the morning. Additionally, keep in mind that I will provide a hearty brunch after each swim session, in addition to offering two dinners during our time together.

When looking for accommodation, as a point of reference as to where your private lessons and the welcome and farewell dinner will take place, Karlyn’s address is; 77–6479 Kilohana St., Kailua Kona, Hawaii, 96740

Kona Islander Inn: Offers studios with small efficiencies in the heart of town within walking distance to grocery stores, shops, restaurants, live music and good swimming.

King Kamehameha‘s Kona Beach Hotel This is the Marriott in Kona, not the one 30 miles north in Waikoloa. It is located next to the beautiful Kailua Kona pier, the official swim start for the Ironman World Championships. The hotel is in the center of the charming village, making it easy for guests to access one of the most popular swimming spots in Kona. There are also many grocery stores, unique shops, good restaurants, and lovely boutiques within a short walk. For more swimming locations in and around Kona, check the "Where we swim in Kona" page.

Royal Kona Resort: This hotel is conveniently located near the center of the village, providing easy access to just about everything mentioned above. This large property, which resembles a cruise ship, was one of the very first resorts established in Kona. It has been recently renovated, boasting modern amenities while maintaining its classic charm, and features an oceanfront view that enhances its appeal. Additionally, they offer a delightful luau that you can crash for free, allowing guests to enjoy watching the talented dancers from the sidelines without any cost!

Pacific 19: Formerly known as the Kona Seaside Inn, this property has undergone a complete and modern renovation, transforming it into a welcoming destination. It is conveniently situated at the corner of Kuakini and Palani Road, an area often referred to as the “hot corner” for the esteemed Ironman World Championships. While it is not directly oceanfront, the property does provide lovely ocean views, a small yet inviting pool, and an advantageous location that is very centrally positioned to nearby grocery stores, a variety of shops, numerous restaurants, and easy access to the beautiful water.

BUDGET-FRIENDLY LODGING OPTION

Looking for something easy on the wallet? Check out My Hawaii Hostel, located directly across the street from Banyans, one of Kona's well-known surf spots. It's a simple, no-frills accommodation with very reasonable rates, but it has some great advantages: private rooms, shared kitchen, communal living spaces, air-conditioning, and a central location right across from the ocean. It's also an easy drive to town and many of our camp activities. If you're looking to keep lodging costs down and don't need anything fancy, this could be a great option!

AIRBB: You can also quite easily find a diverse variety of accommodation options available on Airbnb for properties that will appropriately meet your specific needs and preferences.

Kailua Kona https://www.airbnb.com/kailua-kona-hi/stays

Keauhou https://www.airbnb.com/keauhou-bay-hi/stays

WHERE NOT TO STAY!

The Big Island is, well… BIG! For camp, we recommend staying in or near Kailua-Kona rather than too far north or south. Areas such as Waikoloa, Waikoloa Village, Palisades (above the airport), or Captain Cook can mean a 30–50-minute drive to many of our activities. We want you to spend your time enjoying Hawaii, not sitting in traffic!

We'll provide transportation to and from our open-water swim locations for campers staying within a reasonable distance of Kailua-Kona. We can also help coordinate rides with fellow campers who have rented cars, making it easier to get around and enjoy the week together.

If you prefer NOT to rent a car and are staying along Aliʻi Drive, the HELE-ON bus service is a convenient and budget-friendly way to get around town. Uber is also available for getting to and from the airport or other destinations. Just keep in mind that public transportation on the Big Island is VERY limited, so having a little flexibility with transportation is helpful.