Swim Lessons & Classes

Olympic-size outdoor swimming pool with marked lanes and clear blue water

The Victor E. Benstead Plunge has been serving the community since 1956 and is proud to offer a variety of classes, swim lessons, and special events for all ages. Conveniently located at 3331 Torrance Boulevard, on the corner of Madrona Avenue and Torrance Boulevard, “The Plunge” features a heated, Olympic-sized 50 x 20-meter outdoor pool that is open year-round.

Our pool is divided into two courses—one 25-yard course and one 26-meter course—and is maintained at a comfortable temperature of 80°–81° throughout the year.

Registration Dates & Information

  • Torrance residents: Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 8:00 AM
  • Non-residents: Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 8:00 AM
  • Classes fill up quickly, register early!
  • No refunds, credits, or transfers for signing up in the wrong level.

Lap Swim and Recreation Swim Hours

Drop-In Lap Swim Hours (Ages 15 and up)

  • Sunday-Friday: 6:30 - 8:30 a.m.

  • Monday-Wednesday (1/2 Pool): 12:15 - 3:30 p.m.

  • Monday/Wednesday/Friday: 8 - 9:30 p.m.

  • Tuesday/Thursday: 8:30 - 9:30 p.m.

  • Saturday: 7 - 8:30 a.m.


Recreation Swim Hours (All ages) 

  • Monday - Friday (Monday - Wednesday 1/2 pool): 1:45 - 3:30 p.m.

  • Saturday: 2 - 5 p.m.

  • Sunday: 2 - 5 p.m.

Hours are subject to change.


Admission & Payment

Payment by credit or debit card only.
Cash and checks are not accepted.
A surcharge applies to all card transactions.

  • Youth (15-17): $3.00 (ID required for Adult Lap Swim)

  • Adult (18-49): $5.00

  • Senior (50+): $3.00


Plunge Pass Membership

Purchase via Rec.US account (opens in a new browser window).

 

Youth Swim Lessons

We offer a comprehensive learn to swim program for all ability levels for youth and teens. Participants register for swim lessons according to their age and level (see the next page a description of levels). Please come 10 minutes early to check in for the first class. Requests for refunds, credits and transfers must be made at least one week before class begins.

Requests for refunds, credits, or transfers must be made at least one week before the first class.


Saturday Sessions | 5 Weeks

Session 1: June 20 –July 15
Session 2: July 25 – August 15


Swim Level Assessments (Ages 4–12) 

For families unsure of their child’s swim level, a level assessment will be offered prior to the next session. Our aquatic staff will evaluate each child and recommend the appropriate level.

Assessment Details

Date: Sunday, May 3, 2026 at 1:15 - 2:00 p.m.

Location: Back gate of the pool
Latest Arrival Time: 1:45 p.m. (Late arrivals may not be assessed)
Assessment Length: Up to 5 minutes in the water
Departure: Please exit promptly after your assessment to allow space for the next family

What to Bring: Towel, Swim cap and goggles (optional) 


If You Cannot Attend the Assessment

If you are unable to attend the assessment, please register your child for the level you feel best matches their abilities based on the Swim Level Descriptions.

Important:  Students registered in the incorrect level will be removed from class and will not be eligible for a refund, credit, or transfer. Participation in the assessment does not guarantee enrollment.

Register for Youth Swim Lessons

Torrance Torpedoes

Dive into a fun and engaging program while learning all four competitive swim strokes:

  • Freestyle
  • Backstroke
  • Breaststroke
  • Butterfly

Program Focus

  • Stroke technique
  • Starts and turns
  • Body position
  • Interval training to build strength, endurance, and confidence

Swimmers are encouraged to support each other, set goals, and celebrate progress.


Prerequisite Skills

Participants must be able to:

  • Swim 100 yards of continuous front crawl
  • Swim 50 yards of backstroke
  • Swim 50 yards of breaststroke
  • Demonstrate proper form in all strokes

Assessment Recommendation:
We recommend attending a swim assessment prior to registration to ensure your child meets the skill requirements.

  • Date: Sunday, May 3
  • Time: 1:15 PM – 2:00 PM

Program Details

  • Days: Tuesdays and Saturdays
  • Session Length: 5 weeks
  • Times: Tuesday from 6:45–8:00 PM and Saturday: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM

Session Dates

  • Session 1: June 16–July 18 (No class July 4)
  • Session 2: July 21–August 22

Registration & Refund Policy

Requests for refunds, credits, or transfers must be submitted at least one week prior to the start of the class. 

   

Adult Swim Lessons

On the first day, our instructors will evaluate students and divide them into classes based on their swimming ability. Please come 10 minutes early to check in for the first class. 

Register for Adult Swim Lessons

 

Private Swim Lessons All Ages

Private Swim Lessons

This class is ideal for individuals seeking one-on-one instruction to learn how to swim or improve their swim technique.

All skill levels are welcome.  


Session Dates

  • Session 1: June 21 – July 12
  • Session 2: July 19 – August 9

Registration & Refund Policy

Requests for refunds, credits, or transfers must be submitted at least one week prior to the start of the class.

 

Register for Private Swim Lessons

Adaptive Swim Lessons

Adaptive swim lessons are designed for participants with special needs. After registering, participants must contact the Aquatics Department to discuss individual needs and any accommodations required.

A parent or personal care assistant (PCA) is required to be in the water with the participant.


Registration & Refund Policy

Requests for refunds, credits, or transfers must be submitted at least one (1) week prior to the start of the class.


Register for Adaptive Swim Lessons

Special Event - Swim in Movies Nights

Swim-In Movie Nights at the Plunge

Enjoy a “Flick & Float” experience at the Plunge.


Pool Rules

Recreation swim rules apply. Please note the following:

  • No flotation furniture is allowed on the pool deck
  • Outside food and drinks are not permitted on the pool deck
  • Chairs are permitted

Registration Information

Space is limited, and registration is required.


Event Dates & Registration Opens

  • Friday, June 19
    Registration opens: June 2
  • Friday, July 24
    Registration opens: July 7