
From the Organizer
The Cross Bay Swim is a challenging open water swim of 5.5 miles across Great South Bay from the Fire Island Lighthouse to Gilbert Park, Brightwaters. This event was first held in 1927, marking 95+ years of tradition and friendly competition. There is a strict limit on the number of swimmers accepted.
We fund the Hospice Care Network Children and Family Bereavement program, and a scholarship at St. Anthony's High School through your charitable fundraising for the event. Each swimmer must raise a minimum of $500. Thank you!
Events
Weather
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
83°
Typical Low
68°
Chance of Rain
33%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Farmingdale Ap, 8 mi from the venue.
Host City
Population
3,185
as of 2023
Elevation
28 ft
Nearest Airport
ISP
Long Island MacArthur Airport · 10 mi
Major Hub
JFK
John F. Kennedy International Airport · 28 mi
Time Zone
Eastern Time
From Endurance Grid
A small town race. Lodging near the start could be limited, so book early.
Race Location
Your Next Start Line
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at Maggie Fischer Memorial Cross Bay Swim, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
53
Days to train
Coming Up
From Endurance Grid
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it's the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer's event page.
Swimming events drop you into something that demands navigation, feel, and focus all at once. It's a sport that rewards the quietly competitive — the ones who do the work in the water before anyone's watching.
Open water races from 1 mile to marathon distance. Just you, the water, and whatever you've got left.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Maggie Fischer Memorial Cross Bay Swim
Jul 31, 2026