Swim Lessons

Upton Swimming lessons

Give your child the confidence to thrive in the water with swim lessons at Ocean Dunes Waterpark. Certified instructors create a safe and engaging environment where students can develop essential swimming skills while having fun.

Backed by Ellis & Associates’ 35+ years of award-winning aquatic safety and risk management expertise, the Jeff Ellis Swimming (JES) model is a proven approach that has helped communities provide high-quality, fun, and engaging swim lessons for over 15 years. Using an objective-driven framework, we focus on measurable progress, ensuring every swimmer builds confidence and skills at their own pace.

With flexible enrollment options, your child can start anytime and advance as they master new skills—no need to wait for the next session! Join us and experience swim lessons that prioritize safety, quality instruction, and a fun learning atmosphere.

PARENT & PRESCHOOL

  • Age Range: 2 years old to less than 5 years old (with adult guardian participating in the water)
  • Description: The objective of this class is to help students feel comfortable in the water while their guardian is at their side. Students will learn elementary water skills that they can build on as they progress through the various swim levels. The WaterSmart Rules are introduced and encouraged by Sophie the Safety Seal, the Jeff Ellis Swimming Program mascot.

REGISTER FOR PARENT & Preschool Mon/WedFirst class is June 23, last class is August 13. Enroll any time!
REGISTER FOR PARENT & Preschool Tues/Thurs First class is June 24; last class is August 14. Enroll any time!

PRESCHOOL

  • Age Range: 3 years old to less than 6 years old
  • Description: The purpose of this class is to help students feel comfortable in the water without the presence of the parent. Students continue to learn elementary water skills and safety tips that will stay with them throughout all swim lesson levels. Sophie the Safety Seal’s WaterSmart rules are enforced for increased water safety.

Register for Preschool Mon/Wed First class is June 23, last class is August 13. Enroll any time!
REGISTER FOR Preschool Tues/Thurs First class is June 24; last class is August 14. Enroll any time!


LEVEL 1

  • Age Range: 5 years old to less than 12 years old
  • Description: The Level 1 class builds on elementary water skills previously learned and teaches students the skills needed to complete a 25-yard swim for each of the following: elementary backstroke, front crawl, and backstroke. All elementary water skills are reinforced so that they become second nature to the students. All water safety rules are discussed as well.

REGISTER FOR LEVEL 1 MON/WED First class is June 23, last class is August 13. Enroll any time!
Register for Level 1 Tues/Thurs First class is June 24, last class is August 14. Enroll any time!

LEVEL 2

  • Age Range: 5 years old to less than 12 years old
  • Description: The Level 2 class teaches children how to master stroke development and requires them to complete 50-yard swims of elementary backstroke and basic backstroke. Students are also asked to complete a 25-yard swim of breaststroke and front crawl with rhythmic breathing. Scissor kick and sidestroke are also introduced at this swim level.

REGISTER FOR LEVEL 2 MON/WED First class is June 23, last class is August 13. Enroll any time!
REGISTER FOR LEVEL 2 TUES/THURS First class is June 24, last class is August 14. Enroll any time!

Summer Camps Filling Fast - Register Today

Due to high demand, spots fill fast! To save time during registration, create a user account and complete the camper information prep questions in advance. Visit the 'Registration' tab on each camp's webpage for details.

Climb UPton is NOW OPEN DAILY!

Climb UPton—the largest ropes course in the Mid-Atlantic— is NOW OPEN Daily! Climb UPton offers 90 different elements and three levels of difficulty.

Waterparks Open May 24 – Purchase a Pass Now and Save!

Purchase an Annual Waterpark Pass now for Spring Sale Savings! Starting at $80 per individual. Receive admission to all 5 waterparks; discounts on concessions and retail; early entry; and special savings on NOVA Parks attractions and events.