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The 5 Best Private Swim Lessons in Portland to Learn at Your Own Pace
When you hear the word “swimming”, it’s hard not to feel a burst of joy because it’s usually followed by images of beach trips, pool resorts, and endless fun come flooding in.
All that excitement feels within reach… until your brain reminds you, “Wait, I don’t actually know how to swim!”
But is that going to stop us? Not a chance.
It’s not a shame to not know something until you choose to stay that way. And since you’ve chosen to dive into our list of the best private swim lessons in Portland, get ready to master the waves and impress yourself with every stroke you make.
1. Children of the Sea

Classes: Water safety levels, stroke levels, and more
Location: 10225 SW Park Way
Contact: 503-620-5970
Business hours:
- Monday – Friday: 9 AM–8 PM
- Saturday: 8 AM–1 PM
- Sunday: 8 AM–6 PM
Google reviews score | 4.3/5 |
Yelp reviews score | 3.9/5 |
Total reviews | 4/5 |
Score consistency | 4/5 |
Instruction | 5/5 |
Accessibility | 5/5 |
Support and Engagement | 4.5/5 |
Value for Money | 4.8/5 |
Children of the Sea offers lessons for children as young as 4 months old. We really appreciate that their programs are tailored to each age group, including water safety and stroke levels for kids 3 years and older.
If you’re not sure about your child’s level yet, they’ve got a class level flow chart, so every child gets instruction that fits their developmental stage.
We also think it’s great that classes are offered once a week, helping kids progress steadily without interfering with family time. With the pools kept cozy at 91 degrees, these thoughtful details really help little ones feel more at ease in the water.
The Adapted Swim Lessons program is another highlight, tailored for children with special needs. We appreciate classes that are inclusive, making sure every student can enjoy swimming in a safe, encouraging environment.
The facility fosters a supportive atmosphere with personalized attention, although some families have expressed frustration with the registration process.
One felt misled after being told for months to wait until June 4 to register; no spots were available when registration opened.
Hopefully, with clearer communication going forward, families won’t face the same confusion again.
The teachers are nice and each kid gets so much attention.
“This place is fabulous. It is clean, the teachers are nice and loving. And each kid gets so much attention. They learn to swim and have a fun loving experience. I am loving it”
Jasmyni Dias, Google Review
The swimming instruction is solid, my kid has been going here for 2 years!
“I heard about this place from another mom – the selling point was that the water was warm. Turns out the swimming instruction is solid too. May kiddo has been going here for 2 years now. I recommend it!”
Jess A, Google Review
2. Sunset Athletic Club

Classes: private and semi-private
Location: 13939 NW Cornell Road
Contact: 503-645-3535
Business hours:
- Mon-Wednesday: 6:00 am – 10:00 pm
- Thursday -Friday: 6:00 am – 9:00 pm
- Saturday: 7:00 am – 9:00 pm
- Sunday: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Google reviews score | 4.4/5 |
Yelp reviews score | 2.8/5 |
Total reviews | 4.8/5 |
Score consistency | 3.5/5 |
Instruction | 5/5 |
Accessibility | 4.5/5 |
Support and Engagement | 5/5 |
Value for Money | 5/5 |
Sunset Athletic Club is for those who are already confident in the water and just want to sharpen their technique.
Clients we spoke to had good things to say, especially about how clean everything feels. The pools use a saltwater purification system, so the water stays fresh without that strong chemical smell.
We were especially impressed by how much you can do here. The club features three indoor pools, so whatever it is you’re aiming for (be it for laps, therapy, or general exercise) there’s plenty of space to focus without the usual chaos.
Private swim lessons are available for those who can already swim on their own. It feels like an ideal choice for anyone wanting to improve technique or push their performance to the next level.
For those looking to explore more options, you can advance with others in their diverse swim programs. They have adult group lessons, aquatic workouts, and classes for kids starting at age three.
Excellent facilities for swimmers!
“Excellent place with all facilities for all players and swimmers . Best post swimming bathroom, lockers and relaxing outdoor activities etc .”
Meenakshi krishnamurthy, Google Review
Large space with very nice instructors too.
“Great gym very large facility. Every fitness machines and free weights also swimming pools,personal fitness instructor too.”
Michael Parsons, Google Review
3. Zen Penguin Swim School

Classes: First steps, adults, advanced, and more
Location: 12029 NE Ainsworth Cir
Contact: (971)373-6649
Business hours:
- Monday & Thursday: 2:30 PM – 7:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Saturday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Google reviews score | 5/5 |
Yelp reviews score | 5/5 |
Total reviews | 3.5/5 |
Score consistency | 5/5 |
Instruction | 5/5 |
Accessibility | 5/5 |
Support and Engagement | 5/5 |
Value for Money | 5/5 |
Zen Penguin really stands out for its thoughtful, inclusive approach to teaching. Many families appreciate their sensory- and neurodivergent-friendly lessons, especially for children with ADHD, autism, or anxiety.
The founder intentionally designed the program based on research about co-regulation and the nervous system, helping swimmers move through their sensory experiences at their own pace.
We love how Zen Penguin encourages each swimmer to move in a way that feels right for them. The whole environment just feels calm, respectful, and safe.
If you ever need to miss a class, there’s no stress. Just fill out their online absence form 48 hours ahead, and you’ll be set up for a makeup session.
The program is open to swimmers of all ages. From 3-month-old babies, teens, adults, and even those advanced swimmers who want to refine advanced strokes. It’s genuinely one of the most welcoming swim schools we’ve come across.
My neurodivergent and sensory avoidant child is taught in a gentle way.
“Zen Penguin is absolutely outstanding! The teachers are kind and empathetic. The skills are explained in a way that my neurodivergent and sensory avoidant child understands. It’s so exciting to watch so many children learn such important skills in a gentle way.”
Regina McMenomy, Google Review
They made my son love learning to swim.
“This is the place to go if you have a sensitive or anxious kid (or even if you don’t). All teachers are respectful of kids’ individual learning challenges and take a holistic view on teaching your kid water safety – without trauma. My son can’t access many lessons or activities but does great with Penny and her team. They accept him as he is and have made him love learning to swim.”
Kari Blankenship, Google Review
4. Bethany Athletic Club

Classes: Private and semi-private to both children and adults
Location: 15670 NW Central Dr
Contact: 971-297-3423
Business hours:
- Monday – Friday: 5:00 am – 10:00 pm
- Saturday – Sunday: 7:00 am – 8:00 pm
Google reviews score | 3.9/5 |
Yelp reviews score | 3.2/5 |
Total reviews | 4.5/5 |
Score consistency | 3.3/5 |
Instruction | 5/5 |
Accessibility | 5/5 |
Support and Engagement | 4.5/5 |
Value for Money | 4.5/5 |
What stood out to us about Bethany Athletic Club’s Aquatic Center is how goal-focused everything is. Whether you’re dipping your toes in for the first time or aiming to compete, BAC offers something for every level.
It feels like a place that makes you feel motivated, no matter your starting point.
Private swim lessons are available for all ages, with flexible options. You can go one-on-one or choose semi-private lessons to team up with a sibling or friend. We really like how well-rounded everything feels.
Beyond the pool, the facility is packed with features: two pools, hot tubs, saunas, and more. Plus, if you have little ones, on-site certified daycare lets you fit in classes or swim stress-free.
We also love that there’s an on-site bistro, where you can grab a light lunch. Many members said this convenience makes their routine feel more enjoyable, and honestly, that little extra ease makes a huge difference.
That said, the center has a strict 24-hour cancellation policy. Some members also mentioned the pool sometimes closes or is reserved without prior notice.
Decent swim class for my children.
“Decent swim teachers and swim lessons for children. Nice exercise classes for adults”
Lakshman Ventrapragada, Google Review
They got my son swimming after the third lesson!
“Swim lessons are more affordable than other places and you get a spot right away. – Sam had our son floating and getting his face under on the first lesson and swimming after the third lesson.”
Laura Zubko, Google Review
5. DolFUN SWIM Academy

Classes: Aqua Babies & Aqua Tots Parent & Me Pods, Semi-Private Lessons, Private Lessons, and more
Location: 9260 SE Stark St
Contact: (888) 365-3862
Business hours:
- Monday: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
- Tuesday: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
- Thursday: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
- Saturday & Sunday: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Google reviews score | 3.7/5 |
Yelp reviews score | 3.5/5 |
Total reviews | 4/5 |
Score consistency | 3.5/5 |
Instruction | 5/5 |
Accessibility | 5/5 |
Support and Engagement | 4/5 |
Value for Money | 4/5 |
Learning at a young age helps kids adapt more quickly and build confidence in the water. That’s one of the reasons DolFUN SWIM Academy stood out to us.
We like that they offer lessons for infants as young as 2 months old. They take a child-centered approach that’s backed by training from the United States Swim School Association, which definitely adds a layer of trust for families.
And honestly, the fact that it’s indoors and available year-round is a big plus. There’s no need to wait for summer to get started.
It’s also clear they make swimming fun. From the warm 88-90 degree pools to the playful structure of the classes like baby programs and family practice—the environment truly feels inviting and supportive.
Their lessons focus on a swimmer’s natural relationship with water. They emphasize breath control, buoyancy, balance, and stroke development. It’s an approach that really encourages comfort and confidence.
That said, we’ve heard complaints about the customer service. One parent pointed out the strict no-make-up policy, even when DolFUN had to cancel classes due to holidays or weather.
Despite missing most of their scheduled lessons, they were still charged the full amount. It’s something to keep in mind if you need a bit more flexibility in your weekly routine.
Took my grandkids there and they loved it!
“Best swim school ever! Amazing instructors that are knowledgeable, extremely patient and fun! Took my grandkids there and they loved it! The owner Debbie and her staff are really passionate and dedicated to keeping our precious little ones safe in the water! I highly recommend DolFun!”
Ciny Lang, Google Review
Our 3 year old’s have grown confidence and love of the water greatly.
“We have had a wonderful experience with dolFUN, our 3 year old’s confidence and love of the water has increased greatly. We are so lucky to have dolFUN!”
Kayci Murray-Balto, Google Review