acac Fitness & Wellness Albemarle Square

    Dolphin Swim School

    Starfish-certified 8-week learn-to-swim program for ages 3+ in small groups with 30-minute weekly sessions.

    500 Albemarle Square · Parking: Free parking in Albemarle Square shopping center lot

    4.5 ★ on Google (349 reviews) · Verified Apr 21, 2026
    Starfish Certified
    Instructors trained in internationally recognized swim curriculum
    Small Class Sizes
    Maximum 6 students ensures quality instruction and safety
    Proven Progression
    8-week structured program builds foundational swimming skills
    Experienced Facility
    Part of acac's comprehensive aquatics center with multiple pools

    Why Choose Dolphin Swim School at acac

    Proven Curriculum
    Starfish Aquatic International training ensures instructors follow evidence-based progression methods
    Safety-First Approach
    Focus on water safety skills alongside stroke development builds confident, competent swimmers
    Optimal Class Size
    3-6 students per class provides individual attention while fostering social learning
    Convenient Schedule
    Once-weekly 30-minute sessions fit easily into family schedules over 8 weeks
    About acac Fitness & Wellness Albemarle Square

    About acac Fitness & Wellness Albemarle Square

    acac Fitness & Wellness Albemarle Square is Charlottesville's most comprehensive fitness and wellness destination, serving the Albemarle County community with world-class facilities and expert-led programming. Located at 500 Albemarle Square, the club features an expansive aquatics center with lap pool, warm-water activity pool, heated whirlpool, and a signature rooftop infinity pool with skyline views. Members also enjoy the EDGE Cycle Studio, a state-of-the-art fitness floor with cutting-edge cardio and strength equipment, functional training zones, an indoor walking/running track, squash courts, and complimentary childcare in the Kids Zone for up to 2.5 hours per visit.

    What People Are Saying

    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    The small class size made all the difference for my daughter. She went from being nervous about the water to confidently putting her face in and floating by week 5. The instructors are patient and really know how to work with young kids.

    Parent of 4-year-old swimmer
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    I appreciated the structured Starfish curriculum and seeing clear progression each week. The 30-minute sessions were the perfect length for my 3-year-old's attention span, and the once-weekly schedule worked great for our family.

    First-time swim parent
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    Both my kids have gone through Dolphin Swim School and it's been fantastic. They developed real water safety skills, not just strokes. The instructors communicate well about progress and the small group setting meant they got plenty of individual feedback.

    Parent of two swimmers
    Read all 349 reviews on Google →

    4.5 ★ avg rating · Verified Apr 21, 2026

    Common Questions

    Does my child need prior swim experience?
    +
    No prior experience is required. Dolphin Swim School is designed for novice swimmers ages 3+, though some water comfort is helpful. Children who have completed Dolphin Babies may transition smoothly into this program.
    Will I be in the water with my child?
    +
    No, this is an independent instruction program. Unlike Dolphin Babies where parents provide support in the water, Dolphin Swim School students work directly with instructors while parents observe from the deck.
    What happens after the 8-week session?
    +
    Students can continue progressing through additional sessions or explore other aquatic programs at acac such as Elite Performance for more advanced swimmers. Instructors can recommend appropriate next steps based on skill development.
    Can I register mid-session?
    +
    It's best to start at the beginning of an 8-week session to follow the progressive curriculum. Contact acac directly to discuss availability and timing for upcoming sessions.

    Our Location

    Map showing acac Fitness & Wellness Albemarle Square at 500 Albemarle Square
    acac Fitness & Wellness Albemarle Square
    500 Albemarle Square, Charlottesville, VA 22901
    Get directions →
    PParking: Free parking in Albemarle Square shopping center lot
    Hours
    Mon5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
    Tue5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
    Wed5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
    Thu5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
    Fri5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
    Sat7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    Sun7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

    We're here for you

    Open today until 10 PM
    500 Albemarle Square, Charlottesville, VA
    Last updated April 21, 2026 · Reviews verified Apr 21, 2026
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