Abstract: A swim pacing device for providing a real time visual reference to a swimmer of a given pace. The swim pacing device comprises a waterproof strand of signal lights, a programmable control, a cord reel, and a low voltage battery power source. The strand of signal lights is placed in the water along the bottom of a pool and the signal lights are independently illuminated by the controller according to a pre-defined pace. It is not necessary to orient the strand of lights upward since the signal lights are viewable from all directions. The control is preferably permanently integrated into the cord reel and the means for wiring and control is simplified creating a single piece low cost reliable device.