Is swimming an effective way to tone up and shed just a few pounds?

I weigh 180 and 6’2” and 20 years old. I hate running and working out in a gym but i want to get back into shape and tone up. Is swimming more for losing weight or does anybody know if it can tone you up a noticeable amount. Also, if it does tone you up could you give me a few swimming tips to help me acquire my goal