Summer Camps for Kids in Santa Barbara: Ocean & Surf Edition

Summer camp options in Santa Barbara are broad, but ocean-focused camps offer something a general day camp can't: real, transferable water skills by the end of the week.

What Sets an Ocean Camp Apart

• Full days near the water: mornings often spent outdoors with land-based partners, afternoons in the pool or ocean.
• Skill progression: kids should leave able to do something new, not just have had fun.
• Real certifications on staff: ocean rescue training for every coach, every week.

Who It's Best For

Kids who already like being outside and near water tend to thrive most. Our Summer Camp pairs mornings outdoors with Wilderness Youth Project and afternoons in the pool, giving kids both land and water skills across a single week.

Book early — our summer weeks fill up fastest of any program we run. See the American Camp Association for general guidance on choosing a quality camp.