SCT_SUMMERCAMP by Times Media Group

2026 Summer Camp Guide

Summer in South Orange County is more than a season — it is a lifestyle. This year, San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point and San Clemente are transforming into a massive playground where history, surf culture and scientific discovery collide.

Families are already securing spots for 2026 as registration windows move fast for high-demand programs like those at the Ocean Institute and the local equestrian centers.

The 2026 season promises an eclectic mix of experiences that go far beyond standard day care. Campers can spend their mornings navigating historic tall ships in the Dana Point Harbor or their days tending to crops at The Ecology Center. From high-energy sports clinics to immersive fine art workshops, the Tri-City area offers a curated summer that feels uniquely Californian.

This guide is designed to help you navigate the deadlines and find the perfect fit for your child’s next great adventure under the sun.

Summer Camps

Organizations in San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano and Dana Point offer a lineup of summer camp programs that make traditional daycare look like a nap.

In San Clemente, camps lean into the town’s legendary surf culture and laidback athletic vibe. San Juan Capistrano trades the wetsuits for hiking boots and horseshoes. In Dana Point, the Whale Capital of the World, the harbor serves as a classroom for budding marine biologists and junior sailors.

From high-energy sports clinics to quiet afternoons in an art studio, here is the ultimate guide to the 2026 summer camp scene across these three iconic Southern California destinations.

DANA POINT

Summer Sailing Camp

JUNE 15 TO AUG. 7

The Dana West Yacht Club holds annual summer camps for all abilities from age 6 through high school. Its weekly sessions are held Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and are based out of the Dana West Yacht Club in the harbor. Discounts are available for multi-week or multiple-child purchases, and there are a limited number of scholarships available.

Alongside the camp festivities themselves, the yacht club hosts a “Soda Pop” Wednesday where campers from all weeks of camp can try their sailing skills with some fun races in the marina from 4 to 7 p.m.

Dana West Yacht Club, 24601 Dana Harbor Drive, Dana Point, $470, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday to Friday, dwycjrs.org

Mini

Minnows

JUNE 15 TO AUG. 7

Start the summer right for your youngest explorers with the Mini Minnows program. Perfect for ages 4 to 6, this camp at the OC Sailing & Event Center in Dana Point introduces little ones to the wonders of the coast. Running weekly, families can choose between morning or afternoon sessions to fit their routine. At $310 per week, children enjoy a safe and engaging environment while building confidence near the water.

OC Sailing & Event Center, 34451 Ensenada Place, Dana Point, $310 per week, 9 a.m. to noon Monday to Friday or 1 to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday, kgbeachcamps.com

Beach Safari

JUNE 15 TO AUG. 7

Let your child’s imagination run wild this summer with Beach Safari at the OC Sailing & Event Center. Designed for ages 6 to 9, this full-day adventure runs Monday through Friday. For $510 per week, campers dive into coastal exploration, hands-on activities and outdoor games that celebrate the natural beauty of Dana Point. It is a fantastic way to keep kids active and learning. OC Sailing & Event Center, 34451 Ensenada Place, Dana Point, $510 per week, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday, kgbeachcamps.com

H2O Adventure

JUNE 15 TO AUG. 7

Older kids ready for serious aquatic fun will love the H2O Adventure camp! Catering to ages 9 to 13, this high-energy program takes place at the OC Sailing & Event Center. Campers spend their days on the water from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. sharpening their skills and making new friends. This camp provides the perfect balance of challenge and excitement for pre-teens and young teens. OC Sailing & Event Center, 34451 Ensenada Place, Dana Point, $510 per week, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday, kgbeachcamps.com

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Ocean Institute Summer Camps JUNE 15 to AUG. 14

Ocean Institute’s summer camps offer week-long adventures for ages 5–17. From piloting ROVs and exploring tide pools to sailing historic tall ships, these hands-on programs spark curiosity. Campers engage in maritime archaeology, whale watching and shark encounters, fostering a deep connection to the sea through teamwork and immersive marine science.

Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, Starting at $450, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for full-day camps, oceaninstitute.org

Kidcreate Studio Camps Multiple Camps

Unleash your child’s inner artist at Kidcreate Studio. Located on Pacific Coast Highway in Dana Point, this studio offers a variety of specialized art camps designed to inspire creativity and messy fun. From clay sculpting to painting and mixed media, there is a program for every young creator. These camps provide a focused environment where kids can experiment with professional-grade materials and learn new techniques while making friends. Whether your child is a beginner or a seasoned painter, Kidcreate has the perfect creative outlet. 34255 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, kidcreate.com

YMCA of Orange County Summer Camps and Day Camps

Multiple Camps

Experience the tradition of summer camp with the YMCA of Orange County. Offering a massive variety of summer and day camps throughout the region, the YMCA focuses on character development, teamwork and healthy living. These programs are perfect for families looking for reliable, high-quality care that keeps kids active with sports, crafts and community-building activities. With multiple locations and flexible dates, the YMCA makes it easy to find a summer solution that works for you. ymcaoc.org/orange-county-camps

Danman’s Summer Camp: Rock & Vocal

VARIOUS WEEKS JUNE TO AUGUST

Strike a chord this summer at Danman’s Music School. Located in the heart of Dana Point, Danman’s offers a variety of music-focused camps for children eager to learn an instrument or join a band. These sessions provide hands-on instruction from experienced musicians in a fun and encouraging atmosphere. It is the perfect place for kids to find their rhythm, improve their perfor-

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2025 WINNER

The Ecology Center will host its summer camp starting in June. Photo: Courtesy of The Ecology Center

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mance skills and share their love of music with others. Danman’s Music School, 24699 Del Prado Avenue, Dana Point, starting at $350, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., danmans.com/ summer-camps

SAN CLEMENTE

B&GC Kids Summer Camp

JUNE 8 TO AUG. 14

Looking for a summer packed with energy, growth and lasting friendships? The Boys & Girls Club in San Clemente is the ultimate destination for kids ages 6 to 13. This program offers a diverse range of activities that keep children engaged and active all season long. Located at 1304 Calle Valle, the club provides multiple pricing tiers and flexible schedules to fit every family’s needs. Whether it is arts, sports or team-building exercises, your child will find their community here.

Boys & Girls Club - San Clemente, 1304 Calle Valle, San Clemente, multiple prices and times, bgcsca.org/summer-camp-program

San Clemente Junior Lifeguards

JUNE 22 TO JULY 10, JULY 13 TO JULY 31

Dive into the ultimate ocean experience with the San Clemente Junior Lifeguards! This legendary program at the Lifeguard Command Center teaches kids ages 9 to 16 about education and experience in ocean safety, first aid, rescue techniques, body surfing, board surfing, physical fitness, and Marine Safety operations.

Participants gain invaluable skills while enjoying the best of the San Clemente coastline. It is the perfect way to build strength, make friends and master the waves. Marine Safety Lifeguard Command Center, 620 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, $270 to $300, 9 a.m. to noon; 1 to 4 p.m., sanclemente.gov

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Summer Sailing Camp s

Nine Consecutive Weekly Sessions June 8 thru Aug 7 Mon-Fri 9AM to 4PM Ages 6-13

ADVERTISING SECTION

& RESOURCES

AMERICAN BEACH VOLLEYBALL CLUB

American Beach Volleyball at Doheny State Beach — Sun, sand & fun! SUMMER PROGRAMS for ages 9 to 22. Year round for ages 12-22. Beginners to high school to pro. Beach volleyball grows strength, speed, agility, discipline, respect and encourages making friends. Encouraging coaches teach hitting, passing, setting, defense, blocking, and serving. American Beach athletes play on pro, college & high school teams all over the world. See you at the BEACH! Sessions fill up quickly — REGISTER NOW at americanbeachvolleyballclub.com.

949-485-0826

info@americanbeachvolleyballclub.com

CITY OF DANA POINT

LET’S GO! Summer Camps

The City of Dana Point Community Services Department is excited to offer a variety of summer camps for kids ages 5-17. The summer camp lineup includes musical theater, basketball, sailing, SUP, tennis, pickleball, cooking, robot building, animation, chess, science, arts & crafts, anime & cartooning, and more! Registration is now open. Early registration discounts end May 6th. To view more details and to register visit bit.ly/ DPRecreation

CITY OF SAN CLEMENTE

Dive into a summer of adventure with San Clemente’s unforgettable camps! From surfing and sports to creative arts and science, there’s something for every kid to enjoy. Make new friends, discover new passions, and soak up the sun in a safe, supportive environment. Spaces fill quickly — don’t miss out on the coolest camps by the coast! Register today and let your child’s best summer ever begin with the City of San Clemente! More information: sanclemente.gov/register.

DANA POINT YACHT CLUB

A landmark in the harbor since 1952, Dana Point Yacht Club blends rich maritime tradition with a modern commitment to accessible sailing. Its Junior Sailing Program runs June 8- Aug. 7, offering week-long camps for ages 6-16, for first-time sailors to seasoned racers and led by highly qualified coaches. DPYC delivers an unforgettable summer on the water. It is filling up quickly, so reserve your spot for a fun summer.

24399 Dana Drive, Dana Point CA 92629

949-496-2900

dpyc.org

OCEAN INSTITUTE

ENDLESS SUMMER SURF CAMP

Endless Summer Surf Camp was established in 1992 with the vision of making surf dreams come true. It is located within the San Onofre State Park, which has ideal surf conditions for both first-time surfers and surfers looking to improve their skills. Whether you are looking to catch your first waves or trying to make your school’s surf team, we offer a program that meets your needs. Offering weeklong surf camps for ages 11 and older. www.endlesssummersurfcamp.com 949-275-5214

FAIRMONT SUMMER PROGRAMS

Locations in Anaheim, Anaheim Hills, North Tustin, San Juan Capistrano (714) 234-2757 www.fairmontschools.com/ summer-programs

Keep your kids curious and engaged this summer with Fairmont’s award-winning programs!

CAMP (Preschool-8th Grade): High-energy ACA-accredited camp with education, recreation, and field trips. SUMMER SCHOOL (K-8th): Reading, writing, and math tailored to help students get ahead or stay ahead. HIGH SCHOOL: For-credit, UC-approved courses. Enroll by March 31st for 10% off

Dive into adventure this summer at the Ocean Institute! Our Summer Camps run June 15th-August 14th for ages 5-17, offering hands-on marine science, tide pool explorations, boat trips, and lab experiments. Campers of all ages engage, discover, and make lifelong memories with experienced instructors. Every day is an unforgettable underwater journey filled with fun, curiosity, and ocean discovery. Spots fill fast, reserve your child’s adventure today!

24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive Dana Point, CA 92629 (949) 496-2274 www.oceaninstitute.org

SAN CLEMENTE AQUATICS TEAM

Ready for your best summer in the water? At San Clemente Aquatics, we build true water competency — the foundation for a lifetime of fun. In our coastal community, strong swimming skills mean confidence for the swim team, surfing, paddleboarding, ocean adventures, and more. If you can swim 1 lap of freestyle with efficient side breathing and 1 lap of backstroke, you’re ready for Summer Barracuda Camp. Dive in and unlock endless aquatic opportunities! scatswim.org sanclementeswim@scatswim.org

UNDER PRESSURE HOMEWORK HELP

Under Pressure Homework Help (UPHH) is offering flexible summer academic support to help students stay sharp and confident during the break. From reviewing math skills and strengthening reading comprehension to completing summer school coursework and assigned homework, UPHH provides personalized one-on-one tutoring tailored to each student’s needs. Families can choose individualized sessions or small classes designed to reinforce key concepts and prevent learning loss. UPHH’s experienced educators ensure students return to school prepared, confident, and ready to succeed in the new academic year.

Under Pressure Homework Help 949-283-4646

34241 Pacific Coast Highway, Suites 106/107 Dana Point, CA 92629 underpressurehomeworkhelp.com

Readers Choice 2025

Dana Point Silver Medal Winner 2024 WASC Accredited (Western Association of Schools and Colleges) 2025

WESTWIND SAILING

Welcome aboard! Westwind has been providing educational, community, boating programs since 1987: Sail and Paddle Camps (spring break & summer), Adaptive sailing, after-school programs and boating classes for all ages and skill levels. Westwind is a 2025 DP Times People’s Choice Award winner for “Best Camp for Kids,” “Best Kids’ Classes,” “Best Harbor Rec” and “Business of the Year” for 2024. Westwind is a U.S. Sailing, Community Sailing Center and STEM Hub. Boating scholarships are available. Find us at OC Sailing & Events Center: 34451 Ensenada Place, DP Harbor. (949) 492-3035 WestwindSailing.com

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SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

2026 Horse Summer Camp

JUNE 9 TO JUNE 13, JUNE 30 TO JULY 4, JULY 7 TO JULY 11, AUG. 4

TO AUG. 8

Giddy up for an unforgettable summer at Gladstone Equestrian. This premier camp in San Juan Capistrano offers students a hands-on experience in horsemanship and riding. Running in four select sessions from June through August, the program covers everything from grooming to advanced riding techniques. For $800 per week, campers enjoy a full schedule from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Monday through Friday. Whether your child is a beginner or an experienced rider, they will build confidence and lasting bonds with these majestic animals.

Gladstone Equestrian, 26282 Oso Road, San Juan Capistrano, $800 per week, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday to Friday, gladstoneequestrian. com

Junior Golf Camp

JUNE 9 TO JULY 31

Swing into action this summer at the San Juan Hills Golf Club! Designed for young athletes ages 7 to 12, this camp is the perfect way to master the green. From June 9 through July 31, participants receive expert

instruction on posture, swing and course etiquette in a supportive environment. For a fee of $400, your junior golfer will enjoy morning sessions from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. while making new friends and developing a lifelong love for the sport. Secure your child’s spot at sanjuanhillsgolf.com and watch their game soar.

San Juan Hills Golf Club, 32120 San Juan Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano, $400, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., sanjuanhillsgolf.com

“Grow-Eat-Make” Camp

JUNE 22 TO AUGUST 14

At the Ecology Center, the Grow-Eat-Make summer camp offers an immersive, handson experience where children ages seven to 12 transition from being passive consumers to active “caretakers of the earth.” Set on a vibrant 28-acre regenerative organic farm, the camp focuses on connecting kids to the journey of their food through creative exploration and outdoor play. Campers can sign up for one week or multiple weeks to build upon previous lessons. Prices start at $650 a week and include a farm-fresh lunch each day. The camp is offered in both English and Spanish.

The Ecology Center, 32701 Alipaz Street, San Juan Capistrano, $650 per week, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday to Friday, theecologycenter.org/ summer-camp

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Bridges Equestrian

JUNE 15 TO JULY 31

Experience the magic of the stable at Bridges Equestrian. This camp offers intensive riding instruction for students ages 8 and up. With weekly sessions running through June and July, families can choose between half-day and full-day programs to suit their schedule. At $950 for half days or $1,500 for full days, campers receive professional lessons, learn essential horse care and participate in exciting mounted games. It is a comprehensive equine education that focuses on safety, skill and pure fun.

Bridges Equestrian, 29582 Trabuco Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano, $950 per week for half day sessions (8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.) and $1500 for full day sessions (8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.), bridgesequestrian.com

Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley Summer Camp

JUNE 8 to AUG. 7

The 2026 Summer Camp by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley is all about choice, growth and non-stop excitement in a safe, supportive and fun environment. From hands-on learning and creative arts to high-energy sports and field trips, there

is something for every kid to discover while making lifelong friends. Prices start at $35 a day and $75 a week, and camp activities are for children in grades 1 to 12.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley (Via Positiva), 1 Via Positiva, San Juan Capistrano, $35 a day or $75 to $125 a week, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., bgccapo.com/summer

Emerald Cove Day Camp

JUNE 15 TO JUNE 26, JULY 6 TO JULY 17, JULY 20 TO JULY 31

Give your child a summer of discovery at Emerald Cove Day Camp. Hosted at Del Obispo Elementary School, this premier program for ages 5 to 10 focuses on building confidence through outdoor adventure and creative play. With sessions spanning June and July, campers enjoy a full day of action from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. At $1,925 per session, it is an investment in premium supervision, skill-building and memories that last a lifetime. Secure your place today with a $350 deposit at emeraldcovedaycamp.com and prepare for a season of pure fun.

Del Obispo Elementary School, 25591 Camino Del Avion, San Juan Capistrano, $1925 per session; $350 deposit, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., emeraldcovedaycamp.com

JUNE 8 - AUGUST 7

Learning Stewardship at the Ocean Institute Summer Camps

By Alicia Venter

For years, the Ocean Institute summer camp programs have been a fixture of growing up in Dana Point. The popular programs are available for children as young as 5 years old, giving them a chance to explore the ocean hands-on.

From boarding tall ships to working with marine life, the week-long programs offer opportunities to explore the sea in a way unlike any other.

“We’re just excited to have another summer where we encourage our wonderful young ones, as well as give them a jam-packed exciting summer of activities, inspiring curiosity, teamwork and, of course, a love for our wonderful ocean,” Ocean Institute Growth Marketing Manager Isabela Farinella said.

Many of the summer camp programs include boarding the “Spirit of Dana Point,” a historic tall ship owned by the Ocean Institute, going into the ocean to learn more about preservation and the environment.

The Ocean Institute’s mission is to use the ocean as a classroom and inspire children to learn.

“We always just want to make sure that everyone is being cautious of what is going on in their surroundings,” Farinella said.

“We are not only giving all the kids the tools to know how to be great ocean stewards, but also empowering them to encourage others around them to also be awesome ocean stewards,” she continued.

Summer camps range from $450 to $660 per week-long session, with discounts available for members and people who reserve the “holiday” week during the year. Savings are available when registering a camper for multiple sessions:

• $25 off per camp when registering for two or more sessions

• $30 off per camp when registering for three or more sessions

This is the second year that the Ocean Institute has partnered with Coffee Importers to provide lunch options for campers. For $11 a day, campers choose from one of the following: a veggie sandwich, roast beef sandwich and turkey sandwich. This is served along with a bag of chips and fresh fruit.

“We have a lot of repeat people — kids that we’ve seen grow from five years old and now they’re a part of our internship program,” Farinella said. “It is just really exciting to see everyone

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Summer Summer

Field trips, STEAM, interactive fun & unique programs! Field trips, STEAM, interactive fun & unique programs!

June 8 – August 14 8 August 14

10 weeks of summer fun for 1st-8th grades. Affordable pricing, variety of registration options (including ELOP) & payment plans available. of

www.bgcsanclemente.org - 1304 Calle Valle, SC, 92672 Mon- Fri 8am - 6pm - (949) 492-0376

The Ocean Institute offers summer camps for children ages 5 through high school. Photo: Courtesy of Ocean Institute

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learn something new every year and continue on in their learning of the ocean and becoming better ocean stewards.”

Learn more at oceaninstitute.org/summer-camp.

2026 OCEAN INSTITUTE SUMMER CAMPS

Sea Squirts (Ages 5-6)

Ocean Institute summer camp offerings start as young as 5 years old. The “Sea Squirts” camp is a week-long adventure working with animals, daily ocean-themed crafts, activities, games and a treasure hunt, with every day including a new theme. Sea Squirts is offered as both a half-day and full-day camp.

The half-day schedule is from 9 a.m. to noon Monday to Friday, and the full-day schedule is from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday.

Sessions start on June 15. The last session starts Aug. 10.

The half-day camp costs $450, and the fullday camp costs $550. To join, campers must be 5 years old by Sept. 1.

Neptune’s Mysteries (Ages

6-7)

Similar to Sea Squirts, The Neptune’s Mysteries summer camp includes interacting with animals, daily ocean-themed crafts, activities, games and a treasure hunt. Each day also includes a new theme.

The schedule for Neptune’s Mysteries is from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday.

Sessions start on June 15. The last session starts Aug. 10.

The camp price is $615 per camper.

To join, campers must be 6 years old by Sept. 1.

Buccaneer Adventure Camp (Ages 7-8)

The Buccaneer Adventure Camp is designed for children ages 7 and 8. At the week-long camp, they will learn about the life of pirates, including the ropes to survive at sea with dockside activities. They will be hands-on with the Ocean Institute’s historic tall ship, “Spirit of Dana Point.” Later in the camp, they will go into the open ocean aboard the “R/V Sea Explorer” to search for sea creatures. Campers will learn lost mariner arts like sail handling and rowing, as well as participate in a “Dress like a Pirate Day.”

Sessions start on June 15. The last session starts Aug. 10. They last from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

The camp price is $595 per camper.

To join, campers must be 7 years old by Sept. 1.

Ocean Discovery (Ages 8-9)

The Ocean Discovery summer camp explores animal habitats and ecosystems through handson science labs, a two-hour whale watching trip aboard the “R/V Sea Explorer.” Campers will explore tide pools in the Dana Point Marine Protected Area. Sessions start on June 15. The last session starts Aug. 10. They last from 9 a.m. to 4

p.m. daily.

The camp price is $595 per camper.

To join, campers must be 8 years old by Sept. 1.

Shipwreck Hunters (Ages 9-11)

The Shipwreck Hunters summer camp teaches kids age 9 to 11 about what happens to ships lost out at sea. Each day of the camp explores a different shipwreck, making observations and testing questions. Campers will sail aboard the “Spirit of Dana Point” and the “R/V Sea Explorer.”

Sessions start on June 15. The last session starts Aug. 10. They last from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

The camp price is $615 per camper.

To join, campers must be 9 years old by Sept. 1.

Coastal

Explorers (Ages 11-13)

The Coastal Explorers summer camp includes scientific investigation, dissections, animal interactions and tidepooling in the Dana Point Marine Protected Area. Participants board the “Spirit of Dana Point,” catch-and-release fish on the “R/V Sea Explorer” and join a kayak tour around the Dana Point Harbor.

Sessions start on June 15. The last session starts Aug. 10. They last from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

The camp price is $660 per camper.

To join, campers must be 11 years old by Sept. 1.

Internship Academy (Ages 14-17)

This week-long internship academy program is

perfect for teenagers considering a future in marine biology.

It introduces students to intertidal ecology, animal husbandry, laboratory investigations and shipboard research, including a sail on the “Spirit of Dana Point,” a four-hour research cruise aboard the “R/V Sea Explorer” and conducting a research project in the Dana Point Marine Conservation Area. It also teaches participants about resume building, internship or career applications and writing a cover letter.

As of publication, two sessions are available: June 22 to June 26 and July 13 to July 17. They last from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

The academy price is $660 per camper.

To join, campers must be 14 years old by Sept. 1.

Counselor in Training Program (High School)

Members of the Ocean Institute’s Counselor-In-Training (CIT) Summer Program work with camp counselors, assisting with daily activities and camper care. The program is designed to help high school students develop leadership, communication and problem-solving skills.

The sessions are three weeks long, and cost $400. The sessions are June 15 to July 2, July 6 to July 24 and July 27 to Aug. 14. Applications close May 1.

Tips to Book Summer Camps in South OC

There are a plethora of summer camp options in South Orange County. Whether finding the perfect place for their kid to learn about the ocean or to learn a new skill, parents have their pick of the best.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind when planning out your kid’s summer fun, from booking ahead of time to finding the best discounts.

BOOK AHEAD

It may seem like there are plenty of week-long sessions with various summer camps in the Tri-Cities, but spots fill up quickly.

The premier coastal programs like the San Clemente City Junior Lifeguards or the various Ocean Institute summer camps are popular and can quickly hit capacity. Once that cap is hit, the waitlists can rarely move.

Plus, most South Orange County camps, including the Boys & Girls Club and Ocean Institute, utilize tiered pricing, making booking ahead a financial sensibility.

A lot of camps require more than a swipe

of a card, with prerequisites and paperwork. The Junior Sailing Program at the Dana Point Yacht Club, for example, requires a certified swim test, so swimmers need to be ready to pass on their first day. Early bird rates run through April, but as the temperatures go up, so can prices.

LEVERAGE MULTI-SESSION AND SIBLING DISCOUNTS

In the high-demand areas of Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente, stacking discounts is often the only way to make a full summer of multi-kid camps affordable.

Some South OC camps use a tiered discount system that applies automatically at checkout — but only if all sessions are in your cart at once.

At the Ocean Institute for 2026, you get $25 off per camp for two sessions and $30 off per camp for three or more sessions. This is tied to the individual camper. You cannot split these “multi-session” credits

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between siblings unless the system explicitly allows it.

The Dana West Youth Sailing camp offers a progressive scale: $25 off for 2 weeks, $30 off for 3 weeks, up to $50 off if you book 6 weeks. These discounts are available for multi-week or multiple child purchases.

Among the most aggressive discounts in San Juan Capistrano for 2026 is the Emerald Cove Day Camp “Refer-a-Friend” program. If a currently enrolled family recruits a new family, they split a 25% discount. This means that the referring family and the new family receive 12.5%, or $240, off their Summer 2026 tuition. These discounts can be stacked.

CHECK FOR “ELOP” ELIGIBILITY

The California Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) grant provides funds for some TK-6th grade students to receive school child care at no cost to families.

In the Capistrano Unified School District, this program is the single most ef-

fective way for local families to access “no-cost” or “low-cost” summer care. Students are eligible if they fall within these categories:

1. Students identified as English learners (grades K-6).

2. Students who qualify for the Free or Reduced-Price Meal Program. Eligibility is based on total household income or participation in assistance programs like CalFresh, CalWORKs or Medi-Cal.

3. Any student identified as part of the Foster Youth Program.

4. Students participating in the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Program.

The financial benefit of ELOP is substantial, especially for programs that partner directly with the school district.

At the Boys & Girls Club of Capistrano Valley, the standard rate for summer camp is $35 a day and up to $125 a week. ELOP families can sign up for free.