Marine science labs
Collect seawater, measure temperature and clarity, and examine plankton under microscopes. Fish and invertebrate labs and supervised shark-and-ray touch tanks bring marine biology close up.
2027 Summer Camps / Camp directory / Catalina Sea Camp
CALIFORNIA · CATALINA ISLAND
Catalina Sea Camp
Explore the ocean at Toyon Bay and share island life with other campers.
Marine science, snorkeling, kayaking and sailing shape this California overnight camp. Seven- and eighteen-day programs serve different age groups with an interest in the ocean.
ACA-accredited camp
CAMP-CA-001 · Toyon Bay, Catalina Island
Courses & activities
Snorkeling
Join guided shore snorkeling to observe fish, kelp and marine habitats. Activities match participants’ ability and water conditions.
Sailing, kayaking & paddleboarding
Learn sailing basics and practice steering and paddling with others around Toyon Bay.
Island activities
Try the climbing wall, archery and arts and crafts, with beach activities, campfires and evening events adding variety.
Scuba: 18-day sessions
Ages 12–17 can choose suitable scuba courses. Medical clearance and diving insurance are required; courses have their own prerequisites. Certification depends on completing the required training and assessments.
Two ways to join
The 7-day program combines cabin-group core activities with elective choices. On the 18-day program, campers submit preferences and return to chosen activities to build skills.
Activity choices vary by session, age and participation requirements.
Life at Toyon Bay
Ocean and laboratory, side by side
The waterfront, marine science labs, touch tanks and sailing base are all part of camp life, connecting what campers observe in the water with hands-on learning.
A shared island home
Campers stay in dorms with bunk beds and shared bathrooms, eat buffet-style meals in the dining hall and spend time with their cabin group.
Who might enjoy this camp?
- Children curious about marine life who enjoy observing, experimenting and asking questions.
- Children who like water activities and are ready for shared accommodation and group routines.
- Ages 8–13 looking for a shorter, 7-day overnight experience.
- Ages 12–17 wanting more time to develop interests such as sailing, marine science or eligible scuba courses.
Camp does not offer routine camper phone calls or in-session family visits. English requirements, international admission and local emergency-contact arrangements: contact an advisor.
2027 dates & tuition
June 12–188–13 years
7 days
US$3,750
June 19–258–13 years
7 days
US$3,750
June 26–July 28–13 years
7 days
US$3,750
July 5–22 · Waitlist12–17 years
18 days
US$6,350
July 24–August 10 · Limited availability12–17 years
18 days
US$6,350
Contact an advisor about availability. Airfare and ASCWORLD service fees are separate. Deposits of US$300 (7 days) or US$600 (18 days) are non-refundable. Airport transfers cost extra.
Cancellation charges may apply in addition to the non-refundable deposit, up to the full tuition for late cancellations. Contact an advisor for the terms.
Travel & participation
Supervised return boat travel from Long Beach is included in tuition. LAX airport transfers require advance booking and cost extra; contact an advisor for flight arrangements and transfer fees.
Water activities have ability and health requirements. Scuba requires medical clearance and suitable insurance.
Past-program photos (10)
Enquiries & Applications
Discuss this camp with an ASCWORLD education adviser to learn about participation and application arrangements.
Enquiries & Applications