Welcome to the
Summer Camp & Activities Guide
Our annual Summer Camp & Activities Guide is here, and while the end of the school year may be nearing, now is the time to plan for your child to make the most of summer. No matter the hobby or interest, there is a vast variety of local camps for youngsters to enjoy, such as sailing, acting, exploration, science, sports, surfing and much more. Our guide features a mix of half-day, full-day and some overnight activities in Dana Point, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano and surrounding cities. Utilize this information to plan for a fulfilling, challenging and fun summer your family won’t forget. While families are asked to self-isolate and refrain from congregating in groups, the community remains hopeful that by the time summer arrives, quarantine will be a figment of the past.
JUNIOR GUARDS EARN SENSE OF OCEAN SAFETY
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By Shawn Raymundo
ith summer quickly approaching and hordes of the community’s youth planning to hit the beaches in South Orange County during the break, one of the best things parents do to instill a sense of ocean safety in their children is enrolling them in junior lifeguard programs, says Greg Hulsizer of the San Clemente Lifeguard and Junior Guard Foundation. “The ocean is a hazardous place . . . one of the purposes of the junior guards is to get their kids comfortable, not only for their safety but to help their friends, too,” Hulsizer said, adding that it’s also “a good way to spend the summer.” In San Clemente, registration for the city’s 2020 Junior Lifeguard program opens on Wednesday, April 22, with the first three-week session slated to begin June 8, the second on June 29 and third session on July 20. The San Clemente program is for kids and teens between the ages of 9 and 17. The cost for enrollment per session is $235 for residents and $260 for non-residents. And in Dana Point, the California Junior Lifeguard Program at Salt Creek Beach also shares the same run dates as the San Clemente program. The cost per session is $545 and is geared toward those aged 8-17. Rod Mellot, the interim Marine Safety Chief for the city of San Clemente, explains that the junior guard program is focused on having the children recognize potential ocean hazards in a changing aquatic environment. Participants can get educated on topics such as ocean safety, first aid and lifeguard operations. The “emphasis is on safety, respect and physical fitness,” he says. Those enrolled will “participate in activities like ocean swims, pier jumps, body boarding and beach runs.” “The program has existed for over 50 years, and they’re taught by professional lifeguards,” Mellot said. “It’s a fun program. Generation after generation have gone through the program. It’s a great program for us to educate the kids who are coming down to the beach, so they know how to use the beach in a safe manner.” All new prospective students for the San Clemente program must first pass a swim test in order to become eligible to register, the city notes. The swim tests are held at the San Clemente Aquatics Center. A passing test is four laps, or 100 yards, in less than two San Clemente interim Marine Safety minutes. The test fee is $5. Chief Rod Mellot offers a few tips for The next test currently schedstaying safe at the beach this summer: uled is Saturday, April 4. Other test u Learn to swim dates include April 11, April 18, April u Swim near a lifeguard 19 and May 17. u Swim with a buddy For those who can’t afford to register for the San Clemente program, u Check in with the lifeguards the Junior Guard Foundation offers u Use sunscreen and drink water scholarships, as well as works to u Obey posted signs and flags provide equipment and supplies in u Keep the beach and water clean support of the program that the city u Learn what do in rip currents can’t otherwise afford in its budget. More information about the Juu And enter the water feet-first nior Guard Foundation can be found at the group’s website: scljgfoundation.com. The application for a scholarship can be found at the city’s webpage on the Junior Lifeguard Program.
Ocean Safety Tips
Editor’s note: This information is subject to change due to coronavirus concerns.
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Ways to Connect Your Child with Nature By Zach Cavanagh
With so many people stuck inside these days, it may be more important now than ever to get outside and connect with the brilliant nature that Southern California and specifically South Orange County can offer. This may be even more vital for a generation of kids already glued to their portable devices. Here are a handful of local spots that are family- and kid-friendly to entertain and inform children through nature.
The Ecology Center This nonprofit organization in San Juan Capistrano has created a vibrant and lush garden in an attempt to inspire people to interact with our ecosystems and change their relationship with each other. The Ecology Center has created programs to highlight those environmental perspectives. There are workshops that show off different conservation and growing techniques. Be sure to check out the center’s strawberry festival, which has been postponed until May. 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, theecologycenter.org
Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center High up on the Dana Point Headlands, the Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center informs visitors on the history of our section of the Pacific coastline. Inside the facility, guests will find rotating exhibits that further explore the natural history and resources of the area, as well as panels explaining geological information, plants and animals. It’s the perfect place to learn about the nature you find on the surrounding trails before a beautiful day hike. 34588 Scenic Drive, Dana Point, danapoint.org
San Clemente Beach Trail Anyone who has grown up in our area, or resides here now, develops some sort of relationship with the ocean. One of the best ways to take advantage of that and soak it all in is the beach trail in San Clemente. The beach trail is 2.3 miles from North Beach all the way down to Calafia Beach. Visitors can access the trail from many spots and can get to popular points such as the pier and T-Street. A portion of the trail is closed from the El Portal Steps to the Mariposa access, but pedestrians can use an appropriate detour through local streets to get to each point. San Clemente, san-clemente.org
Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park Nature Center The Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park is the largest park in the Orange County Parks system. Nestled in among its 8,000 acres is the interpretive center. The center is open on weekends, and offers plenty for families to take in. There are taxidermy animals on display, with interactive displays so kids can get up close to local animals with much less danger. There’s usually a rangerled program to take in on the weekends. Make the most of it and set up a camping trip or hike. 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 949.923.2210, ocparks.com
ZOOMARS Petting Zoo ZOOMARS may be closed through the end of March, with hopes to reopen in April, but it’s never a bad idea to keep the popular spot in mind when normalcy returns. Kids can get up close with plenty of farm animals to have a memorable experience with a fluffy or feathered friend. ZOOMARS has farm staples such as bunnies, chickens, cows, goats, pigs, horses and sheep, but they also showcase guinea pigs, llamas and emus. 31791 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.831.6550, zoomars.com
CAPISTRANO ACTING ACADEMY SUMMER THEATRE CAMP AT CAMINO REAL PLAYHOUSE
Fun While the Sun’s Out
SUMMER EVENT GUIDE CAPISTRANO ACTING ACADEMY SUMMER THEATRE CAMP
For all of the kids out there who love theatre and want to perform, the Capistrano Acting Academy at the Camino Real Playhouse in San Juan Capistrano can help them develop skills and confidence. The Summer Theatre Camp in June and July is geared for ages 6-16, with camp hours from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Different weeks will focus on different performances, including for Inspector Gadget and The Brady Bunch. Camino Real Playhouse, 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, capistranoactingacademy.org
WORLD OCEAN DAY AT PRETEND CITY CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
Pretend City Children’s Museum is temporarily closed, as of press time. Looking down the road, though, a World Ocean Day is scheduled for June 8. Once this pandemic settles down, enjoy the beginning of their Sizzling Summer Series that has enlightening education and fun activities. Kids can learn about how marine pollution affects wildlife. Pretend City Children’s Museum, 29 Hubble, Irvine, 949.428.3900, pretendcity.org
LIL’ CHEF SCHOOL SUMMER CAMP
Children can put together meals and enjoy the fruits of their labor—perhaps literally—with this summer cooking camp. “Our camps are organized into three age groups, so all chefs team up with their peers,” the Lil’ Chef School website said. “Ages are: Tiny Chefs 4-6, Lil’ Chefs 7-9 and Teen Chefs
10-and-older.” Kids will get an apron and taste everything they prepare. They’re also welcome to take home uneaten tastings. Check the Lil’ Chef School website for various camp dates. Lil’ Chef School, 15435 Jeffrey Road, #132, Irvine, 949.679.8390, lilchefschool.com
MERMAID ACADEMY SUMMER CAMP
Strap on your fins and enjoy time on the beach during this unique summer camp. There will be crafts, makeovers and other activities. This event is scheduled for June 22. Once Upon An Island, 118 Agate Ave., Newport Beach, 949.791.2162, onceuponanisland.net
CAMP IZZA
From June to July, kids can enjoy a range of activities at Camp Izza, including movies, balloon shows, potato sack races and more. “We strive to provide an environment in which all children can thrive and be comfortable expressing themselves and meet new friends along the way,” the website said. New Horizon School, One Truman Street, Irvine, 949.422.8123, campizza.com
CAMP INVENTION: ELEVATE
Curious and scientifically minded kids can enjoy this STEM-focused camp, in which they’ll get to explore innovation, problemsolving and teamwork. Programs will be at schools throughout Orange County and the country. Various locations throughout Orange County, 800.968.4332, invent.org
Editor’s note: This information is subject to change with coronavirus concerns.
STAYING ACTIVE
YOUR GUIDE TO MARTIAL ARTS STUDIOS
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ummertime can be a chance to enjoy relaxing picnics outdoors or play video games, but it’s also an opportunity for kids to learn martial arts. Martial arts allows kids to become more confident, meet new friends and pick up new skills. Whether they’re grappling on the ground in jiu-jitsu class or up on their feet practicing karate moves, gyms in South Orange County are ready to help kids develop into capable and respectful individuals. Here are some gyms around town:
ZEN DOJOS MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY
As stated on their website, Zen Dojos not only instructs kids on how to punch and kick, they also instill discipline, focus and listening skills. Children can learn how to compete or just practice for fun. The karate training will enable kids to deal with bullies or deal with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. 31888 Del Obispo Street, Suite C6, San Juan Capistrano, 949.240.6574, zendojos.com
GUILLOBEL BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU ACADEMY
Put on your gi and get rolling in this downtown San Clemente gym. Kids can pair up to learn and practice techniques, all under the watchful eye of their parents. Founder and owner Paulo Guillobel will make sure your children receive the best training possible, whether it’s defensive maneuvers or learning to be part of a group. 621 N El Camino Real, Suite A, San Clemente, 949.366.2107, guillobelbjj.com
GRACIE BARRA DANA POINT
Folks living in Dana Point can also get jiu-jitsu training. Gracie Barra emphasizes the mental benefits of mat grappling, in addition to the physical. Instructors supervise each student to make sure everyone taps into their fullest
potential. “Our Gracie Barra Kids Program is designed to teach children self-discipline, as well as providing a unique way to express themselves,” their website said. 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Suite 106, Dana Point, 949.388.8886, gbdanapoint.com
THE DRAGON INSTITUTE
Classes for beginners and various skill levels. Learn the art of Wing Chun, which incorporates lightning-fast strikes. Environments, though, will be safe and encouraging. The school is located on PCH, so enjoy a scenic drive while you drop the kids off for class. 34241 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 105, Dana Point, 949.542.8470, ocwingchun.com
NATIONAL TAEKWONDO ACADEMY
This South Orange County martial arts studio is family-oriented and touts the cardio workouts you’ll get from their workouts. Their programs include Little Ninjas for ages 4-6, Junior TKD for ages 7-12 and cardio kickboxing. The Little Ninjas Program is a “detailed curriculum that focuses on improving preschool-age children’s basic motor and listening skills,” according to their website. 802 Ave. Talega, Suite 103, San Clemente, 949.361.2050, nationaltaekwondoacademy.com
GROUNDWORK JIU-JITSU
Located in the Lantern District of Dana Point, Groundwork Jiu-Jitsu offers classes for all skill levels. Founders and surfers Don Abadie and John Yerkovich look to bring a local feel to their boutique studio, a Checkmat affiliate. Groundwork teaches children bully defense and confidence building and to pay attention and be respectful. 24470 Del Prado Ave, Dana Point, 949.254.3465, groundworkjiujitsu.com
Editor’s note: This information is subject to change due to coronavirus concerns.
LOCAL CAMPS
ACTING ACADEMY Summer Performing Arts Camps serving ages 4 - 14. Campers are guided through a full theater immersion experience via four daily classes—music, acting, dance and fusion. The culminating event will be a Friday performance on one of our three main stage theaters! Children can participate for one week, the entire summer or anywhere in between. It’s time to watch your star shine at Cabrillo Playhouse, 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente; Z Playhouse, 24196 Alicia Pkwy,., Suite A., Mission Viejo; Lyceum Village, 14281 Chambers Rd., Tustin; 949.427.0072, actingacademyforkids.com.
CAPISTRANO ACTING ACADEMY Excitement and adventure await your kids with loads of Summer Fun! Camp begins June 15th and encompasses six separate weeks, each with a different theme. We accept ages 6 to 16. Each play is an original script with tons of laughter—for both the kids and the audience. Along with enjoying theatre games, these amazing kids learn their lines, blocking, timing and are costumed and made up to perform by Friday at 2 p.m. We offer sibling and return student discounts too! capistranoactingacademy.org.
& Resources
ENDLESS SUMMER SURF CAMP Learn to surf at San Clemente’s premier surf camp, where dreams have come true since 1992. Whether you have never surfed or if you want to take your surfing to the next level, we have surf instruction and coaching for you. We have day and overnight surf camps as well as private and group lessons for beginning, intermediate and advanced surfers. We also offer surf and turf camps at Talega Golf Club with PGA Teacher of the Year Randy Chang. 949.498.7862. endlesssummersurfcamp.com.
DANA WEST YOUTH SAILING Build a skill that can last a lifetime and promote a love for the ocean! Dana West Youth Sailing hosts 3 summer sailing camps in Dana Point Harbor: June 15th – June 26th, June 29th – July 10th, July 13th – July 24th. Camp runs Monday through Friday for children ages 7-18. Cost is $450 per session, with a 5% early bird discount for registration before April 30th. For more information and registration, visit dwyscamp.com/registration. The Dana West Yacht Club Junior Sailing Program is administered by Dana West Youth Sailing, Inc., a 501c3 Non-Profit corporation.
KGB BEACH CAMPS Come down to the Dana Point Harbor for a week of fun! There are activities from stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, kayaking and tide pool walks to games, crafts and much more. Join us for an adventure on a 60-foot catamaran while we look for whales and explore the open ocean. The little ones will join us for a different adventure every day; crab hunting, treasure hunts, water games and sand castles will fill their days at camp. 34451 Ensenada Place, Dana Point. 949.842.5211. kgbeachcamps.com.
Local Camps & Resources (Continued)
KIDCREATE STUDIO DANA POINT Get creative at the newest summer camps in town! Our energized art camps are designed to inspire and educate your young artist in an environment that encourages giggles and grins. Beginning June 1, camps are offered Tuesdays through Thursdays, with fun weekly themes sure to excite and engage children ages 3-6, 4-9 and 7-12. Create your family’s ideal schedule with our flexible registration: 3-day camps or daily rates, half- or full-day options. 34255 Pacfic Coast Highway, Suite 113, Dana Point, 949.545.7091, kidcreatestudio.com/dana-point
OCEAN INSTITUTE Dive into Summer Fun at Ocean Institute Camps June 22- August 14 located in Dana Point. ACA Accredited Camps focus on ocean education and experiences for campers of all ages! Give your child a new perspective as they explore, discover and thrive. Before and aftercare are available to provide flexibility and accommodate busy schedules. Registration starts on March 16 at oceaninstitute.org. Summer Camp Questions? Contact Guest Services at oi@oceaninstitute.org or call 949.492.2274.
TSTREET VOLLEYBALL CLUB
ST. MARGARET’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL Be inspired, explore interests and have fun this summer at St. Margaret’s Episcopal School. Summer camps at St. Margaret’s are open to all students preschool through grade 8. Weekly summer camps include outdoor and beach adventures, athletics, performing arts, academic exploration in science, engineering, computer science and humanities. Led by St. Margaret’s renowned teachers and coaches on our beautiful 22-acre campus in a nurturing and small-group environment. Some outdoor camps take place at local beaches and off-campus locations. 31641 La Novia, San Juan Capistrano, 949.661.0108, smes.org/ summer
Tstreet is ranked #1 in Southern California, and home of the 2015, 2017, and 2019 USAV Junior National Champions. Named after an iconic, family beach in San Clemente, Tstreet clinics range from position specific, age specific, general skills, sand-camps, and more throughout the summer. Training is open to boys and girls ages 8 to 18, and programs cater to introductory through advanced level athletes. Last summer, the improvement of day campers was phenomenal, leading to roster positions on school and club teams. Tstreet is owned and managed by two-time Olympic Gold Medalist (coach and player) Troy Tanner. Troy brings his philosophy of “achieving one’s highest potential” to the club. Proven mechanics, repetitions, feedback and fun are emphasized in Tstreet’s state-of-the-art gymnasium, located at the “El Toro Y” in Irvine. Sign up online at TstreetVolleyball.com.
THE JOHNSON ACADEMY Did you know that one out of every five children struggles
in reading? Children who receive intervention before third grade have a 90 percent chance of increasing their reading skills to meet their intellectual abilities. Due to the high demands of literacy, reading is more important than ever. At the Johnson Academy, located in San Juan Capistrano, they offer evidence-based reading and math intervention programs to improve phonemic awareness, comprehension, vocabulary knowledge and cognitive abilities. If your child struggles with keeping up in school, please contact the academy to find out more information. 27127 Calle Arroyo Ste. 1920, San Juan Capistrano. 949.487.5251, scheduling@ocsllcinc.com.
WESTWIND SAILING Welcome aboard! Westwind has been providing educational boating programs in our community since 1987. Our programs include sailing camps, SUP camps, and boating classes for all ages and skill levels. We are the 2019 ‘Best Camp for Kids’ Golden Lantern, People’s Choice winner in Dana Point and our school is a sanctioned US Sailing, Community Sailing Center. Our community is important to us – especially during these uncertain times. We’re waiving our cancellation / change policy and allowing payment plans for summer. And we have boating scholarships available too. We’re in this boat together! Find us at the OC Sailing & Events Center in DP Harbor. 949.492.3035.
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OCEAN INSTITUTE
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SETTING SAIL FOR SUMMER
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YOUTH SAILING
With several sailing organizations in the harbor, there are plenty of options for your child to explore in terms of learning to sail. The Dana Point Harbor Youth Foundation is a nonprofit sailing organization that strives to improve the lives of young people by bringing that energy, enthusiasm and education to the next generation of sailors. The Foundation is one of South Orange County’s driving forces in youth sailing education and supports Dana Point Yacht Club Youth Sailing, Dana West Yacht Club Youth Sailing, Mariners936 Sea Scouts, South OC high school sailing programs, Westwind Sailing and Ocean Institute. “By participating in sailing activities, children and teens are exposed to a unique form of physical fitness,” says John Berry, the Foundation’s president. “Also, because sailing is a team activity, participants gain important communication, social and leadership skills and increased self-esteem—life skills that they will carry into adulthood.” The Foundation has a fleet of more than 25 boats that includes RS Teras, Lasers, CFJ’s and Naples Sabots. They are provided free for use at its summer camp, open sailing in the offseason, Wednesday evening harbor racing in the summer and local regattas throughout the year. “Dana Point and South Orange County have a variety of exceptional youth sailing programs,” said Berry. “By acting as a unifying force for other harbor organizations, DPHYF ensures that the next generation of sailors has the resources and equipment they need.” Dana Point Harbor Youth Foundation, PO BOX 3926, Dana Point. 949.229.0790. dphyf.org.
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MARINERS936
While there isn’t a summer program, Mariners is all about adventure for young men and women ages 14-18 during the spring and fall season. Members learn nautical skills and how to sail a variety of boats, from 14-foot Capris to 38-foot, fully equipped yachts, in addition to the 118-foot-tall ship Spirit of Dana Point. There’s plenty to choose from with day sails, weekend trips, an annual week-long summer cruise and exciting weekend competition events with other Seascout groups. Ann Webb handles youth recruitment for Mariners936 and has children who have experienced the program. “It’s more than just sailing; it’s also leadership opportunities, trips, volunteering, camping trips to learn life skills, but we go on sailing trips,” Webb said. “Instead of camping, we take our camp with us and sleep on the boats and cook in the galley.” The instructional part of the program is divided into a fall and spring session comprised of 12 weeks each, whereas the recreational sailing and racing run all year long. Instruction involves 12 weeks per session of Wednesday evening classes for 2 ½ hours each. There are eight separate classes ranging from beginning to advanced boat handling. On-the-water training takes place on weekend days during fall and spring seasons. The culmination of the training is the Quartermaster Cruise, where Mariners936 skippers one of the large boats to Catalina and back with their own hand-picked crew. The Mariners Junior program is for kids 12-13 years old. Informational meetings are held in February and September each year. To view more information on the program or see the program calendar, visit mariners936.com. 34451 Ensenada Place, Dana Point.
OCEAN INSTITUTE
Dive into summer fun at Ocean Institute Camps for its June 22- August 14 program. ACA-accredited camps focus on ocean education and experiences for campers of all ages. Your children will gain a new perspective as they explore, discover and thrive. “Our programs provide real-world learning experiences for thousands of students,” said Dr. Wendy Marshall, President of Education and Operations at Ocean Institute. “These experiences do not simply change a day in a child’s life, but rather change their perceptions of what life has to offer and the many possibilities that are open to them.” Before and aftercare are available to provide flexibility and accommodate busy schedules. Register today at oceaninstitute.org. u
For the child who is drawn to the ocean, whether it be for sailing or ocean science, the Dana Point Harbor offers a variety of summer programs to enrich your family’s life. The Dana Point Harbor provides an ideal, safe environment for getting comfortable out in the water, learning a new water sport, exploring marine life or developing skills as a young citizen scientist.
WESTWIND SAILING
Westwind Sailing has been providing educational programs since 1987. Programs include sailing camps, SUP camps, and boating classes for all ages and skill levels. Its school is a sanctioned US Sailing, Community Sailing Center. Westwind is waiving its cancellation/change policy and allowing for payment plans for summer. There are also boating scholarships available. Find Westwind Sailing at the OC Sailing & Events Center in DP Harbor. 34451 Ensenada Place, Dana Point. 949.492.3035. westwindsailing.com.
DANA WEST YACHT CLUB
Each year, Dana West Yacht Club sponsors a Youth Summer Sailing Camp in three 2-week sessions for $450 per session. Session 1 is held June 15-June 26, Session 2 is held June 29-July 10, and Session 3 is held July 13-July 24. The Dana West Yacht Club summer camp is open to children ages 8-18 (club members or not) and is held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Lunch is provided on Fridays. For more information, contact Mark Williams, Junior Sailing President, by emailing juniors@dwyc.org or calling 949.661.1185, ext. 5. 24601 Dana Drive, Dana Point. dwyc.org. u
DANA POINT YACHT CLUB
The Dana Point Yacht Club Sea Stars program is an introduction to the world of sailing .This course aims to equip the newest sailors with the skills and knowledge to operate a Tera with partner. Throughout this course, students will obtain the ability to identify wind direction, points of sail and right-ofway on the water. Sailors will also demonstrate the ability to tack and job, sail upwind and downwind and steer with a tiller extension. Weekly sessions run from June 10-August 15, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., for $400. Dana Point Yacht Club also has courses for introductions to single handing, double handing, intermediate and advanced sailing. 24399 Dana Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2900. dpyc.org