Catalina Island Marine Institute: Sea Camp

Accommodation

Campers stay in cabins on the private beachfront campus, where small groups live together and share bath/shower facilities. The lodging is rustic yet well-maintained, fostering camaraderie and independence. Housing is gender- and age-grouped, supervised by trained staff who live nearby. Living on-campus enables children to wake each morning to ocean breezes, participate in early activities, and fall asleep with the sound of waves in the background — all while operating within a safe, supervised framework.

Meals

Meals are provided three times daily in communal dining halls overlooking the water, with additional snacks during activity breaks. The kitchen prepares balanced, high-energy fare suited to active campers – fresh fruits, lean proteins, salads, vegetarian choices and hearty staples. Special dietary needs (allergies, vegetarian, etc.) are accommodated when notified during registration. Mealtimes serve as opportunities for campers to reconnect, share their day’s experiences and build a sense of community in a relaxed, social setting.

Safety

Safety is woven throughout every aspect of Catalina Sea Camp’s programming. Water-based activities (snorkeling, kayaking, sailing) are led by trained staff with appropriate equipment and protocols. On-land activities and cabin life are supervised with clear check-in/out systems, buddy procedures and risk management. The remote island location adds extra layers of care — staff monitor transitions to and from the water, enforce electronics-free or minimal-electronics policies (enhancing focus), and maintain strong communication systems. Parents can feel confident that campers are engaged in well-structured, professionally supervised adventure.

Health & Medicine

The camp maintains on-site medical support and protocols to respond to minor injuries or illnesses and to manage medication schedules. Parents complete health and allergy forms prior to arrival. For more serious care, transport to mainland facilities is available. Although specific staff-to-medic ratios aren’t publicly detailed, the camp emphasizes readiness, trained staff and appropriate medical oversight given the remote, island-based context.

Camp traditions

Catalina Sea Camp thrives on traditions that blend adventure with friendship and wonder. From the opening “welcome aboard” ceremony to evening camp-fires under stars, snorkeling reflections and island hikes, these rituals create strong bonds and lasting memories. Older campers may earn certifications, lead small-group expeditions or participate in leadership roles. Repeat attendance is celebrated, and returning campers often step into mentorship positions. The combination of marine exploration, island living and community rituals makes this camp’s tradition unique and powerful.

The program at Catalina Sea Camp immerses campers in ocean adventure, scientific discovery, and a strong sense of community. Mornings often start with water-based activities such as sailing or snorkeling. Afternoons shift toward marine science labs, kayaking, tubing, or island hikes. Evenings slow down with campfires, songs, personal reflection, or relaxed cabin time. Older campers in longer sessions experience added depth through leadership development, sail certifications, and extended expeditions. This balance of high-energy activities, moments of calm, and meaningful group experiences helps campers return home more confident, connected, and curious about the natural world.