Surf Camp YMCA

Accommodation

Camp Surf’s lodging varies by village. Mariners stay in cabins with a dedicated bathhouse, providing younger campers with a safe, structured space under overnight counselor supervision. Watermen live in rustic, solar-powered cabin tents with a central gazebo and a campfire ring. Older campers in the Beachcombers and SOUL Surfers villages may sleep in similar cabin-style arrangements or take part in off-site camping trips, giving them both camaraderie and independence. In every setting, staff remain on-site overnight to ensure safety, routine, and support.

Meals

Camp Surf provides daily meals designed to fuel active days and support healthy growth. Meals are balanced and nutritious, featuring options like fruit, cereal, salad bars, and traditional dinner entrees. Each village has its dining rhythm: Mariners, for example, enjoy fruit and cereal at breakfast, while older campers share in cookouts and community meals. The kitchen is mindful of health and nutrition, reinforcing the camp’s goal of fostering well-being in mind, body, and spirit.

Safety

Safety at Camp Surf is built into everything they do. Staff are trained in risk management, water safety, and youth supervision. Counselors stay with their groups overnight, ensuring that no camper is ever unsupervised during rest or transition times. On the ocean side, trained instructors lead all surf, boogie boarding, and kayaking activities with a strong emphasis on safety and education. Land-based activities like climbing and teambuilding are similarly staffed and supported to protect campers while providing challenge and fun.

Health & Medicine

Campers submit health forms before arrival so staff know essential details like allergies, medications, and medical history. During camp, trained staff administer first aid and manage daily health needs. For more serious issues, the camp has systems in place to access local medical services. Throughout the session, counselors encourage hydration, rest, and sun protection to help campers stay well and safe in the beach environment.

Camp Traditions

Camp Surf is rich in tradition — especially around its ocean identity and village structure. Each village develops its own sense of community through shared routines, evening campfires, and skits. Mariners might bond over their first ocean swim, Watermen share in sunset surf, and SOUL Surfers take part in multi-day trips focused on service, leadership, and reflection. Older campers may volunteer, mentor younger peers, or even help with community service projects. These traditions foster a sense of belonging, character, and meaningful memories.

Camp Surf offers a dynamic, community-driven program where ocean, land, and leadership mix. Each day, campers rotate through ocean-based activities like surfing or boogie boarding, land-based skills like archery and climbing, and teambuilding challenges. There are structured group sessions, adventure trips for older teens, and plenty of free time to relax or connect. Evening programming brings everyone together with campfires, music, and space for reflection — helping campers wind down and build friendships under the stars.