Every camper is different—and at Catalina Sea Camp, each of our programs is designed to meet them right where they are. Whether your child is brand new to overnight camp or ready for a longer, more independent adventure, both our 1-week and 2.5-week sessions offer incredible opportunities for growth, confidence, and ocean exploration.
Here’s a look at what makes each session unique—and how to choose the best fit for your camper.
1-Week Sessions (Ages 8–13)
A supportive, structured introduction to overnight camp
Our 1-week sessions are the perfect way for younger campers—or first-time overnight campers of any age—to experience Catalina Sea Camp. These sessions are intentionally designed to be structured, nurturing, and filled with variety so campers feel supported from the moment they arrive.
What campers experience:
- A pre-planned schedule with a little bit of everything
- Snorkeling in Toyon Bay
- Kayaking & paddleboarding
- Marine biology labs & touch tanks
- Arts & crafts
- Beach time and island exploration
- Community-building with their cabin groups
- Classic camp traditions
Campers stay with their cabin groups for most activities, allowing friendships to form naturally and helping even the most nervous campers feel at ease.
Why families choose the 1-week session:
- Perfect for first-time overnight campers
- Lots of counselor support
- High structure and clear routines
- A chance to try everything Sea Camp offers
- Builds confidence and independence in a safe environment
What Cabin Life at Catalina Sea Camp Looks Like
2.5-Week Sessions (Ages 12–17)
A deeper dive into independence, choice & adventure
For older campers—or returning campers ready for more independence—the 2.5-week program opens up a world of choice. These sessions follow a block-style schedule that lets campers personalize their entire experience.
Campers choose from activities like:
- Marine biology electives
- Sailing & navigation
- Photography & digital media
- High ropes & climbing
- Advanced hiking & outdoor skills
- Surfing
- Water sports
- NAUI scuba diving
(One of the top reasons older campers return!)
With more time and freedom, campers dive deeper into their interests, build stronger friendships, and take on bigger ocean adventures.
Why families choose the 2.5-week session:
- More independence and responsibility
- Skill-building in specialized areas
- Opportunities for leadership
- Time to grow socially and personally
- A “second home” feeling that develops over longer stays
How Campers Earn Their NAUI Certification at Catalina Sea Camp
Which Session Is Right for Your Child?
Choosing the right fit comes down to two things: age and experience level.
Choose the 1-week session if your camper is:
- Ages 8–13
- New to overnight camp
- Still building independence
- Excited to try lots of activities
- Looking for a structured, supportive environment
Choose the 2.5-week session if your camper is:
- Ages 12–17
- Returning to camp or confident being away from home
- Ready for more independence
- Interested in specialized activities (especially SCUBA!)
- Looking for deeper friendships and bigger adventures
Both sessions are designed to build confidence, spark curiosity, and create unforgettable memories—just at different levels of independence and intensity.
Top 5 Reasons Families Choose Catalina Sea Camp (and Keep Coming Back)
Still Not Sure? We’re Here to Help.
If you’re unsure which option is best for your camper, our team is happy to talk through age, readiness, interests, and any concerns.
Schedule a Call with our Camp Team →
How to Help Your Camper Feel Ready for Overnight Camp (Homesickness Tips Included)
December 3
4 min Read
Parent Guide: What to Pack for an Ocean Adventure Camp on Catalina Island
November 19
2 min Read