At Catalina Sea Camp, memories aren’t just made through snorkeling, sailing, and ocean exploration—they’re created through the traditions that bring campers together summer after summer. These shared moments spark friendships, build confidence, and create the kind of magic campers talk about long after they head home.
Here are the top seven traditions that bond every camper at Catalina Sea Camp.
1. The Dance & Social — A Night Full of Energy and Laughter
The energy of a Sea Camp dance is unmatched. Campers gather under twinkling lights while music fills the air and laughter echoes across Toyon Bay. Whether it’s your first summer or your fifth, the dance is a chance to let loose, meet new friends, and feel part of something bigger.
2. Carnival — A Festival of Games, Treats & Pure Camp Fun
Once a session, the basketball courts transform into a full-blown carnival complete with games, snacks, prizes, and a huge dance area.
It’s the perfect blend of friendly competition, laughter, and classic summer fun—one of the most anticipated nights of camp.
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3. Ugly Counselor Contest — Peak Sea Camp Comedy
One of the most beloved (and hilarious) traditions, the Ugly Counselor Contest is camp spirit at its best. Counselors dress in the wackiest, most over-the-top costumes imaginable, and campers cheer, laugh, and vote for their favorites.
It’s silly, fearless, and pure Sea Camp fun.
4. Campfires — Where Stories, Skits & Songs Come Alive
When the sun dips behind the hills, campfires become the heart of the night. Campers gather to sing songs, perform skits, and enjoy unforgettable moments under a sky full of stars.
These nights balance high-energy fun with reflection, connection, and community.
5. Beach Parties — Sun, Sand & Summer Vibes
Few things beat spending a day on the beach with your feet in the sand and music floating in the background. Beach Parties give campers the chance to celebrate new friendships, enjoy beach games, swim, relax, and soak up the Catalina sunshine.
6. Wacky Relays & Team Challenges — Icebreakers That Actually Work
Every session kicks off with high-energy relays and silly team challenges that instantly break the ice. Whether they’re racing in flippers, building sand sculptures, or competing in goofy games, campers quickly bond with their cabin groups.
These traditions help campers feel connected from day one.
What Cabin Life at Catalina Sea Camp Looks Like
7. Closing Ceremony & The Moment Everything Comes Full Circle
On the final night, camp slows down for a tradition campers remember forever. Cabins gather to reflect on their favorite moments, share shout-outs, relive inside jokes, and celebrate how much they’ve grown.
Ocean Adventure Summer Camp Guide
Why Traditions Matter at Sea Camp
These moments—funny, heartfelt, silly, joyful—form the foundation of the Sea Camp experience. Traditions help campers feel supported, included, and part of something special. Many return summer after summer because of the community these traditions create.
Why Catalina Sea Camp Is One of California’s Best Ocean Adventure Camps
Ready for Your Child to Be Part of the Sea Camp Magic?
Catalina Sea Camp blends ocean adventure with unforgettable traditions that build community and confidence.
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