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Welcome Summer Camp & Activities Guide
Spring is officially here, and there’s no better time than the present to start thinking about your child’s extracurricular activities for the summer months, which is just around the corner.
To help parents and guardians who are considering which camps to enroll their kids, we present our annual Summer Camp Guide. The issue is chock full of information on fun — and educational — programs that several local organizations are offering this year. Check out this section to find useful information and resources that can help you plan your child’s summer activities.
Summer Camps
DANA POINT
Summer 2025 Sailing Camps (Ages 7 to 18)
JUNE 16 TO AUG. 8
Dana West Yacht Club, 24601 Dana Harbor Drive, Dana Point, multiple prices, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday to Friday, dwycjrs.org/summer-camps
Mini Minnows (Ages 4 to 6)
JUNE 17 TO AUG. 9
OC Sailing & Event Center, 34451 Ensenada Place, Dana Point, $295 per week, 9 a.m. to noon Monday to Friday; 1 to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday, kgbeachcamps.com
Westwind Sailing
MAY 31 TO AUG. 30
(Various Ages)
34451 Ensenada Place, Dana Point, multiple prices and times, westwindsailing.com, 949-492-3035
Junior Summer Sailing Program
JUNE 9 TO AUG. 8
(Ages 6 to 16)
Dana Point Yacht Club, 24399 Dana Drive, Dana Point, $450 non-members and $400 for members, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday, dpyc.org
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Musical Theater Camp: Seaside Players (Ages 7 to 17)
JULY 14 TO JULY 25
Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo Street, Dana Point, $360, 9 a.m. to noon Monday to Friday, anc.apm.activecommunities.com/cityofdanapoint
Lego Robotics Camp (Ages 5 to 12)
AUG. 11 TO AUG. 15
Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo Street, Dana Point, $200, 9 a.m. to noon Monday to Friday, anc.apm.activecommunities.com/cityofdanapoint
Kidcreate Studio Camps (Multiple Camps)
34255 Pacific Coast Hwy. Suite 113 Dana Point, kidcreate.com
YMCA of Orange County Summer Camps and Day Camps (Multiple Camps) ymcaoc.org/orange-county-camps
Danman’s Summer Camps (Multiple Camps)
Danman’s Music School, 24699 Del Prado Avenue, Dana Point, danmans.com/summer-camps
SAN CLEMENTE
Kids Summer Camp (Ages 6 to 13)
JUNE 9 TO AUG. 15
Boys & Girls Club - San Clemente, 1304 Calle Valle, San Clemente, multiple prices and times, bgcsca.org/summer-camp-program
San Clemente Junior Lifeguards (Ages 8 to 15)
JUNE 16 TO JULY 3, JULY 7 TO JULY 25, JULY 28 TO AUG. 15
Marine Safety, Lifeguard Command Center, 620 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, $440, 9 a.m. to noon; 1 to 4 p.m., parks.ca.gov
Volleyball Summer Camp with Damian Holley
JULY 7 TO JULY 11, JULY 14 TO JULY 18
The Togethership, 1010 Calle Sombra, San Clemente, multiple prices and times, thetogethership.com
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Don’t let summer homework, Summer School and low grades get you down! We’re here to help! Now enrolling for summer!
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SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
2025 Horse Summer Camp
JUNE 3 TO JUNE 13, JUNE 30 TO JULY 4, JULY 7 TO JULY 11, AUG. 4 TO AUG. 8
Gladstone Equestrian, 26282 Oso Road, San Juan Capistrano, $800 per week, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday to Friday, gladstoneequestrian.com
Junior Golf Camp
(Ages 7 to 12)
JUNE 9 TO JULY 31
San Juan Hills Golf Club, 32120 San Juan Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano, $400, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., sanjuanhillsgolf.com
Emerald Cove Day Camp
(Ages 5 to 10)
JUNE 16 TO JUNE 27, JULY 7 TO JULY 18, JULY 21 TO AUG. 1
Del Obispo Elementary School, 25591 Camino Del Avion, San Juan Capistrano, $1925 per session; $350 deposit, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., emeraldcovedaycamp.com
Conservatory sparkles with opportunities
When school lets out and the days grow long, the real adventure begins at South Coast Conservatory, where summer camps burst with energy, creativity and plenty of sparkle. This season, SCC offers various imaginative and athletic camps that promise to keep kids moving, learning and smiling all summer long.
For the daring and the energetic, the Circus Tricks camp transforms SCC’s stateof-the-art acro room into a playground of flips, twists and sky-high fun. Campers will bounce on trampolines, swing from aerial silks and hoops, and learn the fundamentals of tumbling — including handstands, cartwheels, backbends and splits. Rope climbing and themed crafts round out this exciting week, perfect for those who love to move. Circus Tricks is available June 23 to June 27 or July 21 to July 25 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Swifties can live their wildest dreams at the Swifties Dance Party, where Taylor
Swift’s music sets the stage for dancing, bonding and pure pop star fun. Each day is a new chance to groove to fan-favorite tracks, learn routines with friends, and soak up the joy of being part of the Swiftie community. This upbeat camp runs July 7 to July 11 or Aug. 4 to Aug. 8 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Tumble/Cheer Camp brings spirit and strength together for a week of cheers, choreography, and high-energy fun. Students will learn gymnastic skills tailored for cheerleading, as well as fun dance routines and cheers designed to build both skill and confidence. Each day includes a tumbling, cheer and dance class, with megaphones and crafts included to boost the team spirit. Campers should come dressed to move in leotards, shorts, and sneakers — pom-poms are provided. This camp is offered June 16 to June 20 or July 14 to July 18 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
For those who love the magic of fairy
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SUMMER BARRACUDA
SWIM TEAM
REGISTRATION OPENS FEBRUARY 15TH JUNE 9 - JULY 31 (8 WEEKS) MON - THU 3:30-4:30PM
2 X 4 WEEK SESSIONS (JUNE 9 - JULY 2, JULY 7 - JULY 31) THIS YEAR: $550/8 WEEKS, $300/4 WEEKS
*MUST BE 5 YEARS OLD BY THE START OF THE SESSION (JUNE 9 OR JULY 7) AND
By Angélica Escobar
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tales, the Princesses & Villains camp invites kids to step into the enchanting world of Disney musical theatre. Through song, dance and drama, campers explore beloved characters — from the heroic to the delightfully wicked — while learning performance basics in a fun and welcoming environment. This musical theatre experience is available from June 23 to June 27 and July 14 to July 18, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Moana Camp brings the spirit of adventure to life with island-themed dances, songs, games and crafts inspired by the beloved Disney film. From singing along to Moana’s iconic ballads to moving like the waves in fun-filled dance sessions, campers will be immersed in oceanic joy all week long. Moana Camp takes place June 9-13 or July 21-25 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Capping off the summer fun is the Mini Olympics camp, where students compete for gold in a series of friendly contests held in the Acro and Aerial Arts room. Throughout the week, campers prepare for their moment in the spotlight by learning floor routines, practicing on the tumble tramp and training with aerial apparatus. The week concludes with an awards ceremony that celebrates each camper’s accomplishments. Mini Olympics runs July 7 to July 11 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
For serious dancers looking to refine their technique and prepare for the next level, the Ballet Conservatory summer intensive offers a focused and immersive training experience. This classical dance program runs weekdays and includes preparation for performance, placement
for the upcoming competitive season, and training in classical variations. Students in levels one to three, and four to six, will train July 21 to July 25 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with separate sign-ups based on level.
Aspiring triple threats can shine in the Musical Theatre Conservatory, a five-day intensive for accelerated students passionate about acting, singing, and dancing. Each day focuses on core technique and includes auditioning and repertory training, all leading up to a live performance of “SpongeBob the Musical” at the end of the week. This immersive experience runs July 7 to July 11 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is open to all levels.
A perfect cap to the summer is the Aerial Conservatory, designed for intermediate and advanced tumblers, as well as beginner to advanced aerial artists. Students will train on the tumble/air track, sprung floor, silks, hoops and cube while building strength, flexibility and confidence for the upcoming 2025/26 season. This two-day intensive takes place on Aug. 2 to Aug. 3, from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
No matter their interest — acrobatics, dance, musical theater, or cheer — every child can find their place at South Coast Conservatory this summer. With a camp for every kind of star, SCC is where summer memories take center stage.
South Coast Conservatory 27652 Camino Capistrano, Laguna Niguel scconservatory.com
By Angélica Escobar
SDana Point to Offer a Variety of Camps For Kids and Teens
everal camp activities are getting set for summer offerings around Orange County, and a few will take place in our backyard. The City of Dana Point is hosting multiple camps again this year; From art and theatre to soccer and basketball, there is something for everyone.
Looking back to last year’s compilation of camps, Dana Point saw many camp participants interested in theater camp. Hoping for the same this year, the instructors are looking forward to meeting new and returning campers.
“The City of Dana Point experienced a fantastic turnout for our theater camp last year,” said Melissa Muraira, Dana Point Recreation Manager. “With guidance from two outstanding instructors who are passionate about theater, the camp creates an engaging and inspiring environment for kids to explore and develop their love for the performing arts.”
Muraira also notes that this year, the recreation department is looking forward to a
few expanded camps that have not been offered in years past. This year, it will be bigger than ever before.
“This year, we’re thrilled to expand our offerings with brand-new beach camps, including Stand Up Paddling (SUP) Day Camps, Voyager Day Camps, Wayfarer Day Camps and Mini Mates Day Camps,” Muraira said. “Westwind Sailing leads these exciting programs in the Harbor and provides children with unique opportunities to learn ocean sailing, knot tying, patrol safety and water confidence. These camps emphasize water safety and give young participants the unforgettable experience of mastering skills on the water while fostering a sense of adventure.”
The Dana Point Recreation Department is looking forward to seeing some returning campers but is always thrilled to see new kids and teens interested in participating in city camps. For those who may
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SUMMER CAMPS
MONDAY - FRIDAY, 10AM - 1PM
ROCK CAMP JUNE 9 - 13
VOCAL CAMP JUNE 16 - 20
ROCK CAMP JUNE 23 - 27
VOCAL CAMP JULY 7 - 11
ROCK CAMP JULY 14 - 18
ROCK CAMP JULY 21 - 25
Live Performance at StillWater Fridays at 12:30pm
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be new, fear not; the camps are welcoming to all.
“Many participants sign up with a friend, but if you don’t have a friend available to join, don’t worry! Look at the camp sizes online; Dana Point offers a variety of intentionally smaller and more intimate camps,” Muraira said. “These settings create a welcoming environment where making new friends comes naturally. Summer camp experiences are a wonderful way for children to connect with peers who share similar interests, fostering meaningful interactions and creating lasting memories.”
While starting something new for some kids and teens may be a little scary, many camps are offered to align with any subject, including sculpting, animation, anime, sewing, cooking, and many others.
“For kids or teens who might feel unsure about joining summer camps, I’d suggest encouraging them to start small, choosing a camp that aligns with their interests, whether theater, sailing, art, or sports,” Muraira said. “Since they’ll already have a connection to the activity, it might be an easy transition. Camp is about trying new things, having fun, and making memories. Meeting other kids who share similar interests can be a rewarding experience, and stepping out of their comfort zone might
lead to discovering new passions or talents they didn’t know they had.”
For a list of the camps offered, Dana Point has compiled an overview of what is available to sign up for in their LOOKOUT Magazine.
“Explore the City of Dana Point’s summer camp offerings! The LOOKOUT Magazine provides a complete overview, and detailed information is also available online at danapoint.org,” Muraira said. “If you have any questions about the camps, contact the Community Center front desk at 949-248-3507.”
Camps range from $100 to $500, depending on what is offered. While it is still early, there are specials to book through May 14 for a discount.
“Participants are encouraged to take advantage of our early bird discounts, available for all summer camp offerings throughout the spring,” Muraira said. “These special savings will soar away when summer registration opens on May 14th. Dana Point offers an exceptional variety of camps. Whether your child is adventurous or passionate about culinary arts, athletics, arts & crafts, watersports, or performing arts, Dana Point has you covered.” Dana Point Summer Camps start June 9 and go until August 11.
Ages 6 weeks to 6 years
I
UMMER CAMMP
IDS SUMMER CAMP
Capstone Montessori's Summer Camp offers a fun-filled experience with exciting activities, weekly themes, art projects, splash days, and dress-up days! Kids will enjoy in-house field trips and Montessori lessons tailored to their age group. It’s a perfect way to make the most of summer, with a chance to continue learning and growing into the Fall. Now enrolling Infants, Toddlers, Early Primary, TK, and Primary programs. Join us for a summer full of fun and discovery!
Capstone Montessori 2021 Calle Frontera, San Clemente, CA 92673
MINI MINNOWS - 4 to 6 Years Old 9am-12pm or 1pm-4pm Di erent themed activities, crafts & games each day! Snacks are included.
BEACH SAFARI - 6 to 9 Years Old 9am-4pm Tidepool Walks, Swimming, Whale Watching, Beach Fun & More!
H20 Adventure Camp - 9 to 13 Years Old 9am-4pm Stand-up Paddle Boarding, Kayaking, Sailing, Rowing Whale Watching, Beach Fun, & More!
& RESOURCES
AMERICAN BEACH VOLLEYBALL CLUB
American Beach Volleyball at Doheny State Beach — Sun, sand & fun! SUMMER PROGRAMS for ages 9–12. Summer and year-round for ages 12-22. Beginners to high school to pro. Beach volleyball grows strength, speed, agility, discipline, respect and encourages making friends. Encouraging coaches teach hitting, passing, setting, defense, blocking, and serving. American Beach athletes play on pro, college & high school teams all over the world. See you at the BEACH! Sessions fill up quickly — REGISTER NOW at americanbeachvolleyballclub.com. 949-485-0826
info@americanbeachvolleyballclub.com
CAPISTRANO VALLEY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
CVCS Summer Camps Are Here! From sports and theater to STEM, art, cooking, and academic enrichment, there’s something for every student at Capistrano Valley Christian Schools’ Summer Camps!
With options for grades TK-12 and full-day Kids Club available, your child can learn, play, and grow all summer long!
June 3 – August 1 Register now at cvcs.org/camps.
CAPSTONE MONTESSORI
Capstone Montessori is a nurturing learning environment rooted in the Montessori Philosophy, with Montessori-credentialed administration and staff. We offer programs for children ages 6 weeks to 6 years, focusing on individualized growth and development. Our innovative approach includes up-to-date apps that provide parents with a seamless way to peek into their child’s day, ensuring transparency and connection. At Capstone Montessori, we empower children to explore, learn, and thrive in a supportive and engaging setting.
Capstone Montessori School 2021 Calle Frontera, San Clemente CA 949-503-1199
capstonemontessorischool.com
CITY OF DANA POINT
LET’S GO! Summer Camps
The City of Dana Point Community Services Department is excited to offer a variety of summer camps for kids ages 5-17. The summer camp lineup includes musical theater, sewing, basketball, sailing, SUP, Spanish, gardening, soccer, tennis, pickleball, cooking, robot building, animation, chess, science, arts & crafts, cartooning & comic creation and more! Registration is now open. Early registration discounts end May 14. To view more details and to register visit bit. ly/DPRecreation.
FAIRMONT SUMMER PROGRAMS
Locations in Anaheim, Anaheim Hills, North Tustin, San Juan Capistrano 714-234-2757, fairmontschools.com/summer Keep your kids curious and engaged this summer with Fairmont’s award-winning programs! CAMP (Preschool-8th Grade): High-energy ACA-accredited camp with education, recreation, and field trips. SUMMER SCHOOL (K-8th): Reading, writing and math tailored to help students get ahead or stay ahead. HIGH SCHOOL: For-credit, UC-approved courses. Enroll by March 31st for 10% off!
KG BEACH CAMPS
KG Beach Camps has been a part of the Dana Point Harbor since 1987. Children, ages 4 to 13, enjoy a variety of activities offered from three different camps based out of The OC Sailing & Events Center, near Baby Beach. Age-appropriate camps range from the Mini Minnows (ages 4 to 6) to Beach Safari (ages 6 to 9), and H20 Adventure (ages 9 to 13). Campers participate in activities such as trips to the local tide pools, crab hunting, stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, kayaking, rowing, whale watching on Capt. Dave’s Dolphin Safari catamaran , beach games, crafts and so much more. Camps fill up fast, so book early. Camps run from June 16 through August 1. Call 949-842-5211 or email SummerBeachCamps@gmail.com for more information or register at KgBeachCamps.com
MATHNASIUM
Make this summer count with Mathnasium! Give your child the ultimate summer boost with Mathnasium! Our fun, engaging programs prevent learning loss and build math confidence through expert instruction,hands-on activities, and customized learning plans. Whether your child is catching
up or getting ahead, we make math make sense! Enroll in our summer camp, Year-Round Program, or flexible session packs today and watch your child thrive. Start strong for next school year!
San Clemente: 638 Camino De Los Mares, Suite H-150 San Clemente, CA 92673 949-481-6284 mathnasium.com/sanclemente
Marina Hills: 30271 Golden Lantern, Ste A Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 949-240-6284 mathnasium.com/math-centers/marinahills
Laguna Niguel: 27281 La Paz Rd, #Q Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 949-392-5900 mathnasium.com/lagunaniguel
SAN CLEMENTE AQUATICS TEAM
Ready for summer swimming fun? Whether your aspirations are to learn the four strokes, prepare to compete in swimming, or simply improve your competency in the water, it all begins with San Clemente Aquatics! Living in an aquatic community, it is imperative that everybody is competent in the water. If you can swim 1 lap of freestyle (and efficiently breathe to the side) and one lap of backstroke, come join our Summer Barracudas Swimming Camp. scatswim.org sanclementeswim@scatswim.org
WESTWIND SAILING
Welcome aboard! Westwind Sailing has been providing educational, community boating programs since 1987: Sail and Paddle Camps (spring break & summer), Adaptive sailing, after-school programs and boating classes for all ages and skill levels. Westwind was selected as the Dana Point “Business of the Year” for 2024. And the Westwind Sailing Summer Camp was again the Silver Lantern winner in the Dana Point Times’ People’s Choice awards, for”Best Camp for Kids.” Westwind is a U.S. Sailing, Community Sailing Center and STEM Hub. Boating scholarships are available. Find us at OC Sailing & Events Center: 34451 Ensenada Place, DP Harbor. 949- 492-3035 or visit WestwindSailing.com
Helping Parents Choose the Right Fit for Their Child
Spring break often reminds families of the approach of summer and the need to find the best summer camp experiences for their children. Whether a child is entering kindergarten or transitioning to middle school, there’s a camp to suit their interests and needs, as well as those of their parents. It can be hard to sort through the many options (and price points) available to determine what’s best for each child.
Variety is important because not all camps are one-size-fits-all, just as not all children are the same. Brands like KinderCare, Champions and Crème de la Crème Schools offer different summer camp experiences that allow for flexibility, convenience and amenities to meet the needs of all families each summer.
Here are some important considerations for parents to remember as they narrow their summer camp search.
Location and scheduling options for busy parents juggling multiple kids, finding a summer camp that combines convenience, affordabil-
ity, and fun is key. A camp that accommodates various age groups allows siblings to enjoy a safe, engaging environment while learning and growing together and means parents only have to think about one drop-off and pick-up location. However, the camp should follow a curriculum designed by education experts to support the social and academic development of children of all ages, expanding on the skills children learned during the school year.
Another convenient summer-long option for families is programs located within elementary schools, allowing for familiarity for the child since it’s an extension of the out-of-school time programs many children are already used to.
Whether you choose a location in a child care center or a school setting, both options should incorporate screen-free activities that provide children with opportunities for skill-building, teamwork, hands-on experiences, and fun with
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their friends.
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Specialty amenities for children who crave action or parents looking for a specialty experience, look for a camp that offers a high-energy summer filled with amenities, including bowling alleys, basketball courts and STEM programs. Weekly themes, outdoor excursions, and creative play ensure that children remain engaged and active, which makes it the ideal choice for kids who love variety and new experiences.
For school-age children seeking adventure, outdoor nature camps offer a perfect summer full of classic summer camp activities. Whether for a week or the entire season, children will enjoy outdoor exploration, multiple weekly field trips and exciting activities like hiking, swimming and nature play. This style of camp provides unique experiences that combine fun with education about plants, animals and all that Mother Nature has to offer, ensuring a summer filled with unforgettable memories in the great outdoors.
All of these summer camps provide a perfect balance of fun, learning and adventure. Whether parents are seeking something educational, exciting or flexible, there’s a camp that will keep their child engaged all summer long.
Key Points for All Families
No matter what kind of summer experience parents want for their child, there are few things
to consider when sorting through the various options.
• Convenience: Camps in familiar locations, such as schools, child care centers, and community facilities make drop-offs and pick-ups simple. Overnight camps can be expensive and are often located in remote areas. High-quality daytime programs provide children the opportunity to have just as much fun at competitive prices and are often more convenient for busy families.
• Flexibility: Whether care is needed for just one week or the entire summer, full-time or parttime, look for options like those above that are tailored to fit busy family schedules.
• Affordability: Summer camp is an investment. When exploring summer care options, check if your camp collaborates with various employer, state, and federal programs, including the military, to offer families tuition support, making these camps a practical and affordable option.
• Engaging Activities: From educational programs and creative play to field trips and physical activities, there’s a summer camp experience for every child. When school lets out, it’s time for children to put down screens, get outside, explore, and experience hands-on learning that connects them with nature and their peers. Enrollment for many summer camps is open now. Parents should start planning ahead before spots fill up.
