Drop-In Half Day Surf Camp at Campus Point, California - Santa Barbara

Drop-In Half Day Surf Camp at Campus Point, California

Santa Barbaraeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

3–4 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should be generally active and comfortable playing in water; no prior surfing experience required.

Overview

Let your kids explore their surfing potential at this friendly, half-day surf camp in Santa Barbara’s Campus Point. Personalized coaching and fun beach activities await!

Details

Experience the thrill of catching your first wave at the Drop-In Half Day Surf Camp located at Campus Point, University of California Santa Barbara. Designed especially for kids, this surf camp fosters community, camaraderie, and confidence in a fun and safe beach environment. With a low 4:1 kid-to-instructor ratio, each child receives personalized attention from experienced instructors focused on helping beginners develop their skills and enjoy the ocean. Beyond surfing, campers participate in exciting beach games and group activities that build friendships while promoting teamwork and water safety. The picturesque setting of Campus Point offers gentle waves perfect for beginners alongside stunning coastal views. Parents can relax knowing their children are in trustworthy hands, building surfing skills, learning ocean awareness, and gaining self-confidence. Whether a first-time surfer or progressing to more advanced moves, this half-day camp strikes the ideal balance of instruction and play, creating memorable and empowering experiences in one of California’s top surfing spots.

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early for Parking

Campus Point has limited parking, especially on weekends, so arriving early guarantees a spot and smooth check-in.

Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protect your skin and the marine environment by applying reef-safe sunscreen before the session.

Bring a Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is key, especially under the California sun during active surf lessons.

Wear Layers for Changing Weather

Mornings and afternoons can be chilly; bring a light wetsuit or long-sleeve rash guard for warmth.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Goleta Butterfly Grove - a quiet spot to spot Monarch butterflies
  • Ellwood Marine Reserve - a less crowded marine area perfect for tide pooling

Wildlife

  • Sea otters
  • Brown pelicans

History

Campus Point sits adjacent to the University of California Santa Barbara, which has a rich legacy in marine science research dating back decades.

Conservation

Local efforts focus on maintaining clean beaches and protecting marine life, encouraging eco-friendly surf practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon)
midday for bright action shots
sunrise for peaceful beach scenes

Best Viewpoints

  • Campus Point lookout bluff
  • Leadbetter Beach Pier
  • East Campus bluff trails

What to Photograph

surfing action
ocean waves
coastal wildlife

Recommended Gear

Wetsuit

Essential

Keeps kids warm in the cooler spring ocean.

spring specific

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Essential

Protects skin and the marine ecosystem during sunny sessions.

summer specific

Water Bottle

Essential

Ensures hydration during active beach time.

Rash Guard

Provides sun protection and prevents chafing while surfing.

summer specific

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