Summer Adventure Guide 2011
Illustrations by Ben Ciccati
We all know summer camp is just another way to say “play date” — just think of an all-summer-long calendar of play dates and you’ve got The Independent’s annual Summer Camp Guide. From the seashore to the tennis courts, summer camps in Santa Barbara spring up from Carpinteria to Los Olivos, from multitasking all-day camps to one-hour musical tootin’ and strummin’ camps. Web sites full of themes, activities, days, hours, and places have all been painstakingly gathered here to help you help your kids ward off the summertime blues. So get those kids out there to go have some fun!
Arts for All Ages
81st Annual Children’s Fiesta Parade
Participate in this S.B. tradition and make memories for your family. On Sat., Aug. 6, young people of Santa Barbara, along with their parents and other parade participants, will don traditional costumes and parade down State Street for the eighth decade in a row. Applications to enroll in this year’s event will be available starting May 9; deadline to submit an application this year is July 8.
For an application, contact the Children’s Parade Headquarters at 564-5495, or stop by the Carrillo Recreation Ctr., 100 E. Carrillo St., Mon.-Fri., 9am-5pm. Registration and participation are free.
Art by the Sea Summer Camp
The Carpinteria Valley Arts Ctr. (CVAC) presents Art by the Sea Summer Camp, a program that gives children with a passion for fine art the chance to spend their time outdoors, exploring a variety of media. Students will participate in trips to the beach and exhibit their art each week. Classes are capped at a maximum of 12 participants for a small student-to-teacher ratio.
Six one-week sessions, Mon.-Fri., June 27 - Aug. 5., 9am-1pm. CVAC, 855 Linden Ave., Carpinteria. Ages 5-10. $160/session; scholarships available. Call 220-6507 or email cvacsummer@yahoo.com.
Art from the Heart Summer Art Camps
Camps focus on visual art, dance, drama, music, creativity and imagination.
Two four-day sessions, Mon.-Thu.; “Jungle Dance and Art” June 20-23 and “Princes and Knights” July 25-28; 9:15am-12:15pm. Carrillo Recreation Ctr. (100 E. Carrillo St.) and MacKenzie Park (Las Positas Rd. and State St.), respectively. $182/$170 RDC. Ages 3½-10. Call 966-9078 or visit sbparksandrecreation.com/summerfun.
Art From Scrap’s Green Kids Summer Day Camp
Experience the environment in fun and creative ways! Art From Scrap’s unique activities for summer campers range from modeling a watershed to healthy cooking, art projects, and lots more. Sign up early; only 22 campers per session.
Multiple one-week sessions, Mon.-Fri.; June 13-17 (grades 1-6), June 27 - July 1 (grades k-2), and July 11-15 (grades 1-6); 9am-3pm. Camp meets at the Watershed Resource Ctr. (Arroyo Burro Beach) and Art From Scrap (302 E. Cota St.). $220; sibling discount available. Call 884-0459 x12 or visit artfromscrap.org.
Art Innovators Summer Camps
Fun-filled art camp features themed projects for both the Young Artists (grades 1-6) and Mini-Masters series (grades K-1).
Foothill Elementary School, 711 Ribera Dr. Call 964-6435 or visit artinnovatorssb.com.
• Young Artists: Mon.-Fri. ($245) or three-day option ($150), June 13 - Aug. 5 (single- or multiple-week options available), 9am-3pm.
• Mini-Masters: Mon.-Fri., June 13 - Aug. 5 (single- or multiple-week options available), noon-3pm. $125.
Arts at Laguna Summer Program
Now in its 24th year, this unique camp features daily workshops in dance, music, theater and art; an all-star faculty and guest artists; and a weekly musical revue for family and friends. Lunch, snack, and a camp T-shirt are provided for all enrollees. Optional extended day care available for an additional charge.
Weekly camps, Mon.-Fri., June 27 - July 22, 8:30am-2:30pm. Camp meets at Laguna Blanca School’s Hope Ranch campus, 4125 Paloma Dr. $225/week ($190 week of July 5-8). Ages 5-12. Call 687-2461 or visit lagunablanca.org/artsatlaguna.
Brooks Institute High School Photography Workshop
Through lecture and hands-on instruction with Brooks professor Chris Broughton, campers will learn how factors like f/stops, shutter speeds, depth of field, ISO standards, control of motion, and lighting affect photo quality. Students will learn to reduce their dependence on a camera’s “automatic” features and will take part in both on-location and in-studio photo shoots.
Mon.-Fri., June 20-24. Brooks Institute downtown campus, 27 E. Cota St. $675; includes daily catered lunch and digital prints of campers’ work. Grades 9-12. Call (888) 304-3056 or visit workshops.brooks.edu.
Boxtales Theatre Company Summer Theatre Camp
This fun camp will provide three weeks of training in acting, storytelling, acrobatics, mime, music, and collaboration. This year’s campers will create and perform an original play based on Hans Christian Andersen’s The Snow Queen.
June 13 - July 1; Mon.-Thu., 9am-3:30pm, and Fri., 9am-12:30pm. Lobero Theatre, 33 E. Canon Perdido St. $750. Ages 9-13. Call 962-1142 or email info@boxtales.org.
Clay Camp
The Chase Palm Park Craft Center boasts a terrific waterfront studio location offering a full range of low-fire materials in an inspiring, fun, and educational atmosphere. Learn basic throwing skills on the potter’s wheel and underglaze techniques to finish wares, and make hand-built projects. Flexible studio time for throwing and hand-building.
Nine one-week sessions, Mon.-Fri., June 13 - Aug. 5, 9am-noon. Chase Palm Park Crafts Ctr., 234 E. Cabrillo Blvd. $174/$158 RDC. Ages 7-15. Call 897-2519 or visit sbparksandrecreation.com/summerfun.
Children’s Summer Ballet Camp
Young dancers learn basic moves with balances, turns, and jumps. Dancers will show off their skills in a live performance on the last day of camp.
Mon.-Fri., June 13-17, 12:30-2:30pm. Carrillo Recreation Ctr., 100 E. Carrillo St. $138/$125 RDC. Ages 3-6. Call 897-2519 or visit sbparksandrecreation.com/summerfun.
Creative Camp of the Arts
Dance Unlimited Studio hosts a summer program with a focus on fun, creative dance, acting, and set-making activities while preparing for a full-stage production that will be presented at the end of each session. Quality instruction and creative projects promise creativity at its very best — all in a fun, safe, and positive environment.
Two four-week sessions, Mon.-Fri., 9am-2pm. Session 1, The Lion King, July 5-29. Session 2, The Wiz, Aug. 1-19. Dance Unlimited, 5370 Hollister Ave., #1. $525-$700/session or $195/week. Ages 3-14. Call 681-0684 or visit sbdanceunlimited.com.
Destination Dance
Presented by S.B. Dance Arts under the direction of Alana Tillim and Steven Lovelace. Learn the latest moves and proper technique from the amazing staff, consisting of Broadway veterans and internationally trained professionals. Age-appropriate classes for beginning- to advanced-level dancers that all work toward weekly performances. Daily classes include jazz and hip-hop, plus each week brings a different blend of styles: tumbling, break dancing, Pilates, ballet, lyrical, and more. Staff is CPR and first-aid certified, and there is one staffer for every 10 dancers.
Weekly camps, Mon.-Thu., June 13 - Aug. 28; morning, afternoon, or daylong sessions available. S.B. Dance Arts, 1 N. Calle César Chávez, #100. Ages 5-teen. Call 966-5299 or visit sbdancearts.com.
Earthlight Pictures Moviemaking and Animation Training and Teletraining
Animation and live-action moviemaking classes for campers at beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels. Classes feature technical instruction, history, and one-on-one coaching in production of students’ own movies, plus a visit to a major animation studio. Guest speakers and special group/private instruction options available.
July 19-29 (Animation) and July 23-29 (Live Action). The Anacapa School, 814 Santa Barbara St. Ages 9+. Call (503) 697-7914 or email jt@earthlightpictures.com.
Goleta School of Ballet
Summer intensive classes offered in elements of ballet technique, pointe, stretch, musical theater, jazz, flamenco, dance history, choreography, and more. Recital, with themes from Peter and the Wolf and selections from classical repertory. Previous ballet experience required. Register by May 1.
Camp runs Mon.-Fri., 9am-2:30pm. Performance on July 29. Primary and Dance Camps also offered. Goleta Valley Community Ctr., 5679 Hollister Ave. $390-$1,140. Ages 9-19. Call 252-1610 or visit goletaschoolofballet.com for more information.
• Beginning level: Two- and four-week sessions, July 5-29.
• Intermediate/advanced level: Six-week session, June 20 - July 29.
Gustafson Dance Camps
Gustafson Dance offers several summer programs for all age groups, complete with a variety of dance forms, art, and more. The full-day Dance Camps (ages 6-12) and half-day Mini-Dance Camps (ages 3-6) culminate in a fully staged musical performance at the Marjorie Luke Theatre. The Junior Intensive Camp (ages 9-14) is a serious ballet program, including jazz, pointe, character, and variations, and also concludes with a performance at the Marjorie Luke.
One- and two-week sessions during June - Aug. 2285 Las Positas Rd. Call 563-3262 or visit gustafsondance.com for more detailed information.
International Arts Camp
Kids travel the world of visual and performing arts, exploring and creating cultural artwork crafts, music, and dance. Hosted by the Marymount School of S.B.
Tue.-Fri., July 5-8, 9am-3pm. Camp meets at Marymount’s campus, 2130 Mission Ridge Rd. $190/session, with extended day care and lunch options available. Grades K-6. Contact Elizabeth Hansen at 569-1811 or ehansen@marymountsb.org.
JazZScool Summer Vocal Jazz Camp
JazZScool is a two-week musical experience open to junior high/middle school students (including those who will be entering 6th grade or have just completed 8th grade). This vocal jazz camp includes countless opportunities for self-expression and creativity within group and solo singing, rhythm games, vocal improvisation, scene staging, and visual arts. Hosted by the S.B. Vocal Jazz Foundation.
Mon.-Fri., June 6-17, 9am-noon. Camp meets at instructor Kimberly Ford’s music studio in Goleta. $225. Contact Melissa Brooks at 729-2627 or sbvocaljazzfoundation@cox.net.
Jensen’s Summer Rock Camp
Jensen’s Rock Camp is a full-day, week-long music camp that teaches kids the basics of playing the electric guitar. Your child will have fun learning to play music and the fee includes an electric guitar (or a $50 gift certificate). All sessions end with a Mainstage performance for parents and friends. Instructed by a qualified teacher who has toured across the U.S., your child will learn what it takes to be a musical performer from someone who’s done it.
Mon.-Fri., 9:30am-3pm. $395. Call 687-4027 or register online at jensenguitar.com.
• Beginners: July 11-15 and July 18-22.
• Advanced: July 25-29 and Aug. 8-12.
Music, Rhythm, Song, and Dance Camp
Inspire your child’s musical talents at Kindermusik with Kathy’s summer program in music, movement, instrument, art, cooking, and dance. Explore all aspects of creative art in an intimate setting, with no more than 10-12 campers in a group.
Weekly half- and full-day camps beginning July 11. Locations in S.B. and Carpinteria. $160. Ages 4-9. Call 884-4009 or visit kindermusikwithkathy.com.
Photojournalism Camp
Students become better writers and photographers while learning to use the technology they will need in the near future. This Gateway Educational Services camp integrates photojournalism with photo assignments and teaches the use of Photoshop and Word Press. By the end of the camp, students will create an interactive online blog with articles and photography.
Mon.-Fri., 8:30am-12:30pm. Three one-week sessions for ages 10-11: June 20-24, July 11-15, and July 18-22, $170. For ages 12-13: June 27 - July 1, $200. Camp meets 4850 Hollister Ave., Ste. C. Call 895-1153 or visit gatewaycamps.com.
S.B. Festival Ballet Dance Camps
These summer camps are geared for dancers with ability levels from beginning through advanced, and designed for students interested in performances. Focus ranges from fairy tales for very young dancers to upper-level intensives. More class information in development at press time.
Fairy Tale Dreams workshop, June 13 - July 1. Preregistration requested by May 15. S.B. Festival Ballet, 1019-B Chapala St. Ages 7+. Contact Denise Rinaldi at 966-0711 or see santabarbarafestivalballet.com for more summer information.
SBMA ArtVenture Camps
ArtVenture Camps are unique week-long art experiences for kids sponsored by the S.B. Museum of Art. Campers learn a variety of art techniques, cultural history, and creative problem-solving in an inspiring atmosphere. Each camp offers children new and exciting opportunities to express themselves through drawing, painting, collage, sculpting, fiber arts, printmaking, mixed-media, and more.
Mon.-Fri., 9am-3pm. Ridley-Tree Education Ctr. at McCormick House, 1600 Santa Barbara St. $215/SBMA members, $250/nonmembers. Ages 5-12. Call 884-6441 or email rkrieps@sbma.net for information.
Matisse, Picasso, and Degas: Inspired by Modern Masters. Campers draw, paint, collage, and sculpt like a master as they learn the secrets of celebrated modern artists in the museum’s exhibition Drawn to Modernism. Matisse’s lyrical lines, Picasso’s layered shapes, and Degas’ dancers are the inspiration for imaginative artwork. June 6-10 and July 11-15.
Let’s Paint: Making the Ordinary Extraordinary. Find out how painters and photographers select, rearrange, and highlight simple objects to create still lifes, as seen in the exhibition diSTILLed Moments. Explore the beauty of everyday things when reimagined with camera, paintbrush, or pencil while experimenting with various materials, techniques, and styles. June 13-17 and July 18-22.
Awe-Inspiring Architecture: Dream Builders Today. Egyptian pyramids, Greek temples, Asian shrines, European castles, and so much more! In this architecture camp, each group builds an imaginative community of their dreams, complete with buildings, vehicles, and inhabitants, each inspired by one of the museum’s collections. June 20-24 and July 25-29.
Dragons, Cranes, and Butterflies: Animals in Asian Art. Real and imaginary animals from China, Japan, India, and Tibet spark creativity in a celebration of the wonders of Asian art. From monkeys to monsters, campers make their own masterpieces from ink, paint, and clay, inspired by creatures on view in the museum’s newly renovated Asian galleries. June 27 - July 1 and Aug. 1-5.
Magic Myths: From Here to Antiquity. Hear the stories, meet the heroes, and create the magic! Artifacts from the museum’s antiquities collections are the starting point for an artistic journey into cultures long lost as campers draw, paint, and sculpt contemporary visions of the past. Aug. 8-12.
SBMA Ceramics Camps
These week-long half-day camps introduce sculptural and functional ceramics and include hand-building, wheel throwing, finishing, and glazing techniques around age-appropriate and always-new themes. Class size is limited to 10.
Weekly sessions, Mon.-Fri., June 6 - Aug. 12, noon-3pm. See session information online for age levels. Camps meet at Ridley-Tree Education Ctr. at McCormick House, 1600 Santa Barbara St. $125/SBMA members, $150/nonmembers. Call 884-6441 or email rkrieps@sbma.net to enroll.
S.B. Summer Band
Children interested in music will love learning band pieces and performing in the Summer Solstice and Fiesta Parades. Campers in the Pre-Band (grades 1-3) division will learn to play the recorder and percussion instruments. Campers in the main Band Camp (grades 4-7) will learn new pieces for reed and brass instruments. Instructor Oscar Carmona has 25 years of experience teaching band at area elementary schools.
Camp meets at location near San Marcos High School. Pre-Band, 3:30-4:30pm; Band, 4:30-5:30pm. Call 689-3044 or email ocarmona@cox.net.
• Session 1, Summer Solstice Parade: Tue. and Thu.; June 7-23 and July 25. $100; includes parade entry fees.
• Session 2, Children’s Fiesta Parade: Tue. and Thu.; June 28 - July 21 and Aug. 6. $150; includes parade entry fees.
SBYMA Summer of Rock
The S.B. Youth Music Academy, host of the 2010 Youth Battle of the Bands, presents a summer rock camp for kids and teens, featuring live weekly gigs. Includes band arrangement and instruction for five songs, an audio recording, and live weekend performances at La Cumbre Mall. Instruments are provided as needed, and campers will have a chance to play live onstage at Fiesta. Each musician receives DVD of their live performance, a CD, and YouTube notoriety!
Multiple one-week camps, June 6 - Aug 8. SBYMA Music Studios, 3892 State St. $295/week; multi-week discounts available. Ages 7-18. Call 895-4327 or visit sbyma.org.
ShowStoppers Summer Theatre
ShowStoppers’ summer theater camps have been giving Santa Barbara children performing opportunities since 1993. This year, the company will produce three exciting evening shows serving several age groups.
Camp meets at La Colina Junior High, 4025 Foothill Rd. Call 314-1221 or enroll online at showstopperstheatreproductions.com.
• Session 1, Beauty and the Beast: Mon.-Fri., June 13-24, Start time of 9am or 9:30am depending on age, ends at 2pm. Performances June 24-25. $495/$450. Ages 6-14.
• Session 2, Hurray for the Red, White, and Blue: Mon.-Fri., June 27 - July 8, same times as Beauty. Performance Sat., July 8-9. $495/$450. Ages 6-14.
• Session 3, Hurray for the Red, White, and Blue: Mon.-Fri., June 20 - July 1, 2:30-4:30pm. Performance July 2 and 4th of July Parade. $85 one week/$150 two weeks. Ages 6-14.
• Session 4, Fiddler on the Roof: Mon.-Fri., June 15 - July 23, 2-6pm. Performances July 21-24. Please call for price. Ages 13-19.
Stage Left Productions Performing Arts Camps
Intensive training for young performing artists taught by Shana Lynch Arthurs and Steven Lovelace, with a focus on audition technique, physical comedy, characterization, vocal technique, dance, and set and costume design/construction. Students interested in the technical aspects of stage productions will not only participate in camp activities but also learn about technical elements like lights, sound, and backstage training. Camp will culminate with four performances of Grease.
Mon.-Fri., June 27 - July 25, 1-6:15pm. Goleta Valley Junior High, 6100 Stow Cyn. Rd., Goleta. $650. Ages 10-16. Call 965-0880 or email stageleft@cox.net.
Summer Stock Youth Theater Camps for Kids and Teens
S.B. Summer Stock produces wildly creative showcases in theater, music, and dance. Productions are adapted to allow the creativity and individuality of the camp’s young actors to shine. Casts are kept small, allowing for an “ensemble feel”; all stage roles are important and every actor has lines, sings, and dances. Each of the three camps produces an original show.
Camps meet at the S.B. Unitarian Society, 1535 Santa Barbara St. Call 450-9321 or visit sbsummerstock.com.
• Alice in Wonderland: Mon.-Thu., June 20 - July 17, 9am-1:30pm. Ages 7-12.
• The Fame Project: Mon.-Fri., June 20 - July 17, 9am-1:30pm. Ages 12-15.
• Fairytale Workshop: Mon.-Fri., July 18-29, 9am-1:30pm. Ages 5-7.
Theater at Camp Elings
Two age-specific camps with different themes.
9am-3pm, extended care offered. Elings Park, 1298 Las Positas Rd. $225. Call 569-5611 or visit elingspark.org.
Princess in Training Theater Camp. Kids will learn a variety of classic Disney princess songs, learn about character development, get real princess training from a “real” princess, and also learn a short play to perform for their families at the end of the week. Aug. 1-5. Ages 5-8.
M³: Modern Musical Mash-Up. Older children who want to learn more about musical theater will go through auditions, learn performance techniques, do creative drama exercises, perform songs, act from a script, and dance a set choreography. Aug. 8-12. Ages 9-14.
Triple Threat Musical Theater Camp
S.B. Ballet Festival Ballet’s musical theater camp will focus on building campers’ confidence in acting, singing, and dancing. Led by area professionals Kit Steinkellner, Sharlae Jenkins, Denise Rinaldi, and Keely Moore, this camp is geared for the serious musical theater student, currently in junior high or high school. The week ends with an informal showcase on June 17 at the Festival Ballet studio.
June 13-17, 2-6pm. S.B. Festival Ballet, 1019-B Chapala St. Ages 12-18. $250. Contact Denise Rinaldi at 966-0711 or email info@santabarbarafestivalballet.com.
UpStage Left Productions Performing Arts for Teens
Stage Left’s intensive performing arts workshop for teens, culminating in three full performances of a Broadway show. (Previous year’s camps productions include Rent, A Chorus Line, and others). The students’ production will feature theatrical direction by Cheri Steinkellner, musical direction by Carolyn Ross and John Douglas, and production by Shana Lynch Arthurs and Steven Lovelace. Audition required; call for details.
June 4-26. Camp held at S.B. Dance Arts (1 N. Calle César Chávez, #100) and Goleta Valley Junior High (6100 Stow Cyn. Rd., Goleta). Ages 16-college. Call 570-5102 or email stageleft@cox.net.
Westmont Think Camps
Creative worlds await campers at Westmont College this summer.
Mon.-Fri. Scholarships and aftercare available for most camps. 955 La Paz Rd. Call 565-7247 or visit
www.thinkcamps.org for more information.
Somos Amigos. Spanish-language immersion camp at Westmont College, featuring art, music, games, and swimming, all in Spanish! Taught by an accredited bilingual instructor. Three one-week sessions, June 13 - July 1. 8:30am-12:30pm. $215/session.
Bravissimo! ThinkCamps presents its sixth annual music and theater camp. Instruction in acting, singing, choreography, set design, and lighting, culminating in a full stage production of The Sound of Music June 30 - July 1. Saturday audition and two-week session: June 18 - July 1, 9am-3:30pm. $490. Grades 7-12.
Creative YOUth Project. Visual arts camp where students learn professional fine art technique from Santa Barbara High’s Visual Arts and Design Academy director Daniel Barnett in a fun and inspiring environment. Painting, drawing, sculpture, and more! June 27 - July 1, 9am-3pm. $295, plus a $50 materials fee. Grades 7-12.
Living Like Writers. Campers create a world with words and learn to craft their own stories, poems, and plays at Westmont’s fifth annual creative writing camp. July 25-29, 8:30am-2:30pm. $295. Grades 6-8.
Young Singers’ Club Performing Arts Camps
Rock and Roll Forever, Mamma Mia, Annie, Wicked, Taylor Swift, the Beatles, and more … a different theme each week! These fun camps are for children and preteens who like to sing and include daily voice lessons, acting, skits, and team-building games. Saturday brings a vocal performance of solos and choreographed group numbers. All ability levels welcome.
Weekly camps, July 11 - Aug. 13; time varies by age: 8:45am ’til 1:30 or 3pm. Mountain View School, 5645 Queen Anne Ln. Ages 5-14+. Call 681-7078 or visit youngsingersclub.com for more information.
Young Writers Camp 2011
A nurturing and stimulating environment where writing skills are maximized through creative activities taught by classroom teachers. Offered for the 19th year in a row through the South Coast Writing project at the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education, UCSB.
July 12-23. Camp held at UCSB. $245. For grades 3-9. Call 893-5899 or visit education.ucsb.edu/ywc.
Science, Nature, & Computers
Animal Tlatoque at UCSB
A unique camp combining education about Mayan culture, animal conservation, and computer science. Campers learn about animals in nature and in Mayan culture, and make animations on the computer about how they envision the creatures. Other activities include drawing Mayan glyphs, Mayan ballgame, education about endangered animal conservation, touring UCSB’s unique Allosphere, and S.B. Zoo, making virtual pets, and more.
Mon.-Fri., July 11-22, 8:45am-2:30pm. Meets at Trailer 932, UCSB campus. $200; scholarships available. Grades 6-8. Contact Diana Franklin at 665-3630 or visit discover.cs.ucsb.edu/animaltlatoque.
Camp Wildflower
The S.B. Botanic Garden hosts a week of fun activities for kids, designed to build connections to the natural world. Activities include hikes, games, hands-on science experiments, and arts and crafts. Children learn about bees, butterflies, reptiles, birds, and stream insects from the garden’s ponds and creek. Children should bring a sack lunch, water bottle, sunscreen, hat, and study shoes.
Mon.-Fri., July 11-15, 9am-3pm. S.B. Botanic Garden, 1212 Mission Cyn. Rd. Ages 7-11. $190/SBBG members, $225/week nonmembers; scholarships available. Call 682-4726 x102 or visit sbbg.org.
Fairview Gardens Summer Farm Days
Fairview Gardens has natural places to explore that most people miss on just one visit. Campers will climb the mulberry tree to spot a bird nest, track animals in the wash, and play “predator/prey” in the avocado forest.
Nine one-week sessions, June 6 - Aug. 12; from 9am ’til 2 or 3pm, depending on age. Fairview Gardens, 598 N. Fairview Ave., Goleta. $300/session. Ages 3-11. Call 967-7369 or visit fairviewgardens.org.
iD Tech Camps
iD Tech Camps have taught over 120,000 kids and teens to create video games, iPhone and iPad apps, C++ and Java programs, websites with Flash, movies, Maya 3D animations, ad designs, robots, and more. Beginner- to advanced-level students are welcome. Camps are held at 60 universities nationwide, including UC Santa Barbara.
Weeklong, day, and overnight sessions available. Ages 7-17. Call (888) 709-3824 or visit internaldrive.com for details.
Nature Adventures Summer Camp
The Natural History Museum’s Nature Adventures camp is hands-on, minds-on, and hearts-on. Whether it’s dinosaurs, space ships, butterflies, or magical creatures, counselors weave together science, art, and literature into fun learning activities in a safe and caring environment where children will see the world in an exciting new way. Plus, campers get individual attention, as this camp boasts one of the lowest children-to-adult ratios in town — 6:1. Campers are grouped by age (4-6, 6-8, 8-10, 8-12, and 10-14), and each week of camp has a different theme.
Multiple one-week sessions, Mon.-Fri., June 13 - Aug. 19, 9am-3pm (extended day schedule: 8:30am-5pm). S.B. Museum of Natural History (2559 Puesta del Sol Rd.) and Ty Warner Sea Ctr. (211 Stearns Wharf). Museum members: $235/session or $280/extended day session; nonmembers: $250/session or $310/extended day. Ages 4-14. Call 682-4711 x171 or visit sbnature.org.
Nature and Games Camp at Elings Park
This camp includes nature hikes, outdoor games, plant germination, arts and crafts, and education about native plants and animals. Guest speakers include staff from the S.B. City Fire Department, Public Works Department, and the Humane Society, who instruct the children in a variety of areas, including fire safety, water conservancy, and animal appreciation and safety. New this year are special emphases on recycling, healthy eating, and difference making. Instructor: Alycia Rhodes.
Ten one-week sessions, June 6 - Aug. 12. Elings Park, 1298 Las Positas Rd. $225. Ages 5-12. Call 569-5611 or visit elingspark.org.
Nature Camp
Nature Camp was cool long before it was Green! Campers learn to appreciate nature and preserve the environment, and also enjoy family night and a sleepover, plus crafts, skits, camp songs, and field trips. Extended day program available; please note camp ends at 9am the Friday following the sleepover.
Five two-week sessions, Mon.-Fri., June 13 - Aug. 19, 9am-4pm. Camp meets at Skofield Park, with other drop-off and pickup sites. $326/$296 RDC. Ages 6-10. Call 564-5495 or register online at sbparksandrecreation.com/summerfun.
Science at Camp Elings
Science Camp offers campers an educational and playful environment in which to use their imagination. Campers will conduct fun experiments and broaden their interest and knowledge in science.
Multiple one-week sessions, June 20 - July 22. Elings Park, 1298 Las Positas Rd. Ages 5-14. $215 half-day/$300 full-day. Call 569-5611 or visit elingspark.org.
Westmont Think Camps
Offer hands-on fun and exploration of science and computers.
Westmont College, 955 La Paz Rd. Call 565-7247 or visit thinkcamps.org.
Discovery Camp. Discover the world of science in a fun environment. Campers make water rockets, slime, speakers, and more. Mon.-Fri., July 25-29, 8:30am-2:30pm. $295; scholarships and aftercare available. Grades 5-8.
Computer Quest. For newbs, video-game creators, and graphic designers alike. Become a computer wiz at computer camp! Five one-week sessions for different levels and themes. Mon.-Fri., 9am-3pm. Three one-week sessions, Mon.-Fri., June 27 - July15. $330; scholarships available. Grades 1-8.
Wilderness Youth Project Summer Camp
This incredibly popular camp held a lottery in February for its summer slots and is placing campers on a waiting list. Visiting a different wild place in S.B. every day, (with transportation provided from area parks), the children love it, and the high counselor-to-child ratio, and the wait list prove it. Prices run from $255-$860, depending on age and length of excursion (some are overnight backpacking trips). Visit wyp.org/programs/summer.htm to join the wait list.
Youth Adventure Camp
Channel Islands Outfitters’ summer camp provides a unique outdoor environment where kids can learn valuable skills and make new friends through programs that are challenging, educational, and fun. Experiences include kayaking, surfing, hiking, stand-up paddle boarding, biking, camping, and lessons in wilderness survival basics, Chumash culture, organic agriculture, and “leave no trace” principles. Field trips include a visit to Channel Islands National Park; transportation is provided to all mainland, coastal, and island locations.
Mon.-Fri., 8:45am-3pm. Meets at Shoreline Café at Leadbetter Beach. Call 899-4925.
Session 1: June 20 - July 1. $990. Ages 9-12.
Session 2: July 11-15. $495. Ages 9-12.
Session 3: Aug. 1-12. $1,200. Ages 13-16.
Enrichment & Academics
Dubin Learning Center
Celebrating its 32nd summer, the Dubin Learning Ctr. has helped thousands of students, ranging from the underachiever to the gifted, reach their potential. Educational therapy is available for students with learning differences, ADD, dyslexia, and Asperger’s. Academic tutoring is offered for all subjects, as well as test preparation for SAT, SSAT, and ISEE. Instruction is individual.
Programs start Monday, July 18, and run until the start of the school year. 112 W. Cota St. Call 962-7122 or visit dubinlearningcenter.com.
Enrichment Camp
Campers participate in hands-on enrichment activities and awesome adventures in science, art, computers, cooking, music, swimming, as well as summer kids’ summer games. Hosted by the Marymount School of S.B.
Two-week session, June 20 - July 2, 9am-3pm. Camp meets at Marymount’s campus, 2130 Mission Ridge Rd. $460/session, with extended day care and lunch options available. Grades K-6. Contact Elizabeth Hansen at 569-1811 or ehansen@marymountsb.org.
Math Camp at S.B. Family School
Kids who like to “play with numbers” will enjoy fun, hands-on exploration of creative mathematics themes. The camp is run by an area math-team coach with more than 12 years of experience and has a student-to-instructor ratio of no more than 6:1. Each camp session has a different theme, including “MatheMagics,” “The Art of Math and the Math of Art,” “Game Design,” “Cryptography,” “Infinity and Beyond,” “Prime Time,” and “The Sport of Math and the Math of Sports.”
Multiple one-week sessions, June 6 - Aug. 19. Camp meets in Goleta. $165/session. Grades 4-9. Contact Skona Brittain at 680-9950 or visit sbfamilyschool.com/camps.
Noah’s Camp
A vacation Bible school camp designed to teach children about the Bible through singing, recreational games, crafts, and Bible stories.
Mon.-Fri., Aug. 1-5, 8:45am-noon. Montecito Covenant Church, 671 Cold Spring Rd. $45/$55 per child or $120/$135 per family depending on registration date. Grades 1-8. Contact Ashley Miller at 969-0373 or visit mcchurch.org.
Safety Town
The S.B. chapter of Soroptimist International group’s summer program for Kindergarten-aged children teaches campers about safety at home and away through songs, experience, and other activities. Kids drive miniature cars to learn street and pedestrian safety, and visits from police officers, firefighters, and EMTs will help campers learn about other areas of safety crucial to this age group.
Multiple one-week sessions, June-Aug. Mon.-Fri., 8:30am-noon. Camp meets at Foothill, Franklin, El Camino, and Isla Vista Elementary Schools. Ages 5-6. $125-$145/session; scholarships available. Call 252-7998 x619 or visit sbsoroptimist.org/safety_town.html.
Full-Day Camps
Camp Haverim
S.B.’s Jewish day camp returns for its seventh summer! Accredited by the American Camp Assn., Camp Haverim uses a nondenominational approach to its activities — including art, music, newspaper, drama, talent shows, daily swimming (or an alternative water activity, such as slip-n-slide), and a full array of sports to campers in grades K-6. (A separate program with more challenging activities is available for kids in grades 7-8.)
Multiple two-week sessions: July 18-29 or Aug. 1-12, 9am-3pm. Camp meets at The Cate School, 1960 Cate Mesa Rd., Carpinteria. Call 895-6593 or visit camphaverim.com.
Camp Rad
Maximum fun is the motto of this camp. Campers are introduced to a variety of radical, challenging activities, including kiteboarding and a visit to an indoor rock-climbing wall.
Four one-week sessions, extended care available; Mon.-Fri., 9am-4pm. Camps meet June 13-17, June 27 - July 1, July 11-15, and Aug. 1-5. Cabrillo Bathhouse, 1118 E. Cabrillo Blvd. $303/$275 RDC. Ages 8-12. Call 897-2680 or visit sbparksandrecreation.com/summerfun.
Dunn School Summer Day Camps
Operating for more than 20 years, the Dunn School’s day camp programs for children are led by teachers, college and high school counselors, and counselors-in-training. Busy and engaging activities are designed for specific age groups, with half- and full-day camps for kids ages 2-3; and three and five full-day options for ages 4-5 and grades K-5. Camps with special interests and themes are also offered; see website for details.
Multiple sessions, June 13 - Aug. 5, 9am-2pm. Camps meet at the Dunn School in Los Olivos. Contact Ilise Garvin at 686-0619 or visit dunnschool.org.
Lompoc Family YMCA Summer Day Camp
Where else can you learn about barbecue sauce, rescue knots, and capybaras in the same month? Transform ordinary summer days into whimsical adventures through games, learning activities, and field trips at the Lompoc YMCA’s summer day camp.
Weekly sessions, Mon.-Fri., June 6 - Aug. 19. Camp meets at Buena Vista Elementary, 100 Aldebaran Ave. #P-3, Lompoc. $130; financial assistance available. Contact Stephanie Silva at 763-3483 or email stephanie.silva@ciymca.org.
Montecito YMCA Summer Day Camps
Two age-specific American Camping Association-accredited outdoor day camps for children in elementary school: Camp Adventure (grades K-3), and Camp Challenge (grades 4-6). Activities include arts and crafts, bike trips, and sports and games. Campers also embark on field trips to area beaches, parks, and kids’ attractions, in addition to day trips to Southern California-area amusement parks like Magic Mountain and Hurricane Harbor, and overnights are led by trained and qualified adult camp counselors.
Mon.-Fri., 9am-4pm. Multiple two-week sessions, June 13 - Aug. 19 ($340); and one-week session, August 22-25 ($170). 591 Santa Rosa Ln. Call 969-3288 or visit ciymca.org.
Rainbow School Summer Camp
Safe, secure, noncompetitive, stimulating, and fun environment for children in 1st grade and up. Daily activities include drama, gardening, creative writing, arts and crafts, games, cooking, and music. Campers enjoy daily trips to area parks, beaches, historical sites, and more.
Mon.-Fri., June 6 - Aug. 19, 7:30am-5:30pm. All-day and half-day schedules available for single or multiple weeks. Rainbow School, 5689 Hollister Ave., Goleta. Call 964-4511 or email rainbow.school1@verizon.net.
S.B. Charter School Summer Camp
Small but hugely fun, S.B. Charter School’s summer camp has its campers invent games and projects by working together. The Charter School philosophy is that no child can be excluded, so all children feel welcome to join in on the fun at hand. The staff offers a variety of activities at all times, so campers have choices and can participate in whatever fits their interests.
Nine weekly sessions, June 6 - Aug., 5, with flexible scheduling. Camp meets at Goleta Valley Junior High, 6100 Stow Cyn. Rd., Goleta. $160/week or $35/day or $25/half-day. Ages 7-15. Contact Ginnie or Becky at 729-2152.
Santa Ynez Family YMCA Summer Day Camps
Multiple types of camps to keep your kids busy all summer.
One-week sessions, Mon.-Fri., June 13 - Aug. 19. Camps meet at the YMCA Childcare & Camp Site, Santa Ynez Elementary School, Bldg. 27, Santa Ynez. Contact Michelle Bradley at 686-2037 or email michelle.bradley@ciymca.org.
Voyager Camp. This year’s theme is “Cruisin’ California.” Discover our state by visiting its famous cities and parks, ranging from Oxnard to Lompoc to Pismo Beach. Mondays and Wednesdays are theme/pool days, Tuesdays and Thursdays feature trips to area parks and area attractions, and Fridays are long-distance themed field trip days. $125/three-day week or $145/full week. Pre-K through grade 5.
Summer Leadership Camp. Campers explore fun and creative interests while developing valuable life skills that can be applied in the future. Team-building, service-learning, and S.B.-area and distant field trips make this camp engaging and fun. Transportation by mini-van/bus. Afternoons include swimming and area excursions and an additional field trip on Fridays (additional fees apply). Fees, based on a four-day session: $100/week for half-days, or $140/week for full-days; Friday add-on is $30. Grades 6-9.
Summer Specialty Camp. Every week children pursue a new interest, develop interpersonal skills and self-confidence, and make lasting friendships. Weekly themes specialize in architecture, cooking, photography, and more. $145/week. Grades 2-6.
Summer Adventure Camp
The United Boys & Girls Clubs’ Summer Adventure Camp includes activities like field trips, indoor and outdoor games, swimming, guest speakers, summer reading, and more.
Weekly sessions, June 6 - Aug. 26. Lompoc Clubhouse, 1025 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc. $60/week. Ages 5-11. Contact Rita Horton at 736-4978 or email lompocprograms@unitedbg.org.
UCSB Summer Day Camp
Boys and girls enjoy activities like swimming, gymnastics, arts and crafts, ropes adventure course, field games, and much more.
Ten one-week sessions, Mon.-Fri., June 13 - Aug. 19, 7:15am-5:30pm. $125-$155/session, depending on time of registration; sibling discount available. Ages 5-14. Contact Cathy Czuleger at 893-3913.
Zoo Camp
Voted “Best Summer Camp” by The Santa Barbara Independent readers’ poll, the S.B. Zoo’s Summer Adventure Camp introduces little ones to the wild world of animals and science. Age-appropriate themed programs include activities like teacher-led workshops, behind-the-scenes visits, up-close animal introductions, hands-on science, crafts, games, and more.
Multiple one-week sessions, Mon.-Fri., June 13 - Aug. 19. Camp meets 9am-2pm, extended day care available. S.B. Zoo, 500 Niños Dr. $185/week, Zoo members; $225/week, nonmembers. Ages 3-13 (all campers must be potty-trained). Call 679-8500 or visit sbzoo.org to sign up.
Girls Only
Girls Inc. of Greater S.B. Summer Adventure Program
Offering fun, educational and enriching programs with activities like swimming, hiking, variety shows, drawing, cooking, soccer, gardening, science, and more.
Multiple camp sessions, June 13 - Aug. 19. Camp meets at Girls Inc. in Goleta (4973 Hollister Ave.) and Santa Barbara (531 E. Ortega St.). $165/full-time (3 days or more), or $82/part-time (2 days or less); sibling discounts and financial aid available. Grades K-8. Call 963-4757 or visit girlsincsb.org.
Girls Softball at Camp Elings
Play ball at Elings Park’s Castagnola Softball Complex — one of the finest facilities of its kind in Santa Barbara. This exciting camp includes instruction in basic skills: Throwing, catching, batting, and fielding, as well as strategy for game situations. All skill levels welcome. Instructor: Clyde Bennett.
Elings Park, 1298 Las Positas Rd. $225. Ages 6-12. Call 569-5611 or visit elingspark.org for date information.
Westmont Warrior Summer Sports Camps
Two girls-only camps offered at Westmont, with instruction in sports skills and individual coaching. Campers will experience Westmont’s new athletic facilities and work with collegiate coaches in a safe, healthy environment.
Camps meet 9am-1pm. Held at various locations on Westmont College’s campus, 955 La Paz Rd. $225. Call 565-6010 or register at westmont.edu/sports/camps.
• Girls’ Basketball: June 27 - July 1. Ages 7-12.
• Girls’ Volleyball: June 20-24. Ages 8-12.
Overnight
Camp Natoma
Sleep out under the stars while enjoying camp songs, and skits around the fire. Campers learn independence and outdoor skills, swim every day, learn archery, create handcrafts, build friendships, enjoy nature, and more. Campsite located on Cypress Mountain Rd., Paso Robles, in the foothills of San Luis Obispo County.
Sun.-Sat., July 3-9, July 10-16, July 17-23, and July 24-30. Eligible campers are boys and girls entering grades 1-11. Contact Camp Fire USA, Central Coast Council, at 773-5126 or visit campnatoma.org.
Camp Whittier
While camping in the S.B. mountains, across from Lake Cachuma, participants will enjoy activities like rope making, shelter building, drum circles, Native American culture education, primitive survival skills, archery, arrow making, mask making, and storytelling. Program operated by the United Boys & Girls Clubs of S.B. County.
Two five-day sessions, July 11-15 and July 25-29. $475/week (or $350/week for Boys & Girls Club of S.B. members). Ages 6-13. Call 962-6776 or visit campwhittier.org.
River Way Ranch Camp
Memories and friendships await campers at River Way Ranch Camp, a premier residential summer program located in the Fresno County town of Sanger. Campers are supervised by highly trained staff and participate in their choice of more than 75 activities, including horseback riding, water-skiing, ropes course, and paintball. Devoted counselors guide campers through new adventures and challenges.
Multiple sessions, June 19 - Aug. 6. 6450 Elwood Rd., Sanger. Ages 7-16. $1,595-$3,295. Call (800) 821-2801 or visit www.riverwayranchcamp.org.
Study and Volunteer abroad
Friendship Tours World Travel’s summer programs for students in or entering high school feature dynamic educational tours and volunteer projects abroad in the countries of the U.S.’s former adversaries, including Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar. Students travel with American teachers on exciting journeys, visiting key sites of social, political and environmental significance. Each itinerary includes a community service project with local children. Optional college credit available through California State University, Sacramento.
June 17-29, July 1-15, August 1-15. $2100 includes hotel, food, English-speaking guidance, fees, transportation, insurance, and international airfare. Grades 9-12. Call 685-8676 or visit friendshiptoursworld.com.
YMCA’s Camp at Lake Sequoia
Located in Miramonte, California, on beautiful Sequoia Lake, the Channel Islands chapter of the YMCA hosts this yearly overnight camp for kids and teens from S.B. and Ventura counties. Activities include archery, crafts, lake swimming, hiking, rock-wall climbing, and campfires. Camp will be divided into age-specific groups: teens (grades 7-10), and youth (grades 4-6), This all takes place in a safe and fun setting, with trained, caring volunteers and professional staffers.
Sun.-Sat., Aug. 7-13. $595-$795, financial assistance available. Call 969-3288 or visit ciymca.org.
YMCA Whitewater Rafting Trip
Campers experience extreme caravan camping as each day is a new activity! Teens will enjoy river rafting on the King’s River in Fresno County, along with other outdoor adventures, including fishing, campfire cooking and social time, and swimming in river pools. Campers provide their own tents and other equipment; call for details. This coed camp is hosted by the Montecito Family YMCA.
July 12-15. $525. Grade 7 to age 21. Contact Yvonne Rubio at 969-3288 x108.
Special Needs
Camp Wheez
Staffed by health-care professionals and knowledgeable volunteers from the community, Sansum Clinic’s Camp Wheez is a summer day program for elementary school-aged children with chronic asthma, providing them a camp experience designed for their special needs. Campers learn to manage their asthma while they participate in recreation, enjoy arts and crafts, and have old-fashioned camp fun.
Mon.-Fri., Aug. 8-12, 8:30am-12:30pm. First Baptist Church, 949 Veronica Springs Rd. Ages 6-12. Camp Wheez is free of charge, but registration is required and space is limited. Contact Wendy Raffetto at 681-7897 or email wraffett@sansumclinic.org.
Sports & Games
805 Performance Volleyball Camp for Girls
This elite volleyball day camp is designed for instruction in all levels of play. Campers will master the fundamentals while learning top-level court formations for offense and defense. The collegiate-level coaching staff will develop a recruiting profile specifically for each individual child to help them find success.
Mon.-Fri., July 11-15 and July 25-29, 9am-4pm. Cate School, 1960 Cate Mesa Rd., Carpinteria. $675/session. Ages 11-18. Contact Terri Willis at 680-1326 or email twillis@craneschool.org.
Aquacamp
Looking for a summer of water fun? Aquacamp is filled with exciting adventures, including water safety instruction, tide-pool and marine-life discovery, water games, boogie-boarding, fishing, and arts and crafts. Each two-week session focuses on a different theme.
Five two-week sessions, Mon.-Fri., June 13 - Aug. 19; 9am-4pm, extended care available. Casa Las Palmas, 323 E. Cabrillo Blvd. $326/$296 RDC. Ages 6-10. Call 897-2680 or register online at sbparksandrecreation.com/summerfun.
Baseball at Camp Elings
A fun and exciting camp with games, contests, and drills for all ages and skill levels. Infield and outfield techniques from basics to strategy will be covered in a safe, encouraging environment.
Multiple sessions beginning June 6 and ending July 22. Elings Park, 1298 Las Positas Rd. Ages 5-14. $225. Call 569-5611 or visit elingspark.org.
Be a Fit Kid! Summer Camp
Learn to be a fit kid for life! This camp is an engaging hands-on experience for children, with creative activities that promote a healthy, active lifestyle. Independent physical activities like yoga, Pilates, and circuit training, along with group games like dodge ball, soccer, and capture the flag will all be part of the program. Campers will also take a “Road Trip to Nutrition” to learn about healthy food choices, make snack-smart recipes, and discover the importance of positive self-esteem and setting healthy goals. Staff is CPR and first-aid certified, and the head instructor is a certified personal trainer with camp-counseling experience.
Four two-week sessions, Mon.-Fri., June 13 - Aug. 5, 9am-3pm. Hollister School, 4950 Anita Ln., Goleta. $250/session. Ages 7-10. Contact Megan at 345-5075 or email megan@interculturefoundation.org.
Beginning Fencing Camp
Presidio Fencing Club’s summer day camps introduce boys and girls to the sport of fencing in a fun-filled environment. Campers will play games to develop coordination and self-confidence while learning the ins and outs of one of the oldest events in the modern Olympic games. Camp groups are small to maximize individual attention.
June 20-24 and June 27 - July 1. 216 E. Cota St. $200/session if registered before May 15. Ages 8-12. Call 403-6895 or visit presidiofencing.com.
BMX Camp at Elings Park
Come ride the Elings Park BMX track with other young athletes from across the county! BMX Camp is designed for riders of all levels and abilities. Improve basic skills, learn track etiquette, and get a great workout in the beautiful outdoors. BMX is one of the fastest growing sports in the U.S., and Elings Park is home to many nationally ranked riders. Each participant must bring a helmet and a functioning bike.
Ten one-week sessions, June 6 - Aug. 12. Elings Park, 1298 Las Positas Rd. $230. Ages 5+. Call 569-5611 or visit elingspark.org.
Coast2Coast Soccer Camp
Campers learn key techniques for success in soccer from highly-qualified coaches from Ireland.
Mon.-Fri., July 25-29 and Aug. 8-12, 9am-2pm. $149/$135 RDC. Ages 4-14. Dwight Murphy Soccer Field, Por la Mar and Niños Drive. Call 564-5422 or visit c2csoccer.com.
Harmony Horse Training’s Summer Horse Camp
Harmony Horse Training’s summer programs are a great way for kids to really get to know about riding and caring for horses in a balanced, fun environment. Located at McMillan Farm in the picturesque foothills of S.B, Harmony Horse Training has a full equestrian facility, with two jumping arenas and gorgeous views of the ocean and downtown S.B. You could not ask for a more beautiful setting!
Eight one-week sessions, Mon.-Fri., June 13 - Aug. 26. Ages 5-16. Contact Gillian at 451-9909 or harmonyhorsetraining@gmail.com for more info and to preregister.
Hui Sports Camp
Campers enjoy a variety of sports on the field, on the courts, and in the water, while learning the values of teamwork. Hosted by the Marymount School of S.B.
June 14-17, 9am-3pm. Camp meets at Marymount’s campus, 2130 Mission Ridge Rd. $190, with extended day care and lunch options available. Grades K-6. Contact Elizabeth Hansen at 569-1811 or ehansen@marymountsb.org.
Junior Lifeguards in S.B.
Strenuous ocean and beach swim/run program balances fitness with self-esteem and camaraderie.
All sessions meet 10:30am-2pm. Cabrillo Bathhouse, 1118 Cabrillo Blvd. Swim lessons and mandatory noncompetitive swim test for all new participants (May 14, 2pm) take place at Los Baños Pool, 401 Shoreline Dr. Call 897-2680 or register online at sbparksandrecreation.com/summerfun.
Junior Lifeguards. If your child loves the beach and ocean, they’ll be sure to enjoy this world-famous, nationally affiliated, and disciplined training program incorporating swimming, running, competition, and education. Seven-week session, June 20 - Aug. 5; $385/$350 RDC. Ages 9-17.
Junior Lifeguard Nippers. Shorter, easier Jr. Guard programs; modified to meet the abilities of the lower swim-skill and age requirements. Two two-week programs, Mon.-Fri., June 13-24 or Aug. 8-19. $165/$150 RDC. Ages 7-13.
Junior Lifeguard Swim Lessons. Swim instruction to prep for Junior Guard or Nippers swim tests. Apr. 18 - June 2: Sat., 2-2:45pm; Tue./Thu. or Mon./Wed, 7:15-8:15pm. Los Baños Pool, 401 Shoreline Dr. $59/$54 RDC.
Junior Tennis Clinic
U.S. Professional Tennis Association instructors teach your children the fundamentals of the game and develop their hand/eye coordination, stroke production, footwork, match play, and sportsmanship.
Mon.-Fri., July 11-15, 9am-noon. Municipal Tennis Facility, 1414 Park Pl. $134/$122 RDC. Ages 8-14. Call 564-5573 or visit sbparksandrecreation.com/summerfun.
Ka Nai‘a Outrigger and Kayaking Clinic
Enjoy the experience and challenges of kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and team paddling, taught through professional coaching and supervision. All participants must be able to tread water and pass a noncompetitive 25-yard swim test.
Mon.-Fri., July 11-15 and July 18-22, 9am-noon. West Beach. $149/$135 RDC. Ages 8-16. Call 969-5595 or visit sbparksandrecreation.com/summerfun.
Ken Ota’s Aikido with Ki and Judo, Too!
Aikido: The martial art with class! Powerful and effective, but nonviolent. Children and teens develop confidence, coordination, and respect. Classes run for two hours, with half the time focused on aikido/ki, and the remaining hour spent on judo.
Two sessions, Mon.-Fri.,June 15 - July 15 and July 18 - Aug. 19, 4-6pm. Meets at 255 Magnolia Ave., Goleta. Call 967-3103.
Kickin’ Kids Karate Kamp
Give your child the opportunity to learn martial arts while enjoying physical fitness, building self-esteem, and gaining focus and awareness. Kampers will enjoy self-defense lessons, kickin’ kids mat games, indoor and outdoor activities, safety awareness, character building, and much more. All levels welcome.
One two-week session, Mon.-Fri., July 11-22; 9am-4pm, extended hours available. Martial Arts Family Fitness, 122 E. Gutierrez St. Ages 6-11. $425. Call 963-6233 or visit kickinkids.com.
Kidz Love Soccer
All KLS camps meet at Dwight Murphy Soccer Field, Niños Dr. and Por la Mar.
Call 564-5422 or visit sbparksandrecreation.com/summerfun/.
Kidz Love Soccer Camp. Basic and advanced soccer techniques taught at age-appropriate levels, with a final “world cup” tournament. Mon.-Fri., Aug. 15-19, 9am-1pm. $149/$135 RDC. Ages 4-12.
Kidz Love Soccer Clinics. Campers are divided into groups based on age. Sats., Apr. 9 - June 4 and July 9 - Aug. 27. $98/$89 RDC. Ages 2-12.
Kiteboarding Clinic
Beginning/intermediate and advanced clinics will get your child fully experienced in this extreme sport.
Four one-week sessions, Mon.-Fri., July 5-29, 2-5pm. East Beach. Ages 8-16. Call 897-2680 for cost information or register online at sbparksandrecreation.com/summerfun.
Martial Arts at Camp Elings
This exciting camp features self-defense based on the unique USSD system of Kempo-style martial arts. Students will also learn the value of honor, trust and loyalty — qualities that influence every aspect of their lives.
Four one-week sessions, Mon.-Fri., July 18 - Aug. 12, 9am-noon. Elings Park, 1298 Las Positas Rd. $140/session. Call 569-5611 or visit elingspark.org.
Montecito Family YMCA Tennis and Swim Camp
Campers will receive beginning tennis instruction, share in character development time, enjoy arts and crafts, play in big group games, and then have a chance to cool off with a swim in the pool.
July 11-15 and July 18-22, 9am-2pm. Montecito Family YMCA, 591 Santa Rosa Ln. $125/week, facility members; $185/week, community members. Grades 1-6. Call 969-3288 or visit ciymca.org.
Mountain Bike Camp at Elings Park
Experienced instructors guide your child through the basics of trail etiquette, riding skills, and bike maintenance. Participants are required to bring a functioning mountain bike and a helmet.
Two sessions, July 11-18 (ages 5-8) and July 18-22 (ages 9-14). Elings Park, 1298 Las Positas Rd. $140/session. Call 569-5611 or visit elingspark.org.
MyGym Children’s Fitness Center Summer Camp
A half day of gymnastics, arts and crafts, story time, music, sports, and much more. My Gym Summer Camp focuses on enhancing physical development and a sense of individual success in each child. Staff makes the camp experience easy on parents with MyGym’s convenient drop-off program, and children benefit from its experienced and trained staff.
June 20 - Sept. 2, per-day and multiple-day schedules available. $35-$40/day; multiple-day and sibling discounts available. Ages 3-9. Call 563-7336 or email santabarbaramygym@cox.net.
Nike Tennis Camp
UCSB’s head men’s tennis coach Marty Davis and head women’s coach Peter Kirkwood lead this camp at the university campus. Gorgeous weather, superb instruction, and fun off-court activities make this a wonderful camp experience. The instructors’ goal is for every camper to take his or her game to the next level, create lasting friendships, and have a good time. Day camp and overnight options available.
July 10-15, July 17-22, and July 24-29. Overnight, $945; extended day (8:30am-9pm), $645; day (8:30am-4pm), $495. Ages 9-18. Call (800) 645-3226 or visit ussportscamps.com.
Ocean Adventures Summer Beach Camps
A-Frame Surf Shop’s summer Ocean Adventures camps do more than just teach surfing! Students enjoy a variety of fun water and sand activities, like kayaking and body-boarding, and also gain marine biology education. Head counselors are certified lifeguards, and all staff members are CPR- and first aid-certified professionals, full of energy and ready to play in the sun! Surfboards, kayaks, body boards, skim boards, and wetsuits, as well as large tents, sunscreen, and water are provided. Lunch and snacks from Padaro Beach Grill every day are included, keeping kids happy and satisfied! Campers must be able to swim.
Various sessions run from June - Aug. Camp meets behind the A-Frame Surf Shop, 3785 Santa Claus Ln., Carpinteria. $330-$355/week; multi-week and multi-camper discounts available. Ages 6-15. Call 684-8803 or visit summerbeachcamp.com for full information.
one. Soccer School’s GK Premier and Juniors Camps
Teaching kids the core skills of soccer in a fun environment. Day programs for boys and girls (ages 10-18) include one. Premier, a popular and intense training program, and one. GK Premier (ages 10-18), which teaches critical elements of the goalkeeper position. Juniors camps for boys and girls (ages 6-9) teach the core technical skills needed to play soccer.
Multiple sessions. Location include S.B. High School, San Marcos High School, and Westmont College. $289/Premier and GK Premier sessions; $179/Juniors sessions. Residential camps also available. Call 845-6801 or visit onesoccerschools.com for more information.
• one. Premier: Aug. 1-5, 8am-4pm.
• one. GK Premier: Aug. 1-5, 8am-4pm.
• one. Juniors: June 27 - July 1, July 18-22, and Aug. 1-5; 8am-noon.
Orca Summer Camp
The finest instruction in surfing, kayaking, and beach games and activities of every sort, taught by friendly, enthusiastic, well-trained counselors, Campers also visit area tidepools and learn about marine biology.
Multiple one-week sessions July 5 - Aug. 5. $240-$300 per week; financial aid available. Ages 6-14. Call 448-3308 or visit orcacamp.org.
Performance Improvement Training Basketball Camp
PIT Santa Barbara’s first-rate summer training program focuses on improving basketball skills — with a focus on overall strength and vertical jump. Eligible campers are competitive basketball players currently in high school or college.
Tue., Thu., Sat.; July 7 - Aug. 27; 10:30am (women), 12:30pm (men), 2:30pm (open registration). Carrillo Street Gym (a k a Recreation Ctr.), 102 W. Carrillo St. $600/month. Call 616-8466 or visit pitsb.com for full details.
Refugio Junior Lifeguard Program
The Refugio Junior Lifeguard program is an ocean safety and environmental education program for children and teens. The program’s young participants learn how to be safe in the ocean, what to do in an emergency, how to respect and care for the environment, and the importance of living a healthy and active lifestyle. Campers also get to explore nature, get fit, have fun, and make new friends. This unique aquatic experience is taught by professional ocean lifeguards and special guest lecturers. Tryouts (required for new guards) are held in May and June at various locations in S.B. County. Free pre-tryout swim lessons in Santa Ynez and Lompoc.
Two three-week sessions, Mon.-Fri., June 20 - July 8 and July 18 - Aug. 5, 10am-3pm. Refugio State Beach, north of Goleta. Ages 7-17. $295/one session, $525/both sessions; sibling discount available. Call 968-3834 or visit www.refugiojg.com.
Rick McLaughlin Volleyball Camp
This all-skills camp is designed for novice to elite players. Campers will benefit from intensive drills, competition, and instruction, and will receive expert coaching and extensive training in competitive volleyball fundamentals, tactics, and advanced conditioning techniques. Overnight and day camps available; see Web site for details.
Two sessions, July 17-20 (boys) and July 21-24 (girls). Meets at UCSB campus. Ages 13-18. Overnight: $505-$555/session, day camp: $480. Call (310) 528-1802 or visit rickmclaughlinvolleyball.com.
Ridgewood Farm’s Horseback Riding Summer Camp
English riding lessons daily, with an emphasis on horsemanship, safety, and equine knowledge.
Three sessions; July 12-15, July 26-29, and Aug. 9-12; 9am-1pm. Ridgewood Farm, 250 Nogal Dr. Ages 5+. $400/session. Call 701-1384 or visit ridgewoodfarm.org.
S.B. Foresters Summer Baseball Camp
Have fun and learn about baseball with some of the best college players in the country: The Santa Barbara Foresters! The Foresters are two-time national champions and six-time state champs, and the players and coaches show young players the right way to play baseball — and how to have fun doing it. Campers receive instruction individually and in small groups, with an instructor-to-camper ratio of 1:8.
Four sessions; June 14-17, June 27 - July 1, July 11-15, and July 25-29. Girsh Park, 7050 Phelps Rd., Goleta. $235/session; multi-player and multi-session discounts available. Ages 7-12. Call 684-0657 or register online at sbforesters.org.
S.B. Sailing Center Kids’ Sail and Kayak Camps
The S.B. Sailing Ctr.’s 25 years of youth summer camps have taught more than 9,000 kids how to sail and kayak. Sail camp taught on 21´stable keelboats, with a student/instructor ratio of 5:1. With emphasis on safety and fun, the sailing camp will focus on nautical terminology, knots, rules of the road, tacking/jibing, and proper sail trim. Kayak camp is taught on ocean scramblers. Students will learn how to understand basic paddling techniques, rules of the “road,” and how to maneuver a kayak in various situations in our harbor and along our coastline.
Mon.-Fri., June 13 - Aug. 26. Kayak Camp: 8:30am-12:30pm. Sailing Camp: 1-5pm. Camp meets in S.B. Harbor. Ages 7-15. $175/$155 members. Call 962-2826 or visit sbsail.com.
S.B. Youth Sailing Camp
The Santa Barbara Youth Sailing Foundation’s summer youth program provides instruction in beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels, on Optis, Laser, CFJ, and C420 sailboats. The camp focuses on sailing skills, responsibility, teamwork, and sportsmanship, with a constant awareness of the requirements of safety.
Five two-week sessions, June 6 - Aug. 12. Camp meets at the S.B. Harbor. $350/session. Ages 8-17. Call 965-4603 or visit sbyf.org.
S.B. Surf Adventures
The long, rolling, waves at Leadbetter Beach make this camp great for beginners. Camp is suited for kids with basic swimming skills. Each camper receives a camp T-shirt, hat, and lunch from Shoreline Café, as well as an unforgettable surfing experience.
Weekly sessions, June 13 - Aug. 19. $295/week (camps may be prorated at $59/day). Ages 8+. Call the Beach House at 963-1281.
S.B. Family YMCA Sports Camps
Combining a variety of sports that will provide opportunities for children to stay active. Each camp will include fundamentals, swimming, games, and character development.
One-week sessions, Mon.-Fri., June 6 - Aug. 19; 9am-4pm, extended care available. S.B. Family YMCA, 36 Hitchcock Wy. $145/week; financial assistance available. Grades 1-6. Contact Aaron Martinez, 687-7720 x261 or email aaron.martinez@ciymca.org.
Sk8 Skools
Skaters Point, Garden St. and E. Cabrillo Blvd. Call 564-5495 or register online at sbparksandrecreation.com/summerfun.
Sk8 Skool. Campers get exclusive access to Skaters’ Point during clinic time while learning and practicing proper skateboarding techniques and skills. Eight one-week sessions beginning June 13; Mon.-Fri., 8:30-11:30am. $149/$135 RDC.Ages 7-11.
Sk8 Skool for Little Shredders. Sk8 Skool director Steve Fancher and his staff will help younger skaters develop a positive attitude and the ability to skateboard safely. Six one-week sessions beginning June 6; Mon.-Fri., 8:30-9:45am or 10-11:15am. $75/$68 RDC. Ages 4-6.
Soccer at Camp Elings
Children develop all-around skills in the world’s most popular sport. Campers take part in drill, activities, and games at the renowned Elings Park soccer fields.
Multiple sessions, June 6 - Aug. 12. Elings Park, 1298 Las Positas Rd. $225. Ages 5-14. Call 569-5611 or visit elingspark.org.
Sports Activities Program at Camp Elings
Participants enjoy a variety of games and team-building sports activities, including hiking, tag, relay races, basketball and soccer drills, racquet sports, and more. All activities are fully inclusive, cooperative, and integrated with music for an action-packed week of fitness, friends, and fun.
Ten one-week sessions, June 6 - Aug. 12. Elings Park, 1298 Las Positas Rd. $225. Ages 5-12. Call 569-5611 or visit elingspark.org.
Standup Paddling Clinic
An extremely fun, great workout to develop strength, coordination, and water skills. Experienced lifeguard staff run a fun and diverse clinic that includes many different water activities in addition to learning standup paddling.
Six one-week sessions, June - Aug. 5. East Beach and Chase Palm Park Soccer Field. $165/$150 RDC. Ages 10-16. Call 897-2680 or register online at sbparksandrecreation.com/summerfun.
Summer Gymnastics
Beginning and intermediate-level campers learn gymnastics on the floor, vault, bars, and beams. No experience necessary. Hosted by the City of S.B.’s Parks & Recreation Dept. in collaboration with Girls Inc.
Seven one-week sessions, Mon.-Fri., June 13 - July 29; full- and half-day camps, 9am-4pm and 9am-noon. Camp meets at Girls Inc., 531 E. Ortega St. Ages 4-12. Call 564-5495 for cost information and register online at sbparksandrecreation.com/summerfun.
Surf Happens Surf Camps
Experience the thrill and fun of surfing, Santa Barbara style! Kids come to camp, step into a smile, and return home happy and tired, Surf Happens camp counselors’ goal is to build self-esteem while teaching the fundamentals and history of surfing and developing discipline, commitment, and teamwork skills. Beginner/intermediate-level camps at Santa Claus Lane focus on surfing basics, physical fitness, and the environment. Campers in the advanced-level groups travel to the area’s best beaches and learn competition strategy, portfolio development, and more. Day camps include a board and wetsuit for the week. Instructors are certified in lifeguard training, first aid, and CPR.
Multiple one-week sessions, Mon.-Fri., June 13 - Sept. 9, 9am-3pm. $400-$350. Ages 4-17. Call 451-7568 or visit surfhappens.com.
Turf and Surf
If you enjoy sports and the beach, join this great summer camp to play the following: Ultimate Frisbee, beach volleyball, swimming, fishing, and field trips.
Four one-week sessions, Mon.-Fri., 9am-4pm. June 20-24, July 18-22, July 25-29, and Aug. 8-12. Pershing Park. $165/$150 RDC. Ages 8-12. Call 564-5422 or visit sbparksandrecreation.com/summerfun.
UCSB Junior Lifeguards
A fun program for boys and girls that will improve campers’ self-esteem, teamwork, and physical fitness, and teach them first aid/ocean safety skills, as well as environmental awareness. Tryouts scheduled for May 15 and June 16 at UCSB Recreation Center.
Two four-week sessions, Mon.-Fri., June 20 - July 15 and July 18 - Aug. 12, 8:30am-1:30pm. $345/session or $565/two sessions. Ages 8-17. Contact Cathy Czuleger at 893-3913 or visit www.recreation.ucsb.edu for more information.
UCSB Surf and Kayak Camp
Kids learn to surf, kayak, and stand-up paddle board. Co-ed camp; all instructors are certified beach lifeguards.
Multiple one-week sessions, Mon.-Fri, June 13-Aug. 19, 1-5pm. Ages 9-15. $105/session. Contact Cathy Czuleger at 893-3913 or visit www.recreation.ucsb.edu.
Volleyball with City Parks & Rec.
Call 897-8260 or visit sbparksandrecreation.com/summerfun.
East Beach Volleyball Clinic. Join S.B. Masters Champion Jon Lee for a morning immersion in beach volleyball. Practice doubles and six-person team play as well as correct ball handling, passing, setting and hitting. Weekly sessions, Mon.-Fri., June 6 - Aug. 19, 9am-noon. East Beach Volleyball Courts. $127/$115 RDC. Ages 9-17.
AAA Volleyball Clinic. A beach volleyball clinic for high school-aged male and female Jr. Varsity and Varsity players. Jon Lee and guest AVP-level players focus on tournament-level doubles and competition strategy, as well as skills and training. Weekly sessions, Mon.-Fri., June 6 - Aug. 19, 9am-noon. East Beach Volleyball Courts. $149/$135 RDC.Ages 14-18.
West Beach Volleyball Clinic. Learn the fundamentals and strategies of volleyball with pros Sinjin Smith and Randy Stoklos. Campers are grouped by age and skill level. Weekly sessions, Mon.-Fri., July 11 - Aug. 26, 9am-noon. West Beach Volleyball Courts. $149/$135 RDC. Ages 7-15.
Elite Volleyball Clinic. Advanced players learn winning strategies and techniques from famous pro team players Sinjin Smith and Randy Stoklos. Weekly sessions, Mon.-Fri., July 11 - Aug. 19, 12:30-3:30pm. West Beach Volleyball Courts. $149/$135 RDC. Ages 12-18.
Westmont Warrior Summer Sports Camps
Boys and girls of all skill levels get instruction in a variety of sports skills and individual coaching. Campers will experience Westmont’s new athletic facilities and work with collegiate coaches in a safe, healthy environment.
Camps held at various locations on Westmont College’s campus, 955 La Paz Rd. $225-$250. Call 565-6010 or register at westmont.edu/sports/camps.
• Archery and Badminton: July 4-8, 9am-1pm. Ages 7-14.
• Baseball: July 25-29, 9am-3pm. Ages 6-14.
• Basketball: July 4-8 and July 11-15, 9am-3pm. Ages 7-14.
• Soccer: July 18-22, 9am-3pm. Ages 5-11.
• Sports Skills: June 13-17 and June 20-24, 9am-1pm. Ages 5-10.
• Tennis: July 18-22 and July 25-29, 9am-3pm. Ages 7-12.
• Track and Field: July 18-22, 9am-1pm. Ages 5-12.
Youth Lacrosse at Camp Elings
The S.B. Lacrosse Assn.’s summer program allows kids to learn and play lacrosse at the basic level — and as they advance, so will the camp. Each camp day will teach skills and then allow for time to play games. Lacrosse, a Native American sport, is now the fastest growing sport in America! Co-ed camp.
June 13 - July 1. Elings Park, 1298 Las Positas Rd. $140. Ages 6-14. Call 569-5611 or visit elingspark.org.
For Teens Only
AHA! Academy of Healing Arts for Teens
AHA! helps teens using an innovative curriculum focusing on self-expression, team-building, empathy training, emotional intelligence workshops, and diversity appreciation. Enrollees meet with 25 of their peers during camp for a wide range of activities — indoor, outdoor, and all-interactive — utilizing AHA!’s award-winning social/emotional intelligence and creative expression curriculums. Cost is by donation; everyone is welcome.
Mon.-Thu., July 5-28, 2-5pm. Jefferson Hall, Unitarian Society, 1525 Santa Barbara St. Ages 14-19. Contact Heather Cole at 882-2424 x309 or visit ahasb.com.
ARC Babysitting Super Camp
Hosted by the S.B. YMCA, this camp will give your older child or teenager Red Cross Babysitter’s Training, as well as complete courses in infant and child CPR, and first aid. Campers will learn how to recognize and care for life threatening emergencies, and how to be comfortable in any babysitting situation.
Mon.-Fri., June 13-17 and July 11-15, 9am-1pm. S.B. YMCA, 36 Hitchcock Wy. $149; financial assistance available. Ages 11-15. Contact Matt at 687-7720 x226 or email matt.renfro@ciymca.net.
Safety Town Counselor-in-Training Summer Program
Teen counselors-in-training will assist young campers at Safety Town Children’s Camp, which teaches kids ages 5-6 about all aspects of safety through games and songs. A fun way for teens to earn 25 volunteer hours in one week.
Camps meet at Foothill, Franklin, El Camino, and Isla Vista Elementary Schools. Free. Grades 7+. Call 252-7998 or email for more info.
S.B. Family YMCA Leadership Camp
Teens explore the environment, give back to the community, visit area beaches and parks, and gain experience to make them better leaders. Campers also earn community service hours in Leadership Camp by facilitating camp activities for younger campers and assisting counselors.
Weekly sessions, June 6 - Aug. 19. S.B. YMCA, 36 Hitchcock Wy. $155/session; financial assistance available. Grades 7-9. Contact Matt at 687-7720 x226 or email matt.renfro@ciymca.net.
