Santa Cruz State Junior Lifeguards

Santa Cruz State Junior Guards Banner Photo

2024 Santa Cruz State Junior Guard Information -- (As of 1/23/24)

 

Registration Opens April 1st, 2024 9:00 AM
(Enrollment is on a first come, first served basis)
(When sessions become full, you may sign up for a waitlist and will be notified if a spot becomes available.)

 

*Prior to registration, you must create an account on ReserveCalifornia and list the children you wish to enroll, as dependents on your account. Instructions here.

The Junior Lifeguard Program focuses on teamwork, leadership, and aquatic safety, introducing young individuals to professional and recreational aquatic opportunities. It aims to deliver high-quality water safety education, enhance physical conditioning, foster understanding and respect for the environment, and promote respect for oneself, parents, and peers.

Our program instructors are California State Lifeguards, extensively trained in advanced first aid and rescue techniques. Many of them were Junior Guards themselves. Enrolling your child in JG ensures they are under the best care.

The Santa Cruz Junior Lifeguard Program is a four-week (two sessions per summer) recreation and education program that offers programs at 3 seperate State Beaches (Twin Lakes, Rio Del Mar, & Manresa State Beach). The programs meets on weekdays from 10am-3pm. This program is offered to participants ranging in age from 6-15 years old (6-8 years olds are in Little Guards, only at Rio Del Mar) with proficient swimming abilities. This is NOT a learn to swim program.

Before signing up, be aware that your children will be actively engaged every day. While they are at the beach to have fun, the program emphasizes workouts, life skills, and provides a safe space for them to challenge themselves.


2024 PROGRAM DATES & LOCATIONS

Rio Del Mar State Beach:
Platforms Beach, 527 Beach Dr, Aptos, CA 95003
(Ages 6-8, Little Guards)

(Ages 9-15, Junior Guards)

Manresa State Beach:
1445 San Andreas Rd, Watsonville, CA 95076
(Ages 9-15)

Twin Lakes State Beach:
End of 14th Ave, 180 14th Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
(Ages 9-15)

2024 Dates:

Session 1: June 10th-July 5th (No Programming on July 4th)

Session 2: July 8th-August 2nd

PROGRAM HOURS:

10:00AM - 3:00PM

COST:
Each Session is $490

(Prices have increased from previous years to cover program costs)

 *Registration prices and program dates subject to change

Email Distribution List

Fill out this quick Google Form to receive program information and updates for Summer 2024.

If you're a returning Junior Guard from 2023 (unless you need to update your email) you are already on our emailing list and do not need to sign up. 


Follow us on Facebook and Instagram

If you have any questions, please contact the Junior Lifeguard Coordinator: sczstate.jrguards@parks.ca.gov