Santa Cruz State Junior Lifeguards

Santa Cruz State Junior Guards Banner Photo

Register Below!

Twin Lakes Junior Guards 2025 9-15 Year Olds

Twin Lakes Session 1 *WAITLISTED*

Twin Lakes Session 2

Rio Del Mar Junior Guards 2025 9-15 Year Olds

Rio Del Mar Session 1 *WAITLISTED*

Rio Del Mar Session 2

Rio Del Mar Little Guards 2025 6-8 Year Olds

Little Guards Session 1 *WAITLISTED*

Little Guards Session 2 *WAITLISTED*

Manresa Junior Guards 2025 9-15 Year Olds

Manresa Session 1

Manresa Session 2

Surf Camp 2025 9-15 Year Olds

Surf Camp *WAITLISTED*

Changes for 2025 Season!

Hello cherished Junior Guard families and prospective Junior Guard families!

We are changing our long running schedule of a 4 week program to a 3 week program. This will come with a more structured and streamlined program, earlier starting hours, and a more enjoyable Summer for our communities, our staff, and the public. We understand the institution that Santa Cruz State Junior Guards has become over the years and don't want to take away from the tradition and the things that you look forward to every year. Thank for sticking with us through the years and trusting us with providing safe, motivating, and fun programming over the summer.

 

NEW DATES AND HOURS!

9:00am-3:00pm M-F

Session 1: June 16 - July 3

Surf Camp: July 7 - July 11

Session 2: July 14 - August 1

 

Registration Opens on April 1st at 10:00 AM

Check the Registration tab for more info

New Surf Camp!

We are starting a 5 day surf camp from July 7th- July 11th. This is the perfect program for those who can't get enough of the surf or those who beginners who want to practice their skills in a positive environment! Surf Camp will have a small interpretive element that is reminiscent of Junior Guards but most of the program will consist of surfing, boogie boarding, stand-up paddle boarding and body boarding. Check the tab "Surf Camp" for more information on the program!

Program Information

*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 three-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 9am-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.

2025 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)

2025 Dates:

Session 1: June 16th-July 3rd (No Programming on July 4th)

Session 2: July 14th-August 1st

PROGRAM HOURS:

9:00AM - 3:00PM

COST:
Each Session is $500

(Prices have increased from previous years to cover program costs. Additionally there is a new unrefundable $10 Service Fee)

 *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 2025.

If you're a returning Junior Guard from 2024 (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