Santa Cruz State Junior Lifeguards

Santa Cruz State Junior Guards Banner Photo

 

Tryout Information
Summer Sessions
Surf Camp
Parent Handbook

 

Email Distribution List

**If you'd like to receive information for upcoming sessions, join our email distribution list below.**

Fill out this quick Google Form to receive program information and updates for Summer 2026.

If you're a returning Junior Guard from 2025 (unless you need to update your email) you are already on our emailing list and do not need to sign up. 

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.

2026 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)

2026 Dates:

Session 1: June 15th - July 2nd

Session 2: July 13th - July 31st

PROGRAM HOURS:

10:00AM - 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

Surf Camp!

We will be continuing our popular Surf Camp program for 2 sessions this year!

Session 1: July 6th-10th

Session 2: August 3rd-7th

 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!

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. 

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