Information for 2023 summer camps coming soon! Until then, please explore a sample of our camp programming below.
Ocean Explorers marine science summer camp at Seymour Center is a week your child will never forget. Just ask the professional marine scientists who attended Ocean Explorers 20 years ago.
Our marine science summer programs give youth ages 7 to 14 opportunities to actively explore the ocean, investigate the animals with which we share Monterey Bay, and experience the thrill of scientific discovery at a world-class marine lab.
Invertebrate Investigators (ages 7-9)
Backbones are overrated! Explore the awesome diversity of fascinating marine and terrestrial invertebrates along the Santa Cruz coast. Search for marvelous macroinvertebrates in the river’s riffles at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, then dig for shy sand crabs at Natural Bridges State Beach. Join our Aquarium Curator to learn how we care for our incredible invertebrates at the Seymour Center. Tap into your scientific observation skills to discover what’s special about your favorite spineless friends. Tide-pooling adventures and fun “crabby” crafts make for an amazing week for any kid who has the science “bug!”
Marine Science for Girls (ages 9-11)
An amazing camp designed to inspire girls with a deep love of ocean science. Girls go behind the scenes with Long Marine Lab’s expert marine mammal scientists and trainers. Learn from special seals, sea lions, and dolphins participating in conservation research. We travel south to hike and explore restored ecosystems at Elkhorn Slough and enjoy camping at Sunset State Beach on Thursday night. Our week wraps up with a fun kayak adventure in search of sea otters and more!
Please note: This overnight camp requires all participants to be fully vaccinated (or provide proof of an approved medical exemption with routine testing). Participants supply their own sleeping bags and sleeping pads. Restroom facilities are available at the campground.
Thank you to Rachel & David Kliger for sponsoring Marine Science for Girls
Masterful Marine Mammals (ages 9-11 and 12-14)
Discover how dolphins, seals, and sea lions cooperate in conservation research to help protect wild marine animals around the globe. Work alongside researchers and trainers to learn about Long Marine Lab’s extraordinary marine mammals. Gain first-hand experience in marine mammal care and training techniques and enjoy outings to investigate scientists’ favorite coastal field sites. We top it off with a kayak adventure to search for harbor seals, sea otters, and other local marine life at Elkhorn Slough.