STAFFED ACTIVITIES

SELF GUIDED ACTIVITIES

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charging up the 30 foot climbing tower

waterfront view with San Diego Skyline

GROUP SERVICES

ACTIVITIES

Camp Surf is about as isolated as you can get on the coast in Southern California.  While we are less than 15 miles from downtown San Diego, our 45 acres are tucked away on the northern end of Imperial Beach. On this priceless piece of property, we have several unique progarm areas that host a variety of activities.

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STAFFED ACTIVITY AREAS

THE WATERFRONT

At the heart of our programming is the Camp Surf Waterfront. Our relatively remote location on the Silver Strand offers a semi secluded beach bordered on the south by a rock jetty with our signature Camp Surf barge, and the north by miles of protected coastal dunes with no commercial development.  We have safely operated our own lifeguard service for 37 years.  

SURFING

Camp Surf is perhaps one of the best places in California to learn and play in the surf. Our location on the coast and our gently sloping beach provide uncrowded and consistant (but managable) waves year round, making it easy for our trained instructors to help you take on one of the most fun and challenging sports around.  We'll provide a quick land lesson to show you the ropes, then it's into the water for pointers and practice!  All boards are provided, but you may want to bring a wetsuit in the cooler months if you plan to stay in for hours at a time.

BODY BOARDING AND SWIMMING

one of a million smiles when the boogie boards are in use

For safety, we provide a designated area to separate surfers from body boarding and swimming. Body boarding is a great way to jump right into waveriding without the larger equipment and the inevitable "wipe-outs" that come with surfing. Free swimming is also an option to cool off and enjoy the ocean with your group members.  

CLIMBING TOWER

Two campers making thier way up the 30 ft climbing tower.

Our 30 foot tall tower offers a perfect opportunity to challenge yourself in a safe environment. Participants at the wall are encouraged to set thier own goal and work thier way up to acheiving it. Climbers that make it all the way to the top enjoy a view that includes the Pacific Ocean, San Diego Bay, and Mexico, as well as Point Loma and the San Diego skyline.

ARCHERY

Our archery range is a perrenial favorite with all groups. Our staff will be on hand to facilitate and instruct your participants to safely test your focus and patience. 

ARTS AND CRAFTS

a group enjoying time together at our craft cabana

Our craft cabana offers the perfect place to sit and enjoy your fun, creative side, but more importantly, a spot to sit and make some connections with the people in your group. Activities vary from weekend to weekend, but we try to keep a few of the more popular activities available from season to season.

SKIT NIGHT

our hand crafted ship stern stage

Ligths! Camera! ACTION!!!  During a typical group's stay, there will be a night where everyone on camp gathers to put on a skit night. Staff will facilitate the evening, sing a few songs, and generally make sure that the show is fun and efficiently run. This is a perfect opportunity for kids to get up in front of a group and have some good clean fun!

SELF GUIDED ACTIVITIES

SAND SCULPTING

Look no further than the sand outside your tent for hours of fun...Imperial Beach is world famous for sand sculpting. From slopping around in the wet sand near the shoreline to creating a masterpiece fit for the Louvre, you can get as serious as you want to. We supply the basics (a few shovels, buckets and pails)... you bring the creativity, patience and manpower! Camp Surf staff are expert (unbiased) judges if your group holds a friendly competition, or you can take it to the next level and book in the summer during the International Sand Castle Days Competition.

BOULDERING WALL

This activity does not require staff, ropes or harnesses, so campers can participate on their way to and from activities, meals, their cabins or the beach.  It is a great place to hang out, have fun, and practice your skills before attempting the 30 foot climbing tower.

BALL SPORTS


In addition to the unique activities lead by our trained staff, we also try to accomodate groups that are interested in traditional activities such as basketball, kickball, soccer, tetherball, box hockey, horse shoes etc.  Depending on seasonal and equipment availability, these types of activities can be a great way to enjoy a few minutes while waiting for a meal or the next activity to begin.

PIRATE'S QUEST

Camp Surf's take on a scavenger hunt is a great way to learn to solve problems, learn about the Core values of the YMCA, explore camp and have fun with your group at the same time!

CAMP FIRE

campers gather round nature's TV

For groups camping on the beach, fire rings are available for a safe and clean fire. After a long day packed with activities and eating great food, sitting near a campfire and listening to the waves crashing on the beach is a great way to unwind and spend some time with your group before heading off to bed.

 

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