Snorkeling Camp
Junior Dive Academy Snorkeling Camp
Ocean Enterprises’ Junior Dive Academy (JDA) is a hands-on ocean program that builds water confidence through guided snorkeling, marine science, and real-world ocean skills.
Camps are single-day and run 9:00am–1:00pm. We offer two separate tracks—Novice (8–12) and Intermediate (12–16)—so families can book the session that best matches their camper.
Camp Overview
- Time: 9:00am–1:00pm
- Format: 2 guided snorkel tours with a lunch/game break in between (campers bring their own lunch)
- Instructor ratio: 1:6
- Snorkel gear rental included: we’ll request sizes ahead of time
- Perk: 25% off in-store snorkel gear purchases
Water Requirements
Campers must be comfortable ocean swimmers and willing to participate in in-water activities. Snorkeling experience is not required.
Not sure which track to choose? Intermediate is designed for confident ocean swimmers (ages 12–16). If you’re unsure which track fits best, email jessica@oceanenterprises.com.
Novice Sessions (Ages 8–12)
A supportive, coached introduction to ocean snorkeling. This track focuses on building comfort, solid fundamentals, and confidence in real ocean conditions.
Best for
- Kids who are comfortable swimming in the ocean but want more guidance and structure
- First-time camp snorkelers (no snorkel experience needed)
- Campers who benefit from step-by-step coaching and frequent check-ins
Focus
- Mask comfort, breathing, fin technique, and surface communication
- Ocean awareness: reading conditions, safe entries/exits, staying with the group
- Marine life etiquette and coastal habitat exploration
Booking: Select a Novice date from the schedule below.
Intermediate Sessions (Ages 12–16)
Built for older campers who are already comfortable in the ocean and want a more skill-forward day. Intermediate sessions include longer swims, more distance, and advanced ocean entries (conditions-dependent and instructor-led).
Best for
- Confident ocean swimmers ready for longer snorkels and increased independence
- Campers who want better technique, awareness, and efficiency in open-water snorkeling
- Kids who enjoy a challenge and can stay engaged in sustained in-water activity
Focus
- Technique + stamina: efficient finning, pace control, and longer snorkels
- Advanced entries/exits and situational awareness (conditions-based)
- Surface navigation fundamentals and improved ocean decision-making
- Habitat + marine life learning (reef structure, kelp/rock/sand zones, respectful wildlife behavior)
Booking: Select an Intermediate date from the schedule below.
Logistics & Safety
- Safety is our top priority. We assess conditions leading up to camp and may change the location if we believe snorkeling will be safer or better elsewhere. Typical locations include Mission Bay, La Jolla Shores, and La Jolla Cove.
- Drop-off/pick-up: at the snorkeling site. We’ll share exact site instructions prior to camp.
- Minimum enrollment: 3 campers required.
- Refund policy: Full refund available up to 7 days before the start date.
What to Bring
Campers should bring a reusable water bottle, reef-safe sunscreen, swimsuit, rashguard, sunglasses, towel, warm clothes for changing, and lunch/snacks. Bringing your own wetsuit and snorkel gear is encouraged but not required.
Typical Snorkeling Locations
La Jolla Cove — 1100 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037
La Jolla Cove is filled with life, including sea lions, horn sharks, garibaldi, and many types of algae. If conditions allow, campers may get to snorkel near sea caves. Nearby cliffs are also home to seabirds like pelicans and cormorants.
Marine Room — 1950 Spindrift Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037
The Marine Room is on the far south side of La Jolla Shores—often called “Leopard Shark City” in warmer months. A short swim can lead to rocky reef structure where campers may see rays, guitarfish, algae communities, and (on lucky days) a sea turtle.
Mission Point — 2600 Bayside Ln, San Diego, CA 92109
Mission Point in Mission Bay is our go-to when ocean conditions aren’t suitable. Calm, shallow water makes it ideal for practicing snorkel skills and building confidence.
Questions? Email jessica@oceanenterprises.com or call (858) 565-6054.
Availability: In Stock
