FAQ – California Junior Lifeguards

General Program Questions

❓ What is California Junior Lifeguards?

✅ California Junior Lifeguards is an ocean safety and adventure program designed to teach kids and teens lifesaving skills, ocean awareness, physical fitness, and teamwork in a fun and structured summer camp setting.

❓ What age groups can participate?

✅ Our programs are designed for kids ages 5-17, with different options based on age and skill level:

Junior Guards: Ages 8-17

Mini Junior Guards: Ages 5-7

Back Bay Camp: Ages 6-12

Stand Up Paddle Camps: Ages 7-15

❓ What is the difference between California Junior Lifeguards and city/state-run programs?

✅ Unlike some city and state programs that focus on intense physical training, California Junior Lifeguards offers a more relaxed and fun summer camp experience while still teaching important water safety and lifeguarding skills. We also offer full-day, Monday-Friday programs, while many other programs run for only a few hours a day.

❓ Will Mini Junior Guards Be Swimming?

✅ No, Mini JGs will not be getting in the water more than knee deep.

Registration & Enrollment

❓ How do I register my child for a program?

✅ Follow these simple steps:

1) Go to the Registration Portal: Register Now

2) Use the Filters: Select the session type and location for easier searching.

3) Add to Cart & Complete Forms: Fill out the necessary participant information.

4) Submit Payment & Receive Confirmation: You will receive an email once registration is complete.

For a full step-by-step guide, visit our How to Enroll page.

❓ What if my child has never done Junior Guards before?

✅ No problem! Our programs welcome first-time participants, and instructors are trained to help kids of all skill levels feel comfortable and confident in the water.

❓ What is your refund policy?

✅ Partial Refund: If you cancel at least 2 weeks in advance, you will receive a refund minus a $150 cancellation fee or transfer with a $30 rebooking fee.

No Refunds: Cancellations less than 2 weeks prior or failure to attend will not be refunded or credited.

Full Refund: If we cancel a session, you may receive a full refund or transfer to another session.

Program Logistics & Daily Schedule

❓ What does a typical day at camp look like?

✅ Each camp session includes a mix of beach activities, ocean safety training, fitness, games, and water challenges. The exact schedule varies by location and program.

❓ Are there any off-site field trips?

✅ Our programs are held on-site at the beach or bay, and we do not offer field trips. All activities take place within designated areas for safety and supervision.

❓ What happens in case of bad weather?

✅ Camp runs rain or shine. We encourage participation, but in case of extreme weather, parents may use discretion.

Uniforms & Equipment

❓ Does my child need to wear a uniform?

✅ Yes, all participants are required to wear the official Junior Lifeguards uniform, which includes:

Red swimsuit (one-piece for girls, jammers/trunks for boys)

Rash guard (red or white)

Junior Guards hat (recommended for sun protection)

❓ Where can I purchase the required uniform?

✅ Uniforms can be purchased directly from our Online Store, or onsite at one of our camps.

❓ Can my child wear last year's uniform?

✅ Yes! Returning participants can reuse uniforms as long as they still fit properly.

Safety & Supervision

❓ Are instructors certified lifeguards?

✅ Yes, all instructors are certified in CPR, First Aid, and Lifeguarding and have extensive experience working with kids in aquatic environments.

❓ Is my child required to be a strong swimmer?

✅ Basic swimming skills are recommended, but participants are not required to be advanced swimmers. Our programs help build water confidence and ocean safety skills at a comfortable pace.

❓ What safety measures are in place?

✅ Safety is our top priority. We have:
✔ A high instructor-to-student ratio for close supervision.
✔ Designated swimming areas with trained lifeguards on duty.
✔ Structured safety drills to teach ocean awareness and emergency response skills.

Payment & Policies

❓ What payment methods do you accept?

✅ We accept credit/debit cards and other secure payment options through our registration portal.

❓ Can I switch sessions after registering?

✅ Yes, session changes may be possible depending on availability. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to adjust your child’s enrollment.

❓ Are there refunds?

✅ Partial Refund: If you cancel at least 2 weeks in advance, you will receive a refund minus a $150 cancellation fee or transfer with a $30 rebooking fee.

No Refunds: Cancellations less than 2 weeks prior or failure to attend will not be refunded or credited.

Full Refund: If we cancel a session, you may receive a full refund or transfer to another session.