About Us

The Refugio Junior Lifeguard Program is an educational and recreational summer program for children between the ages of 7 and 17. The Program’s young participants learn how to be safe in the ocean, what to do in an emergency, how to respect and care for the environment, and the importance of living a healthy and active lifestyle. They also get to explore nature, get in great shape, have fun and make new friends!

The Program’s curriculum focuses on 4 carefully constructed “hands-on” learning modules aimed at teaching kids skills and abilities that will serve them for the rest of their lives. These include (1) ocean safety and lifesaving skills, (2) first aid and CPR, (3) environmental awareness and protection, and (4) physical fitness and ocean recreation activities.

The Refugio Jr. Lifeguard Program is taught by a staff of profesionally-trained Ocean Lifeguards and other emergency services personnel including Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), State Park Peace Officers, and Firefighters. The Program also receives assistance and support from local teachers, as well as experts in fields such as oceanography, marine ecology, and more.

Parents love the Refugio "JG" Program because it offers a safe and sound environment for their children to learn, and kids love it because of the fun and exciting atmosphere that is created for them--with a little help from the ocean environment of course! We are the fun and educational Junior Lifeguard Program along the Santa Barbara County Coast. Come join us!