The Mission
We believe the ocean is the ultimate playground! Our play-based learning approach builds core water skills, teaches wave respect, and guarantees huge smiles.
We're turning timid waders into confident shredders. Every wave is a lesson, every splash is a milestone. Join us where the sand meets the sea.
Safety First
- 01. Tiny 1:4 instructor to student ratios.
- 02. 100% Red Cross Certified Crew.
- 03. Professional grade safety gear provided.
- 04. Mandatory SPF application breaks.
Ocean Readiness
Age alone does not determine whether someone is ready for the ocean. We assess each participant individually to ensure they are placed in the right level.
Pool or Ocean Assessment
Every child completes a short water assessment before placement to evaluate comfort, basic skills, and confidence.
Placement Factors
Program levels are based on age, swimming ability, confidence, and comfort in open water.
Programs
Advanced Levels
DOLPHINS
AGES 7-9Prerequisite: Sandpipers or ability to navigate small waves and tread water. Wave negotiation and independent swimming in swells.
To Pass: Swim 25 yards in open water, tread water for 30 seconds unassisted, and identify safe entry/exit points through waves.
STINGRAYS
AGES 9-12Prerequisite: Dolphins or ability to swim 25 yards in open water. Rip-current recognition, sighting, and open-water stamina.
To Pass: Execute rip-current escape drill, swim 50 yards with sighting, and demonstrate beach-boundary awareness.
SHARKS
AGES 11+Prerequisite: Stingrays or instructor approval. Junior lifeguard prep, advanced rescue basics, and leadership skills.
To Pass: Lead a beach safety check, swim 100 yards in open water, perform mock rescue, and demonstrate calm under submersion.
Training Location
📍 Santa Monica Beach
Exact meeting point provided after registration.
Ocean Essentials
Sebastian
The Specialist
Ocean Readiness
Participants may complete a short pool or ocean assessment before placement. Program levels are based on age, swimming ability, confidence, and comfort in open water.
Seahorses
No prerequisite. Comfortable in shallow water with parent. No formal swimming required.
Jellyfish
Must complete Seahorses or demonstrate comfort with face in water and assisted floating.
Sandpipers
Must complete Jellyfish or float unassisted for 15 seconds and paddle 5 yards.
Dolphins
Must complete Sandpipers or navigate small waves and tread water with assistance.
Stingrays
Must complete Dolphins or swim 25 yards in open water and identify rip-current signs.
Sharks
Must complete Stingrays or instructor approval. Ready for leadership and junior lifeguard skills.
What They Learn
Parents Stay Beachside
A parent or legal guardian must remain at the beach throughout every session.
Children may only enter the water when instructed and must leave the water when training ends.
Useful FAQs
Does my child need to know how to swim?+
Not for Seahorses! We assess every child before placing them in the right level. Safety is always the first priority.
What happens when the surf is too large?+
We move to a sheltered location or reschedule. We never train in dangerous conditions.
Are wetsuits required?+
We provide all necessary gear including rash guards and wetsuits when water temps are cooler.
Can parents participate?+
Parents watch from the beach! We find kids focus better when parents are cheering from the sidelines.
How are children placed into levels?+
We use age as a guide, but our pre-session assessment looks at swimming ability, confidence, and comfort in open water.
What happens if my child becomes frightened?+
Our instructors are trained to gently coach kids through fear. No pressure, no forced participation—just encouragement.
Are these official junior lifeguard classes?+
Not officially affiliated, but our Sharks curriculum covers many junior lifeguard skills as a great prep!