4/23/26 UPDATE: Registration for the 2026 Ventura County Jr. Lifeguard Program is full. 

The Ventura County Junior Lifeguard Program, sponsored by the Ventura County Harbor Department, offers a dynamic summer experience for youth aged 8 to 15. The program, held between July 6 - July 31, 2026, provides participants with essential skills in lifeguard rescue techniques, emergency medical first aid, and ocean safety.

The program emphasizes physical conditioning to help young individuals build strength, endurance, and resilience. It also offers a variety of ocean sports activities enabling participants to develop both athletic abilities and a deeper appreciation for marine environments.

In addition to physical and ocean-related activities, the program instills values of public service and teamwork, encouraging participants to develop leadership skills. By the end of the program, participants not only gain practical knowledge and lifeguard experience but also become more confident, responsible, and aware of the importance of water safety.

This program offers an ideal foundation for young individuals interested in pursuing future lifeguard roles or simply gaining important life skills while enjoying the beach and ocean activities.

Enrollment for the program is first come, first served. Due to the popularity of the program, enrollment fills to capacity quickly.

New Participants

First time participants are required to tryout and qualify before being accepted in the program. To qualify, new participants must be able to swim 100 yards under 3 minutes, float or tread water for two minutes, and be able to dive underwater to a depth of 7 feet. No exceptions.

Tryouts are a requirement for all new participants. A parent/guardian must be present during the tryout.

Tryout dates are scheduled from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2026 and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, July 3, 2026 at the Hueneme High School pool, located at 500 Bard Rd. Oxnard, CA 93033.

2026 Jr. Lifeguard Program

The Ventura County Jr. Lifeguard Program will take place from July 6 to July 31, 2026.

Cost:

$575 - includes a trip to the Channel Islands National Park (Monday, July 23) and a t-shirt
$545 - for siblings

Shorts and sweatshirts will also be available for purchase.

For more information, please call the Ventura County Harbor Patrol at (805) 973-5959 or Harbor Administration at (805) 973-5950.

DOWNLOAD THE APPLICATION HERE

4/23/26 UPDATE: Registration for the 2026 Ventura County Jr. Lifeguard Program is full. You may fill out and turn in an application to be put on a wait list. The wait list will include the first 10 applications turned in.