NAC / We Are Ocean Camp

CAMP WĀO AT A GLANCE

From the moment we depart for Catalina Island, California, the Newport Aquatic Center’s “Camp We Are Ocean” transports and transforms participants via a carefully curated menu of activities, challenges, community, and healing.

Over the span of four days amidst the extraordinary island wilderness of Catalina Island, teen and young adult cancer fighters (some in active treatment, some in remission) embark on a journey of adventure and self-discovery as they learn and practice a diverse array of expertly guided ocean activities.

Through paddling various crafts like Outrigger canoes, Kayaks, Stand-Up & Prone paddleboards along with other activities like sailing, swimming, snorkeling, fishing and ocean education participants discover new sensations and abilities, expanding their sense of possibility and capability.

Back on land, we cement and contextualize each experience through journaling, guided reflection, restorative yoga, and meditation. Along the way, through connection and sharing with fellow cancer fighters, participants are reminded that while the journey through cancer is arduous, the burden of their experience, and the challenge of growing beyond it, is not borne alone.

Deep engagement in nature and sport, as well as witnessing the inspiring progress of fellow cancer fighters, provides participants an incredible context of healing and reflection. Camp WAO guests return to shore with a renewed sense of purpose and possibility, new friends, and hopefully, some healthy new habits they can carry with them throughout their lives.

WHO

Teens and young adults (15-39) fighting and surviving cancer.

WHAT

A 4-day ocean-based, transformational adventure and support camp for those fighting and surviving cancer. 2024 Camp WĀO activities include but are not limited to: Outrigger canoeing, Kayaking, Stand-Up & Prone Paddle Boarding, Sailing, Swimming, Snorkeling, Fishing, Ocean Education, Mountain Biking, Hiking and Archery. Note: We may be hosting a morning surfing lesson on Monday, August 26th and Friday 30 post Camp on the mainland. We will keep you posted in case you want to extend your trip and participate in the surfing lesson.

WHEN

Camp WAO 2024 at Emerald Bay, Catalina Island (August 26-30th)

WHERE

Emerald Bay, Santa Catalina Island, California / 33.4692° N, 118.5320° W

WHY

To take a break from cancer and live life to the fullest. We focus on bringing intimate groups of cancer fighters and survivors together in coastal wilderness environments while providing opportunities for connection, self-discovery, empowerment, support, and adventure. Camp WĀO guests return to shore with a renewed sense of purpose and possibility, new friends, and hopefully, some healthy new habits, that they can carry with them through the remainder of their post-cancer lives.

*Please visit our Camp WĀO FAQs for some answers to the most commonly asked questions that we receive from our participants.