Weeklong Adventure Camps

From the moment we depart for Catalina Island, California, the Newport Aquatic Center’s Camp WAO (We Are Ocean) transports and transforms participants via a carefully curated menu of activity, challenge, 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, that they can carry with them through the remainder of their lives.