Welcome to Camp We Are Ocean!

Pay It Forward

After camp, we invite each camper to take part in paying it forward by helping ensure this experience continues for others. This might look like sharing your story, inspiring your community to get involved, or helping raise awareness and support for future camps. Every effort helps open the door for another young survivor to step into the same sense of joy, connection, and empowerment that you experienced at Camp WAO. Together, we can keep this ripple of impact going strong.

The Newport Aquatic Center (NAC) is stoked to welcome you to Camp We Are Ocean — a unique ocean-based adventure designed to empower, connect, and inspire. We are focused on providing young cancer thrivers and survivors with life-changing experiences through the healing power of the ocean.

You’ve landed here because you’ve connected with our friends at We Got This, whose mission is to build a community of giving and receiving that helps cancer thrivers and supporters live their best lives.

We are proud to be part of that mission. We offer ocean-based adventure programs designed specifically for cancer thrivers—fostering connection, confidence, and healing through time in nature.

Throughout your time at Camp We Are Ocean, you’ll engage in ocean sports like outrigger canoe paddling, surfing, and stand-up paddling, explore local marine ecosystems, and connect with others who understand your journey. Our experienced team of watermen and women, coaches, and volunteers are here to support and guide you every step of the way. Be ready to grow, laugh, challenge yourself, and leave with lasting memories — and maybe a few salty high-fives.

Before applying, please read below to get a better idea of camp!

Once you’ve been accepted to Camp We Are Ocean, you’ll be connected with our camp leaders who will guide you through the next steps. As part of the process, we’ll ask you to provide a medical consent form from your primary care physician to ensure you’re cleared to participate in all camp activities. This helps us keep everyone safe and supported throughout the week.

Camp Date

August 25–29, 2025

Travel Information

We will meet at the Long Beach Express at 7am on Monday, August 25, 2025

Long Beach Express
320 Golden Shore, Long Beach, CA 90802

You do not need to purchase express tickets! However, you will be responsible for getting yourself to and from Long Beach.

What to Expect at Camp We Are Ocean

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure! Camp We Are Ocean is designed to challenge, inspire, and connect young cancer survivors through the healing power of the ocean and the strength of community. Here’s what you can expect during your time with us:

Ocean Adventures:
From outrigger canoeing to stand-up paddling and snorkeling, you’ll spend plenty of time on (and in!) the water, discovering new skills and building confidence in a safe, supportive environment.

Camp Life:
You’ll stay at Camp Emerald Bay on Catalina Island, sleeping in shared cabins and enjoying the full camp experience—campfires, s’mores, beach time, and all the good vibes that come with living island-style. Nights can get chilly, so be sure to bring warm sleeping clothes and an extra blanket if you’d like to stay cozy.

Lifelong Friendships:
Our camp brings together cancer thrivers and passionate volunteers who get what you’ve been through. Expect laughs, late-night chats, team challenges, and a strong sense of connection with others who just get it.

Wellness & Reflection:
We’ll have moments of mindfulness, journaling, and group sharing to help you reflect, reset, and recharge—mentally, emotionally, and physically.

All Meals Included:
From hearty breakfasts to sunset dinners, we’ve got you covered with meals, snacks, and hydration. (Got dietary needs? Let us know on the application—we’ll take care of it!)

Packing List

What to Bring to Camp We Are Ocean

This is a short trip, and you’ll need to carry your own luggage on and off the ferry/shoreboat and to your cabin—so pack light and smart! Bring only what you can comfortably carry.

Essentials:

• Sleeping bag (lightweight)

• Camp/travel pillow (small)

• 2 towels (1 beach, 1 bath)

• Daypack or small backpack

• Reusable water bottle

• Flashlight or headlamp

• Toiletries

• Bug spray

• Sunscreen

• UPF sun shirt

• Wide brimmed sunhat

• Baseball cap

• Sunglasses

• Tennis shoes (lightweight)

• Sandals

• Water shoes or Teva-style sandals

• General warm summer clothing

• Warm jacket (e.g. lightweight puffer)

• Windbreaker jacket (lightweight)

• 2 swimsuits

• Pajamas

• Dramamine and/or sea sick bracelets if you’re prone to motion sickness

Pro Tip:
Nights can get cold—bring warm sleeping clothes and an extra blanket if you’d like to stay cozy!