Registration is now open for the 2026 Junior Lifeguard Program, Santa Barbara County Parks Department has announced.

Families can sign up by visiting Santa Barbara County Junior Lifeguards website and clicking the green Register Now! button. There are currently summer sessions available for youth ages 6-17.

The Junior Lifeguard Program will offer four two-week sessions at Goleta Beach County Park and one one-week session at Jalama Beach in Lompoc. The program runs 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Each Goleta Beach session costs $250, and Jalama Week costs $125.  There are discounts for registering multiple children.

Session dates are:

• Session 1: June 15-26 (No program on June 19)
• Session 2: June 29-July 10 (No program on July 4)
• Session 3: July 13-24
• Session 4: July 27-Aug. 7
• Jalama Session: Aug. 10-14


All new participants will join returning Junior Lifeguards on the first day of their session for an untimed ocean swim test. Swim distances will be age appropriate.
Minis Program

Santa Barbara County Parks is welcoming 6- and 7-year-olds to join the Minis Program, featuring age-specific activities designed to introduce our youngest participants to ocean safety in a fun and supportive environment.

“The Santa Barbara County Junior Lifeguard Program is a dynamic and enriching training experience for youth ages 6 to 17, taught by professional Santa Barbara County Lifeguards,” the Parks Department said.

Participants will gain hands-on experience in ocean rescue techniques, paddleboard use, CPR, and first aid.

Daily activities include swimming, running, paddling, surfing, beach games, and water safety drills. The program includes educational sessions on marine ecology and ocean conservation.

The Junior Lifeguard Program promotes physical fitness, safety awareness, teamwork, and respect for the coastal environment.

For full program details, including session breakdowns and FAQs, visit the County of Santa Barbara Junior Lifeguards Website.

Additional information can also be found in the Santa Barbara County Junior Lifeguard Program Handbook.