As summer approaches, families across Southern California are looking for ways to get kids outdoors, active, and learning new skills. Youth sailing programs, offered at places like Dana Point Harbor, OCC School of Sailing & Seamanship, and the Long Beach Yacht Club, provide just that — an exciting blend of adventure, education, and personal growth that takes place on the water.
Sailing isn’t just a summer hobby; it’s a hands-on experience that teaches kids how to think on their feet, make decisions independently, and develop a sense of responsibility. When a young sailor is at the helm of their boat — whether it’s an Optimist or Sabot dinghy — they’re in charge. That real-time, real-world experience builds confidence and strengthens problem-solving skills.
Children participating in these programs develop practical seamanship from day one. They learn to rig a sailboat, understand wind direction and weather patterns, master points of sail, tie critical knots, and perform tacks, jibes, and docking maneuvers. Safety is a top priority in all programs, with U.S. Sailing-certified instructors, lifejacket rules, capsize recovery drills, and continuous on-the-water supervision.
According to Head Coach Tomas DiLuciano of the Long Beach Yacht Club, sailing offers far more than just learning how to navigate a boat—it’s a transformative experience for young sailors. “One of the most impactful takeaways for kids is the sense of independence and responsibility that comes from being on the water, sometimes with challenging conditions like strong winds, waves, and current,” DiLuciano explained. He emphasized that sailing teaches real-time decision-making, resilience, and accountability, especially under pressure. “Over time, I’ve seen young sailors grow into confident, capable individuals who not only develop a deep love and respect for the ocean, but also gain a strong awareness of environmental sustainability and the importance of protecting our waters,” he said.
In addition to solo sailing, many programs incorporate team-based boats like CFJs and 420s. These double-handed vessels encourage communication, cooperation, and trust between young sailors. Working together on the water reinforces valuable life lessons in teamwork and mutual respect — skills that extend well beyond the dock.
Perhaps most importantly, sailing gives kids a deep connection to the ocean. They develop an intuitive understanding of wind, tides, and currents, and often form a lasting appreciation for marine environments. Many programs tie in marine science or environmental education, nurturing a sense of stewardship for the local coastline.
The physical benefits are also significant. Balancing in a dinghy requires agility and strength. Kids build endurance, coordination, and quick reflexes while also honing their mental focus — reading shifting conditions and reacting under pressure.
At Long Beach Yacht Club, the youth sailing program is designed to support every level of sailor, from beginners to elite competitors. Head Coach Tomas DiLuciano describes the program as a year-round commitment to developing well-rounded, confident young sailors. “We offer classes for all levels — from kids stepping into a boat for the first time to high-performance youth sailors training for national and international events,” DiLuciano said. “Our approach to progression is intentional and proven.”
The journey begins with singlehanded sailing, where newcomers learn the fundamentals in a fun and engaging setting. Once sailors are comfortable on the water, they’re encouraged to race in local regattas, where they gain both experience and confidence while competing against their peers. “As they grow older,” DiLuciano explained, “we introduce them to doublehanded boats, where they can sail and race with friends, adding a new layer of teamwork and strategy.”
For those who want to take their skills to the next level, the program opens doors to international competition, Olympic development, and collegiate sailing opportunities. Still, DiLuciano notes that no matter the end goal, “our program ensures that every young sailor walks away with the skills and mindset to enjoy one of the most exciting sports in the world.”
Youth sailing can open doors far beyond a summer activity. Many programs include junior race teams and regatta participation, providing a natural path into high school sailing, collegiate competition, and even Olympic-level training. Along the way, young sailors often form lifelong friendships at sailing camps, beach days, and BBQs, making youth sailing programs a cornerstone of coastal community life.
Sailing experience also stands out on college applications, especially when tied to leadership roles or competitive success. Some students even return to the water as junior instructors, lifeguards, or marina staff, transforming a childhood passion into summer employment.
Local Programs: Dana Point, OCC, and Long Beach Yacht Club Sailing Programs
Dana Point Harbor is home to a variety of youth sailing opportunities, many of which are open to the public — no yacht club membership required. The Dana Point Youth Sailing Foundation, a nonprofit supported by community donations, offers programs designed to introduce kids to the joys of sailing at little to no cost. Programs cover sailing basics and safety for newcomers and provide opportunities to grow through advanced instruction and racing. Dana Point Sailing also emphasizes environmental education and encourages respect for the ocean. Visit danapointsailing.com for class details, registration, and scholarship opportunities.
OCC School of Sailing & Seamanship
OCC School of Sailing & Seamanship in Newport Beach offers one-week Youth Sailing Camps throughout the summer. These programs are divided into progressive levels:
Level 1: Learn to Sail for complete beginners
Level 2 & 3: Intermediate and advanced skills building
Introduction to Racing: Designed for those ready to take on regattas
Each course provides U.S. Sailing-certified instruction and covers safety, boat handling, rigging, and team sailing. Sessions fill quickly, and full program information is available at occsailing.com.
Long Beach Yacht Club Youth Sailing
The Long Beach Yacht Club (LBYC) has a proud tradition of developing competitive sailors through its year-round Youth Sailing Program for kids ages 5 to 17. With a strong commitment from the LBYC Board of Governors, the program offers state-of-the-art facilities, equipment, and instruction. Instructors are U.S. Sailing certified and trained in CPR and First Aid. Youth sailors learn more than sailing — they learn sportsmanship, teamwork, life skills, and a respect for fair competition. The program’s goal is to foster a lifelong love of sailing and seamanship. Learn more at lbyc.org.
Whether your child is new to the water or looking to sharpen their racing skills, youth sailing programs across Southern California provide safe, enriching, and unforgettable summer experiences. With options for every age and skill level, now is the time to sign up and set sail!
