Take off on an epic 14-day adventure along the California coast, where marine biology and conservation take center stage. Dive into the wonders of the Pacific Ocean as you explore tidepools, snorkel in California’s majestic kelp forests, and paddle through the captivating sea caves of Channel Islands National Park. Experience the thrill of whale watching in Monterey Bay and learn to catch a wave on northern California’s iconic surf breaks. Hike the breathtaking cliffs of Big Sur and interact with marine life at the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium. Engage in conservation and science education programs along the coast, and learn about the care of injured and rehabilitation of marine mammals and wildlife. This journey will not only deepen your understanding of marine ecosystems but also build essential skills in environmental stewardship, fostering a lifelong appreciation for the ocean and its conservation.
California
Pacific Marine Biology
14 Days
Trip duration
6th - 8th | 9th - 12th
Grades
14 Days
Jun 27 - Jul 10, 2025
Jul 15 - Jul 28, 2025
SFO | LAX
Arrival
LAX | SFO
Departure
$4,395
Tuition
14 Days
Trip duration
Jun 27 - Jul 10, 2025
Jul 15 - Jul 28, 2025
6th - 8th | 9th - 12th
Grades
Overview
Highlights
- Look for Whales, Dolphins, and Sharks on Guided Tour of Monterey Bay
- Visit a Leading Marine Mammal Rescue and Rehabilitation Facility
- Dive Into Shark Research and Conservation
- Tour the World-Renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Snorkel Through Kelp Forests at the Channel Islands National Park
- Learn to Surf on the Iconic Wave Breaks of Northern California
- Study Tide Pools at the Stunning Point Lobos Reserve
- Learn About the Life Cycle and Protection of California Elephant Seals
Want to learn more about traveling with ARCC or have more questions about this program?
Schedule a Call with Brent Anderson
Farallon Islands Whale & Wildlife Watching
Set sail on an exhilarating whale-watching tour in Monterey Bay, where the Pacific Ocean's giants come to life. Monterey Bay is home to the largest undersea canyon on the West Coast of the United States, which begins just a mile off the shore, which attracts a wide variety of marine life, including humpback whales, orcas, great white sharks, and more! The bay is known as the "Serengeti of the Sea" because of its abundance of marine life. This unique adventure offers an unparalleled opportunity to safely witness these incredible marine animals, all while exploring the beauty of the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary. Gain a deeper appreciation for ocean conservation through this unforgettable marine wildlife encounter.
Wildlife
Environment
Snorkeling at Channel Islands National Park
Explore the wonders of Channel Islands National Park with an exciting snorkeling trip through its stunning kelp forests. Swim and dive alongside a diverse array of marine life, including playful sea lions, colorful fish, and docile leopard sharks, while marveling at the dramatic coastal landscapes. Known as the "Galápagos of the North," the Channel Islands offer a unique perspective on one of California’s most beautiful and pristine marine ecosystems, providing a thrilling opportunity to connect with nature in an almost untouched setting.
Snorkel
Wildlife
Marine Conservation & Science Experience
Dive into the world of marine conservation with a visit to the Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito, where we learn about the rescue and rehabilitation of injured sea lions, seals, and other marine mammals. Follow this with a Shark Lab tour at CSU Long Beach, where we delve into shark research and conservation efforts with marine biologists. These experiences provide hands-on education and insight into the critical work being done to protect and preserve our ocean’s most vulnerable inhabitants, fostering a profound understanding of marine conservation.
Conservation
Adventure
Common Questions
All food, lodging, transportation, and activities are paid for with your trip tuition. Families are responsible for booking flights or arranging transportation for students to meet their leaders and other group members at the program’s arrival airport.
Summer weather in California can vary greatly. Expect warm weather throughout the itinerary (80 to 90s). The coastal areas can be milder and in the mountains, the days are generally warm, but the evenings can sometimes be chilly. All throughout the state, you may encounter fog (San Francisco), and chilly nights (Big Sur) Daytime temperatures can be as warm as 100°F and nights as cool as 40°F.
The projects range from more educational, learning about data collection and marine science to hands-on conservation projects. Students may be collecting water samples one day, and picking up some hand tools to clear invasive species the next. They are engaging, and all mixed with picturesque views and lots of fun.
You will sleep in tents, in State Parks, and in beautiful private campsites. All campgrounds are “front-country,” meaning you will be close to the group van at every site. All campgrounds have restroom facilities and running water for cooking, washing hands, etc. Many campgrounds have showers on-site as well. You will sleep in groups of 3-4 in tents supplied by ARCC. Please make sure you check the California Coast Clothing & Equipment List and remember to bring your own sleeping bag and pad.
Each group will travel together, with their two leaders, in a 15-passenger van. If you would like to bring music for these rides, feel free to bring a music player or CDs. If you bring an iPod or MP3 player, make sure to bring a radio adapter, as most of our vans do not have an MP3 jack.
The group will work together to create each menu and prepare the meals throughout the duration of this trip, with occasional meals out during travel days.
Vegetarians and medical dietary requirements (i.e. allergies) are catered for. It does help if we are informed of this prior to the departure date.
We suggest bringing spending money of roughly $75/week. Most cash should come home, but you will want some personal money to pay for airline baggage fees at the airport, souvenirs/gifts, laundry, extra snacks, and emergencies (lost items, clinic visits, etc.). A small amount of cash and ATM cards usually work best.
If you are traveling to California from somewhere in the United States and are under the age of 18, airlines do not require photo identification. It is a good idea to travel with a picture I.D. if possible, but it is not necessary to bring a passport. A school identification card with your photo on it is best, but a library card or credit card with your name on it is also helpful. If you are traveling to California from somewhere outside of the United States, you will need to bring your valid passport.
Although you will not be doing traditional backpacking on this trip, it is important that you bring a backpack as your main piece of luggage. Throughout the trip, the group will be navigating through airports, on and off buses, up and down stairways, and taking short walks on unpaved paths to their campsites. The group will be able to move much more efficiently if everyone is carrying their belongings on their back.
Have questions? Speak to one of our Program Directors, give them a call at (415) 332.5075 , they love talking about their trips!
