Catalina Island Marine Institute Fall Camp!

Catalina Marine Science Adventure at Fox Landing!

Join us for an unforgettable marine science journey to Fox Landing, Catalina Island Marine Institute (CIMI). This immersive program invites students to dive into hands-on learning with real scientists while exploring the unique island ecosystems of Catalina.

Date: September 21-23, 2026

Group 1: Grades 5th-8th

Group 2: Grades 9th-12th

Open to 16 students per group that will remain together with HFAC professional outdoor educators, for all activities .

Dorm-style rooms.

Nut-free kitchen that can accommodate to dietary needs.

CIMI is a private facility with no public access.

Program Overview:

Students will snorkel over vibrant kelp forests, hike scenic island trails, and engage in immersive marine science labs covering oceanography, invertebrates, plankton, fish, sharks and more. Each activity is led by CIMI’s professional marine biologists, with support and guidance from HFAC educators, who travel and participate alongside the students throughout the experience.

Adventure & Activities:

In addition to daily marine science exploration, students will challenge themselves through snorkeling, team challenges, high rope swing, kayaking, ecology hikes with spectacular views and unwind during free time with optional games like GaGa Ball, and volleyball at the beachside camp. Evening activities could include night snorkeling, a campfire under the stars, and climbing the rock wall lit up with music and lights for a memorable night experience.

About Fox Landing:

Located in a private cove on Catalina Island, Toyon offers a one-of-a-kind marine setting with beachfront access, tidepools, and science labs. Students stay in cabins with only HFAC students, and enjoy meals together in a central dining hall, all just steps from the ocean.

Cost & Payment Schedule

• $559 Includes transportation to the island, all meals, labs, equipment, and activities.

• $149 Deposit Due upon registration before March 31st to guarantee your spot

• Remaining Balance due before September 1st (ask us about potentially using charter funds)

• If you require a different deposit/payment schedule, please reach out to us so we can best accommodate

• HFAC Gear Library can also provide sleeping bags, backpacking packs for luggage, and more. No cost for campers.

  
  

Why Attend with HFAC:

• Gain confidence, independence, and a deep understanding of marine ecosystems

• Make special memories with new and old friends!

• Learn from professional CIMI marine biologists in an unforgettable island setting

• Enjoy a mix of high-energy adventure and free-time fun in a safe, supportive environment

• Travel with experienced HFAC educators/wilderness first responders

• This is one of our most beloved trips...students often ask to return year after year!

If you have questions and would like to schedule a phone call before registering, please email us at hfadventurecommunity@gmail.com

Students must know how to swim.

For grades 5th-12th.

Non-refundable deposit.

Enrollment numbers will determine if we will have separate age groups