The school year is winding down and summer is just over the horizon. From making flippered friends and exploring a private island to taking the stage for a theatrical production, there’s no shortage of activities in Marathon when school lets out. Here is information to help parents and kids come up with a summer plan. Please note that as most organizations are finalizing their camps, details are subject to change.
MARATHON
DOLPHIN DAY CAMP
What is it? Dolphin Day Camp is a fun-filled, active five-day program that introduces children ages 7-10 to the amazing world of dolphins. Campers meet DRC’s resident dolphin family, getting to know and respect each dolphin as an individual. DRC puts them up close to observe the dolphins in action so they can learn more about each dolphin’s unique behaviors and physical characteristics. With hands-on activities, group discussions, games, crafts and more, their days will prove that learning is fun.
Where is it? Dolphin Research Center, MM 59, Grassy Key
When is it? June 13-17; July 4-8; August 1-5 (8:30 a.m.- 4 p.m. each day)
What’s the age requirement? Ages 7-10
How does it work: Enrollment will open soon. For more information and to sign up when enrollment opens, please go to www.dolphins.org/dolphinday_camp.
Cost: $200 per child for Florida Keys residents; $300 per child for non-Keys residents. Includes all activities, demonstrations, interactive programs and digital photographs. Does not include meals or snacks.
Contact: Email education@dolphins.org with questions.
MCT’S CHILDREN’S SUMMER THEATRE PROGRAM
What is it? MCT’s Children’s Summer Theatre activities touch on theatre basics, including stage direction, terminology, auditioning, the production process and much more. Programming is designed for the beginner as well as the experienced student actor. All activities are designed to develop imagination, concentration, character, professionalism and technique and to strengthen the student’s command of his or her body and voice. All participants will be placed in the cast or crew of the 2022 Children’s Summer Theatre production.
Where is it? Marathon Community Theatre
When is it? Mondays and Wednesdays in June and July from 6 to 8:30 p.m., plus an initial meeting on May 31. Show dates are July 8, 9 and 10.
What’s the age requirement? Ages 6-18
How does it work? Visit www.marathontheater.org to download an application packet, or contact gm@marathontheater.org with further questions. Application deadline is May 27.
Cost: $120 per child, includes two complimentary show tickets. Contact MCT to inquire about available financial assistance.
Contact: Kara Pascucci (781-910-7339) or Stephanie Zajac (631-456-0638).
PIGEON KEY MARINE SCIENCE SUMMER CAMP
What is it? Campers will learn reef fish identification, invertebrate collection, snorkel at Sombrero Reef and around Pigeon Key, participate in dissections, fish, play field games and relay races, and enjoy their own private island.
Where is it? Pigeon Key
When is it? Day camps run Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on July 4-8, July 25-29 and Aug. 1-5. Overnight camps run from 9 a.m. Monday through 5 p.m. Friday on July 11-15 and July 18-22. As of press time, registration for the overnight camps is on a waitlist-only basis.
What’s the age requirement? Day camps are for ages 8-16. Overnight camps are for ages 10-16.
How does it work? Find more information and registration forms at www.pigeonkey.net.
Cost: $475 per child for day camps, $1,100 per child for overnight camps
Contact: Email casey@pigeonkey.net.
CAMP CRANE
What is it? Crane Point Hammock’s Camp Crane, now in its third year, will include hiking, kayaking, swimming and fishing as well as fun activities like arts and crafts, kiting, treasure hunting, water balloons and more.
Where is it? Crane Point Hammock Museum & Nature Center in Marathon
When is it? May 31 until school starts in August, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (early drop-off available)
What’s the age requirement? Ages 5-11 (some activities will be separated by age groups)
How does it work? Register with Charlotte Quinn by contacting cranepointmuseum@gmail.com.
Cost: $100 per week per child.
Contact: Charlotte Quinn
CITY OF MARATHON PARKS & RECREATION SUMMER CAMP
What is it? CMPR Summer Camp strives to provide campers with a safe and clean environment to enjoy a variety of activities throughout the summer period. It offers a quality camp experience which includes a balance of activities (songs, crafts, games and field trips), while emphasizing fun and enjoyment. Included in the summer experience is an opportunity for each camper to acquire new skills and abilities, as well as to improve existing skills. This camp offers an outlet for all children to socialize with each other and provides a constructive outlet for energy and self-expression.
Where is it? Marathon Community Park
When is it? 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday from July 11 to Aug. 5.
What’s the age requirement? Ages 5-11
Cost: $80 per child per week, $20 discount for siblings
Contact: Email Jen Ward at wardj@ci.marathon.fl.us.
MIDDLE KEYS SAILING YOUTH CAMP
What is it? Learn to harness the power of the wind and waves with the Middle Keys Sailing Youth Camp.
Where is it? Marathon Yacht Club, 33rd St. Gulf, Marathon
When is it? Beginner, intermediate and advanced sessions run for one or two weeks between the end of May and end of July. On Mondays through Thursdays, ages 7-9 sail in the mornings and ages 10-16 sail in the afternoons. All ages sail together full days on Fridays. A Keys-wide regatta is scheduled for June 26.
What’s the age requirement? Ages 7-16
How does it work? For more information and sign-up, visit www.mycef.education starting April 25.
Cost: Tuition is $160 per week. Financial assistance is available for those in need.
JUST FOR FUN CAMP
What is it? Join St. Columba Episcopal Church for a day camp featuring field trips, arts and crafts and games. Snacks and lunch are included. Parents have peace of mind knowing their kids have a safe, loving place to go during the long summer days, and we provide kids with memories and new skills that will last for years.
Where is it? St. Columba Episcopal Church, Marathon
When is it? July 5-22. Camp days are from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., with after care available from 3-5 p.m.
What’s the age requirement? Ages 5 and up. Teens are welcome as junior counselors.
How does it work? Registration will open in May. Call 305-743-6412 or email stcolumbamarathon.office@gmail.com.Cost: Camp is free and space is limited. After care is offered for $5 per day per family.
UPPER KEYS
ART SUMMER CAMP
What is it? A program that helps to develop a child’s motor skills, concentration, self-esteem and creativity.
Where is it? Our Place in Paradise, Tavernier.
When is it? June 6-10 (drawing and painting); June 13-17 (mixed media); June 20-25 (drawing and painting); and June 27-July 1 (mixed media). All camps run from 9 a.m. to noon.
What’s the age requirement? For kids 7-10.
How does it work? Register by calling the gallery. Space is limited to six students to keep a safe environment.
Cost: $190 per week, per student.
Contact: Call 305-916-5828.
CAPT. SLATE’S KIDS SCUBA CAMP
What is it? A scuba camp that gets kids out on the water and beneath the depths for certification.
Where is it? Capt. Slate’s Scuba Adventures, Tavernier.
When is it? June 13-17; July 18-22; Aug. 1-5.
What’s the age requirement? Kids ages 11-18.
How does it work? Visit captainslate.com/events to sign up.
Cost: $420 per camper includes everything except a bathing suit and towel.
Contact: Call 305-451-3020.
DOLPHIN KIDS SUMMER CAMP
What is it? A weeklong marine science summer camp. Campers learn about all sorts of subjects, from local ecology to dolphin communication and behavior. Best of all, the dolphin camp makes learning fun through hands-on science activities, marine mammal lessons and shows, behind the scenes tours and coastal exploration.
Where is it? Dolphins Plus Bayside, Key Largo.
When is it? July 4-8; July 11-15; and July 18-22 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
What’s the age requirement? Kids ages 6-10.
How does it work? Visit dolphinsplus.com/dolphin-swim-programs/dolphins-plus-dolphin-summer-camp to sign up.
Cost: $375 per camper.
Contact: Call 305-451-1993.
iCAN SWIM FLORIDA KEYS
What is it? An adaptive swim summer camp where children and youth with disabilities in the Upper Keys will gain essential water safety skills and swim instruction in a fun, family-centered, caring, and adaptive program provided by volunteers with certifications and training in adaptive aquatics and water safety instruction.
Where is it? Ron Levy Aquatic Center and Founders Park beach, Islamorada.
When is it? Aug. 1-5.
What’s the age requirement? For children, youth and adults with disabilities ages 3 and up.
How does it work? Interested families and volunteers can register by phone or online for this five-day camp, including 45- to 60-minute swim and water safety pool-based lessons, as well as fun beach-based activities to expand on the skills learned in the pool sessions.
Cost: $150 per swimmer.
Contact: Call Tana Carson at 305-394-1459; email: tana.carson@gmail.com; website: https://icanshine.org/ican-swim-florida-keys-fl.
JUNIOR DOLPHIN EXPLORERS CAMP
What is it? A weeklong summer camp experience at Dolphins Plus Bayside for dolphin lovers and budding marine scientists. Campers will investigate dolphin intelligence, flukes and flippers, majestic manatees, and even learn how to help stranded marine mammals.
Where is it? Dolphins Plus Bayside, Key Largo.
When is it? July 25-29 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
What’s the age requirement? Kids ages 11-14.
How does it work? Visit dolphinsplus.com/dolphin-swim-programs/dolphins-plus-dolphin-summer-camp to sign up.
Cost: $375 per camper.
Contact: Call 305-451-1993.
JUNIOR SUMMER TENNIS CAMP
What is it? A weeklong camp of tennis and matches, dodgeball and more.
Where is it? Founders Park, Islamorada
When is it? June 6-10 (week 1); June 13-17 (week 2); June 20-24 (week 3); July 11-15 (week 4); July 18-22 (week 5); and Aug. 1-5 (week 6).
What’s the age requirement? For kids ages 6 and up.
How does it work? Registration is required.
Cost: $250 (full day) and $150 (half day).
Contact: Call Susie Jannach at 954-290-7502 or Greg Pearson at 517-285-5693.
MARINELAB SUMMER CAMP
What is it? A camp filled with exploration out on the water with snorkeling and science. Activities include boat trips to snorkel the mangroves, seagrasses and coral reefs, hands-on science discovery labs, lunch, snack and group games.
Where is it? MarineLab, located at 51 Shoreland Dr., Key Largo.
When is it? June 6-10, June 20-24 and July 5-8. Camp days run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
What’s the age requirement? For kids entering fourth to eighth grades next school year.
How does it work? Visit marinelab.org/summer-camps and register for a full-week camp or a short-week camp.
Cost: $400 per camper for all activities, gear, lunch and snacks; and $350 for siblings for the full week, Monday through Friday, June 6-10 and June 20-24. $320 per camper; and $280 for siblings for the short week, Tuesday through Friday, July 5-8.
Contact: Visit marinelab.org/summer-camps.
MARK SORENSON YOUTH SAILING CAMP
What is it? Florida Keys Sailing Summer Camp is a sailing and water sports-focused camp for boys and girls ages 5 through 18. Learning how to sail, improving boat handling skills, becoming safer boaters, as well as exploring the unique marine sanctuary of the Florida Keys are among the many activities campers will experience.
Where is it? Upper Keys Sailing Camp, 100 N. Ocean Bay Dr., Key Largo.
When is it? May 31-June 10 (session 1)(No camp on May 30); June 13-24 (session 2); June 27-July 8 (session 3)(No camp on July 4); July 11-22 (session 4); and July 25 to Aug. 5 (session 5)
What’s the age requirement? Largo Conchs program for kids 5-7; Learn to Windsurf for ages 8-18: Learn to Sail for ages 8-14 and Intro to C420 Sailing for ages 12-18.
How does it work? Visit msysp.org/2022-florida-keys-sailing-summer-camp to sign up.
Cost: Prices vary based on the program.
Contact: Call 305-747-2600.
SUMMER RECREATION CAMP AT FOUNDERS
What is it? A summer camp full of activities for kids. Games to arts and crafts and movies to swimming will be offered. Weekly and daily camp options are available.
Where is it? Founders Park, Islamorada.
When is it? June 6-July 29.
What’s the age requirement? For kids 6-12.
How does it work? Resident priority access for registration will be open through May 14, and enrollment for everyone beginning May 15.
Cost: $125 weekly; $100 per sibling. Daily rate is $40.
Contact: Call the Park Office at 305-853-1685.
SUMMER SWIM CAMP AT FOUNDERS
What is it? A swim-only camp focusing on stroke technique, starts and turns. Camp includes water games and fun dry-land activities. It includes introduction to swim and new summer league, competitive swim technique development and Friday fun races.
Where is it? Ron Levy Aquatic Center, Founders Park, Islamorada.
When is it?. July 11-15 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
What’s the age requirement? For kids ages 6 and up.
How does it work? Visit www.islamorada.fl.us and click on the “Summer Camps” page for registration information.
Cost: $200 per session.
Contact: Call Jon Olsen at 305-393-5855 or the Founders Park Office at 305-853-1685.
SWIM & DIVE COMBO CAMP
What is it? The swim clinic includes stroke technique, starts, turns, water games and dry-land activities. Springboard dive clinic includes basic introductory to springboard diving and dry-land training.
Where is it? Ron Levy Aquatic Center, Founders Park, Islamorada.
When is it? June 27-July 1 and July 4-8. Clinics would go from Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon.
What’s the age requirement? For kids 6 and up.
How does it work? Visit www.islamorada.fl.us and click on the “Summer Camps” page for registration information.
Cost: $225 per session.
Contact: Call Jon Olsen at 305-393-5855, Kelly Kater at 215-622-6841 or the Founders Park office at 305-853-1685.
SYNCHRO SIRENS SUMMER CAMP
What is it? Jump in and learn the basics of synchronized swimming this summer. The camp will have a finale performance of the skills learned while showcasing custom routine swimsuit designs.
Where is it? Ron Levy Aquatic Center, Founders Park in Islamorada.
When is it? June 13-17 (session 1); June 20-24 (session 2) and July 11-15(session 3).
What’s the age requirement? Children must be comfortable and strong enough to swim on their own in deep water for enrollment.
How does it work? Pre-registration is required (no daily drop-ins or same-day registrations). See registration instructions by visiting www.islamorada.fl.us and click on the “Summer Camps” page.
Cost: $200 per week. Contact: Call 856-473-4752 or email to SynchroSirens@gmail.com.
