Learn to Row at the Newport Aquatic Center

Founded in 1982, the Newport Aquatic Center was built in 1987 to offer the public the unique opportunity to engage in the Olympic water sports of rowing, canoeing, kayaking and outrigger canoe competition. With a mission to teach and inspire athletes of all ages, background and abilities, the Newport Aquatic Center offers a number of camps and programs geared toward developing athletic skills while also serving as a positive and influential path for young adults.

To accomplish its mission, the 18,000-square foot facility offers cardiovascular and weight training facilities, locker rooms for men and women, a large multi-purpose meeting room and storage for more than 400 outriggers, kayaks, stand up paddle boards and rowing shells. The following camps are also popular within the Orange County area and further help to serve the mission of bringing rowing to people of all ages.

Spring Break Jr. Learn to Row Camp

Designed for kids between the ages of 12 and 18, the Spring Break Jr. Learn to Row Camp teaches the basics of rowing. The two-day camp provides an introduction to the sport for those who are interested in joining the Newport Aquatic Center’s rowing team or for those who are simply interested in trying out a fun sport. Participants are taught an introductory stroke technique, boat safety and handling and the importance of rowing as a team.

Novice Jr. Rowing Summer Camp

The Novice Jr. Rowing Summer Camp is meant for anyone who is a first year rower. The two-week camp is designed for high school students, with seniors often enrolling in the camp in order to learn more about the sport for the first time. This camp is a great introduction to the support and is particularly helpful for those who are interested in joining the Newport Aquatic Center’s rowing team. Participants are taught boat safety and handling, the importance of rowing as a team and introductory stroke technique. After completing the Novice Introduction camp, participants may choose to join the Advanced Camp after receiving a recommendation from the coach.

Advanced Jr. Rowing Summer Camp

The Advanced Jr. Rowing Summer Camp is open only to those who are returning Newport Aquatic Center High School Varsity and Novice Rowers. The camp is designed to continue the training throughout the summer. As such, all athletes must first complete the Novice Camp and must have approval from the coach to enroll in this camp.

Kids Summer Paddle Camp

The Kids Summer Paddle Camp is a five-day camp teaching the basics of water safety, outrigger paddling, kayaking and stand up paddling. Participants explore the Back Bay as they learn about the conservation and ecology of Newport Harbor. As part of the experience, participants visit the Back Bay Science Center, Bubble Beach, the Balboa Fun Zone and Newport Dunes. On the last day of camp, participants enjoy kayak and standup paddle board relay races along with a potluck barbecue.

The Newport Aquatic Center is located at 1 White Cliffs Drive in Newport Beach. Member hours are Monday through Thursday from 6:00 am until 8:00 pm and Friday from 6:00 am until 7:00 PM. The center is open on New Year’s Eve and Christmas Eve until noon, but is closed on the following holidays: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and Fourth of July.