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Sanibel Recreation Center Summer Camp 2026 & Teen CIT Programs

Sanibel Recreation Center Announces 2026 Summer Camp & Teen Leadership Programs

Summer planning just got a lot easier for island families! The Sanibel Recreation Department has officially unveiled its highly anticipated Summer Camp Program, running from June 8 through July 31, 2026. This long-standing island tradition provides an unforgettable, high-energy outlet designed to keep kids active, engaged, and connected throughout the school break.

At the LeAneSuarezGroup, we love seeing our local community resources shine. The Sanibel Recreation Center is a world-class facility, and its comprehensive summer programming is one of the many reasons why raising a family on the islands is so uniquely rewarding.

In a nutshell: The Sanibel Recreation Center is launching its 8-week summer camp for grades K-8 on June 8, featuring local outdoor adventures, massive off-island field trips, and a dedicated leadership program for teens.

The K-8 Summer Camp Experience

The main camp program caters to youth entering grades K-8 in the fall. Operating Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, the camp blends structured recreation, creative arts, and safe outdoor adventures.

On-Island Daily Activities

Campers staying on the island will enjoy a diverse, rotating itinerary of activities right in their backyard:

  • Daily swimming and pool fun at the recreation center’s aquatic complex.

  • Creative crafting stations and hands-on themed projects.

  • Classic island excursions including kayaking, golfing, and beach days.

  • On-site bounce houses, specialized themed experiences, and seasonal treats.

Epic Weekly Off-Island Field Trips

Organizers are turning up the adventure dial this year with an incredible lineup of weekly excursions off the island:

  • Arcades & Entertainment: Interactive gaming at Dave & Buster’s, alongside classic fun at HeadPinz and Happy’s Fun Center.

  • High-Energy Sports: Rock climbing at Fort Rock and Central Rock, plus trampoline action at Sky Zone and Slick City.

  • Water Parks: Multi-day excursions hitting Sun-N-Fun Lagoon, Sunsplash, and Brightwater Lagoon.

  • Special Highlights: A full-day immersive adventure at Great Wolf Lodge and a private theater trip to AMC to catch Toy Story 5.

All-Inclusive Camp Dining

Parents can skip the morning rush of packing lunches. Balanced breakfasts and lunches are provided daily. Meals are supplied by the School District of Lee County when summer sessions are active, with FISH of Sanibel-Captiva stepping in to provide fresh meals on days when the school district is not in session. Daily afternoon snacks are also included for all campers.

Counselor in Training (C.I.T.) Program for Teens

For teenagers entering grades 9-10 in the fall, the Recreation Department is hosting its junior-level Counselor in Training (C.I.T.) Program. Running concurrently from June 8 through July 31, this one-week leadership tract offers valuable, hands-on work experience in a safe, supportive environment.

Teens participating in the program will:

  • Work alongside professional camp counselors and mentor younger children.

  • Build critical communication, teamwork, and organizational skills.

  • Earn official community service hours required for high school and scholarships.

  • Receive formal training in compression-only CPR skills.

  • Enjoy supplied breakfast and lunch, culminating in a massive end-of-summer celebration.

Note: There is a mandatory C.I.T. Training session on June 5, 2026, from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the recreation center.

Registration Details & Costs

Spaces for both programs are limited, and early registration is highly encouraged to lock in your desired weeks.

Program Type Target Ages Member Weekly Fee Non-Member Weekly Fee
Summer Camp Program Entering Grades K–8 $135 per child $170 per child
C.I.T. Program Entering Grades 9–10 $40 per teen $50 per teen

How to Sign Up

For specific registration questions, facility tours, or fee waiver inquiries, you can reach out directly to Dave DeFonzo (dave.defonzo@mysanibel.com) or Cassie Hill (cassie.hill@mysanibel.com) at the front office by calling 239-472-0345. The Sanibel Recreation Center is located at 3880 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, FL 33957.

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