Aquatic recreation (all aspects) accounts for two thirds of all visitor activity, attendance and revenue generated in California State Parks.
California State Parks employs approximately 600 seasonal lifeguards seasonally, and approximately 70 permanent lifeguards that are stationed from the Mexican Border to the Mendocino Coast, along with several inland lakes. California State Lifeguards perform approximately 10,000 water rescues each year. Since 1967, California State Parks Lifeguards have rescued over 266,818 people! The California
07/01/2025
Ticket sales for the 75th Anniversary Celebration are now LIVE! It's going down August 3rd to 5th at Huntington State Beach. Get yours at the link below.
https://events.humanitix.com/75th-anniversary-celebration-of-the-california-state-lifeguards
We'll see you there!
03/20/2025
Today marks the spring equinox—that means 92 days till the official start of summertime! ☀️
As the weather noticeably warms and our water activity ramps up, our seasonal Lifeguard staff will be increasing beach coverage.
See you out there!
03/10/2025
California State Lakes Lifeguards hopefuls—buckle up. Lakes tryouts are coming in hot. 🚤 🛟
We’re kicking things off on Sunday, March 23rd, at Folsom Lake, followed by a tryout at San Luis Resevoir, on Sunday March 30th. Head to the link in our bio for more tryout dates, and additional information.
See you out there. ☀️
03/10/2025
Last week’s swell event saw extra coverage from the Ventura State Lifeguards. 🚨
Strong currents paired with heavy waves can pull even experienced swimmers and surfers into dangerous territory. The State Lifeguards pictured executed a rescue just of one such surfer just moments before the images were taken, utilizing an additional jetski unit staged in-water.
During high surf events, it’s extremely important to use caution in and around the water. Be sure to use best judgement, and never hesitate to ask to a Lifeguard about aquatic safety conditions. 🌊🛟
03/04/2025
The California State Swift Water Rescue Team had the opportunity to train in the San Lorenzo River in order to prepare for swift water emergencies. Rapid and calculated response is critical for this type of rescue.
California State Lifeguards and Rangers make up the team, ready to respond to both swift water and flood water emergencies.
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02/26/2025
Reminder! Many Junior Lifeguard registration dates for the upcoming summer sessions will be opening soon. Check in with your local program for more information.
See you out there!
02/23/2025
Big weekend of tryouts ahead! This Saturday, March 1st, Ocean Lifeguard tryout swims will be held in Huntington, Malibu, and Santa Cruz. On Sunday March 2nd, Santa Barbara will hold a tryout.
All potential candidates are eligible to try out at any location, regardless of desired work location. For more dates and locations, and full tryout information, please visit the link in our bio. We’ll see you at the starting line. 🛟
02/20/2025
train with Air Station Humboldt Bay () with the MH-65 Dolphin Helicopter and IRB.
This unique opportunity to train with rescue swimmers and aircrew is normalized in remote areas like the northern coast of California. Both agencies rely heavily upon each other for backup due to limited water rescue resources, and often critical conditions.
In recent years, the relationships between the agencies has flourished, creating opportunities for the lifeguards to fly in the helicopters and participate in hoists!
During the summer, the program has been inviting the rescue swimmers for their weekly run/swim/paddle competitions with the full time guards and juniors.
These informal meetings strengthen the bond between Lifeguards and Coast Guard as well as inspiration for the future water rescuers of America.
02/18/2025
Happy 75th birthday to us! 🛟🌊
This year, California State Parks will be recognizing the 75-year history, contribution, and accomplishments of California State Parks Lifeguards with a three day Celebration at Huntington State Beach.
Lifeguard services began in California’s state parks in 1950, at Huntington State Beach. Robert lsenor, pictured with the binoculars, is recognized as the founder of the State Parks Lifeguard Service. The first permanent lifeguard classification was created in 1956.
Since 1967, State Parks Lifeguards have rescued over a quarter of a million people. Thousands of life-saving water rescues are performed every year by State Parks Lifeguards, protecting millions of visitors to State Park beaches, lakes, and other aquatic recreation areas.
Join us for a multi-day event to celebrate and honor our colorful 75 year history of Service, Vigilance, & Endurance this August. The celebration event will not be one to miss as we commemorate this milestone anniversary for the California State Lifeguard Service.
Aug 3-5, 2025 at Huntington State Beach. Visit www.parks.ca.gov/LG75th for more information.
02/14/2025
Roses are red. Violets are blue. We’d take a five wave set on the head, just to rescue you.
Happy Valentines Day from the California State Lifeguards. 💛🌊