Jumping off one of Orange County’s piers is illegal and could result in a fine — unless you’re a junior lifeguard.
Read more New autopsy of a baby killed by police in Mississippi deepens outrage
Taking the thrilling leap from a pier into the Pacific Ocean is a rite of passage for junior lifeguards up and down the coast, putting them to the test by facing their fears and showing the water skills they learn during their summer session.
Jade Hales jumps off the San Clemente pier as part of her junior lifeguard program in San Clemente on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)
A boy jumps off the San Clemente pier as part of his junior lifeguard program in San Clemente on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)
Supporters take photos as their junior lifeguards jump off the San Clemente pier as part of their training program in San Clemente on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)
Junior lifeguards encourage their fellow guards as they jump off the San Clemente pier as part of their training program in San Clemente on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)
Lila Skelton jumps off the San Clemente pier as part of her junior lifeguard program in San Clemente on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)
San Clemente junior lifeguards walk with their surfboards and body boards to the place they will jump off the pier in San Clemente on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)
Sylas York jumps off the San Clemente pier as part of his junior lifeguard program in San Clemente on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)
In San Clemente, junior lifeguard jumpers leap from the wooden pier through a small gate that opens. When they come up for air in the water below, they put a fist to the top of their heads to signal that they are safe.
Read more Why are World Cup refs giving red cards to players covering their mouths when confronting opponents?
A foam surfboard is handed to them in the water and they paddle to the side to cheer on those next in line. The moment for many is the highlight of summer and a memory that they will have for a lifetime.
Junior lifeguard programs are in full swing in Orange County’s beach towns, with youth learning beach safety and rescue tips taught throughout the weeks-long programs, while also being a fun way to spend summer days in the sun and surf.
Read more Alexander: With Kawhi Leonard gone, Clippers will now regroup