YMCA Camp Surf operates within the greater Y of San Diego County mission of helping to nurture a health mind, body, and spirit while honoring our faith-based heritage.

YMCA Camp Surf's environmental and outdoor education program's more specific mission is to provide youth opportunities to develop connections with each other, connections within their selves, and connections with the ocean and coastal environments. We educate on conservation, sustainable practices, ocean and coastal science, and environmental ethics.

We operate on US Navy land, with a stated dual mission of protecting our 45 acres of open coast and dunes surrounded by an urban environment.