From the towering redwoods of Big Sur to the rugged coastline of the Channel Islands, this year’s Surf n’ Turf Quest took 12 seventh and eighth graders on an unforgettable journey through some of California’s most breathtaking landscapes. 

Over two weeks, Questers hiked, backpacked, explored tide pools, crossed the ocean by ferry, and discovered that some of the greatest adventures come from stepping outside your comfort zone.

Each day brought something new. One ferry ride became an adventure all its own when the group spotted two whales, pods of dolphins, and playful seals swimming alongside the boat.

One of the most memorable moments came at the Channel Islands, where campers witnessed an island fox dart out, catch a scrub jay, and disappear into the brush. While the scene was startling, it also became an opportunity to reflect on the natural world and the interconnectedness of life. Sometimes the most meaningful lessons come not from planned activities, but from simply being immersed in wild places.

Along the way, campers embraced every part of the adventure – from surf days on the beach to kayaking through the Channel Islands. One highlight was a backpacking excursion that pushed questers to tap into their physical and mental strength. As they made their way along the trail, campers encouraged each other, celebrated small victories, and discovered just how much they could accomplish together.

The group also found meaningful ways to care for the places they visited. During a beach cleanup, campers collected litter along the shoreline, and their efforts didn’t go unnoticed. As one Quester reflected afterward, “People said thank you to us for cleaning up, and that felt really good!” It was a simple reminder that even small acts of service can create a lasting impact, for both the environment and the people around us.

Before Friday night Shabbat, each camper chose a small gift for another member of the group from a local thrift store and wrote an appreciation note to go with it. The simple exchange became a meaningful opportunity to express gratitude and recognize the friendships that had formed throughout the trip.

For Quest leaders Viv M. and Cece K., watching those relationships develop was one of the most rewarding parts of the experience.

“It was so special to be able to take campers on a two-week adventure along coastal California,” Viv shared. “They experienced all the beautiful nature from Big Sur to the Channel Islands. They were challenged physically and mentally as they pushed themselves to try new things and make new friends. I am so impressed by how much each individual grew over the trip and I look forward to seeing them next summer.”

For Cece, one of the most meaningful parts of leading Quest was experiencing these remarkable places alongside the Questers and watching the Tawonga community take shape, even while away from Camp.

“It was so meaningful to challenge myself alongside the campers. We all experienced amazing moments together in such a beautiful place. The Tawonga community found its way to Big Sur!” Cece reflected.

Returning home after the two-week adventure, Questers brought back much more than memories of whales, beaches, and mountain trails. They returned with greater confidence, stronger friendships, and the knowledge that they are capable of more than they imagined.

The magic of Quest isn’t just about the places you travel – it’s about the people you meet and the person you become along the way.