Spend your evening gliding through the Indian River Lagoon with Marine Discovery Center’s dolphin tours and kayak trips, where dolphins leap and wildlife abounds. Discover why New Smyrna Beach’s coastal waters hold one of Florida’s richest ecosystems.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic paddling ability recommended for kayak tours, minimal physical effort on boat tours.
Wildlife
History
The Indian River Lagoon has been a critical habitat for indigenous peoples and later settlers, supporting fishing communities for centuries.
Conservation
The Marine Discovery Center promotes sustainable tourism and environmental education to protect the lagoon’s diverse species and fragile habitats.
Marine Discovery Center
Spend your evening gliding through the Indian River Lagoon with Marine Discovery Center’s dolphin tours and kayak trips, where dolphins leap and wildlife abounds. Discover why New Smyrna Beach’s coastal waters hold one of Florida’s richest ecosystems.
Marine Discovery Center is a nonprofit marine education and conservation facility in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, situated on a 22-acre campus along the Indian River Lagoon. The center offers guided boat tours, kayak eco-tours, family programs, and sensory-accessible activities that connect visitors with the region's estuary and wildlife. Daily and scheduled offerings include two-hour Morning and Evening Dolphin Discovery Tours aboard the pontoon boat Discovery, guided by certified Florida naturalists who interpret local dolphins, sea turtles, and birdlife. Kayak Eco Tours and the Indian River Lagoon Preserve Kayak Tour provide two-hour guided paddling through mangroves with single and tandem kayaks available for beginners and families.
On the land-based campus, visitors can join the MDC Campus Tour to learn about restoration projects, the history of Mt. Morgan, gardens, and future plans; campus tours run Wednesday mornings or by request. Family-focused Sea Squirts parent-and-toddler programs for ages three to six run weekly on Wednesdays for nine weeks, with drop-in options offered. The Sense of Adventure program offers sensory‑engaged activities for individuals with disabilities and sensory sensitivities, designed for inclusive hands-on learning.
Marine Discovery Center emphasizes environmental education, hands-on interpretation, and stewardship of North America's biologically diverse estuary. Programs are led by trained staff and naturalists, combining outdoor exploration with conservation messaging to foster appreciation for the Indian River Lagoon and its wildlife. Visitor bookings support local conservation initiatives, educational outreach and habitat restoration projects focused on water quality species monitoring and native habitat protection across New Smyrna Beach and Indian River Lagoon.
Campus Size
22 acres
22-acre campus with gardens and Mt. Morgan
Boat Tours
2-hour tours
Pontoon boat Discovery with naturalist guides
Family Programs
Sea Squirts (3–6)
Weekly parent and toddler sessions
Kayak Tours
2-hour guided trips
Mangrove paddles for beginners and families
Book a dolphin tour, kayak trip, or campus visit in New Smyrna Beach — spaces fill quickly.
Book Evening Tours for Calmer Waters
Evening boat tours generally experience gentler winds and smoother water, enhancing dolphin sightings and photo opportunities.
Wear Water-Resistant Footwear
Whether kayaking or boarding a boat, protective footwear keeps you comfortable when navigating slippery or wet surfaces.
Bring Binoculars for Wildlife Spotting
A pair of compact binoculars sharpens distant views of birds and marine mammals along the lagoon’s fringes.
Prepare for Florida’s Sun
Sunscreen, hat, and lightweight UV-protective clothing are crucial for shielding from strong sunlight during daytime kayak tours.
Lightweight Waterproof Jacket
Useful for sudden showers and cooler winds during spring paddle trips.
spring
UV-Protective Clothing
Protects skin from intense sun exposure during daytime kayak tours.
summer
Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is vital on all tours, especially in warm Florida climates.
Binoculars
Enhances spotting distant dolphins, birds, and other wildlife from kayak or boat.