Join Forever Explorers at Ponce Preserve for an engaging land-based adventure that uncovers coastal ecosystems and wildlife. Perfect for nature lovers and curious explorers!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Open to all fitness levels; walking on uneven terrain may require moderate mobility.
Wildlife
History
Ponce Preserve has a rich history as a fishing community site, now transformed into a vital conservation area.
Conservation
The preserve actively manages invasive species and promotes habitat restoration to safeguard local ecosystems.
Marine Discovery Center
Join Forever Explorers at Ponce Preserve for an engaging land-based adventure that uncovers coastal ecosystems and wildlife. Perfect for nature lovers and curious explorers!
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.
Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear
Hiking through mangroves and beach terrain can be uneven and damp, so sturdy shoes are recommended.
Bring binoculars and camera
Enhance wildlife viewing with binoculars and capture the natural beauty with your camera.
Pack water and sunscreen
Protect yourself from sun exposure and stay hydrated during the hike.
Check tide schedules
Schedule your visit around low tide to access the mangrove tunnels and flats more easily.
Sturdy waterproof hiking shoes
Provides support and protection on muddy and uneven surfaces.
Binoculars
Helpful for bird watching and spotting distant wildlife.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Helps prevent sunburn during outdoor activities.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during your hike in warm weather.