Is this program suitable for children who are shy or introverted?

Yes, activities are designed to be gentle and flexible, allowing children to participate at their own pace.

Do I need to bring my own tools or materials for activities?

All necessary supplies are provided by the program, so parents can relax and enjoy the experience.

Can I stay and participate with my child?

Absolutely, this is a parent-child program, and family participation enhances the learning experience.

Are there any age restrictions?

The program is specifically designed for children aged 3-4 years old.

What should we do in case of bad weather?

The program is primarily outdoors, but in case of severe weather, activities will be moved indoors or rescheduled.

Is parking available on-site?

Yes, the Marine Discovery Center offers convenient parking for visitors.

Marine Education & Adventure at Marine Discovery Center

Located along Florida's Amelia Island, the Marine Discovery Center offers an engaging marine education experience designed for young children and their families. The Sea Squirts Program provides a perfect introduction for 3-4 year olds to the wonders of ocean life through hands-on activities that combine outdoor exploration, animal observation, arts, crafts, and storytelling. This nine-week series, held every Wednesday, invites preschoolers to develop curiosity about marine ecosystems in a safe and vibrant environment. The center’s waterfront setting features salt marshes, seagrass beds, and shallow lagoons teeming with aquatic life, making it an ideal location for young explorers.

During each session, children may witness local sea creatures like crabs, starfish, and tiny fish while learning about their habitats. The program emphasizes experiential learning, gently fostering a love for nature and conservation in a way accessible to little ones. The center’s location in Fernandina Beach has made it a hub for family-friendly outdoor education, connecting children with the coastal environment through playful, interactive discovery. The program's focus on hands-on activities helps children connect to the natural world and build their understanding of marine ecosystems against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean.

Whether curious toddlers are touching shells, examining marine animals, or listening to captivating stories about local legend, this program encourages wonder and respect for nature. The Marine Discovery Center's dedication to education and preservation makes it a standout destination for families visiting Amelia Island, offering a meaningful introduction to our planet's oceans at a formative age.

About Marine Discovery Center

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.