THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Introduce your preschooler to the magic of marine life through hands-on activities and outdoor play at the Marine Discovery Center. Perfect for family outings, this program blends education with fun in a coastal setting.
Introduce your preschooler to the magic of marine life through hands-on activities and outdoor play at the Marine Discovery Center. Perfect for family outings, this program blends education with fun in a coastal setting.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Marine Discovery Center · New Smyrna Beach, Florida
easy.
1 hour.
Suitable for all preschoolers and caregivers, no special fitness required
Yes, all activities are supervised by trained staff and designed with child safety in mind.
Absolutely, parents are encouraged to participate and assist during the program.
Bring sun protection, water, a change of clothes, and any arts supplies you'd like to share.
Yes, spaces are limited, so early registration is recommended.
Yes, bring snacks if needed, but be mindful of any allergies or dietary restrictions.
Yes, the program runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly.
The Marine Discovery Center has been engaging families in coastal education since its founding in 1998, emphasizing conservation and local marine ecosystems.
The center actively promotes marine preservation through educational programs and responsible wildlife viewing.
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.
Book with Marine Discovery Center