Introduce your young adventurers to marine life with hands-on activities at Marine Discovery Center's Sea Squirts Program. Discover what makes this coastal catch a must-visit for families seeking outdoor education and fun.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Good for all children; no special fitness required
Wildlife
History
The Marine Discovery Center was established in 2002 to promote coastal environmental education and conservation.
Conservation
The center actively participates in local sea turtle rescue efforts and promotes responsible shoreline recreation to protect fragile habitats.
Marine Discovery Center
Introduce your young adventurers to marine life with hands-on activities at Marine Discovery Center's Sea Squirts Program. Discover what makes this coastal catch a must-visit for families seeking outdoor education and fun.
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 waterproof clothing
Kids may get wet while observing marine creatures, so dress accordingly.
Participate early in the day
Morning sessions often have fewer crowds and more personalized attention.
Bring a camera
Capture your child's reactions during interactive activities and animal observations.
Engage in storytelling
Encourage children to ask questions and share their thoughts during the sessions.
Waterproof jacket
Keeps children dry during outdoor activities involving water or mud.
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Closed-toe shoes
Provides protection and support during shoreline explorations.
Field guide or notebook
Helps kids record and remember the marine creatures they encounter.
Sun hat and sunscreen
Protects from sun exposure during outdoor learning activities.
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