Are children allowed on the Sunset Full Moon Paddle?

Yes, children ages 6 to 12 can participate when paired in a tandem kayak with an adult.

What wildlife can I expect to see during the paddle?

Expect to see dolphins, manatees, wading birds, and other lagoon species in their natural habitat.

Is prior kayaking experience necessary?

No prior experience is required; guides offer basic instruction to ensure everyone is comfortable.

What happens if it rains during the paddle?

Tours may be rescheduled or canceled for safety if severe weather or thunderstorms are forecast.

Are life jackets provided?

Yes, life jackets are supplied and must be worn for the duration of the excursion.

Where does the excursion start and end?

The paddle launches from the Marine Discovery Center at 520 Barracuda Blvd, New Smyrna Beach, FL.

Sunset Full Moon Paddle with Marine Discovery Center | Guided Tour | Kayak

The Indian River Lagoon near New Smyrna Beach, Florida, offers a rare window into one of the most diverse estuarine environments in North America. Here, the Marine Discovery Center invites paddlers to witness the transforming light of day into night on its Sunset Full Moon Paddle Excursion. This two-hour kayak journey floats visitors across calm waters just as the sun dips below the horizon and the full moon ascends, casting a silver glow over the intricate waterways.

Guided by certified naturalists, the paddle is more than a scenic outing—it’s a chance to engage directly with the lagoon’s rich ecosystems. Participants encounter mangrove-lined channels where bottlenose dolphins often glide nearby, and glimpses of manatees can surprise at any moment beneath the surface. The lagoon’s delicate balance of salt and freshwater nurtures a variety of birdlife such as ospreys and night herons, all thriving in this unique coastal habitat.

This excursion is family-friendly, with tandem kayak options tailored for children 6 and up, making it accessible for explorers of all ages. The calm waters and steady guidance create a safe environment to both relax and learn at the water’s edge. The Marine Discovery Center’s role in local conservation and education adds a meaningful layer to the experience, as guides share knowledge about ongoing efforts to protect this critical ecosystem.

Unlike typical daylight paddles, this trip offers the rare spectacle of shifting light against the lagoon’s natural backdrop—a quiet, reflective encounter with nature’s rhythms. For adventure seekers and nature lovers passing through Florida’s Atlantic coast, this paddle offers a fresh perspective on the local environment, blending adventure with stewardship.

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.

Sunset Full Moon Paddle with Marine Discovery Center

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