Seaside Seabird Sanctuary
A free, donation-based sanctuary on the beach, dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating native seabirds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Seaside Seabird Sanctuary
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, donation-based sanctuary on the beach, dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating native seabirds.
"A beautiful place doing amazing work! Peaceful, educational, and full of rescued seabirds."
🚗 Free Parking Available
Free parking is available on-site, with overflow options. Arrive early for the best spots! :car:
💰 Donation Encouraged
Admission is free, but donations are vital for bird care. Look for donation boxes. :moneywithwings:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Majestic Resident Birds
Various enclosures
Marvel at pelicans, bald eagles, owls, and parrots, many recovering from injuries and now permanent residents.
+1
Observation Tower Views
Beachfront property
Enjoy breathtaking ocean views and a relaxing breeze from the sanctuary's elevated observation deck.
Aquatic Life Exhibits
Indoor exhibits
Discover local marine life, including lionfish, eels, and sea snakes, adding another layer to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Donation Encouraged
+1Timing is Key for Feedings & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Free Parking Available
Free parking is available on-site, with overflow options. Arrive early for the best spots! :car:
💰 Donation Encouraged
Admission is free, but donations are vital for bird care. Look for donation boxes. +1 :moneywithwings:
⏰ Check Feeding Times
Some visitors were disappointed by missed feedings. Confirm schedules beforehand. :alarm_clock:
🛍️ Support via Gift Shop
The gift shop offers reasonably priced items and supports the sanctuary's mission. :gift_heart:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Free Parking Available
Free parking is available on-site, with overflow options. Arrive early for the best spots! :car:
💰 Donation Encouraged
Admission is free, but donations are vital for bird care. Look for donation boxes. +1 :moneywithwings:
⏰ Check Feeding Times
Some visitors were disappointed by missed feedings. Confirm schedules beforehand. :alarm_clock:
🛍️ Support via Gift Shop
The gift shop offers reasonably priced items and supports the sanctuary's mission. :gift_heart:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing some walking around the sanctuary grounds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Seaside Seabird Sanctuary for its free admission, the vital rescue work it performs, and its beautiful beachfront location. Many appreciate the educational aspects and the chance to see various native birds up close. Some minor disappointments have been noted regarding missed feedings, and parking can be limited.
"Wonderful little sanctuary that is free to visit! Visited on a weekday and was able to park in their front lot. They also have free parking in an overflow lot as well. You can tell the staff love the birds and keep the place well taken care of. I encourage everyone to make sure to drop something in their donation drops located throughout the sanctuary. Their gift shop is also very reasonably priced."
MTH
"This was a fun little field trip for my kids. We enjoyed seeing all the birds. The staff and volunteers were exceptional, very well informed and happy to share not only the birds but also the knowledge of the birds they have there. They even took many of the birds out for us to see better and take pictures with. It is a small place and doesn’t take long to walk through but worth the trip, especially if you are a bird lover like me! Don’t forget to stop by their little gift shop and make a purchase to help support their efforts!
Parking lot is small with not many spaces. There is an additional parking area located off site a short distance walk, but be prepared if the parking lot is full to have to back out onto the road. There is no space for turning around to exit."
Alyssa Hafner
"Had so much fun visiting the sanctuary today. Loved all the educational information about the different residents! This is a small sanctuary but it has lots to look at, you can safely plan to finish your visit within an hour. They do such great work and I was happy to visit the gift shop and support their work."
Sharlyn Tatom
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Seaside Seabird Sanctuary is located at 18328 Gulf Blvd, Indian Shores, FL 33785. It's easily accessible by car, situated right on Gulf Boulevard.
Yes, there is free parking available. They have a limited number of spots directly at the sanctuary, and an overflow lot is also available. Arriving early is recommended, especially on busy days.
While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, the sanctuary is located on a main road. If relying on public transport, check local bus routes that service Indian Shores. Rideshare services would also be an option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Seaside Seabird Sanctuary is free! However, as a non-profit organization, they rely heavily on donations to fund their rescue and rehabilitation efforts. +1
The sanctuary is typically open every day from 10 AM to 4 PM, though some sources mention 8 AM to 4 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official social media or website for the most current hours before your visit.
No, advance booking is not required as admission is free. You can visit anytime during their operating hours.
Yes, the sanctuary operates on a donation basis. While entry is free, visitors are strongly encouraged to make a donation to support the care of the rescued birds.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of native Florida seabirds, including pelicans, bald eagles, owls, parrots, and more. Many of these birds are permanent residents due to injuries. +1
The sanctuary offers educational information about its residents and their rehabilitation. Some visitors have mentioned a pelican feeding, but it's advisable to confirm the schedule as it may not always occur as planned.
Yes, there is a gift shop where you can purchase items and further support the sanctuary's work. Prices are generally considered reasonable.
Information regarding pets is not readily available. It's best to assume that pets are not allowed to ensure the safety and well-being of the resident birds.
Take your time to observe the birds, read the educational signs, and enjoy the beachfront views from the observation tower. Consider a donation to support their cause.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged to share the sanctuary's mission. Be mindful of the birds and avoid using flash photography that might disturb them.
The observation tower offers great panoramic views. The enclosures themselves provide close-up opportunities of the various bird species.
While not explicitly stated, it's always good practice to be respectful of the animals and other visitors. Avoid intrusive behavior or flash photography that could stress the birds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The hands-on learning opportunities and the chance to see rescued animals up close provide a memorable experience. Remember to check feeding times, though be prepared for potential variations. 💰 Budget Travelers
+1 Your only expense would be optional donations and any souvenirs you might wish to purchase from the gift shop. ❤️ Animal Lovers & Conservationists
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mission of Rescue and Rehabilitation
+1 Their team works tirelessly to provide medical care and a safe environment for birds that might otherwise not survive. This commitment is evident in their continuous growth meetings, where they strategize on improving their operations and the lives of the birds under their care. Many of the birds you see at the sanctuary are permanent residents because they have sustained injuries that prevent them from returning to the wild.
This includes a variety of species, from majestic bald eagles to common pelicans. The sanctuary provides them with a comfortable and enriching environment, allowing visitors to learn about these incredible creatures and the challenges they face in the wild. By visiting and donating, you directly contribute to this crucial mission. The sanctuary emphasizes that every contribution helps them continue their vital work, making it a place where you can enjoy a beautiful experience while supporting a worthy cause.
Experiencing the Sanctuary's Location and Amenities
Its prime location makes it an easy and enjoyable stop for those visiting the beaches in the area. The sanctuary boasts an observation tower that provides breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico, making it a perfect spot to relax and soak in the ocean breeze. Beyond the avian residents, the sanctuary also features an aquatic section, showcasing local marine life such as lionfish, eels, and sea snakes.
While the sanctuary is donation-based, the free admission makes it an accessible attraction. Visitors should note that parking is free but limited, so planning your visit, especially during peak times, is advisable.
The presence of a single restroom is also a practical detail for visitors to be aware of. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit