Marine Discovery Center
Discover Florida's marine wonders! Explore interactive exhibits, kayak serene waters, and witness dolphins on unforgettable boat tours.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better wildlife sightings
Marine Discovery Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better wildlife sightings
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Florida's marine wonders! Explore interactive exhibits, kayak serene waters, and witness dolphins on unforgettable boat tours.
"An unforgettable experience for all ages, with incredible dolphin tours and knowledgeable staff!"
🎯 Book Boat Tours Early
Popular dolphin and kayak tours sell out fast! Book online in advance to secure your spot.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, especially on boat tours and nature trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dolphin & Wildlife Boat Tours
Indian River Lagoon
Embark on a pontoon boat tour to witness dolphins, manatees, and diverse bird species in their natural habitat.
Interactive Touch Tanks
Indoor Exhibits
Get up close and personal with local marine creatures in a safe and educational touch tank environment.
Kayaking Adventures
Indian River Lagoon Access
Explore the serene waters of the Indian River Lagoon via kayak, spotting wildlife and learning about the ecosystem.
Biodiversity Exhibits
Indoor Exhibits
Discover the rich biodiversity of Florida's marine life and plant life through engaging and informative displays.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Boat Tours in Advance
Embrace Hands-On Learning
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Boat Tours Early
Popular dolphin and kayak tours sell out fast! Book online in advance to secure your spot. +1
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, especially on boat tours and nature trails.
📱 Download Their App
Check for event schedules and tour information before your visit.
👍 Kayak Launch Tip
The kayak launch behind the center requires a short carry to the water.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Boat Tours Early
Popular dolphin and kayak tours sell out fast! Book online in advance to secure your spot. +1
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, especially on boat tours and nature trails.
📱 Download Their App
Check for event schedules and tour information before your visit.
👍 Kayak Launch Tip
The kayak launch behind the center requires a short carry to the water.
💰 Donations Appreciated
The center relies on donations to continue its vital conservation work.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Marine Discovery Center for its educational value and engaging experiences, particularly the dolphin boat tours and interactive exhibits. The knowledgeable staff and volunteers are frequently highlighted for enhancing the visit. While the center is donation-based, many feel it's an invaluable asset to the community, offering a fun and enriching outing for all ages.
"An Unforgettable Experience for All Ages!
We had the most incredible time at the Marine Discovery Center in New Smyrna Beach! From the moment we walked in, we were greeted by passionate and knowledgeable staff who were eager to share their love for Florida's marine ecosystems. The exhibits are fantastic – interactive, educational, and so well-maintained. We loved getting to see the variety of local sea life up close in the aquariums and touch tanks. It was a huge hit with both the kids and the adults in our group.
The absolute highlight of our visit was the guided boat tour of the Indian River Lagoon. Our guide was phenomenal, pointing out dolphins, manatees, and countless species of birds. It was breathtaking to see these animals in their natural habitat, and we learned so much about the importance of conservation efforts in the area.
If you're in the area, do yourself a favor and spend a few hours here. It's a wonderful organization doing important work, and it provides an experience that is both fun and deeply educational. We left with a greater appreciation for Florida's beautiful coastline. We can't recommend it enough!"
Orlando Mansur, Jr.
"We did their dolphin boat tour and it was amazing and a great value! Our guide was so knowledgeable and we saw probably at least 30 dolphins throughout the duration of the 2 hour tour (even a baby!) as well as manatees from afar and lots of other wildlife. Would highly recommend."
Olivia Dannon
"My bf and I did a kayak tour on Thursday with Ted as our guide and Ken and another volunteer whose name I can’t remember, and we had the best morning!! We saw dolphins, starfish, osprey, pelicans, hermit crabs, herons and more! Ted was so knowledgeable about all of the wildlife and plants in the area and also so funny! And the volunteers were also so fun and helpful! I would definitely recommend this kayak tour, especially with this crew!"
Lianne Zeyen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Marine Discovery Center is located in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. It's easily accessible by car. Parking is available on-site. For those coming from Daytona Beach, it's a short drive south.
Information on public transportation options can vary. It's best to check local transit schedules for Volusia County. Many visitors opt to drive or use ride-sharing services.
Yes, there is a kayak launch behind the center. Be prepared to carry your kayak about 40 feet to the water.
The center is typically open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours.
The center strives to be accessible. Most indoor exhibits and public areas are wheelchair-friendly. Boat tours may have specific accessibility considerations, so it's recommended to inquire directly when booking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the center itself is often donation-based, making it accessible to many. However, boat tours, kayak tours, and special workshops have separate fees. It's best to check their official website for current pricing.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book boat tours, especially the dolphin tours, in advance as they are very popular and tend to fill up quickly. +1
While specific discounts can change, it's worth checking the Marine Discovery Center's website or contacting them directly. Some institutions offer free admission for students, like the Seymour Marine Discovery Center for UCSC students.
General admission typically grants access to the indoor exhibits, touch tanks, and outdoor garden areas. Special activities like boat tours and kayak rentals are usually additional costs.
Tickets for tours and activities can often be purchased on-site, but booking in advance is strongly advised to guarantee your spot, especially for popular tours. +1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of local marine life, including dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, various fish species, sea urchins, and numerous bird species. The touch tanks offer close encounters with smaller creatures. +2
Absolutely! The center offers hands-on learning, touch tanks, and educational programs perfect for kids. They also host camps and workshops. +1
The Indian River Lagoon is a vital estuary known for its rich biodiversity, including a significant population of dolphins, manatees, and diverse birdlife. It's a crucial habitat for many species. +1
Yes, the Marine Discovery Center often relies on volunteers for various roles, including assisting with educational programs and conservation efforts. Check their website for volunteer opportunities.
The center has been involved in creating biodegradable reefs using materials like jute to support marine life and shoreline stabilization, helping to establish native plants.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Marine Discovery Center typically does not have a full-service restaurant. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own snacks and drinks, or explore the many dining options available in nearby New Smyrna Beach.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is generally permitted. There are often picnic areas available, making it a great option for families to enjoy a meal.
New Smyrna Beach offers a wide array of dining choices, from casual seafood shacks to more upscale restaurants. You can find options along Flagler Avenue and Canal Street.
📸 📸 Photography
The dolphin and wildlife boat tours offer fantastic opportunities for capturing marine life. The touch tanks and exhibits also provide great close-up shots. The natural beauty of the Indian River Lagoon is also a picturesque backdrop. +1
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the exhibits and for personal use. However, it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography that might disturb the animals. +1
Yes, you can take photos during kayak tours, but ensure your camera or phone is protected from water. Waterproof cases are highly recommended.
Drone usage is typically restricted in wildlife areas and near educational centers to protect both the animals and visitors. It's best to check with the center or local authorities regarding drone regulations.
Photos often feature the large whale skeletons, touch tanks with sharks and rays, and the general marine life exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a kayak tour for older children who can paddle alongside you, or opt for the educational programs and summer camps for a more immersive learning experience. The center's focus on hands-on learning ensures that kids stay entertained while absorbing valuable information about marine ecosystems.
eco-conscious Travelers
Participating in their boat or kayak tours provides an opportunity to learn about the delicate balance of marine life and the importance of protecting it. Supporting the center through donations or participation in their programs directly aids their ongoing conservation efforts.
Day-Trippers from Nearby Cities
Combine your visit with exploring the charming town of New Smyrna Beach, known for its beaches and vibrant downtown area. A morning at the Discovery Center followed by an afternoon on the beach makes for a perfect Florida coastal getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Indian River Lagoon
During boat tours, expect to see playful dolphins leaping through the waves, gentle manatees surfacing for air, and a plethora of bird species that call the lagoon home. Kayaking provides a more intimate experience, allowing you to paddle through calm waters, observe smaller marine creatures like starfish and hermit crabs, and appreciate the natural beauty of the shoreline.
The center also engages in conservation efforts within the lagoon, such as installing biodegradable oyster volcanoes to help stabilize shorelines and promote the growth of native plants like spartina grass and mangroves. This highlights their commitment to the long-term health of this precious environment.
Educational Programs and Conservation
They offer a range of educational programs, including workshops, homeschool classes, and summer camps, catering to all ages. These programs are designed to be hands-on and engaging, allowing participants to learn about marine science through experiments, explorations, and direct interaction with the environment.
The center's work extends to practical conservation initiatives, such as their oyster reef restoration projects. By creating habitats that support marine life and protect coastlines, they are actively contributing to the sustainability of the local ecosystem. This dedication to conservation is a core part of their mission.
The Seymour Marine Discovery Center Experience
+3Visitors to the Seymour Center often highlight the opportunity to pet sharks and learn about marine science through engaging displays. It's a popular spot for families and students, with UCSC students often receiving free admission and comprising a significant portion of the volunteer base.
+1Both centers emphasize the importance of marine life education and providing visitors with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the ocean. They serve as crucial educational resources within their respective communities, fostering a connection between people and the marine world.
+1
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Social
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