Field Trip Ideas in Florida to Learn About Marine Life

Smithsonian Marine Station - Fort Pierce

The Smithsonian Marine Station (SMS) is a research center specializing in marine biodiversity and ecosystems of Florida. Primarily due to its unique location at the boundary between the temperate and subtropical zones, east central Florida's Indian River Lagoon (IRL) system is perhaps the most biologically diverse estuarine system in the continental United States, supporting more than 3,000 species of animals and plants.

The Marine Station offers an online Indian River Lagoon species inventory list (including pictures), educational programs, Marine Ecosystems Exhibit, and more.

701 Seaway Drive, Fort Pierce, Florida 34949

Phone 772-465-6630 Fax 772-461-8154

Cost ranges from free to $2

Manatee Observation & Education Center - Fort Pierce

The Manatee Observation & Education Center is a waterfront wildlife observation and nature education center just west of the Atlantic ocean. It overlooks the Indian River Lagoon, a saltwater estuary, and Moore's Creek, a freshwater creek and historical resting spot for the Florida manatee.

The endangered Florida manatee, also called sea cow, is the main attraction. Manatees can be viewed at the Center year-round! Stand along the covered observation walkway or climb the second story observation tower to see Florida's "Gentle Giants" resting or playing in Moore's Creek. These are wild, not captive manatees, so one never knows when they might swim by.

Outside the Center, you will see a variety of wildlife including Bottlenose Dolphin, Mullet, Brown Pelicans, and Terns.

For brilliant color, stroll through the Center's butterfly garden where red, yellow, and purple flowers abound. Also, see the replica of a natural spring which provides an important habitat for manatees in the colder winter months.

Come inside the Center to learn about manatees, butterflies, habitats and more by exploring our hands-on exhibits.

They teach planned educational curriculum for grades Kindergarten through fifth on subjects such as manatees, butterflies, insects, endangered species, and sea turtles.

If you are a teacher and would like to schedule a class, call (772) 466-1600, ext. 3337

80 North Indian River Drive, Fort Pierce, FL 34950

Phone (772) 466-1600 ext. 3333

Rates range from free to $1 per adult

Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution - Fort Pierce

Prearranged groups can take part in a guided educational tour of the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution (HBOI). Learn about marine science and oceanographic research being done at Harbor Branch, see full-scale models of our submersibles, view life-like sculptures and interpretive exhibits, visit a wildlife sanctuary, and explore our aquaculture pavilion.

Phone: (772) 465-2400 ext. 204

The HBOI also has an extensive museum of marine life. Specimens are loaned to scientists around the world for research and are also used extensively by educators. Founded in 1975, the Museum houses over 450,000 specimens of marine animals and plants from around the world, a culmination of 25 years of research by Harbor Branch scientists, visiting researchers, and the Smithsonian Marine Station. Highlights of the collections include extensive deep sea specimens, a larval and an ecological fish collection, and large marine algae, crustacean, echinoderm, fish, and molluscan holdings. Key localities include South Florida, the Bahamas and Caribbean islands, and more remote sites such as the Galapagos, Okinawa, and West Africa. The Museum holdings are on computer, allowing for scientific searches upon request. Specimens may be borrowed by scientists and scientific organizations. Facilities are available for use by visiting researchers and field assistance is also available for researchers, educators, and visiting classes.

Florida Dolphin Watch Boat Tour - Fort Pierce

The Florida Dolphin Watch Sightseeing Boat Tours gives the experience of watching wild dolphins in their nature habitat, along with many other species of wildlife that thrive in the Indian River Lagoon. Ride with no more that six passengers.

Phone: 772.466.4660

Cost ranges from free to $50 per person