Marine Science Center in Daytona Beach, FL
Located in the town of Ponce Inlet, the Marine Science Center is a popular Daytona area attraction, especially with those who love sea creatures, shore birds, and other wildlife peculiar to this part of Florida. Situated in Lighthouse Point Park and surrounded by 52 additional acres of natural area, the Marine Science Center has been entertaining and educating visitors since it opened in 2002 and has been lauded as one of the must-sees for those visiting the area.
Though the Marine Science Center isn’t as large as some similar facilities throughout the country, it is indeed a small treasure. There are many things that you can see and do here. Start with a visit to the exhibit gallery, which allows you to experience a typical marine environment. Guests can wander past mangroves and dune habitats while viewing alligators, local fish and invertebrate, and much more. There’s a coral propagation (reproduction) tank, whale and dolphin anatomical exhibits, information about sea turtle nesting, and a huge 5,000 gallon fish tank where fascinated guests can view a variety of species native to the area. Signs and audio recordings help visitors understand what they’re viewing and onsite naturalists add a little extra to the mix and are usually on hand to answer questions.
A large portion of the Marine Science Center is dedicated to sea turtle rehabilitation. Daytona Beach is a thriving nesting area for sea turtles but, each year, many are injured for a number of reasons, including human interference with their natural habitat. Each year, the center treats more than 5,000 washback turtles (hatchlings that wash back to shore) and other turtles of all ages as well as several hundred additional reptiles, all of which are released upon full recovery. Seven turtle hospital pools can be viewed by guests.
The Marine Science Center also has its own seabird rehabilitation area. The Mary Keller Rehabilitation Sanctuary opened in June 2004 and has since that time treated more than 5,000 injured birds from more than 140 species. Some birds will be released while others may remain at the Center for educational and viewing purposes, unable to survive in the wild.
This attraction also offers a number of public programs all year long. Many of them center on marine animals that are native to the region, including the Florida manatee. Programs often focus on the importance of conservation. The staff also offers guided beach walks on and off the nature trails in Lighthouse Point Park. Most programs are free but require advance registration. Guests may also explore the park trails on their own. A selection of affordable full-day, one-week-long summer camps are also offered for children from grades four through nine. Camps include activities outside the Marine Science Center including fishing, kayaking, and snorkeling.
There is a sizeable gift shop on site that offers guests the opportunity to purchase books, puzzles, videos, games, toys, jewelry, and a custom line of apparel including Marine Science Center t-shirts and sweatshirts. Proceeds from sales benefit the rehabilitation programs at the Center.
This attraction is open Tuesday through Sunday and a
small admission fee is charged to enjoy the many exhibits found here.
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