Ahhh, weekends. By the time Wednesday afternoon rolls around, many of us start to think about our impending two-day adventures. We love and work hard at our jobs at Loggerhead Marinelife Center, but we also know how to play hard.
As an outdoor enthusiast and conservation-minded individual, I’m always searching for new nature-inspired activities that I can enjoy on the weekends. Though I’m not originally from South Florida, I’ve been here long enough to know just how many opportunities await those who give this place a chance to capture their hearts.
Luckily, Loggerhead Marinelife Center has made weekend planning easier with our new Eco-Adventures Series, a hands-on program perfect for the whole family. Whether you’re a seasoned Florida native or not, this new series gives guests the opportunity to learn about and explore Florida’s coastal ecosystems and help the local environment through awareness and action. LMC’s Eco-Adventures include kayak tours, in-water clean-ups, mangrove restoration and more, and will give you all sorts of awe-inspiring, photo-worthy and feel-good moments! Check out each program to find your perfect weekend adventure – then get out there!
Wild Child: Children’s Eco Adventure (Jan. 28; 10 a.m.-noon.)
If your child shows a natural interest in nature, our early-learning Wild Child program features special outdoor activities that encourage them to connect with each other and the outdoors, while exploring different textures, colors and wonders of wildlife. Ages 2-5; $5/child
Debris-free Seas (Feb. 12; 8-10 a.m.)
Hit the water with LMC staff for a guided tour of our local waterways and learn fascinating facts about Florida’s coastal communities as you kayak in our local lagoon. With kayak rental and all supplies included, it’s easy to help keep the seas clean, blue and trash-free along the way. All ages; $25/person
Sea Creature Discovery: Sea Turtles (March 12; 8-10 a.m.)
Looking to be treated like a sea turtle VIP? Discover our local marine life on these specialty tours of our sea turtle hospital and coastal communities as you get up-close and personal to real Florida locals. All ages; $25 and up
Fish ID & Snorkel Trail (April 9; 8-10 a.m.)
Ever wonder which fish is this fish or that fish? Learn to spot the differences between common Florida reef fish on our most popular eco-adventure! On this tour, you will enjoy a brief fish identification lesson before enjoying a guided snorkel tour to test your new skills. Ages 12 and up; $25/person
Sea Turtle Beach Programs (May-Sept.; Times vary)
Register for one of our summer beach programs during the peak of nesting season for a unique sea turtle experience you’ll never forget! From watching a sea turtle nest on our beaches to experiencing the work of a sea turtle researcher, you can read more about these incredible summer sea turtle programs here. Ages 8 and up; $25/person
Sea Creature Discovery: Twilight Tour (Oct. 28; 6-8 p.m.)
Looking to be treated like a sea turtle VIP? Discover our local marine life on these specialty tours of our sea turtle hospital and coastal communities as you get up-close and personal to real Florida locals. All ages; $25 and up
Wild Child: Children’s Eco Adventure (Nov. 18; 10 a.m.-noon.)
If your child shows a natural interest in nature, our early-learning Wild Child program features special outdoor activities that encourage them to connect with each other and the outdoors, while exploring different textures, colors and wonders of wildlife. Ages 2-5; $5/child
Muck & Mangroves (Dec. 2; 9-11 a.m.)
On this eco-adventure, you will assist LMC staff with the propagation of Rhizophora mangle (the Red Mangrove) to help restore our local coastline. You’ll also enjoy spotting wildlife on a kayak tour through some of Palm Beach’s most beautiful mangrove islands. All ages; $25/person
Registrants should allow 72 hours for a detailed confirmation with directions and instructions on their Eco-Adventure. More info at www.marinelife.org/eco.