Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center

The Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center offers an incredible hands-on marine learning experience that kids absolutely love. Children can wade into the water for beach seining adventures, dig for ancient fossils, and get up close with sea creatures in touch tanks,all while learning about South Florida's unique coastal ecosystems from knowledgeable naturalists.

• ✓Beach seining adventures where kids wade into the water to catch and observe marine creatures
• ✓Hands-on touch tanks featuring sea stars, hermit crabs, and other local marine life
• ✓Fossil dig pit where children excavate ancient shark teeth and shells
• ✓Educational programs led by passionate naturalists who make marine science exciting
• ✓Beautiful beachfront location on pristine Crandon Park Beach

1. 1.Arrive early on weekends as popular programs like beach seining fill up quickly,call ahead to check the daily activity schedule and reserve spots
2. 2.Bring water shoes, towels, and a change of clothes since kids will get wet during beach seining and exploring the shoreline
3. 3.Apply reef-safe sunscreen before arriving to protect both your family and the marine environment
4. 4.Visit the adjacent Crandon Park Beach after your nature center programs for swimming and picnicking,you're already there with parking paid
5. 5.The fossil dig area is especially engaging for kids who love dinosaurs and paleontology, though the fossils are actually ancient marine creatures

Weekday mornings (9:00-11:00 AM) offer smaller crowds and more personalized attention during programs. Winter months (November-March) provide the most comfortable weather for outdoor beach activities, avoiding South Florida's intense summer heat and afternoon thunderstorms.

Programs are often free or low-cost (donations appreciated), and parking is available through Crandon Park (standard park entrance fee applies). No food is sold on-site, so pack snacks and water, especially for longer visits.

Best visited during fall through spring (October-April) when temperatures are milder and beach programs are more comfortable. Summer months can be hot and humid with frequent afternoon rain showers. Holiday and spring break weeks may have special programming,check their schedule in advance.

The Rusty Pelican offers waterfront dining with a kids menu just 5 minutes away, or pack a picnic to enjoy at Crandon Park's beach pavilions with spectacular ocean views and playground access.