Sandoway Discovery Center: A Coastal Ecosystem Exploration
Discover South Florida's coastal ecosystems at Sandoway Discovery Center in Delray Beach: a historic nature center with sharks, reptiles, shells, and hands-on exhibits for all ages.
The Sandoway Discovery Center, nestled in a historic 1936 beachfront home in Delray Beach, offers an engaging glimpse into South Florida's unique coastal ecosystems. More than just a museum, it's a hands-on learning experience for all ages. Visitors can explore diverse exhibits featuring native and invasive reptiles, a vibrant coral reef pool teeming with sharks and fish, and one of the largest private shell collections in the southeastern United States. Daily shark and stingray feedings, along with various educational programs, provide unforgettable encounters with marine life. The center's observation deck offers stunning Atlantic Ocean views, while the butterfly garden and native plant exhibits showcase the region's natural beauty. It's an enriching destination that combines history, education, and conservation.
A brief summary to Sandoway Discovery Center
- 142 S Ocean Blvd, Delray Beach, Florida, 33483, US
- +1561-274-7263
- Visit website
- Tuesday 12 pm-4 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-4 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-4 pm
- Friday 12 pm-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Check the daily feeding schedule to witness the exciting shark and stingray feedings – a highlight for many visitors.
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure parking as the on-site lot has limited free spaces.
- Take advantage of the touch tanks to get hands-on experience with marine invertebrates and learn about their importance.
- Explore the observation deck for panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and keep an eye out for marine life.
- Combine your visit with a stroll along Delray Beach and a meal at one of the nearby restaurants on Atlantic Avenue.
Getting There
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Walking
From Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach's main thoroughfare, walk south on S Ocean Blvd (A1A). The Sandoway Discovery Center will be on your left, approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Look for the historic house across from the beach. Note that the Ingraham Ave and Sandoway Lot parking is located behind the building.
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Public Transport
Palm Tran Route 81 has stops near Delray Beach. From the Delray Beach Tri-Rail Station, transfer to the Route 2 bus and get off at the DLB TRS at BUS TRM stop. From there, transfer to the Route 81 bus. Check Palm Tran schedules for the most up-to-date information. A single ride fare is $2.00.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From anywhere in Delray Beach, a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) is a convenient option. A ride from Atlantic Avenue will cost approximately $8-12, depending on traffic. Specify 'Sandoway Discovery Center' as your destination.
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Driving
Approaching Delray Beach on I-95, exit onto Atlantic Avenue and head east. Turn south onto S Ocean Blvd (A1A). The Sandoway Discovery Center will be on your left. Limited free two-hour parking is available in the Sandoway Lot behind the center (ask for a display for your car inside). Metered street parking ($2/hour, time limits vary) and paid parking lots are also available nearby. The Sandoway Lot at 142 S Ocean Blvd charges $1.50/hour.
Discover more about Sandoway Discovery Center
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