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Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center: A Marine Life Sanctuary

Discover Florida's coastal ecosystems: interactive exhibits, marine life encounters, and nature trails in Stuart, Florida.

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Explore Florida's coastal ecosystems at the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center in Stuart. This 57-acre marine life nature center offers hands-on experiences, educational programs, and a chance to see marine animals up close, making it a great destination for families and nature enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center

Local tips

  • Check the schedule for daily educational programs like the stingray and game fish feedings to enhance your visit.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking the nature trails.
  • Plan your visit for the morning to avoid crowds and increase your chances of spotting wildlife.
  • The center is mostly outdoors, so check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center is located at 890 NE Ocean Blvd, Stuart, FL 34996. From downtown Stuart, head east on SE Ocean Blvd, which turns into NE Ocean Blvd. Continue for approximately 5 miles. The Coastal Center will be on your right. Parking is available on-site. Parking is free.

  • Public Transportation

    While public transportation options directly to the Coastal Center may be limited, you can take a local bus towards the intersection of SE Ocean Blvd and NE Ocean Blvd. From there, walk east on SE Ocean Blvd for about 0.5 miles to reach the center. Check local bus schedules for routes and times. A single bus fare is approximately $1.75 - $2.00.

  • Ride-Sharing

    From downtown Stuart, a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft to the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center will cost approximately $15 - $25, depending on traffic and demand. The ride is about 5 miles and typically takes 10-15 minutes.

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Discover more about Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center

The Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center is a 57-acre marine life nature center located on Hutchinson Island in Stuart, Florida, between the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian River Lagoon. Operated by the Florida Oceanographic Society, founded in 1964, the center is dedicated to inspiring environmental stewardship through education, research, and advocacy. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits and activities, including the Ocean EcoCenter with its aquariums and interactive displays showcasing local fish and invertebrates. The Rays on the Reef Pavilion offers hands-on interaction with different types of rays. The Gamefish Lagoon, a 750,000-gallon saltwater tank, is home to over 20 species of fish, including nurse sharks and sea turtles. The Coastal Center also features nature trails winding through mangrove forests, a Sea Turtle Pavilion, a Children's Activity Pavilion, and a Sea Star Touch Tank. Daily educational programs include stingray, game fish, and sea turtle feedings. The center's mission is to increase visitors' knowledge of Florida's unique coastal environments and promote conservation efforts. Founded in 1994, the Coastal Center provides excellent opportunities for hands-on learning and exploration for people of all ages. The Ocean EcoCenter features exhibits dedicated to protecting Florida's coastal ecosystems, including an Estuaries Gallery that explores life among the mangroves.

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