On-Foot Tours

Our on-foot tours occur on the shore, at two beachside parks,
and sometimes right inside our own lobby. 

Bird Walks at MDC
Bird Walks at MDC

April 15
9:00 – 11:00 a.m.

Register Online

Bring your binoculars and come with us to explore avian life right here on the MDC property during late winter and early spring! Take a guided exploration with MDC volunteer Don Chalfant at Marine Discovery Center to search for pelicans, egrets, herons, ospreys, eagles, songbirds, and more during our MDC Bird Walks. See what you can find flying, wading, and feeding in our restored salt marsh, search for what’s hiding and hopping in the native plants throughout the property, and take in a bird’s eye view from atop Mt. Morgan.

Participants are asked to bring their own binoculars. Bird walks are limited to 10 people maximum. Our birds walks are FREE but require reservations. Call 386.428.4828 or click here to book online. 

Living Beaches at Esther St.
Living Beaches at Esther St.

The spring 2024 programs have concluded. Check back later in the year for updated programming info!

This program is offered seasonally and is FREE and open to the public. No reservations are required.

Our beaches are abundant with life. Join the Marine Discovery Center for a stroll along our beautiful beaches to explore the fascinating stories of the creatures, big and small, that call New Smyrna Beach home. Activities may include beachcombing, marine debris investigations, beach sand explorations, and seine netting. This exploration series is part of the City of New Smyrna Beach’s Island Education Program called “Get to Know Your Island”.

No reservations are required. Participants meet at 551 Esther Street, NSB.

Forever Explorers Land-Based Excursions
Forever Explorers Land-Based Excursions

Wednesday, April 17 | 3 p.m.
MDC Members:
$8 | Non-Members: $10

Book online now!

Forever Explorers is designed for young-at-heart, lifelong learners and is geared to offer outdoor opportunities for adults who want to explore and better understand their surrounding coastal environment alongside certified naturalists and scientists! During our land-based excursions, qualified staff & guest speakers will share their knowledge about a vast array of topics aligning with the Forever Explorers theme of the month including plants and animals, water quality, citizen science, local conservation efforts, and much more! Workshops take place in a variety of locations across Volusia County.  This tour is open only to participants 18+. 

Our Forever Explorers program also includes boat programs, kayak excursions, and conservation workshops. Click here to learn more about Forever Explorers

Our Mission:

"To protect and restore Florida's coastal and Indian River Lagoon ecosystems
through education, research and community stewardship."