Gumbo Limbo Nature Center
1801 N Ocean Blvd., Boca Raton, FL
This research and rescue center on the north end of Red Reef Park is one of the best ways to connect with Florida’s marine life habitats, from mangrove swamps to coral reefs. Guests can watch aquarium feedings, check out nature trails, and walk the scenic boardwalk—but the stars of the center are the naturalist-led Turtle Walk and Hatchling Release programs.
The nature center is free (donation-based) to visit and houses four outdoor aquariums, a nature center with a boardwalk, and a nature trail and butterfly garden that can keep visitors for the better part of the day.
During the Turtle Walk program, naturalists teach visitors about three species of protected sea turtles in a classroom, and then head to the beach to observe nesting loggerhead turtles. For the Hatchling Release program, guests can join staff as they release baby turtles into the ocean. Both activities are seasonal and need to be reserved online—they do sell out.
The nature center is ideal for families with kids and travelers interested in conservation and marine biology.
Admission is free, with a small suggested donation.
Boca Raton residents get discounts for Turtle Walks and Hatchling Releases.
During Turtle Walks, turtle sightings are not guaranteed.
View the center’s website for a schedule of educational programs ranging from beach cleans to family summer snorkels.
Guided tours are available for groups of at least 10.
The Gumbo Limbo Nature Center is on the north end of Red Reef Park, and easy to reach by car, with ample parking available on-site. From downtown Boca Raton, head east on East Palmetto Park Road and turn left on North Ocean Boulevard, also called Florida State Road A1A. You can also walk from other areas of Red Reef Park.
The nature center is open year-round, but the special programs are available only from late May to July (Turtle Walks) and mid-July through August (Hatchling Releases). Visit right around 12:30pm to see outdoor aquarium feedings, held daily.
Along with a chance to view sea turtles while visiting the aquariums or rehabilitation facilities, the best way to see these endangered animals is on one of the center’s Turtle Walks. During these guided nighttime outings, you’ll follow a team of conservationists who have already spotted live loggerhead turtle nests on the beach nearby, and observe the sea turtles in their natural habitat.
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