In 2018 Florida Oceanographic Society announced plans for an exciting expansion to the Coastal Center. The components of our Capital Expansion have allowed us to engage our community in ways that we were unable to do before. The Ocean EcoCenter opened July 16th, 2021, and supports our continued growth, and inspires our ever-growing number of visitors to understand and protect Florida's coastal ecosystems through interactive exhibits, play-based learning activities and educational programming. The Ocean EcoCenter includes a dedicated indoor classroom space and an Ocean Deck that can be used for lectures and special events.
In April 2022, our Gift Shop expanded from 300 sq. ft. to 1,100 sq. ft. The anticipated increase in sales will help to support our programming at the Coastal Center.
Lastly, the Waterworks Exploration Zone, which is still in the development stage of planning, will be an area that mixes education and fun with water-based learning. Visitors will learn more about how water moves and flows through different ecosystems in Florida.
Please contact our Development Office at 772-225-0505 x108 for more information about the expansion and ways you can contribute.