Guest Code of Conduct
The Coastal Center is a family-friendly science center, aquarium, and research facility. providing various scheduled educational programs and activities. To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors, a Guest Code of Conduct is enforced, covering guidelines on behavior, attire, animal interaction, and more. We encourage everyone to read our Guest Code of Conduct before visiting the Coastal Center.
Please note: While Florida law permits open and concealed carry, Florida Oceanographic maintains a strict no- weapons policy to ensure a safe environment for all guests, staff and volunteers.
Lightning Safety Policy
For the safety of our guests, staff, interns, volunteers, and contractors, all outdoor areas at the Coastal Center close when lightning is detected within 6 miles of the property.
During a lightning closure, the following areas are temporarily closed: all outdoor exhibit spaces, the Gamefish Lagoon Aquarium boardwalk, pavilions, the nature trail, service road, behind-the-scenes areas, the seagrass nursery, and the third-floor deck of the EcoCenter.
Guests must move indoors to the first floor of the EcoCenter, the gift shop, or exit the property until the closure is lifted. Staff members, interns, and volunteers are also required to move to an indoor space.
Outdoor areas will reopen 30 minutes after the last lightning strike within 6 miles. Staff members receive radio announcements when lightning closures begin and end.
Please note that rain alone typically does not close the Coastal Center unless it is accompanied by lightning, flooding, or dangerous winds.
Service Animal/Pet Policy
Service Animals are always welcome at the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center. Service Animals are highly trained working animals that assist a disabled individual with a specific task or tasks. Service Animals must remain on a leash at all times unless this prevents them from performing their task. For the health and safety of our guests and the animals that live at the Coastal Center, Emotional Support Animals, Comfort Animals, Companion Animals, Therapy Animals, and other pets are not allowed on Coastal Center property.
Neurodiverse Audiences
The Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center is committed to providing a welcoming experience for all visitors, including those who are neurodiverse and their families. Neurodiverse visitors can read about what they can expect from a trip to the Coastal Center at the link provided here: Information for our Neurodiverse Guests.
The Sea Life Monument
The Sea Life Monument was donated to Florida Oceanographic Society in 2010 and is a bronze 19 foot sculpture created by award-winning fine artist Geoffrey C. Smith.
Map & Directions
The Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center is located at 890 NE Ocean Blvd, Stuart, FL 34996 on Hutchinson Island.
Have Questions?
Contact us at [email protected] or give us a call at 772-225-0505.
