NEW SMYRNA BEACH WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Two Days of Tide, Paddles and Mangroves — A Holiday Camp for Ages 5–8 on the Indian River Lagoon
A two-day Marine Discovery Center program in New Smyrna Beach that mixes pontoon cruises, kayaking, hands‑on science and arts activities so young campers experience Florida’s lagoon ecosystems up close.
Two Days of Tide, Paddles and Mangroves — A Holiday Camp for Ages 5–8 on the Indian River Lagoon.
Spend a school holiday knee‑deep in the Indian River Lagoon: a two‑day Marine Discovery Center camp that pairs pontoon boat excursions to mangrove islands with shoreline science, kayaking, fishing and craft projects led by experienced instructors. It’s a short, intensive window into Florida’s estuarine life where discovery is deliberately hands‑on and centered on the water.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Indian River Lagoon & Mangrove Forests
Campers explore the lagoon’s mangrove islands and meet resident critters, encountering the tidal edge and salt‑marsh habitats that define this ecosystem.
Pontoon Cruises Aboard The Discovery
Mornings include embarking on the Marine Discovery Center’s pontoon, The Discovery, for short cruises to nearby islands such as Disappearing Island where guided exploration takes place.
Science Experiments, Art and Wet Play
At Main Campus, campers take part in science experiments aligned with Florida standards, arts and crafts, nature walks and active shoreline activities like kayaking and fishing during multi‑day sessions.
What the day feels like
What the Two‑Day Camp Feels Like
The camp alternates boat time and campus activities: mornings afloat on The Discovery and island forays into mangroves, afternoons back at Marine Discovery Center for experiments, crafts and restored salt‑marsh exploration. Instructors keep the pace active and focused on direct encounters with the lagoon.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this camp fits — and who it doesn’t.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Cost is $100 per camper. Payment is required at the time of reservation.
Daily camp hours run from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Pack a waste‑free lunch and snack, refillable water bottle, sunscreen, hat/sunglasses, swimwear, towel, closed‑toe water shoes (required) and a change of dry clothes and sneakers.
Cancellations must be made at least two weeks in advance to receive a refund. For single‑day holiday camps, a minimum of eight campers is necessary for the boat to be used.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What ages is this camp for?
The Two Day School Holiday Camp is designed for campers ages 5–8.
How long are camp days?
Camp hours are 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
How much does the camp cost and when is payment due?
The price is $100 per camper and payment is required at the time of reservation.
What should my child bring?
Bring a waste‑free lunch and snack, refillable water bottle, sunscreen, hat/sunglasses, swimwear, towel, closed‑toe water shoes (required) and a change of dry clothes and sneakers.
What is the cancellation policy and are there minimums for boat use?
Cancellations must be made two weeks in advance to receive a refund. For single‑day holiday camps, a minimum of eight campers booked is necessary for the boat to be utilized during camp.
What activities will my child do on a typical day?
Typical activities include morning pontoon cruises to nearby islands, mangrove and shore exploration, and campus time for science experiments, arts and crafts, nature walks and, in multi‑day camps, kayaking and fishing.