Part of the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation Family, Sanibel Sea School’s mission is to improve the ocean’s future one person at a time. Through half-day courses, week-long camps, and community outreach programs, Marine Science Educators deliver hands-on, experiential learning. These offerings give students an opportunity to touch, feel, and interact with the natural Southwest Florida environment. Whether it’s holding a squishy sea hare or trudging through mangrove mud, all experiences at Sanibel Sea School are sure to foster a deep connection to our ocean planet.

Half-Day Courses
Sanibel Sea School’s half-day courses are field-based, hands-on, and a whole lot of fun. Designed for ages 6 to 13, these course options cover over 30 different marine science topics including dolphins, sea shells, fish, crabs, and more! Educators head out all over Sanibel to fish, snorkel, experiment, and explore. All courses wrap up with an ocean-inspired art-project created from natural materials. Half-day courses are offered at Sanibel Sea School, Sundial Beach Resort, and South Seas Island Resort.

Sea Squirts
Looking for something for your littlest ocean explorers? Sanibel Sea School offers Sea Squirts courses for 4 to 6-year olds. These two-hour classes are modified versions of our half-day courses and are offered weekly.

Discover Beachcombing
The fun isn’t just limited to the little ones! Sanibel Sea School also offers Discover Beachcombing walks and private experiences regularly that are perfect for the whole family to enjoy together. On Discover Beachcombing walks, knowledgeable Marine Science Educators teach about some of the more mysterious objects found on the beach, look for interesting animals, and touch on shell biology. No two beach walks are ever the same – the sea always has a way of surprising us!

Private Excursions
Private experiences for families and groups are also offered year-round from shore, by boat, or on paddle craft! These sessions are tailored to individual interests and existing levels of knowledge. Sanibel Island offers world-class beachcombing, birding, and wildlife watching opportunities. There is so much waiting to be discovered so come get your feet wet and explore Sanibel’s unique marine habitats with us. Maybe we’ll find a seahorse in the seagrass, spot a manatee or two, or discover some tiny creature that live between the grains of sand. You’re sure to leave Sanibel Sea School with ocean memories that will last a lifetime!

Submitted by Shannon Stainken. This article will appear in our next print edition of Island Scene magazine.