Environmental Learning Center - Vero Beach, Florida

Joy M.

My kids 7 and 4 years old and I absolutely loved our day at the Environmental Learning Center. It far exceeded our expectations.

We loved the small aquarium where we learned about marine life and even got to touch hermit crabs and starfish! The seashell collection and chart was impressive! We also loved seeing the seahorses, turtles and seeing some creatures with the microscope display.

We spend a lot of time at the nature play area cooking in the sand kitchen, climbing on the structures and swinging. There is also a mud kitchen by the entrance/store.

Most of all we loved walking the paths and over the wetlands and seeing all of the crabs crawling up the trees.

It was a sunny and warm day but most paths were shaded.

The store sells some snacks and educational books and toys etc.

Great day trip for us and would come back again when in town!

John M.

Beautiful facility!
Great for field trips!
Trails
Water
So much squeezed in a relatively small acreage which is ideal for school groups and older folks.

I was here for a LEEF (league of environmental educators of Florida) conference. The staff here was super friendly and helpful!

Rosie P.

The sunset cruise was fantastic. We learned so much about the local history, geography, and bird life. The Captain and guide made everything come to life before our eyes. Strongly recommend the ELC Sunset Cruise.

Katie K.

I organized a private boat tour for my Master’s swim team this past weekend (16 people). It completely exceeded my expectations!

We were able to bring our own snacks and drinks aboard, which we shared with Marty (boat captain) and Chris (volunteer guide). It was a blast! The two of them really made the experience wonderful with their knowledge and humor.

A must-do tour for locals and tourists of all ages; it makes you appreciate how special our lagoon is!

Alicia A.

Quite a variety of things to do and see- family friendly options include visiting the Living lagoon aquariums, short boardwalk hikes through a mangrove forest and kayaking/canoeing opportunities. Touch tank available 10-12 and 1-3 pm. Three pontoon eco- tours daily- reserve ahead. I've done the 9-11am one several times but my favorite is the sunset tour. I learn more about lagoon ecology each time. Nice gift and snack shop. Fyi- those are harmless mangrove crabs on the tree in the photo!

Nicole H.

The ELC is a wonderful place to visit. I have been here on field trips and with family and each time I see something new. They have touch tanks to get up close with some sea creatures and beautiful paths to explore. They also have a pond where you can rent nets to catch local critters. I can’t wait to bring my class here and visit again with my family.

Christine T.

This was the best field trip I've ever given. I felt super fortunate to be able to give this wonderful and life memory for my students. They thoroughly enjoyed every moment! Most of them had never been on a boat before, so that was extremely memorable for them. Best field trip ever!
Mrs. Turchiano

Laura R.

I stumbled upon this place while driving towards the ocean. I paid $10 entry fee; well worth it. I spent about 2 hours here exploring the trails and checking out the activities. This is a great place to come with your kids or a first date. Don't forget to wear bug spray as the mosquitoes here are bad. There is plenty of parking, clean restrooms, and a gift shop.