Coastal Exploration Programs

These exciting outings are conducted at local beaches, only around low tide. Students will get their feet wet! Wear boots or shoes that can get soggy, and dress for the weather!

Groups of up to 40 will book one program. Groups of 41 to 60 will book two programs. No more than 60 students per day at the beach. 

We have beach locations in Norwalk, Bridgeport and Westport. Extra travel, parking and layover fees may apply. School must supply beach permit, if necessary. 

For questions or to book a program, please contact our Reservations Department at (203) 852-0700 extension 2206 between 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday or email reservations@maritimeaquarium.org. Please note: reservations for education programs must be made at least 6-8 weeks in advance.

Shoreline Investigators | PK – Grade 2

The seashore provides young scientists with sensory opportunities for investigation and discovery. Students use their eyes, ears, hands and noses to gather information about animals and plants found in a variety of habitats within the intertidal zone. They explore how these living things satisfy their needs and rely on each other in order to survive as part of the dynamic ecosystem found at the beach.

• Cost $225 for the first group, $200 for the second 

Shoreline Scientists | Grade 3 - 5

What better place for a first experience of field science than at a local beach? Students rotate through stations in different habitats of the intertidal zone, using scientific tools to identify organisms and make observations. They explore food webs, structures and adaptations that animals and plants use for survival, and how humans are impacting the shoreline. 2 hours.* 

• Cost $325 for first class, $275 for second class. 

Shoreline Ecologists | Grade 6 - 12

Equipped with the tools of an ecologist, students explore a coastal ecosystem of Long Island Sound. They conduct their own fieldwork, collecting fish, jellies, shrimp and algae with seine nets, and logging data on air and water temperature, salinity, pH and dissolved oxygen using scientific equipment. This hands-on experience allows students to be the scientists as they investigate the interconnectedness of organisms and the nonliving parts of an ecosystem. 2 hours.* 

• Cost $325 for first class, $275 for second class.