Loggerhead Marinelife Center: 14200 U.S. Hwy 1, Juno Beach, FL 33408
Saying that my children love animals is an understatement. If they could have every animal under the sun, I am sure we would live in a zoo! So our visit to the Loggerhead Marinelife Center was a perfect addition to our family vacation episode in The Palm Beaches.
There are many different events offered every day so check the calendar of events before your family visit. Activities range from learning about what’s in the sand at the beach to a Mommy and Me paint class to feeding the fish. Some classes do cost a nominal fee and may need advance registration. Just click on the calendar details for each activity to get the scoop.
We took advantage of the Jr. Vet Kids Lab with “Dr. Logger” who incorporated a lot of science and math skills into his lesson. After each child put on their lab coat, they were given the necessary tools to diagnose the health of their make believe turtle who had been “rescued” from the beach. The doctor and kids role played the process of helping the turtles recoup from common injuries and illnesses that sea turtles face. They pretended to draw blood, measure and write down all of the vital information necessary to aid their injured turtle. The program lasted about a half hour and the kids were fully immersed and engaged in the exercise. Without a doubt, the experience was a highlight of our trip. Though you don’t have to pre-register, you do need to sign up about 30 minutes before the program begins. Space is limited to 10 children and is offered on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
After the program ended, we took the time to watch real turtles get check ups. We also visited the tanks and watched the turtles swim and flip in the water. Loggerhead Marinelife Center is a sea turtle hospital so they help rescue injured sea turtles, treat them and then release them back into the wild. Sea turtles are an endangered species so it’s important that we learn about what we can do to help make a difference.
This magnificent center is FREE for all visitors though of course donations are always welcomed. They have some clever ways that you can donate to actually make giving back and experience within itself. In fact, one way your family can actually make a donation is to adopt a turtle. As a souvenir, you receive a framed adoption certificate perfect for your family vacation scrapbook! You can also donate items to their wish list, make a tax deductible donation online, or simply buy items from the gift shop. If you loved your visit to the Loggerhead Marinelife Center, they will make it easy and fun for you to support their efforts.
Some Additional Tips & Fun Facts
• Saturday storytime at 11:30 a.m. features books from the gift shop.
• Are your grandparents with you? Science for Seniors – free lectures every Tuesday at 2 p.m. with Dr. Paul Brown
