What are the opening hours?

Monday 8am - 5pm Tuesday 8am - 5pm Wednesday 8am - 5pm Thursday 8am - 5pm Friday 8am - 5pm Saturday 8am - 4pm Sunday 8am - 4pm

Environmental Learning Center

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United States
Vero Beach, FL
Environmental Learning Center

Our mission is to educate, inspire and empower all people to be active stewards of the environment and their own well-being.
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A 64-acre lagoon island nonprofit nature center with trails, kayaks, pontoon trips, aquariums, exhibits, art galleries, field trips, camps, events, an eco-boutique gift shop, and venue rentals A 64-acre island nature center on the Indian River Lagoon, one of North America's most biodiverse estuaries. 2 mi of boardwalks & trails; 4docks, 1500 gallon aquarium/touchtank/hands-on exhibits, canoe/kayak

& pontoon boat trips; butterfly garden, mud kitchen, native plant garden, nature art galleries, children/adult/family programs, facility rentals for events, and a unique eco-boutique.

06/02/2026

Looking for a fun way to explore the Indian River Lagoon this summer? 🚣‍♂️

We’ve got you covered with all the gear you need. Choose from kayaks, canoes, or stand-up paddle boards for a solo outing, or enhance your experience with one of our knowledgeable guides (Extra fee applies)

We have rentals available every day of the week! Pre-registration is strongly encouraged. Go online to DiscoverELC.org or click the link in the comments to learn more!

06/01/2026

Happy June! ☀️

Don’t miss this weeks featured event: our FREE Artist Talk with John H.C. Davis on Saturday from 2-3 PM. He will talk out his inspiration, techniques, and creative process behind his artwork that is currently on display in the Tidal Gallery. Be sure to RSVP by visiting DiscoverELC.org

We also have daily openings for canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rentals. Be sure to reserve ahead of time online or by calling 772-589-5050

05/31/2026

Wild Lagoon Summer Camps officially kick off tomorrow! ☀️

We are so excited to welcome ~400 students to the ELC this summer for weeks filled with outdoor adventures, hands-on learning, new friendships, and plenty of fun!

A few select weeks still have limited spots available, so be sure to register soon to secure your child’s spot before they fill up.

We can't wait to make this an unforgettable summer!

05/29/2026

Today we celebrated the last day of school with one of our outreach programs at Fellsmere Academy! 🎉

Pre-K through 2nd grade students had the chance to meet some of our animal ambassadors and learn all about turtles, tortoises, and corn snakes. It was a fun and educational way to wrap up the school year.

Wishing all the students, teachers, and families a safe, happy, and adventure-filled summer! 🐢🐍

05/28/2026

“Why Knot?” We are so excited to introduce our new knot-tying station in the Living Lagoon! 🪢

Created as an Eagle Scout Project by Tyler Brinson of Troop 551, this hands-on exhibit is dedicated to teaching timeless knot-tying skills that promote preparedness, safety, and self-reliance.

Be sure to check it out during your next visit to the ELC!

05/27/2026

Join us for a special Artist Talk with John H.C. Davis, creator of “Etched in Nature: Life Along the Lagoon” on June 6 from 2-3 PM🎨

Learn about the inspiration and printmaking process behind this nature-inspired exhibit celebrating the Indian River Lagoon.

Free and open to the public. RSVP ahead of time to reserve your spot! Link in the comments.

05/23/2026

Happy World Turtle Day! 🐢💚

Today we celebrate turtles, tortoises, and terrapins, amazing creatures that have been part of our world for millions of years. From ocean travelers to slow-moving land dwellers, each one plays an important role in keeping nature balanced.

Let’s help protect their habitats by reducing plastic waste, keeping waterways and beaches clean, and supporting conservation efforts. Every small action can make a big difference.

Here’s to our shelled friends everywhere, turtles, tortoises, and terrapins alike! 🌎✨

05/22/2026

Today is International Day for Biological Diversity 🌎

Did you know the Indian River Lagoon is one of the most biodiverse estuaries in North America? Home to more than 4,000 species of plants and animals, this incredible ecosystem supports everything from dolphins and manatees to oysters, seahorses, birds, and fish.

The unique mix of freshwater and saltwater creates a habitat where an amazing variety of life can thrive. From nutrient-absorbing seagrasses and protective mangroves along the shore, to water-filtering oysters and clams, these natural powerhouses work together to improve water quality, shield our shorelines, and support our local environment and economy.

Today we celebrate the beauty and importance of the Indian River Lagoon and the many species that call it home 🌊💙

05/21/2026

In honor of World Bee Day yesterday, we have some exciting news to share! 🐝

Earlier this year, we unfortunately lost our honey bee hive, but thanks to a generous donation, we officially welcomed a brand new hive today!

You can now see these busy bees hard at work in our Living Lagoon. Be sure to stop by and check them out on your next visit!

Address

255 Live Oak Drive
Vero Beach, FL
32963

Opening Hours

Monday	8am - 5pm
Tuesday	8am - 5pm
Wednesday	8am - 5pm
Thursday	8am - 5pm
Friday	8am - 5pm
Saturday	8am - 4pm
Sunday	8am - 4pm

Telephone

+17725895050

Website

http://DiscoverELC.org/

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