Families

Land-based Private Programs

Land-based private programs at Sanibel Sea School can be fully customized to suit your group’s ages, interests, and desired level of activity. One of our marine science educators will lead you into Sanibel’s unique ecosystems for a field-based ocean experience. Choose from topics like dolphins, seagrass, mangroves, wading birds, and more! Where else can you learn to cast a net, hold a tiny seahorse, or come face to face with the amazing creatures that inhabit our sandbars – sometimes all in one day! All ages are welcome, children under 4 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. 

Land-based private programs are 2 hours long and cost $60 per person (2 person minimum). By appointment. Call (239) 472-8585 or email sanibelseaschool@sccf.org today and let us plan the perfect experience for your group.

Private Paddling Sessions 

Stand up paddling and kayaking are fantastic, fun ways for friends and families with older children to explore the ocean together. Led by our marine science educators and tailored to your interests and abilities, private paddling sessions at Sanibel Sea School offer an opportunity for your group to enjoy an active experience on the water while you observe and learn about Southwest Florida’s unique flora and fauna. All of our paddling instructors are also trained marine educators who are eager to share their knowledge with you.  

Private paddling sessions will begin with an evaluation of your skills, and your group leader will provide any necessary instruction to ensure that each member of your party is able to paddle comfortably and safely. Next, you will venture out into the Florida ecosystem of your choice to discover the fascinating creatures and habitats that await you. If there are topics or animals that are of particular interest to you, please let us know before your program. We are always happy to customize the experience for you, or to offer suggestions that you might like.

Our private paddling sessions are 2 hours long. We recommend this course for individuals fourteen years of age or older. By appointment. Call (239) 472-8585 or email sanibelseaschool@sccf.org today and let us plan the perfect experience for your group.

Our monthly Ocean Tribe Paddling Club meet-ups are also a great opportunity to go for a relaxed group paddle, share paddling tips and ideas, and meet new friends to paddle with. Please visit oceantribepaddlers.org or follow us on Facebook for more details about upcoming events! 

Discover Beachcombing

Sanibel Island offers world-class beachcombing, birding, and wildlife watching opportunities. There is so much waiting to be discovered here! Join our knowledgeable marine science educators for a casual guided beach walk to explore what's washed ashore. We will talk about some of the more mysterious objects we find on the beach, look for interesting animals, and learn a little bit of shell biology. Your guide will be happy to answer any questions you might have along the way. No two beach walks are ever the same – the sea has a way of surprising us! 

Offered seasonally on Thursdays, 9 AM - 10:30 AM
$20/person
Meet at Sanibel Sea School's Flagship Campus (455 Periwinkle Way).
Please call (239) 472-8585 to register.

Please Note: Discover Beachcombing is a family-oriented program. Participants under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or adult over the age of 18.

Other Groups

Let us help you plan the perfect ocean experience for your school group, homeschool group, corporate event, or anything else you have in mind. Call (239) 472-8585 to schedule your session today. 

School Groups

Please click here for more information or give us a call.

Refunds

Please click here to view our Cancellation Policy. 

Course Descriptions

Click here to download a PDF of our course descriptions. 

Scholarship Programs

We have a commitment to those who otherwise wouldn't experience the ocean. Currently, Sanibel Sea School has partnerships with The Heights Foundation, Child Care of Southwest Florida, and Pine Manor Improvement Association to offer unique outdoor learning experiences to local underprivileged children. Once a month or more, we meet with kids from these organizations to help them build confidence and gain an appreciation for science while exploring Sanibel’s diverse barrier island habitats with us.

Sanibel Sea School also offers tuition assistance to many island families throughout the year, whose children would otherwise be unable to attend summer camps and other programs. If you are concerned that your child may not be able to participate in one of our programs due to cost, please contact us for more information.