Camps
Explore our exciting camp options below! For Spring Break, we have both day-long and week-long spots available, each featuring a unique marine theme every day. Our Summer Camp runs throughout the season and promises engaging marine science activities that will create unforgettable experiences for your child.
Holi-Bay Camp
December 2025
A Wild Winter Adventure!
Looking for a meaningful way to keep kids curious and active during winter break? At Holi-Bay Camp, we’ll swap screen time for salt air, sunshine, and the magic of Tampa Bay. Hands-on science activities, boat trips, and outdoor adventures will help us discover how local animals adapt to the colder months in their own unique ways.
Each day spotlights a different Bay resident and its habitat, and in true Tampa Bay Watch style, we’ll blend exploration with creativity through nature-inspired crafts, music, and movement. Whether they drop in for a day or stay for several, campers will learn to spot the signs of winter around us. From migrating manatees to visiting birds, it’s all part of nature’s seasonal rhythm.
There may not be snow in the forecast, but there’s plenty of warmth, wonder, and festive fun ahead!
Registration is now open!
Cost: $75 per day
Ages: 6 - 10
Time: 9:00 AM- 4:00 PM
Location: Discovery Center: 700 2nd Ave NE, St Petersburg, FL 33701
Questions? Email: education@tampabaywatch.org
Camp Schedule
Dolphins
Make a splash this season as we discover how dolphins rely on their blubber to stay warm during the cooler months. Keep your eyes peeled aboard the boat and along the pier, you never know when one might leap through the chilly waves to spread a little holiday cheer!
Snakes
Shhh… our sssnakes are sssnoozing! Like mammals who hibernate, snakes brumate during winter to save energy and stay cozy. Come see for yourssself how these cold-blooded creatures slow down and chill out when the temperatures drop.
Pelicans
As the seasons change, so do our feathered friends! White Pelicans soar into Tampa Bay for winter, while Brown Pelicans shuffle aside to make room. Flap along with us as we discover how these travelers find their way, and why our Bay is the perfect winter pit stop!
Sharks
No winter break for sharks! These sleek predators roam Tampa Bay year-round, helping keep our ecosystem in balance. Dive in to discover how they stay active and alert even as the waters cool.
Manatees
Our gentle giants are on the move! When temperatures drop, manatees migrate to warm freshwater springs to stay cozy throughout the season. Find out how we can help protect these lovable sea cows in their winter refuge.
March into the Mangroves!
Get ready to splash into spring with an unforgettable adventure through Tampa Bay’s magical mangrove forests! These twisty trees are home to some of the coolest creatures around - from roseate spoonbills flying overhead to bonnethead sharks cruising through secret underwater channels.
This spring break, we’re marching into the mangroves to uncover the wild wonders of this coastal jungle! Campers will become nature explorers, marine scientists, and eco-artists as they dive into hands-on science labs, cruise the bay on thrilling boat trips, discover hidden habitats and the animals that live there, create awesome art inspired by the sea, and so much more!
Whether you join us for a day or stay for the whole week, you’ll leave with new friends, cool creations, and a deeper love for the ocean. And guess what? Both of our locations will feature the same daily themes, so no matter where you jump in, there will be plenty of fun in store.
Registration opens January 12, 2026, at 9:00 AM!
View our Spring Break 2025 Information Packet to learn more.
Cost: $75 per day
Ages: 6 - 10
Time: 9:00 AM- 4:00 PM
Location:
Discovery Center: 700 2nd Ave NE, St Petersburg, FL 33701
or
Auer Marine Education Center: 3000 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde, FL 33715
Questions? Email: education@tampabaywatch.org
Spring Break Camp
March 16 - 20, 2026
Camp Schedule
Monday
Horseshoe Crab
What has 10 eyes, 10 legs, and looks like it came from the time of dinosaurs? Horseshoe crabs! We’ll dig into the sand and meet these ancient armored creatures up close, learn how they use mangroves for protection, and maybe even spot one scuttling by!
Tuesday
Diamondback Terrapin
Is it a turtle? A tortoise? Nope, it’s a terrapin! These brackish water-loving reptiles are right at home in our mangrove forests. We’ll shell-ebrate their superpowers and meet Tampa Bay Watch’s beloved mascots, Ruby, Bertha, and Palm.
Wednesday
Black Drum
One fish, two fish, black drum, fishy fun! Mangroves are like underwater cities, buzzing with hundreds of fishy residents - including the native black drum. These cool creatures make underwater music using their bodies! Come explore how they got their name, listen for their rhythmic rumbles, and dive into the science of sound and movement in the estuary.
Thursday
Bonnethead Shark
A shark snacking on seagrass? You bet! Bonnethead sharks are omnivores, meaning they prey on both plants and animals. Let's grab our fins and discover how the presence of this species is a sign of a balanced ecosystem.
Friday
Roseate Spoonbill
I spy, with my little eye, something pink peeking out of the mangroves. It’s a roseate spoonbill! Flap on by and we’ll discover how this nutrient-rich habitat provides the perfect feeding ground for these brightly colored birds.
REGISTER
Thank you to Bavaro’s for generously donating pizza for our campers to enjoy every Friday. Your support helps make their summer even more special!
Estuary Quest Summer Camp
Two locations, one summer camp adventure to remember! Estuary Quest is all about diving into the amazing world of Tampa Bay in a fun, hands-on way. Each week has its own animal theme, but no matter when you come, you can always count on snorkeling, science experiments, games, boat rides, eco-friendly art, and tons of exciting activities.
Our Auer Marine Education Center in Tierra Verde, Florida, is the perfect spot for water lovers. Want to get muddy in the mangroves or paddle a kayak through the bay? This is your place!
Over at the Discovery Center on the St. Pete Pier, you’ll explore Tampa Bay Watch’s interactive exhibits, enjoy creature meet and greets, and cool off at Spa Beach or the Splash Pad.
No matter which location you choose, Estuary Quest is all about making lasting memories, connecting with nature, and learning something new every step of the way!
Registration opens March 10, 2025 at 9:00 AM!
Summer Camp 2025 Parent Info Packet: Click here to download
Cost: $360 per week (members receive 10% off, please call (727) 867-8166 ext. 241 for more information)
Ages: 6 - 15, we also offer a Counselor in Training Leadership Program for ages 13-18
Time: M-F 9:00 AM- 4:00 PM
Location:
Discovery Center: 700 2nd Ave NE, St Petersburg, FL 33701
or
Auer Marine Education Center: 3000 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde, FL 33715
Questions? Please send an email to education@tampabaywatch.org – we’re happy to help!
Camp Scholarships: Tampa Bay Watch is dedicated to ensuring that environmental learning experiences are accessible to everyone in our community. This year, we will host a free pop-up camp program to accommodate families in need of financial assistance. If you would like to receive more information about this opportunity, please click here to complete our request form.
June 2 - August 8, 2025
Our Summer Camp 2025 theme is Nature’s Superpowers!
Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s summer camp at Tampa Bay Watch! This summer, campers will dive into the amazing world of Tampa Bay’s wildlife, discovering how local animals use their superpowers to survive and thrive. From the lightning-fast hunting skills of sharks to the regenerative abilities of sea stars, campers will explore how these creatures have mastered their environments. We’ll uncover the secrets behind a sea turtle’s tough shell, an otter's talent for teamwork, and a dolphin's echolocation. Through hands-on activities, games, and outdoor adventures, let’s discover nature’s true superheroes and learn how we can protect them. Get ready for an action-packed summer of adventure, discovery, and fun in the sun!
Discovery Center
Camp
Schedule
Ages 6-8
June 9-13
Sea Stars: Ready, Set, Regenerate!
June 23-27
Dolphins: Echolocation Experts
July 21-25
Turtles: Shell and Tell
August 4-8
Pelicans: Determined Divers
Ages 9-12
June 2-6
Manatees: Super Snackers
June 16-20
Rays: Tide Riders
July 7-11
Sharks: Teeth and Tactics
July 14-18
Otters: Playful Prowlers
July 28-August 1
Otters: Playful Prowlers
Auer Marine Education Center Camp Schedule
Ages 6-8
June 2-6
Pelicans: Determined Divers
June 16-20
Turtles: Shell and Tell
July 14-18
Dolphins: Echolocation Experts
July 28-August 1
Sea Stars: Ready, Set, Regenerate!
Ages 9-12
June 9-13
Otters: Playful Prowlers
June 23-27
Sharks: Teeth and Tactics
July 21-25
Rays: Tide Riders
August 4-8
Manatees: Super Snackers
Ages 13-15
July 7-11
Bay Futures: Guardians of the Gulf
Click here to learn more!
REGISTER
The registration button will become active when camp registration opens. No space left in the week of your choice? Don’t worry, there’s a waitlist!
NEW! Bay Futures Counselor in Training Leadership Program
Teens ages 13-18 with a passion for marine science, leadership, and working with kids are invited to apply for our Bay Futures Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Leadership Program. Gain hands-on experience guiding younger campers while honing key skills in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving—plus, earn volunteer hours! This exciting opportunity is available at both Tampa Bay Watch locations. Click here to learn more - your teen can apply today through our website and take the first step toward becoming a future leader!
The cost to participate is $180 per week, due at time of acceptance, which supports the supplies and dedicated staff time necessary to deliver a high quality learning experience.
PLEASE NOTE!
Full-face snorkel masks are not permitted during snorkeling excursions or other water-based Tampa Bay Watch programs. Safety is our top priority, and there are a number of risks associated with this type of equipment. Clean, sanitized traditional-style masks and snorkels are available for participants to borrow upon request.
FOUL WEATHER POLICY:
We do our best to ensure that all planned activities are accomplished throughout the camp day, but safety is our first priority, and camp staff and captains reserve the right to change the daily schedule based on weather conditions (e.g. rain, high winds).
CANCELLATION/ REFUND POLICY:
If you notify Tampa Bay Watch of your intent to cancel at least ten days before your child's camp session, the camp registration fee will be assessed for a full or partial refund at the camp coordinator’s discretion and a $25 administrative fee will be held against any refunds provided. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than ten business days before your camper’s session start date, if your camper does not show up for their camp session, or if your camper is dismissed from camp by camp staff for behavioral issues. If you have questions about a refund, please email education@tampabaywatch.org.
In the event of an unavoidable emergency or medical concern, a full refund will be issued. Tampa Bay Watch reserves the right to modify or discontinue programs due to inclement weather or to maintain safe operations. In in the unlikely event of a cancellation, a full refund will be issued. If you have questions about cancellations and/or refunds please contact education@tampabaywatch.org.
“My son said he actually did not have a least favorite part of camp… he liked everything! We were incredibly pleased with this camp from start to finish. Caring and knowledgeable team of teachers, wonderful facilities, incredible experiences, creative and intentional plans each day. We cannot wait to be a part of this next summer!”