April 3rd, 1:00 - 2:30 PM

Walking with Wildlife

Join us for a guided walking tour to explore the diverse wildlife and unique habitats nestled along the St. Pete Pier. Students will discover how to become citizen scientists by learning to identify local species and log their sightings into a global data‑collection platform. Along the way, we’ll enjoy birdwatching opportunities and a fun scavenger hunt where students can check off wildlife and natural features as they spot them, turning observation into an exciting, hands‑on learning adventure!

This class will be held at the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center at 700 2nd Ave. NE, ST. Petersburg, FL 33701.

May 1st, 2:00 - 3:30 PM

Eco-Vessel Experience: All About the Bay

Have you ever wondered what it's like to be a marine biologist? When you step into our floating classroom, you'll find out! Join us aboard the Discovery to learn all about our favorite estuary: Tampa Bay! This tour includes wildlife watching, a fisheries trawl to take a closer look at common local species, and an opportunity to participate in real scientific research. We often spot manatees, dolphins, stingrays, birds, fish, and so much more. 

This class will be held on the eco-vessel at the St Pete Pier at 400 2nd Ave. NE., St Petersburg, FL 33701.

May 8th, 2:00 - 3:15 PM

Seine the Bay

Wade into shallow seagrass beds and use scientific nets to collect and identify fascinating nearshore creatures. Along the way, we'll explore the vital connections between coastal habitats and the animals that call them home. Students will uncover the unique adaptations that help these estuary species thrive in their dynamic environment.

All students need to be appropriately dressed with closed-toed shoes and clothing that can get wet (old tennis shoes, water shoes, or dive boots work best). Participants should also bring a towel, change of clothes and dry shoes to change in to afterwards.

This class will be held at the Auer Marine Education Center at 3000 Pinellas Bayway S. Tierra Verde, FL 33715.

May 15th, 12:00 - 3:00 PM

Kayak Tampa Bay (Ages 10+)

Embark with us on an unforgettable journey through the serene waters of our stunning estuary! This trip offers an immersive experience in nature, combining the joy of paddling with a unique opportunity to observe and learn about local species.

As you glide through calm waters, your expert naturalist will share fascinating insights into the diverse ecosystems and residents of the estuary. You’ll have the chance to encounter a variety of wildlife while exploring the mangrove forests and seagrass beds of Tampa Bay. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a beginner, the experience is designed to be both relaxing and informative, offering a rare chance to connect with nature while honing your kayaking skills!

Kayak, paddles, and life jackets will be provided. Students are encouraged to bring snacks, water, and skin protection. This 3-hour, student only, class is $40 per student and for ages 10+.

This class will be held at the Auer Marine Education Center at 3000 Pinellas Bayway S. Tierra Verde, FL 33715

August 21st, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Snorkel Tampa Bay

Splash around Tampa Bay with us this summer! Our Snorkel Tampa Bay event offers a chance to cool off while exploring the ecosystem and learning about one of the Bay's most important habitats. Students can grab a dip net or borrow a mask and snorkel to join our knowledgeable marine science educators in search of fish, crabs, snails, seahorses, and more! You are also welcome to stroll or swim in the shallows.

This program is open to ages 6 and up. Students are required to wear life jackets, water shoes. Students are welcome to bring their own gear, but full-face masks are prohibited. 

This class will be held on the eco-vessel at the St Pete Pier at 400 2nd Ave. NE., St Petersburg, FL 33701.

September 4th, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Reel Science

As the largest estuary in Florida, Tampa Bay is home to a wide variety of fish species. Students will investigate external fish anatomy, learn fish aging techniques, and sustainable fishing practices.  To conclude the lesson, students will become sustainable seafood advocates by using Seafood Watch cards to identify ocean-friendly seafood choices that help protect marine ecosystems.

This class will be held at the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center at 700 2nd Ave. NE, ST. Petersburg, FL 33701.

September 4th, 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM

Fishing Workshop (Ages 12+)

Ready to fish with confidence and care? Dive into hands‑on angling skills that teach you how to protect fish and the environment every time you cast a line. Students will explore topics such as choosing appropriate tackle, fish handling, how to follow regulations, and protect the environment through responsible fishing practices. This class is for students ages 12 and up.  

This class will be held on the eco-vessel at the St Pete Pier at 400 2nd Ave. NE., St Petersburg, FL 33701.

October 2nd, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Herpetology 101

Across Florida, you can find reptiles and amphibians slithering and leaping. Discover what makes these misunderstood animals unique with hands-on activities and learn to identify some of their key characteristics. Students will test their knowledge on frog calls, and they will get to meet one of our reptile ambassadors up close to see that they are not as scary as they seem! 

This class will be held at the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center at 700 2nd Ave. NE, ST. Petersburg, FL 33701.

November 20th, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Kayak Tampa Bay (Ages 10+)

Embark with us on an unforgettable journey through the serene waters of our stunning estuary! This trip offers an immersive experience in nature, combining the joy of paddling with a unique opportunity to observe and learn about local species.

As you glide through calm waters, your expert naturalist will share fascinating insights into the diverse ecosystems and residents of the estuary. You’ll have the chance to encounter a variety of wildlife while exploring the mangrove forests and seagrass beds of Tampa Bay. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a beginner, the experience is designed to be both relaxing and informative, offering a rare chance to connect with nature while honing your kayaking skills!

Kayak, paddles, and life jackets will be provided. Students are encouraged to bring snacks, water, and skin protection. This 3-hour, student only, class is $40 per student and for ages 10+.

This class will be held at the Auer Marine Education Center at 3000 Pinellas Bayway S. Tierra Verde, FL 33715

December 4th, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Dwelling in the Depths

With so many animals living under the water, each one has a different place they call home! Learn about the layers of the ocean, who lives where, and how they are adapted to survive in the deepest canyons or shallow shorelines. Students will observe how camouflage works in the darkest areas of our ocean through a unique scavenger hunt activity, along with testing their own mock ROV creations! Dive deeper into the world below! 

This class will be held at the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center at 700 2nd Ave. NE, ST. Petersburg, FL 33701.

Questions? We’re here to help! Email education@tampabaywatch.org.