NSU Marine Environmental Education Center (Carpenter House)
NatureFree; $3 suggested donation per adult and child 3+. Metered municipal parking.

NSU Marine Environmental Education Center (Carpenter House)

Toddler-friendly nature spot in Hollywood, FL

4414 N Surf Rd, Hollywood, FL 33019

12 mo–12 yrs

30–75 min

morning · afternoon

Stroller friendly

Tue-Sat 10am-5pm; sea turtle feeding 3:30pm Tue-Sat. Closed Sun-Mon.

NSU and Broward County's beachside education center, home to two resident rescued sea turtles in the old Carpenter House pool, plus a terrapin and other turtles, hands-on courtyard exhibits and microscope programs.

Why kids love it

Real sea turtles up close at kid height, and the 3:30pm feeding is a highlight. A quick visit pairs well with the beach.

Hollywood · South Broward

🎒 Packing list

  • • Bug spray
  • • Water bottles
  • • Sunscreen
  • • Hat
  • • Closed-toe shoes
  • • Wipes

Safety notes

  • ! Stay on boardwalks and trails — this is gator country
  • ! Never let a toddler approach the water's edge
  • ! Check for ticks after grassy trails

Parent reviews

No parent reviews yet — been here? Help the next family out.

Quick facts

Address
4414 N Surf Rd, Hollywood, FL 33019
Cost
Free; $3 suggested donation per adult and child 3+. Metered municipal parking.
Ages
12 mo–12 yr
Time needed
30–75 minutes
Best time
morning and afternoon
Setting
Outdoor
Shade
Little or none
Stroller access
Yes
Hours
Tue-Sat 10am-5pm; sea turtle feeding 3:30pm Tue-Sat. Closed Sun-Mon.

Nearby alternatives

🦩

Anne Kolb Nature Center

Hollywood · Nature

$
📚

Hollywood Branch Library

Hollywood · Library

Free
🎪

Slothy's Playhouse

Hollywood · Indoor play

$$

Questions about NSU Marine Environmental Education Center (Carpenter House)

Is NSU Marine Environmental Education Center (Carpenter House) good for toddlers?

Yes. We recommend NSU Marine Environmental Education Center (Carpenter House) for ages 12 mo–12 yr. Real sea turtles up close at kid height, and the 3:30pm feeding is a highlight. A quick visit pairs well with the beach.

How much does NSU Marine Environmental Education Center (Carpenter House) cost?

NSU Marine Environmental Education Center (Carpenter House) is free. Prices and policies change, so confirm before you go.

How long should we plan for NSU Marine Environmental Education Center (Carpenter House)?

Most families spend 30 to 75 minutes. It is at its best in the morning and afternoon. Tue-Sat 10am-5pm; sea turtle feeding 3:30pm Tue-Sat. Closed Sun-Mon.

Does NSU Marine Environmental Education Center (Carpenter House) have shade, restrooms and stroller access?

NSU Marine Environmental Education Center (Carpenter House) has stroller access. Plan for little or no shade. We have no record of restrooms here, so check before you go.

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