Sandoway Discovery Center

The Sandoway Discovery Center (formerly Sandoway House Nature Center) offers a glimpse into South Florida’s fragile marine and freshwater environments through educational exhibits and programs.The nature center opened its doors in 1998 and quickly captivated the interest of students, teachers, naturalists, community leaders, visitors and residents of Delray Beach and surrounding communities. The unique facility is an exciting hands-on learning experience, which focuses on Florida’s fragile ecosystems and their inhabitants. Visitors of all ages can get an up-close view of some of Florida’s native and invasive reptile species, meet sharks and other fish at the coral reef pool, explore Southeast Florida’s largest private shell collection and join us for special events such as Earth Day and beach clean-ups. The center’s library is a great resource to explore natural history and the environment. The observation deck, shell collection and native plant and butterfly garden also allow the visitor to learn about our unique coastal environment. The Sandoway Discover Center is an historic home where one can experience Delray’s rich natural history through a self-guided tour. The open air porch, Dade County pine floors, Bald Cypress ceilings, French doors and arched window on the staircase, are just some of the architectural details that evoke impressions of early beach-front living. The nature center’s activities include daily shark feedings, twice a week alligator feedings, Junior Naturalist program for at-risk youth, group education programs/group tours, beach and dune walks (presented by Dr. Angela Witmer), garden walks, live animal exhibits, fossil digs and more. The Friends of Sandoway House Nature Center, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating the public about Delray’s coastal/marine ecosystems and natural history all to benefit future generations.