Plan Your Visit

Explore the MEEC

There are so many different points of interest to explore at the Marine Environmental Education Center (MEEC)! 

1. The Carpenter House: The MEEC is located at the historic Carpenter House property which serves as visitors’ main point of entry and starting point for all beachside adventures. Once upstairs, tour this “living snapshot” of mid-century South Florida, as well as enjoy daily public programs and a variety of terrestrial and aquatic animals.

2. Sea Turtle Habitat: Did you know our sea turtle habitat is the Carpenter family’s original swimming pool? Now outfitted with a cutting-edge life support system, visit the pool to see how NSU team members care for its permanent residents with sea turtle talks and unique enrichment devices/activities.

3. Courtyard Exhibits: Discover a variety of hands-on interactive exhibits that explore ongoing conservation efforts in relation to sea turtles and their neighboring marine habitats. Learn about their natural biology and ecology, as well as tech that protects them (like investigating different lighting options around the coast).  Eco-art and hydroponics can be found there too.

4. Education Building: Venture inside the National Save the Sea Turtle Foundation's education building (formerly the Carpenter family’s cabana and guest house) to investigate how NSU, Broward County, and various non-profits come together to help protect marine animals globally. This includes tracking devices, technology updates, invasive species management, and rehabilitation centers.

5. Gift Shop: Commemorate your visit to the MEEC by choosing a keepsake from our gift shop. Items include branded clothing, sustainable jewelry, themed home goods, fun trinkets, educational books, and creations from local artists. Monies generated here directly support daily care for our animal residents and general MEEC operations.