Recently, I took my children ages 8 and 11 to the Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach.  Like many parents in the summer, I was desperate for anything that would get them off the iPads and computers for a couple of hours. This has always been a great place to take them ever since they were toddlers.  It was and remains a nice place for them to run around and look at the sea turtles and other sea life that are on display. 

In 2022 they completed an expansion & renovation of the facility, more than doubling in size and available displays.  Although all of the new tanks are not yet full of Loggerhead, Green, and Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle patients, there are always at least 5-10 on hand to see.  I  enjoy listening to the well-versed volunteers discussing the turtles, where they were rescued, treatment plans, and possible release dates.  They also have information on the history of the center and sea turtle rescue.  New larger tanks have been installed outdoors with stingrays, beautiful fish varieties, and even a smaller shark.  When it is time to escape the heat, they also have built additional interior display spaces with interactive exhibits and a glowing tank full of jellyfish.

My wife and I were pleased to get the kids out to look at something other than their screens and it just happens to be next to a great spot to visit the beach.  My children became obsessed with the interactive ocean life display where you can draw fish or turtles on the screen, and you then can see them swimming in the electronic ‘tank’ along with previous users’ creations. Playing on yet again another computer was not my intention, but at least we were out of the house.

I wholeheartedly recommend this activity anytime you have a couple of hours. Great for young and old.

Peter Bobolia, ChFC®, CFP®

Family First Financial Planning

Hourly fee financial planner located in Stuart, Florida, serving clients throughout Florida and nationwide where allowed. Helping clients through fiduciary, objective, advice about retirement, investments, estate planning, college, and more. When you need objective financial advice, contact me at 772-781-7648. 

Photo by Randall Ruiz on Unsplash