NOTICE: Update on the campus rebuild - The Patton Marine Science Education Center is under construction.
Bay Education Center programs
(Rockport)
What: Visitors are invited to experience Science on a Sphere® to learn more about Earth’s oceans, land, atmosphere, and planetary neighbors. Science on a Sphere® is a spherical display system created by the National Oceanic land Atmospheric Administration that helps visitors see how global patterns, such as ocean circulation, weather, planetary movements, and climate affect our world.
Where: Bay Education Center located in downtown Rockport (121 Seabreeze Drive, Rockport Texas 78382)
When: Science on a Sphere® presentations are offered free to the public.
Other: Groups over ten visitors that would like a special screening of the Science On a Sphere should set up a private tour. The Bay Education Center has exhibits and is open Tuesday - Saturday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Contact: Sara Pelleteri at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Wetland Education Center Tours
(Port Aransas)
What: Did you ever want to visit and learn about a marsh without getting your feet wet? The Wetlands Education Center is a ADA compliant 3.6-acre wetland will allow you to do just that, as you stroll through seagrass, salty marsh plants, and dunes. Come during a free guided tour and you will learn about the special plants and animals of our local wetlands.
Where: Participants, 15 maximum, meet at the tarpon statue (855 East Cotter Ave., Port Aransas, Texas 78373)
When: Guided tours are available Tuesday and Thursday, at 9 a.m. (the trails are always open for self-guided walks)
Other: Groups over ten visitors that would like a guided tour of the Wetlands Education Center should set up a private tour.
Contact: Adriana Reza at 361-749-3152 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
The Marine Science Institute is committed to providing a safe environment for our staff and visitors. All guests are required to follow these rules:
- Masks are optional. You are more than welcome to continue wearing a mask if that is your preference. Wearing a mask is highly recommended for individuals who are not fully vaccinated or have weakened immune systems.
- Maintain 6 feet of distance from others when possible. Maintaining distance is highly recommended for individuals who are not fully vaccinated or have weakened immune systems.
- Wash your hands and/or use hand sanitizer often.
- If you are sick, please stay home.
Here’s what we’re doing:
- Wearing masks per our personal preferences
- Sanitizing and washing our hands regularly
- Maintaining 6 feet of distance from others
- Keeping common areas (e.g., restrooms) sanitized and clean
- Sanitizing and washing tools and other commonly used equipment
- Monitoring our health and staying home if not feeling well
- Working with local and university health authorities to utilize recommended practices
While we can take reasonable steps to keep our visitors healthy, please understand that the Marine Science Institute cannot guarantee your safety from COVID-19.
Thank you for helping everyone stay healthy!
