With a focus on protecting oceans and sea turtles, the Marine Environmental Education Center in Hollywood is open to the public with exhibits and a saltwater pool where you can watch a rescued sea turtle swim and eat.
The female turtle on site is not releasable due to injuries from boats, according to a representative of MEEC in Hollywood.
Entry is free, and donations are encouraged. MEEC is a partnership of Broward Parks and Recreation and Nova Southeastern University.
The oceanside venue is usually open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays to Saturdays at Hollywood North Beach Park, 4414 N. Surf Road, Hollywood 33019. It's a good idea to phone ahead to ensure the venue is open the day you are venturing out.
Turtle feedings that are open to the pubic are usually 3:30 p.m. Tuesdays – Saturdays at the venue.
Educational displays include
shark and turtle tracking
aquaponics
sea turtles
The rescued turtle Captain is a popular feature. The public feeding is 3:30 p.m. Tuesdays – Saturdays and spectators are welcome to watch them swim and dine. Dinner often includes such fare as leafy greens, bell peppers and squid.
Phone 954-357-5125 for information. Fees for parking meters apply.
Beach parking is $3 an hour Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays and $4 an hour Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.