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Build Your Perfect Day Trip Mix and match marine science, history, conservation, and community partner experiences to create a customized Gulf Coast field trip for your students. Request Day Trip Information Choose Your Theme Marine Science, History, Conservation, or Mixed Select Experiences Choose from our exploration menu and community partners. Build Your Day We'll create an itinerary that fits your goals, schedule, and budget. Popular Day Trip Experiences Most experiences can be combined into half-day or full-day field trips. We'll help you build an itinerary that fits your schedule, grade level, and budget. Sea Turtle Conservation Students excavate a mock sea turtle nest while learning about conservation and coastal stewardship. Learn More Seining & Specimen Discovery Students use seine nets to collect and identify fish, crabs, shrimp, and other creatures living in Alabama's coastal waters. Learn More Marine Science Tools Lab Use real scientific equipment including slurp guns, plankton nets, shaker boxes, and specimen trays to investigate coastal life. Learn More Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge Explore one of Alabama's most important protected habitats while discovering native wildlife, dunes, and coastal ecosystems. Learn More Dolphin Cruise Search for dolphins and explore local marine life while learning about the ecosystems of Alabama's coastal waters. Learn More Fort Morgan Step inside one of Alabama's most historic coastal forts and learn how it shaped the history of Mobile Bay and the Gulf Coast. Learn More Oyster Farming Meet local oyster farmers and discover how oysters support marine life, improve water quality, and contribute to coastal communities. Learn More Sandcastle University Learn the science, engineering, and artistry behind building professional sand sculptures on Alabama's beaches. Learn More Alligator Encounter at Alligator Alley Meet native reptiles up close and learn about the important role alligators play in Southern ecosystems. Learn More Claude Peteet Mariculture Center Get a behind-the-scenes look at how Alabama raises and restores marine species through aquaculture and conservation efforts. Learn More Gulf State Park Nature Center Connect with local naturalists and discover the plants, animals, and ecosystems that make Alabama's Gulf Coast unique. Learn More Gulf Coast Zoo Explore wildlife conservation through animal encounters and educational experiences at one of the Gulf Coast's favorite attractions. Learn More Ready to Build Your Day Trip? Tell us your grade level, preferred date, and goals and we'll help create the perfect Gulf Coast experience. Request Dates

Learn about Gulf Coast Explorers, your trusted partner for marine science field trips and Gulf Coast education. Discover our mission, history, and commitment to hands-on learning experiences. About Gulf Coast Explorers Connecting students to the Alabama Gulf Coast through hands-on marine science, coastal history, and real-world exploration. Our Mission Gulf Coast Explorers was created to help students experience Alabama's Gulf Coast through hands-on exploration, local history, conservation, and real-world learning. We believe the best classrooms don't always have four walls, and some of the most meaningful learning happens when students are actively discovering the world around them. Built by Educators With nearly 40 years of combined classroom experience, our team understands how to create engaging learning experiences while making field trip planning simple for teachers. Meet the Team Owner & Director Asti Weaver A former classroom teacher with 11 years of experience, Asti founded Gulf Coast Explorers to help students connect with the Alabama Gulf Coast through hands-on exploration and real-world learning. Having grown up along the Gulf Coast, she now works with teachers to design customized field trips and leads students in the field, sharing her love of the coast with the next generation. Hospitality & Business Manager Grant Weaver Grant oversees meals, hospitality, invoicing, and financial operations for Gulf Coast Explorers. From preparing meals for student groups to managing behind-the-scenes logistics, he helps create a welcoming and organized experience for every group. Lead Educator Sandy Morris After more than 25 years in the classroom, Sandy brings a wealth of experience, patience, and passion for working with students. Her calm, encouraging approach and love of teaching help create meaningful experiences for every group that visits Gulf Coast Explorers. Our Extended Team Gulf Coast Explorers is supported by a network of educators, naturalists, local historians, conservation professionals, sea turtle volunteers, and seasonal staff who help create meaningful experiences for students throughout the year. Many of our team members are retired educators, community leaders, parents, and Gulf Coast locals who bring a wealth of knowledge and a passion for sharing this special place with the next generation. Why Teachers Choose Gulf Coast Explorers ✓ Built by Educators Designed by former teachers who understand classroom learning, field trip logistics, and what students need to stay engaged. ✓ Customized for Your Group Every itinerary is tailored to your grade level, learning goals, schedule, and budget. ✓ Hands-On From Start to Finish Students use real tools, collect data, investigate habitats, and actively explore the Gulf Coast. ✓ Local Experts & Community Partners Learn from historians, naturalists, conservation professionals, oyster farmers, and other Gulf Coast experts. ✓ Simple Planning Process Planning packets, room assignments, group forms, schedules, and support every step of the way. ✓ Overnight & Day Trip Options From single-day experiences to fully customizable overnight adventures. 35+ Years of Combined Classroom Experience Thousands of Students Served Dozens of Gulf Coast Community Partners Highly Rated by Teachers & Chaperones

Welcome to Gulf Coast Explorers! We offer engaging marine science field trips, hands-on activities, and lessons in local Gulf Coast history. Perfect for schools, families, and homeshcool groups, our programs inspire curiosity and a deeper connection to the environment. Explore our site for exciting educational resources, unforgettable experiences, and opportunities to dive into the rich history and ecosystem of the Gulf Coast. Join us on an adventure today! The Coast Is Our Classroom Hands-On Marine Science & Alabama History Field Trips on Alabama's Gulf Coast Request Trip Dates Explore Field Trips Why Schools Choose Gulf Coast Explorers Built by a Former Teacher Planning support, flexible scheduling, and real-world learning designed with educators in mind. Hands-On from Start to Finish Students use real tools, collect data, and investigate the Gulf Coast firsthand. Custom Itineraries Every field trip is built around your grade level, goals, and schedule. Local Experts. Local Experiences. Students learn from historians, conservationists, oyster farmers, naturalists, and community partners across Alabama's Gulf Coast. Explore Field Trips Grades 3–12 • Overnight & Day Trips • Custom Programs • Meals & Lodging Included • Starting at $395 "Our 5th graders had an AMAZING trip to Gulf Coast Explorers! Students learned about ecosystems, engineering, ecology, teamwork, and so much more—all in hands-on, engaging ways. The accommodations were excellent, the activities were both educational and fun, and our students came away with knowledge and memories that will last a lifetime. We highly recommend Gulf Coast Explorers for your group’s next adventure!"

Get in touch with Gulf Coast Explorers! Book your marine science field trip or ask questions about our programs today. Let's Start Planning Your Gulf Coast Adventure Ready to explore Alabama's Gulf Coast with your students? Complete our Field Trip Interest Form and we'll help you build a customized experience that fits your goals, schedule, and budget. Submit the Interest Form We'll contact you to discuss dates, group size, and trip goals You'll receive a customized proposal and pricing Secure your dates with a signed agreement and $500 deposit We handle the planning while you focus on your students Request Available Dates Now accepting reservations for the 2026–2027 school year Current Booking Information Grades 3–12 Overnight & Day Trips Capacity up to 160 students Gulf Shores, Alabama Have Questions First? 📧 info@gulfcoastexplorers.com 📞 251-752-2784 Or schedule a quick phone call and we'd be happy to help.

Plan your adventure with Gulf Coast Explorers! Discover how to book engaging marine science field trips, educational programs, and group experiences on the Gulf Coast. Start exploring today! Plan Your Gulf Coast Experience Every Gulf Coast Explorers trip is customized to your group, goals, schedule, and budget. How It Works 1. Request Your Dates Complete our field trip interest form and tell us about your group, preferred dates, and goals. 2. Reserve Your Spot Once we find the right dates, we'll send your agreement and deposit information to secure your trip. 3. Customize Your Experience Choose the explorations and community partner experiences that interest your group most. We'll build a customized itinerary based on your goals, schedule, and grade level. 4. We Handle the Planning As your trip approaches, we'll provide a complete planning packet, room assignment forms, group organization tools, schedules, and everything you need for a smooth experience. 5. Explore the Gulf Coast Arrive ready to learn, discover, and experience the Alabama Gulf Coast through hands-on exploration. Overnight Field Trips 2 Nights • 3 Days 4 Meals Included Lodging Included Grades 3–12 Starting at $395 View Overnight Details Day Trips Half-Day Options Full-Day Options Premium Experiences Available Starting at $30 View Day Trip Options Gulf Shores Beach Retreat Overnight groups stay at Gulf Shores Beach Retreat, located just minutes from Alabama's beaches, lagoons, and field trip destinations. ✓ Sleeps up to 160 guests (80 per side) ✓ Dedicated staff rooms for teachers and chaperones ✓ Optional condo accommodations available for bus drivers ✓ Private swimming pool ✓ Sand volleyball court ✓ Basketball court ✓ Meeting spaces for evening programs ✓ Beach access across the street ✓ Lagoon access nearby ✓ Four meals included with overnight trips Clean, safe, and designed specifically for student groups. View Retreat Information Ready to Start Planning? Request Dates

Sea Turtle Conservation One of the first experiences students enjoy when they arrive at Gulf Coast Explorers. ← Back to Experiences Seining & Specimen Discovery One of Gulf Coast Explorers' most popular hands-on experiences, where students become marine scientists and discover what lives beneath the surface of Alabama's coastal waters. ← Back to Experiences Marine Science Tools Lab Students use real scientific equipment to investigate Alabama's coastal ecosystems and discover the organisms living all around them. ← Back to Experiences Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge Explore protected habitats, coastal wildlife, and the rich history of Alabama's Gulf Coast at one of the state's most important conservation areas. ← Back to Experiences Dolphin Cruise One of our most memorable community partner experiences, giving students the opportunity to explore Alabama's coastal waters and observe dolphins in their natural habitat. ← Back to Experiences Fort Morgan Exploration Step inside one of Alabama's most historic coastal landmarks and discover the stories, people, and ecosystems that shaped the Gulf Coast. ← Back to Experiences Oyster Farming Experience Discover how local oyster farmers grow one of the Gulf Coast's most important seafood resources while protecting and improving coastal ecosystems. ← Back to Experiences Sandcastle University Discover the science, engineering, and creativity behind building professional sand sculptures on Alabama's Gulf Coast. ← Back to Experiences Alligator Alley Get up close with one of the South's most iconic reptiles while learning about the wildlife, habitats, and ecosystems of Alabama's Gulf Coast. ← Back to Experiences ← Back to Experiences Claude Peteet Mariculture Center Go behind the scenes at Alabama's saltwater hatchery and discover how scientists are helping protect and restore coastal fisheries. ← Back to Experiences ← Back to Experiences Gulf State Park Nature Center Meet some of Alabama's most fascinating wildlife through an interactive presentation featuring live animal ambassadors and expert naturalists. ← Back to Experiences ← Back to Experiences Gulf Coast Zoo Discover wildlife from around the world while connecting classroom learning to conservation, animal adaptations, and biodiversity. ← Back to Experiences ← Back to Experiences Reno's Reptiles Spend an evening getting up close with live reptiles and other fascinating animals during one of Gulf Coast Explorers' most popular nighttime programs. ← Back to Experiences ← Back to Experiences Coastal Conservation & Sustainability Discover how people are working to restore, protect, and sustain Alabama's coastal ecosystems through hands-on conservation experiences. ← Back to Experiences

Explore our engaging field trip programs on the Gulf Coast! Hands-on marine science, coastal history, and educational adventures tailored to schools and groups Explore the Gulf Coast Through Science, History & Adventure Every Gulf Coast Explorers trip is customized to your group. Explore our most popular experiences below and discover what makes the Gulf Coast the ultimate outdoor classroom. OVERNIGHT FIELD TRIPS Our Most Popular Field Trip 2 Nights • 3 Days • Fully Customizable Our 2-night, 3-day field trips combine marine science, Alabama history, conservation, and hands-on exploration into one unforgettable Gulf Coast experience. Every itinerary is customized to fit your grade level, learning goals, and schedule. Most schools choose our overnight program because students can experience multiple ecosystems, activities, and community partnerships in a single trip. ✓ 2 Nights • 3 Days ✓ Meals Included ✓ Lodging Included ✓ Fully Customizable ✓ Starting at $395 Request Available Dates DAY TRIPS EXPERIENCES A Gulf Coast Experience in a Single Day Our day trips bring hands-on science, history, and exploration to students in a flexible format. Choose from a variety of experiences and community partners to create a day tailored to your goals, schedule, and budget. ✓ Half-Day & Full-Day Options ✓ Marine Science & History Experiences ✓ Custom Itineraries ✓ Community Partner Experiences ✓ Designed for Local & Regional Schools Popular options include a Dolphin Cruise, Sandcastle University, Fort Morgan, the Mariculture Center, Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, Alligator Alley, and the Gulf Coast Zoo. View Day Trip Options Explore Our Experiences Every Gulf Coast Explorers trip is customized to your group. Browse our most popular experiences below and click "Learn More" to see photos, videos, and additional details. Sea Turtle Conservation Students excavate a mock sea turtle nest while learning about conservation and coastal stewardship. Learn More Seining & Specimen Discovery Students use seine nets to collect and identify fish, crabs, shrimp, and other creatures living in Alabama's coastal waters. Learn More Marine Science Tools Lab Use real scientific equipment including slurp guns, plankton nets, shaker boxes, and specimen trays to investigate coastal life. Learn More Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge Explore one of Alabama's most important protected habitats while discovering native wildlife, dunes, and coastal ecosystems. Learn More Dolphin Cruise Search for dolphins and explore local marine life while learning about the ecosystems of Alabama's coastal waters. Learn More Fort Morgan Step inside one of Alabama's most historic coastal forts and learn how it shaped the history of Mobile Bay and the Gulf Coast. Learn More Oyster Farming Meet local oyster farmers and discover how oysters support marine life, improve water quality, and contribute to coastal communities. Learn More Sandcastle University Learn the science, engineering, and artistry behind building professional sand sculptures on Alabama's beaches. Learn More Alligator Encounter at Alligator Alley Meet native reptiles up close and learn about the important role alligators play in Southern ecosystems. Learn More Claude Peteet Mariculture Center Get a behind-the-scenes look at how Alabama raises and restores marine species through aquaculture and conservation efforts. Learn More Gulf State Park Nature Center Connect with local naturalists and discover the plants, animals, and ecosystems that make Alabama's Gulf Coast unique. Learn More Gulf Coast Zoo Explore wildlife conservation through animal encounters and educational experiences at one of the Gulf Coast's favorite attractions. Learn More Reno's Reptiles Get up close with live reptiles while learning about adaptations, habitats, and the important role these animals play in Gulf Coast ecosystems. Learn More Gulf Coast Center for Ecotourism & Sustainability Explore conservation, restoration, and sustainability along Alabama's Gulf Coast. Learn More