top of page

The Shoreside program, based at our facility in Redwood City, offers a variety of hands-on activities that challenge students and ignite their curiosity. Students learn respect and stewardship for the bay with inspiring experiences led by expert marine educators.

IMG_4680 - resized_edited.jpg

under 5
shoreside

Monday - Saturday

2 hour

Ages 3 -5 yo

Max 40 students

Mud Exploration:

Students investigate a sample of sediment from the bottom of the bay (the benthos). 

Under 5 Shoreside Pricing

September - February Pricing

 

FOUR STATION PROGRAM

2 hour program

$550* - up to 20 students - 2 instructors   

$675* - 21 to 30 students - 3 instructors  

$800* - 31 to 40 students - 4 instructors

March - August Pricing: 

$595* - up to 20 students - 2 instructors   

$720* - 21 to 30 students - 3 instructors  

$845* - 31 to 40 students - 4 instructors

*Sliding scale available depending on need.

All school programs are automatically subsidized. Our development team works hard to secure funds for teachers. If you need additional financial assistance please contact us. We may be able to offer extra scholarships.

Click here to start the additional sponsorship process.

Station Topics

Mud Exploration

Students investigate a sample of sediment from the bottom of the bay (the benthos). 

Benthic Invertebrates

Students discover live San Francisco Bay invertebrates through observation and touch. They learn about the different adaptations the organisms have that make them unique. 

Bay Fish

Students study live fishes using observation, touch, and tools. They recognize their characteristics while learning about each animal’s adaptations and roles in the San Francisco Bay ecosystem. 

Craft

Students create a connected and memorable take home craft.

Forms and Information

Our Under 5 Shoreside is specially designed to cultivate the natural curiosity of young learners in a safe and fun learning environment. This memorable two-hour program includes four stations: Mud, Invertebrates, Fish, and a Craft/Game. Students enjoy touching live animals, exploring mud, and creating a thematic craft keepsake.

Marine Science Institute needs your support. Creating affordable, high quality, and engaging curriculum is only possible because of our amazing donors. Join our cause and make your tax-deductible donation today!

Marine research vessel in tranquil waters.png

Marine Science Institute's mission is to inspire environmental stewardship through hands-on learning and exploration of San Francisco Bay ecosystems.

facebook link
instagram link
YouTube fish logo 2023.png
yelp link
linkin link
X fish logo.png

ADDRESS

500 Discovery Parkway

Redwood City, CA 94063

info@sfbaymsi.org

Tel: (650)364-2760

Click here for directions

To inspire environmental stewardship through hands-on learning and exploration of San Francisco Bay ecosystems.

Thank you to our current grantors who have supported us with more than $25,000

Applied Materials Foundation
California Coastal Commission
Cargill
Central Contra Costa Sanitary District
Cisco Systems Foundation
City of Palo Alto - Watershed Protection Act
Contra Costa Water District
Dan and Margaret Lesher Foundation
Delta Diablo
Golden State Water Company
Hannig Sail it Forward Foundation
Joseph and Vera Long Foundation
Marathon Petroleum
Matson Foundation
Pacific Gas & Electric
Peter and Paula Uccelli
Port of Redwood City
Sand Hill Foundation
Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation

Marine Science Institute is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Federal Tax ID# 94-1719649

 © 2026 Marine Science Institute
All Rights Reserved  

bottom of page