Beach Naturalist program

Stroll along almost any local beach during low tide and you’ll see that the shore is alive!

Plus, in late spring and summer, not only will you witness Puget Sound’s multitude of marine plants and animals, but you’ll also see beach naturalists: advocates for these living wonders sharing their knowledge with beachgoers.

Beach naturalists are local residents who care about Puget Sound beaches and want to help protect them. More than 200 have volunteered to help people learn about and enjoy our shorelines. Beach naturalists know their beaches: they can help you explore gently to keep animals and their homes safe; tell you what sea stars eat; explain why barnacles stand on their heads; describe how moon snails lay their eggs; and so much more. Use the drop-down menu below for our spring and summer schedule at a beach near you. 

Please help keep our beaches healthy for everyone by following current COVID-19 guidelines such as wearing a face covering, practicing physical distancing and staying home if you feel unwell.

Ask a beach naturalist! Need help identifying something? Email a photo to beachnaturalist@seattleaquarium.org and a beach naturalist will respond to you as soon as we can.