After shutting down to visitors last March, Gumbo Limbo Nature Center is reopening Tuesday June 1. But only for pre-registered programs and tours, and only outdoors.
The city’s nature center at 1801 N. Ocean Blvd. is used to hosting thousands of visitors a year. Their sea turtle rehabilitation center’s a particular attraction and is on the tour.
Here’s how visiting and parking will work:
“Everyone has to register individually; there are no group tours,” manager Leanne told Boca Voice. “The only access to the majority of our site is to pre-register at https://www.gumbolimbo.org/plan-your-visit
Visitors will be scheduled at designated times on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, “as of now,” she added.
Parking will be onsite “only if you’re registered for the tour, the gates will be open 15 minutes prior to a scheduled tour. You have to check in. We’re excited to have people back.”
A 90-minute guided tour through the outdoor gardens and exhibits is $5 per person for city residents and Greater Boca Raton Beach & Park District residents, some of whom live outside city limits but have a Boca address. The cost is $8 per person for non-residents.
Sea turtle nesting season started March 1, but “we will not be doing turtle walks this summer,” Welch said, noting “our team is still on the beach.” Sea turtle nests are identified and roped off on Boca’s beaches.
Gumbo Limbo’s boardwalk through the coastal hammock remains open from 7 a.m. to sunset, accessible and parking at Red Reef Park west.
“Things are changing as we get new guidance, so follow us on social media and our website,” Welch said.
“Our nature center is still undergoing renovations so the tours are only for the outdoor areas.”
By Marci Shatzman
