Experience the ocean with purpose through the Guardians of the Reef Guided Snorkel. This inspiring, education-forward excursion invites participants to explore Hollywood Beach’s artificial reef trail alongside trained guides and ocean stewards, encountering vibrant marine life while learning how to actively protect it. The program blends exploration with impact—highlighting citizen science and the vital role each of us plays in preserving our coastal waters. Join us in the water and become a Guardian of the Reef.

REQUIRED: strong swimming skills, personal snorkel gear, and prior snorkeling experience.

*$30 with registration and signed waiver

Event Parking:

• On-Site Parking: Small adjacent surface lots

• Nearby Public Parking: Multiple North Beach municipal lots within walking distance

• Street Parking: Metered parking on adjacent streets

Partner: Ocean Rescue Alliance International

Kick off the 2026 World Ocean Celebration in style at our official Launch Party—an energizing evening that brings together ocean advocates, artists, community leaders, and friends for a vibrant start to this 10-day coastal experience. Enjoy music, ocean-inspired art, and meaningful connections while learning about the events ahead, from guided snorkels to beach activations and youth programs. This festive gathering sets the tone for the days to come, celebrating our shared commitment to protecting the ocean and the community that rallies around it.

*Ticketed ($35)

Event Parking:

• On-Site Parking: Limited underground garage parking available for event attendees

• Street Parking: Metered parking on Biscayne Blvd and adjacent streets

• Public Transit: Accessible via Adrienne Arsht Center Metromover Station (15min walk)

Partner: YoungArts

Dive into an unforgettable ocean experience with our Guided Neon Reef and REEFLINE Snorkel. Led by knowledgeable local guides, this immersive adventure invites participants to explore Miami Beach’s evolving underwater landscapes—where art, ecology, and marine life intersect. Swim above the vibrant Neon Reef and along the visionary REEFLINE, encountering tropical fish, coral habitats, and a dynamic installation while learning about ocean conservation and coastal resilience.

REQUIRED: strong swimming skills, personal snorkel gear, and prior snorkeling experience.

*Free with registration and signed waiver

Event Parking:

• Nearby Public Parking:

  • 555 Washington Ave Garage: 555 Washington Ave

  • Municipal Lot P11: 833 6th St (5min walk)

• Street Parking: Metered parking available; ParkMobile supported

• Public Transit: Served by Miami Beach Trolley (South Beach Loop)

Partners: Urban Paradise Guild, REEFLINE, The International SeaKeepers Society, Island Dreamer Sailing

Join us for an impactful day of service set within the stunning surroundings of Boca Chita Key in Biscayne National Park. Volunteers will travel by boat to this iconic island to help remove marine debris, protect sensitive habitats, and preserve one of South Florida’s most cherished coastal ecosystems. Alongside fellow ocean advocates, you’ll make a tangible difference while learning about the challenges facing our waterways and the importance of stewardship. This rewarding experience blends conservation, community, and adventure in support of a cleaner, healthier ocean.

Let’s work together to Keep Biscayne Beautiful and thriving for generations to come!

*Free with registration and signed waiver

Event Parking:

• On-Site Parking: Free surface parking at Dante Fascell Visitor Center

Partners: Biscayne National Park Institute, Florida National Parks Association

Be part of restoring Miami Beach’s natural defenses at the Dune Restoration. Taking place along the dune near 7th Street Beach, this volunteer event invites participants to help rebuild and stabilize vital dune systems that protect against erosion, support native plant life, and provide habitat for coastal wildlife. Working alongside environmental leaders and fellow community members, you’ll contribute directly to the resilience of our coastline while gaining a deeper understanding of the role dunes play in a healthy ocean ecosystem.

*Free with registration and signed waiver

Event Parking:

• Nearby Public Parking:

  • 555 Washington Ave Garage: 555 Washington Ave

  • Municipal Lot P11: 833 6th St (5min walk)

• Street Parking: Metered parking available; ParkMobile supported

• Public Transit: Served by Miami Beach Trolley (South Beach Loop)

Partner: Surfrider Foundation, Miami Chapter

Experience the power of storytelling at the Ocean StorySLAM. This curated event brings together eight selected storytellers who will take the stage to share true stories inspired by their personal connections to the sea—ranging from humorous to deeply moving. Set in an intimate and welcoming atmosphere, the Ocean StorySLAM highlights the human dimension of ocean conservation, inviting the audience to listen, reflect, and connect through shared experience. Join us for an unforgettable night where every story deepens our relationship with the ocean.

To conclude the SLAM, audience members will vote for, and award, the top 3 storytellers (awards generously provided by the Biscayne National Park Institute). Phones are required to cast votes.

*Free with registration

Event Parking:

• Nearby Public Parking:

  • G12 Parking Garage: 340 23rd St

  • Collins Park Lot: 2101 Collins Ave

• Street Parking: Metered parking on 21st–23rd Streets; ParkMobile supported

• Public Transit: Served by Miami Beach Trolley (South Beach Loop)

Partners: Miami-Dade Public Library System, The Traveling Ranger, Biscayne National Park Institute, Florida National Parks Association

Feel the rhythm of the ocean at the Ocean Music Concert, an unforgettable night of live music and coastal energy. Headlined by Mishka and Blak Diamond Band, with a special opening performance by Emilia Garth, this vibrant concert brings together soulful sounds and island vibes in celebration of our connection to the sea. Gather with friends, dance under the stars, and enjoy an evening where music and ocean advocacy come together in perfect harmony.

*Ticketed ($10)

Event Parking:

• Nearby Public Parking:

  • Municipal Lot at 73rd St & Collins Ave: ADA spaces available

  • Municipal Lot at 75th St & Collins Ave: Additional parking option (5min walk)

• Street Parking: Metered parking on Collins Ave and adjacent streets

• Public Transit: Served by Miami Beach Trolley (North Beach Loop)

Partners: Rhythm Foundation, Miami Beach Bandshell, Urban Paradise Guild

Welcome the day with intention at the Sunrise Sound Healing, a serene and restorative experience. As the sun rises over the Atlantic in Miami Beach, participants will be guided through a meditative journey of sound and breath, using crystal bowls and gentle vibrations to promote relaxation, clarity, and connection to the natural world. Set against the soothing rhythm of the waves, this peaceful gathering offers a moment to reset, recharge, and align with the ocean’s energy at the start of a new day.

*Free with registration

Event Parking:

• Nearby Public Parking:

  • Municipal Lot: 1 Ocean Dr (3min walk)

  • Municipal Lot: 710 1st St (5min walk)

• Street Parking: Metered parking available; ParkMobile supported

• Public Transit: Served by Miami Beach Trolley (South Beach Loop)

Partner: South Beach Sound Healing Orchestra

Celebrate leadership and impact at the Sheroes of the Ocean Panel, a featured conversation honoring women who are driving meaningful change for our blue planet. This inspiring panel brings together ocean advocates, scientists, artists, and community leaders to share their stories, challenges, and visions for a more resilient and equitable ocean future. Through candid dialogue and lived experience, the “sheroes” on stage highlight the power of leadership rooted in courage, creativity, and care for the sea—offering audiences insight and inspiration to take action in their own communities.

*Ticketed ($35)

Event Parking:

• Nearby Campus Parking: Pavia Garage: 5615 Pavia St

• Street Parking: Metered parking available; PayByPhone supported.]

• Public Transit: Accessible via University Metrorail Station (15min walk)

Partners: Sheroes of the Ocean, University of Miami Climate Resilience Institute

Dive into a morning of ocean celebration and community connection! Join us on the beach at 81st Street for a robust lineup of family-friendly activities designed to inspire a deeper appreciation for our blue planet. Whether you're learning to swim or taking on the 1-mile swim, flowing through beachside yoga or participating in the ceremonial paddle-out, there’s something for everyone. Beyond the waves, engage in hands-on conservation efforts like a beach cleanup or explore immersive art installations and live performances that highlight the intersection of creativity and environmental stewardship. This event is more than just a day at the beach—it’s a powerful statement of our collective commitment to ocean conservation, fostering connections between art, community, and the natural world.

WATER RECREATION AND ENGAGEMENT

• 7:30am-9am, Ocean Mile Exhibition Swim with Full Circle Coaching << REGISTER HERE >>

• 8:30am-9:30am, Beach Yoga with Emilia Garth << REGISTER HERE >>

• 9am-10am, Ceremonial Paddle-Out with Surfrider Miami << REGISTER HERE >>

• 9am-10am, Youth Ocean Swim Instruction with Breathe and Splash Swim School << REGISTER HERE >>

COMMUNITY SERVICE AND IMPACT

• 9:30am-10am, Rehabilitated Seabird Release with Pelican Harbor Seabird Station

• 10am-12pm, Beach Cleanup with Clean Miami Beach, The International SeaKeepers Society, and VolunteerCleanup.Org << REGISTRATION COMING SOON >>

OCEAN ART AND EDUCATION

• 8am-12pm, Art Flags by Jenna Efrein

• 8am-12pm, Youth Artwork by Jenna Efrein, in collaboration with Breakthrough Miami, Overtown Youth Center, and The Motivational Edge

• 9am-12pm, MPA/Neon Reef Advocacy with Urban Paradise Guild

• 9am-12pm, Microplastics Investigation with Oceana

• 9am-12pm, Rebuilding the Lego Reef with Rescue a Reef

• 9am-12pm, Collaborative Ocean Mural with Big Blue & You

• 9am-12pm, Reef-Safe Sunscreen & Skin Care Awareness with Stream2Sea

• 9am-12pm, Protecting Reefs with Students for Coral Preservation

• 9am-12pm, Water Quality Testing with the Blue Water Task Force and EarthEcho International

• 9am-12pm, Sea Turtle Conservation with Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces

• 9:30am, 10:30am, 11:30am, Sharky the Dolphin Readings with Blair Mase Guthrie

🔹 What to bring: sun protection (hat, glasses, long sleeve shirt, beach umbrella), reef-safe sunscreen; reusable water bottle, no single-use plastic, please!

*Free with registration and signed waiver

Event Parking:

• Nearby Public Parking:

  • Municipal Lots at 80th & 81st St & Collins Ave

  • Municipal Lot at 83rd St & Collins Ave. (5min walk)

• Street Parking: Metered parking on Collins Ave and adjacent streets

• Public Transit: Served by Miami Beach Trolley (North Beach Loop)

Partners:

Experience the power of storytelling on screen at the Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science. This curated showcase from the 23rd Annual International Ocean Film Festival brings together compelling short films from around the world that explore the beauty, mystery, and urgent challenges facing our oceans. From intimate human stories to breathtaking underwater cinematography and groundbreaking conservation narratives, the festival offers a window into the many ways people are connected to the sea. Join fellow ocean enthusiasts for an inspiring cinematic journey that sparks dialogue, awareness, and action for our blue planet.

Following the screening will be a special conversation with Jackeline Bonilla, Urban Paradise Guild, and Mikki McComb-Kobza, Ocean First Institute.

*Ticketed ($35)

Event Parking:

• On-Campus Parking: Available for event attendees; no charge

• Nearby Public Parking: Public lot along Rickenbacker Causeway; no charge

Partners: International Ocean Film Foundation, Urban Paradise Guild, Ocean First Institute, SALT Waterfront Restaurant

Start your Sunday morning in the ocean. If you're a confident swimmer who loves the water - or is ready to take your swimming beyond the pool - join us for an Open Water Swim*. You'll dive into the Atlantic from the 1st Street Beach alongside the Dolphins & Rainbows Swim Group - a welcoming, safety-focused community of capable swimmers who cherish the ocean. It's a morning in the sea sharing in a collective experience rooted in wellness, friendship, and ocean stewardship.

*The Definitive Guide to Open Water Swimming

*Free with registration and signed waiver

Event Parking:

• Nearby Public Parking:

  • Municipal Lot: 1 Ocean Dr

  • Municipal Lot: 710 1st St (5min walk)

• Street Parking: Metered parking available; ParkMobile supported

• Public Transit: Served by Miami Beach Trolley (South Beach Loop)

Partner: Dolphins & Rainbows Swim Group

Savor an unforgettable culinary experience at the Sea-to-Table Dinner at Watr. Set against sweeping ocean views, this thoughtfully curated dinner celebrates the connection between healthy oceans and sustainable cuisine, featuring fresh, responsibly sourced seafood and locally inspired ingredients. Guests will gather for an evening of elevated dining, storytelling, and community, highlighting the importance of ocean-friendly food systems and the role we all play in protecting marine ecosystems through what we eat.

*Ticketed ($250)

Event Parking:

• Hotel Valet Parking: Valet service available at $20 per vehicle with special event validation

• Nearby Public Parking:

  • G12 Parking Garage: 340 23rd St (5min walk)

  • Collins Park Lot: 2101 Collins Ave (5min walk)

• Street Parking: Limited; meters enforced

• Public Transit: Served by Miami Beach Trolley (South Beach Loop)

Partner: 1 Hotel South Beach