Beachcombers’ Discovery Center

Pemaquid Beach Pavilion and Pemaquid Beach Park

The new Pemaquid Beach Pavilion at Pemaquid Beach Park. Photo by Tom Field.

Learn and explore at Pemaquid Beach Park

Since 2003, Pemaquid Watershed Association (now part of Coastal Rivers) has partnered with the Town of Bristol Parks & Recreation Commission to offer a nature center at Pemaquid Beach. Beachcombers’ Discovery Center now has a new home in the beautiful recently completed pavilion at Pemaquid Beach Park.

During the summer months, visitors to the park are invited to stop in to borrow books, enjoy fun learning activities, browse displays, and play games. There is no additional cost to visit the Discovery Center, but Pemaquid Beach Park charges an entrance fee.

Touch Tank Thursdays take place from 12:30 to 2:30* p.m. in the Discovery Center. Visitors can explore a fascinating assortment of local marine life including sea urchins, anemones, sea stars, and many others. The touch tank is provided through a partnership of Coastal Rivers and the University of Maine Darling Marine Center.

Occasionally there are other special events scheduled such as educational workshops, bird walks, cultural programs, and more. All programs are open to the public.

2024 Schedule

Wednesday, 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Thursday, 12:30–4:00 p.m. (with touch tank from 12:30–2:30* p.m.)
Friday, 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Saturday, 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Sunday, 1:00–4:00 p.m.

*Touch tank hours may be adjusted as the summer goes on, depending on demand!

touch tank volunteer and little boy examining a horseshoe crab