Downeast Institute is a marine research station and education center on Great Wass Island in Beals, Maine, serving as the University of Maine at Machias marine science field station. Its summer camps give children hands-on marine science days exploring tide pools, collecting specimens, and running research projects using the scientific method. Programs emphasize experiential science and math in a working coastal-fishery setting.
The practical details
We list only what the camp itself publishes, and programs change — dates, prices, ages and availability can all move after we check. Confirm the details on the camp’s own website and contact Downeast Institute directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
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★★★★★Masonreally cool place, I went to on a field trip at school and took a ton of photos
★★★★★Nathaniel CurtisCoolest tour I have ever been on. The best seed and spawn for shellfish in Maine. Kyle is the Mad Mollusk Genius!!
★★★★★Elaine DespresI cannot speak highly enough of DEI! If it wasn't for DEI, my students would never be learning about marine ecosystems and specifically, what's happening with mya arenaria (soft-shell clams). After attending a week-long teacher training where I learned techniques for gathering scientific data, Dr. Beal helped me set up a clam recruitment project. This is now the second year of students spending a day at the research site, collecting and analyzing data, before presenting their findings to local clammers and other shellfish constituents. Dr. Beal, Sara Randall and Colleen Haskell have been instrumental in helping to bring marine science to my school!!
★★★★★Scott JohnsonMy small rural school has enjoyed our visits to DEI. They tailored the programs to meet the needs of our students from pre-k to 8th grade. The students got to do data collection at the shore and handle specimens in the lab. The staff are very knowledgeable and know how to relate to students of all grades and abilities. We can't wait until we are able to visit again this fantastic resource in Washington County.
★★★★★Kryston LemayI have visited DEI a number of times! The staff is friendly and seems to really enjoy their work. It was awesome to learn about the golden mussels they are growing. The touch tanks is also a fun stop!