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American oystercatcher walks on top of an oyster reef at Coffee Island in Mobile Bay, Alabama.
American oystercatcher American oystercatcher at Coffee Island in Mobile Bay, Alabama. © Carlton Ward Jr.

Discover with Nature

Gulf Coast: Florida, Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana

NEW DATES COMING SOON.

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) has been working to conserve and protect the lands and waters of the Gulf of Mexico for more than 40 years, a massive undertaking that involves collaboration between each of the Gulf states. On this trip, explore the innovative critical habitat-saving projects that TNC’s Florida, Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana chapters have been undertaking and what the future holds for the natural character of this region.

Through collaborative efforts with partners, TNC tackles the Gulf’s most pressing issues while recognizing the intricate interconnections within its natural systems. TNC’s work includes restoring healthy shorelines, protecting the Gulf’s waters, and promoting community resilience and economic renewal through job creation and cultural preservation.

The Deepwater Horizon oil spill in 2010 brought some of the region’s environmental challenges to the forefront, raising awareness of the ongoing problems plaguing this vital ecosystem. In response, restoration plans were developed to guide conservation decisions and promote the recovery of the Gulf and its coastal lands.

Over the past decade, the promise of recovery has materialized through remarkable initiatives that have made a tangible difference for human and natural communities in the Gulf of Mexico. As we embark on this conservation tour, we invite you to witness the remarkable progress achieved through these restoration projects and experience the beauty and resilience of the Gulf of Mexico.

For Questions and To Register, Email Us at travel@tnc.org

Man holding an oyster at Pensacola Bay.
Oyster The goal of TNC's oyster reef efforts is to restore this important species to Pensacola Bay. © Anne Birch

Program Highlights

  • OYSTER TASTING — Enjoy a dock-side oyster tasting in Florida as a local waterman offers freshly shucked oysters and insight into the local culture and community.
  • GULF COAST BY BOAT — Explore the waterways and coastlines of the Gulf Coast on foot, boat, and kayak. Keep an eye out for native birds, dolphins, and other coastal wildlife as you take in the scenic views.
  • BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR — Take a behind-the-scenes tour of TNC oyster and grassland restoration projects and hear first-hand accounts of the work TNC and partners are doing to protect critical coastal habitats and landscapes for future generations.

Lodging Highlights

  • Hilton Garden Inn Pensacola Downtown — Brand new as of the summer of 2023, this hotel is located downtown, in close proximity to restaurants, historic Pensacola Village, and Pensacola Beach. 
  • The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa — After a full day of exploring the surrounding landscape, enjoy the elegant and sprawling downtown hotel. Built in 1852, The Battle House was revitalized in 2007 and is considered a ”must-stay” along the Gulf Coast. 
The True Cost Of Losing America's Wild Oysters (10:03) Oyster reefs have nearly vanished, thanks to overharvesting, increasingly powerful storms and oil spills. But conservationists are trying to bring back America's wild oysters, not just for eating, but for the benefits they bring to receding coastlines.
Lightning Point Shoreline Restoration Project (2:21) Lightning Point is a climate-smart shoreline restoration project with benefits for people and nature, led by The Nature Conservancy.