Get your feet wet!
SML offers an array of place-based, immersive programs that promote wise stewardship. We provide the general public, families and visiting groups with the ability to explore a wide range of topics in an island setting known for its history and unique flora and fauna.
Safety disclaimer: please be aware that Appledore Island is a rocky environment with uneven terrain, many tripping hazards, and various other risks. We strongly recommend a good level of physical fitness for all attending our programs. For more information, please visit our safety page.
Celia Thaxter's Garden Tours
This special day trip will transport you back in time to Celia's garden, awash in color, surrounded by the sea.
- Follow Celia's footsteps to her reconstructed island garden on Appledore Island
- Learn about the history of the Isles of Shoals
- Boat trip, lunch and guided tour provided
Appledore Island Walking Tours
Travel to Appledore Island aboard the UNH's research vessel R/V Gulf Challenger. Spend an action packed day with UNH marine docents as your guides as you explore the natural history of the island. Look down to magnificent rock formations of eons past and up to the sky filled with birds that live on the island today. Pack your lunch and get ready to explore Appledore Island!
Overnight Programs
Shoals Marine Laboratory offers adult and family education programs on a wide variety of topics with leading experts and scientists. Come explore the Island's rich history, rocky shore, seabirds, historic garden, tide pools, and remote landscape.
Artist-In-Residence Program
Artists have been inspired by Appledore Island’s remote and beautiful landscape since the nineteenth century. Childe Hassam, a frequent visitor to Appledore Island, said that "art is the impression that nature makes upon the eye." Today, at Shoals Marine Laboratory (SML), students and scientists come to study this natural landscape once again. This shared passion for keen observation and interpretation of nature creates a logical collaboration between artists and scientists. To facilitate this partnership, SML has created the Shoals Artist-in-Residence (Shoals AIR) program.
Rock Talk Seminar Series
Our Rock Talk Seminar Series is a long-standing and well-loved tradition at SML. Historically, faculty members and guest speakers would gather with students on Appledore Island's rocky shoreline (giving the Rock Talk series its name) to present on a wide range of topics related to natural history, ecology, biology, and more.
Visiting Groups
SML's island facilities are open to visiting educational and school groups from May-August. June and July are our busiest months, but a limited number of time slots may be available depending upon the needs of SML's academic programs. Day trips and overnight excursions offer visitors a true taste of island life!
Live Island Stats
Appledore Webcam
View a live feed of our island campus from the Radar Tower!
Sustainability Dashboard
Appledore's power grid, including solar, wind, generator, and battery status, has a live usage dashboard.
Tide Charts
Tides for Gosport Harbor, NH
Tides for Portsmouth, NH
Current Weather
Click icons to get data from:
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