I'm Lyn, and my passion is bringing the wonder of San Diego’s shorelines to life for everyone. San Diego and the overall West Coast have one of the most vibrant and interesting coastlines in California, but so much of it goes unnoticed. Too often, we visit the beach without really understanding the incredible ecosystems at our feet. When most people look at the coast and tide pools, they see water and rocks, but I see a world of incredible biology, hidden geology, creatures with unbelievable survival strategies, and an opportunity to show others why protecting these ecosystems is so important.

I’ve seen how powerful it is when people truly connect with the environment around them. My goal is to make marine biology approachable, engaging, and fun, with no science background required! I’m launching Coastal Local to offer outdoor workshops that blend scientific discovery with immersive, hands-on exploration. Each outing is crafted to spark curiosity, deepen understanding, and inspire a sense of stewardship for our coastlines.

To start, I am offering four unique outings:

Family Field Study

A guided field study designed for multi-age family units. I act as your personal field guide, introducing foundational observational science and safety protocols necessary for responsible tide pooling. This is a shared learning experience that focuses on discovering the amazing diversity of life, no matter the specific location, and exploring how marine creatures cope with the changing conditions of their shore home.

Youth Coastal Ecologists (Ages 8-18)

This is a dedicated, drop-off outdoor program for young explorers ready for independent learning. Parents/guardians do not supervise this outing. I lead students in a hands-on exploration of the coastal environment, from tide pools and sandy beaches to nature trails. The content is adaptable and inquiry-based, meaning I adjust the complexity of the science based on the age and experience of the group. Younger students focus on observation skills, adaptations, and classification, while older students engage in applying scientific methodology, data collection, and discussing more complex conservation and climate issues.

Adult Coastal Immersion (18+)

This is a casual, engaging, and unique guided experience designed for friends, couples, or anyone looking for a social outing with an educational twist. Join me for an exploration of the coastline where the focus is on discovery and fun. I'll provide expert guidance and ID guides to help you uncover and identify the bizarre, beautiful creatures and fascinating geological features of the tide pools. Learn the local secrets of the coast, understand what you're seeing, and walk away with great stories and a deeper appreciation for the Pacific—no background knowledge required, just curiosity!

Private Workshops

A completely customized Outdoor Education Program designed to meet specific learning objectives or group dynamics (e.g., homeschool curriculum support, corporate science outing, or focused academic study). I will tailor the content and location to your specific interests and the conditions of the day.

To make this vision a reality, I need support to cover the costs of permits, insurance, marketing, and essential equipment like first aid kits and field identification guides. These resources will help ensure every program is safe, accessible, and impactful for learners of all ages. With enough help, I plan to transition this organization into a non-profit dedicated to providing structured, curriculum-based programs, along with the “one-off” classes, and expanding my offerings across more defined age groups for more tailored experiences.

By supporting this fundraiser, you’re helping to create meaningful field experiences that connect our community to the coast. Your contribution will help Coastal Local reach more people, foster a love of science, and protect our precious marine environments. Thank you for joining me on this journey to make the science of the coast accessible and unforgettable!