Covering about 71% of the Earth’s surface, the ocean is a vast, living ecosystem that is home to around 250,000 known marine species—from drifting plankton to agile rays, it plays a key role in maintaining balance in a world that we all live in.

Beyond its breathtaking biodiversity, the ocean generates around 50% of the oxygen that we depend on and plays a critical role in regulating our climate by absorbing large amounts of carbon dioxide and heat.

Commemorated annually on 8 June, World Oceans Day was declared by the United Nations in 2008 as a day to remind all on the importance of collective efforts toward marine conservation.

This year’s theme, “Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us,” invites families to pause and reflect on the many ways the ocean enriches our lives – a timely reminder to appreciate and embrace sustainable practices that help protect the ocean’s invaluable resources for future generations.

To mark this occasion, we have crafted a collection of marine-inspired activities, designed to spark curiosity and delight your little explorers during this school break. These engaging experiences aim to deepen their appreciation for the sea, while nurturing a sense of care and responsibility for the environment.

Lend a Hand at the Pasir Ris Beach Cleanup

There is no better way to show your children how small actions can create meaningful change than stepping onto the sand, gloves in hand, and helping to clean up the shores of Pasir Ris Park. The Team Beach Cleanup with Marine Experts offers families a chance to take part in a guided experience that goes beyond a typical day at the beach.

Designed to be both engaging and informative, this activity begins with a short welcome and a simple explanation of how everyday litter affects marine life. With all tools provided, you and your little ones will walk the shore, collect debris and learn more about marine biodiversity along the way. It is a safe, hands-on way to introduce your kids to environmental responsibility, guided by marine experts who are passionate about sharing their knowledge.

For families looking to explore further, an optional Marine Conservation Discussion offers added depth to the experience. Led by a naturalist, this hour-long session unpacks the broader challenges facing ocean health — all explained in simple terms that even young minds can grasp.

Whether you are looking for a meaningful school holiday activity or a shared learning experience, this beach cleanup at Pasir Ris Park is a thoughtful way to spend time together with your kids, while connecting with nature and contributing to a cleaner coast.

Learn more and sign up for the next cleanup session here.

Step into the Shoes of a Marine Scientist for a Day

If your little ones have ever been curious about what lives beneath the waves or what it might be like to work with marine life, the Marine Scientist Day Camp by Young Nautilus offers a great opportunity to find out.

Recommended for children aged six and up, this half-day experience takes you outdoors to explore Singapore’s coastal ecosystems, combining science, play, and real-world conservation.

Taking place on 17 June (Pasir Ris Park Intertidal), 18 June (Changi Sandy Intertidal), and 29 June (Changi Seagrass Intertidal), each camp runs for four hours and features a blend of hands-on activities, learning, and quiet reflection. Your little explorers will take part in a guided nature walk to observe marine plants and animals up close, use magnifying glasses to examine natural features, and participate in trash removal during a mini beach cleanup.

The experience also includes a squid dissection workshop, led by experienced facilitators, where families can discover the unique adaptations of this fascinating sea creature. It is a simple but powerful way for kids to learn about anatomy, biology, and the importance of keeping our marine environments clean.

To round up the session, your children will also get to handle real marine artefacts like mermaid purses (shark egg cases) and seahorse specimens, bringing the ocean’s diversity to life through touch. The camp closes with a short wrap-up and a few take-home souvenirs to remember the day.

Parents are welcome and encouraged to participate. As slots are limited and group sizes are kept small for a purposeful experience, early registration is recommended.

Give your little ones a memorable marine experience by reserving your spot here.

Discover a Living Marine Classroom at Sisters’ Islands Marine Park

Round off your World Oceans Day celebration with an unforgettable visit to Sisters’ Islands Marine Park, Singapore’s first protected zone dedicated to conserving underwater life and reef ecosystems. This coastal haven is more than a scenic escape, it is a living classroom where your children can explore marine habitats up close while understanding the value of conservation.

Spot tiny reef creatures weaving through coral, and perhaps catch a glimpse of rare sightings like the Neptune’s Cup Sponge or shy seahorses. Embark on the Ocean Network Express Coastal Forest Trail, which leads you through island greenery, home to endangered trees planted as part of a habitat restoration project. At the trail’s end, a hilltop deck offers sweeping views of the sea and a chance to see a white-bellied sea eagle soaring above – a striking sight that highlights the importance of preserving these natural spaces.

Alternatively, visit the coral nursery, where fragile species are carefully nurtured back to health, or stop by the turtle hatchery to learn about efforts to protect these remarkable reptiles as they begin their ocean journey.

Families can also unwind by the shore, build sandcastles, or try snorkelling in the calm tidal pools, where your little ones can safely discover anemones and flower crabs without venturing far. Be sure not to miss the interactive public gallery on St. John’s Island, where exhibits bring the marine ecosystem’s story to life.

Plan your visit here today.

Let’s Turn The Tide, Together

This June, celebrate World Oceans Day by exploring, learning and taking simple steps to protect our seas. From picking up litter along the beach to exploring fascinating marine life with your family or strolling through peaceful coastal sanctuaries, every small effort creates waves that reach far beyond the shoreline.

Commemorate this occasion by joining our Facebook and Instagram Giveaway and be one of 10 lucky winners to take home a $30 eCapitaVoucher and a Geneco Green Starter Kit (worth $40) that consists of a foldable umbrella, reusable straw, and grocery net bag.

To enter, simply head to the comments section and answer this question: “Name 1 ocean-friendly activity from our blog that you would love to try with your family.” Contest ends 30 June 2025. Terms and conditions apply.

Together, let’s #PowerTheChange and play our part for the environment today to ensure a greener tomorrow for generations to come.