It’s no secret that Rincón, Puerto Rico is an incredibly beautiful place with its pristine beaches lined with coconut trees, colorful coral reefs, world-famous waves, and breath-taking sunsets. But one thing that makes Rincón so special is its deeply passionate, connected, creative, and diverse community. This month, we wanted to feature a local group that is helping to bring people together and inspire the future generations through science, education, community, appreciation, and conservation. They are doing incredible work locally as well as around the island. Read on to get to know Isla Mar!
Who is Isla Mar?
Based out of Rincón, Isla Mar is a marine science research and education non-profit organization, dedicated to educating our communities about ocean conservation and advancing a holistic ‘Ridges-to-Reefs’ approach to island science.
Founded amidst the academic fervor of their graduate studies at UPR Mayagüez in 2015, Isla Mar was the visionary creation of Drs. Chelsea and Evan Tuohy. Originating with the stewardship of university field courses, meticulously crafted and guided by the Tuohys themselves, the endeavor swiftly burgeoned. With a combined diving tenure exceeding four decades and a decade of course leadership, the Tuohys laid the foundation for Isla Mar’s expansion.
By 2024, Isla Mar had grown into a vibrant community of over 15 professional staff, a scientific research vessel, a spirited youth program, and a devoted team of citizen scientists. This growth, organically spurred by the pulse of the local community, culminated in Isla Mar opening their own 501(c)3 non-profit organization, a testament to its unwavering dedication to marine stewardship.
Isla Mar’s Youth Education Program
Their Youth Education Program, lovingly referred to as ‘Island School,’ brings engaging, hands-on island and marine science directly into local classrooms, giving students the opportunity to experience conservation learning within their academic setting.
Their ‘Island School in Your School’ program is designed to complement school curricula while inspiring curiosity and connection to island and ocean ecosystems. Isla Mar’s bilingual, three-person team provides all materials and instruction — schools simply need a teacher or administrator to reach out. Program costs for public schools are covered through donations, while private schools are offered a very reasonable per-student rate.
Become a Isla Mar Citizen Scientist, Field Courses, and Other Ways to Get Involved
Along with their Island School programs, Isla Mar also offers opportunities for adult residents to volunteer through their Citizen Science program and community events. Participants in the Citizen Science program receive specialized training to allow them to take part in multiple projects and long-term monitoring in the Tres Palmas Marine Reserve.
For visiting students, families, and small groups — Isla Mar also offers customized experiential learning courses. In fact, they are the original field course company in Puerto Rico. Drs. Chelsea and Evan Tuohy have been designing and leading field courses on the island since 2015. Participants run transects, identify species, take water quality measurements, and contribute observations to a monitoring dataset that they have maintained for years. Learn about coral reef biology, discover the connection between land and sea, learn field techniques, and explore the world of Caribbean reef fish with specialized ID training and practice surveys.
To learn more about Isla Mar, their programs, upcoming events, as well as ways you can learn, volunteer, and support – follow them on social media, sign up for their newsletter, and visit their website islamar.org!
When You’re Ready to Plan your Rincón Vacation
Rincon, Puerto Rico is an unforgettable travel destination all year round. When you’re ready to stay with us, booking is done through Twin Palms, Maria’s rental, and onsite management. Please visit our booking page on this website to view the availability of Maria’s and fill out our convenient contact form. If you have any additional questions regarding Maria’s, you may call Elizabeth at 787-685-6648 (español: Cristina at 787-449-3673).
