About Us
The Avila Beach Marine Institute is a nonprofit educational support organization dedicated to providing children, their parents and educators with unique opportunities to be delighted and amazed by the ocean, its inhabitants, its uses, its history and its importance to mankind.

With a dedicated staff of volunteer educators and biologists, ABMI is committed to providing programs that are beneficial and educational to the community. Through outreach, participation and collaborative efforts, Port San Luis Marine Institute has built lasting relationships with local non-profits, school districts and businesses in the community.

History
ABMI began as part of a bid proposal by Russell and Carol Kiessig for a project at Port San Luis in 1994. Their desire was then, and is today, to create an opportunity for children and adults of all ages to learn about marine science in a hands-on environment and to jump start an interest in real science and ocean stewardship. With time and effort on the part of the Kiessigs and volunteer staff, the Institute has continued to grow and move forward with ideas, research and development of the educational program out of the original proposal. The Avila Beach Marine Institute is currently in operation utilizing a local passenger-certified vessel from Harford Pier and Port San Luis Harbor.

Location
Our physical location is Avila Beach, California. For much of the year, this is an ideal warm and protected beach area. There is access to the sea, tide pools, sandy beaches, two public piers, commercial fishing activities as well as fish processing, fish farming and sport fishing activities. There are three colleges within 45 minutes of this site offering an abundance of educational resources.