Shoals Marine Laboratory (SML) on Appledore Island, Isles of Shoals, Maine is dedicated to education in marine science and has been since 1966. SML offers undergraduate and high school students a unique opportunity to study marine science in the field with exceptional faculty from institutions throughout North America. Instruction at SML is based upon giving participants a truly "hands-on" educational experience. Class sizes are limited providing excellent faculty to student ratios. SML's curriculum is diverse; encompassing a variety of marine disciplines.

SML is a seasonal field station located on Appledore Island. Lying six miles offshore from the Maine/New Hampshire border, this splendid 95 acre island is secluded, yet accessible. Only a one hour boat ride from Portsmouth, NH, Appledore is a natural laboratory and classroom. The rocky intertidal zone, seabird colonies, and the open sea are right outside the door at SML, providing participants with a direct route to the world of marine science.

Appledore is the "Learning Island." Participants and faculty members can literally and figuratively immerse themselves in their explorations, free from the distractions commonly found on and around every mainland campus.