Clearwater Marine Aquarium in Clearwater, FL

249 Windward PassageClearwater Beach, FL 33767
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Starting at
$35.95 $33.71
You Save: $2.24
INSTANT CONFIRMATION
NO SERVICE FEES

Overview

Visit Clearwater Marine Aquarium, one of the best marine wildlife attractions in Florida! See rescued animals, including dolphins, sea turtles, sharks, river otters, and other marine animals. And be inspired by their work through fun interactive activities and presentations.

1 or more people

Good To Know

from Ashley, one of our Clearwater Beach Travel Experts
  • Please dress for the weather as some exhibits are outdoors and/or exposed to the elements.
  • Plan to spend about 2-3 hours at the aquarium to enjoy the full experience.
  • Paid parking available at the adjacent parking garage.
  • Check-in is at the aquarium's ticket center, located on the 3rd level entrance.
  • Fun for all ages!
  • Onsite optional add-on experiences can add at least another hour to your day,.

Description

from Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Visit Clearwater Marine Aquarium to learn about all of the rescued and resident animals. Catch some of the daily presentations and make sure to watch the daily programs in the theatre. Boat tours, animal care experiences, and behind-the-scenes tours will add at least another hour to your day.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is an indoor/outdoor facility with air-conditioned areas inside and open air outside. Enjoy the views of Clearwater Bay from the harbor view deck and stranding deck. Discover a variety of animals including dolphins, pelicans, sea turtles, otters, sharks, and other animals.

The majority of residents cannot be released due to a variety of reasons, so you can visit them in their permanent habitats and learn their stories. See a number of animals currently undergoing rehabilitation in the working animal hospital. The presentations and talks throughout the day aim to educate you in a fun way about the work going on to take care of marine life and the environment.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium Reviews

9 Reviews
Victoria Champion Tripster User Profile Image
Victoria Champion
Hogansville , GA
5 Reviews
Verified Traveler
"Great for a beach day..."
April 2019
We were staying Orlando, but drove 2 hours to have a beach day at Clearwater. We stopped here because my daughters really wanted to see Winter and Hope. The whole tour of the facility literally took 20 minutes...it would have been longer if I could get the kids interested in the lectures and tours. No luck...but all in all, it was a clean facility with a great message.
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Tip: Parking is kinda weird, but that will probably be rectified once the new construction is complete. Do not expect an usual aquarium experience...you will be disappointed. CMA is strictly for rehabilitation and release, if possible. Fans of the Dolphon Tales movies should go!

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Amanda M. Tripster User Profile Image
Amanda M.
Elkhorn, NE
2 Reviews
Verified Traveler
"Wow!!! Not easily impressed but was delighted!"
May 2018
My kids and I went to the aquarium and loved it. Everyone there was awesome...except for an incredibly rude and harsh older lady that was managing lines at the entrance. Buying tickets in advance online was the way to go! Seeing Nicholas do his routine was the highlight of the experience. Wonderful place.
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Susan R. Tripster User Profile Image
Susan R.
Ocala, FL
1 Review
Verified Traveler
"good"
April 2018
I thought we would see more interaction with winter but it was good.
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Tip: Very small with not too much to see

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Tamara Iskhakova Tripster User Profile Image
Tamara Iskhakova
1 Review
"Utter dissapointment"
May 2017
We were looking foward to seeing a wide variety of animals, (and maybe a show or two) but instead saw only 2 dolphins, 5 otters, 5 turtles, and some stingtrays. The place's main claim to fame was the movie that was shot here, and winter and hope. It was also immensly overpriced, and there were more donation boxes than animals. The gift shop could have been another exibit. It was an utter dissapointment. Would not go.
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Kerry Thormeier Tripster User Profile Image
Kerry Thormeier
1 Review
"Inspirational!!"
December 2016
What a great place to visit! We had a wonderful time! My daughter absolutely loved Winter, Hope, and Nicholas! Her favorite part was getting her picture with Hope! Such a great and inspirational place to visit! Thank you CMA
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Donna Williams Tripster User Profile Image
Donna Williams
South Bend, IN
1 Review
Verified Traveler
"What a rip off!"
September 2016
This was an awful experience! For what we paid and seen 3 dolphins and 4 turtles. The tanks were cloudy and dirty. Wouldn't waste my money if I were you! We was there about an hr.
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judith smith Tripster User Profile Image
judith smith
lake worth, FL
4 Reviews
Verified Traveler
"Clearwater Aquarium"
July 2016
I have been to this aquarium twice and would highly recommend it for all ages. Great hands on for kids. I especially like the fact that all of their animals are rescues and not just captured for people to see.
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Tip: Especially with children in your group allow plenty of time.

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BARBARA FORAY Tripster User Profile Image
BARBARA FORAY
PALM HARBOR, FL
1 Review
Verified Traveler
"Grandkids - so much fun!"
February 2015
While the kids were amazed, the adults had just as much fun! What a real hands-on experience. We will definitely return.
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Tip: It is hot!

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Frequently Asked Questions about Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Where is the the Clearwater Marine Aquarium?

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is located on Clearwater Beach, 1 mile east of Pier 60 at: 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL 33767. The entrance is located on the 3rd level. Clearwater Marine Aquarium's parking garage is directly connected to the entrance on the 3rd level.

What are Clearwater Marine Aquarium hours of operation?

Clearwater Marine Aquarium hours are from 10 AM to 6 PM. The aquarium is open from 10 AM to 8 PM on select dates with extended hours. Please see the operating calendar in the ticket section above for hours during your selected date range.

Is the aquarium ideal for children?

Absolutely. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium has plenty for young children to enjoy. All children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.

Can I bring my bag into Clearwater Marine Aquarium?

Yes, however, all bags, purses, backpacks, etc. are subject to inspection prior to aquarium entry.

Can I interact with the animals?

Animal interaction is available at specific exhibits and programs. Animal encounter exhibits and programs include: - Dolphin Encounter - Trainer for a Day - Shark Encounter - Feed Rufus (pelican) - Feed a Stingray - Feed a Puffer Fish Animal interactions are not allowed outside of these specific programs and encounters. Reserve your spot at an encounter program early as they fill up quickly.

Can I bring food into the Clearwater aquarium?

Shark Bites Cafe and the open-air Dolphin Terrace have food and beverages available for purchase, but guests may also bring their own snacks. Clearwater Marine Aquarium guests are asked to enjoy their food on the first floor only, and away from the animal exhibits.

Is parking available?

Yes, Clearwater Marine Aquarium's parking garage is directly connected to the entrance on the 3rd level. A nominal parking fee will apply.