Clearwater Marine Aquarium in Clearwater, FL

249 Windward PassageClearwater Beach, FL 33767
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About Clearwater Marine Aquarium

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

  • 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

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

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Stumatter
Peoria, Illinois
"Ok - but small and expensive"
TripAdvisor user rating 3.0 out of 5
Reviewed February 28, 2026 NEW
If it is a cold or rainy day and you can afford the money it is an ok place to spend an hour or two. If you have been to big city aquariums, be prepared, comparatively this is expensive and very small. Their mission of education, rescue and rehabilitation are worthy causes and one our kids should be exposed to.
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MidWestActiveAdult
Chicago, Illinois
"Good marketing, but facility subpar"
TripAdvisor user rating 2.0 out of 5
Reviewed February 09, 2026 NEW
Disappointing and overpriced for what it is - a dark, dated, rather run down, maze like facility. We’re all for supporting animal rescue operations, but this place needs new management or something. There are no paper maps. You can hardly hear their animal presentations. Parking is $15, senior admission $40, and lunch $15 (without a drink). $70 to wander around dark hallways & around tanks. They try to sell you extra things like a behind the scenes tour and a boat ride. It’s not a place for the handicapped or if you have trouble walking; lots of long hallways & stairs. And not a place for kids under 8 years old because they’ll see very little and be bored. There are 4 floors but really nothing to see except on 1st floor, where animals are. Other floors have maybe one thing of brief interest. The movie theater had interesting 1/2 hour films, but strangely bright lights near the screen, which was a distraction. Would be a shame for families to waste their limited funds on this less than stellar facility. Recommend going to Tampa or Sarasota aquariums.
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jameyf2026
"Enjoyed our visit - read the reviews first!"
TripAdvisor user rating 5.0 out of 5
Reviewed January 31, 2026 NEW
After reading the reviews, we were happy with our visit. We were there for a couple of hours with a 4 year old and enjoyed our time. It is more outdoors than we expected, so be prepared for that. It is hard to see in the aquariums, but we were still able to see a lot. We also got to pet sting rays. Recommend this as long as you know it is not a "sea world" type of venue.
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jerrywS9095UL
South Point, Ohio
"A Lovely and Educational Visit to Clearwater Marine Aquarium"
TripAdvisor user rating 5.0 out of 5
Reviewed January 21, 2026
We visited the Clearwater Marine Aquarium on January 19th, and it was such a lovely experience from start to finish. The facility itself is clean, well laid out, and very easy to navigate. At one point we accidentally wandered into what turned out to be a private tour, which was honestly pretty funny-but also incredibly informative. Even though we realized our mistake and slipped out, we still managed to learn quite a bit in that short time, and it really highlighted how knowledgeable and passionate the staff is. The dolphins are absolutely beautiful and clearly well cared for. Watching them swim and interact was easily one of the highlights of our visit. The underwater viewing area is especially impressive and gives you a unique perspective you don't often get at aquariums—it really makes you feel immersed in their environment. Beyond the dolphins, there are stingrays and a wide variety of other marine species, each with helpful information displays that make the experience both educational and enjoyable. Overall, the aquarium does a wonderful job balancing learning with pure enjoyment. It's a great place for all ages, whether you're deeply interested in marine life or just looking for a pleasant way to spend a few hours. We truly enjoyed our visit and would definitely recommend Clearwater Marine Aquarium to anyone in tr trea.
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tesad22
"Super fun experience."
TripAdvisor user rating 5.0 out of 5
Reviewed December 30, 2025
Was super fun. I loved the dolphins and the manatees. The staff was very informative. We learned about Winter and all she endured. Definitely recommend.
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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.