-
-
Photo courtesy of VSPC -
Photo courtesy of VSPC -
Photo courtesy of VSPC -
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Type: Aquariums
10Best Says
Home to rescued dolphins Winter, Hope and Nicholas, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium offers an up-close-and-personal view of other "refugees" from the wilds including stingrays, nurse sharks, otters,... Read More
Home to rescued dolphins Winter, Hope and Nicholas, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium offers an up-close-and-personal view of other "refugees" from the wilds including stingrays, nurse sharks, otters, sea turtles and more. The aquarium was also the filming site for "Dolphin Tale" and Dolphin Tale 2," but in addition to its Hollywood claim to fame, it is an active marine hospital whose mission is to "rescue, repair and release" sick or injured animals. Ongoing exhibits allow you to view the animals in underwater viewing tunnels and a specially made "stranding" deck for the immediate care of newly rescued animals. Week-long summer camps allow kids to snorkel in grass beds and kayak along local estuaries to view the rescued marine residents in their natural habitat. Guided kayak and boat tours promise activities for the whole family.
Hours:
- Contact for Specific Dates and Times
- Hours May Vary Seasonally
Admissions:
- Adult $24.95; Senior $22.95; Child (3-12) $19.95; Child (2 and under) Free
EXPERT TIPS BY:
Michelle da Silva Richmond
St. Petersburg / Clearwater Local Expert
- Best Attractions & Activities: "Before you visit, watch the hit motion pictures featuring resident dolphins Winter and Hope. "Dolphin Tale" (2011) highlights Winter's story of survival after an injury caused her to lose her tail.The sequel, Dolphin Tale 2, released in September 2014, features the story of Hope, another resident dolphin at the facility."
- Recommended as Best Attractions & Activities Because: Not only is the Aquarium home to two Hollywood icons, the staff does amazing rescues animals, then sends the healed animals back into the wild.
