Clearwater Marine Aquarium

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) is a renowned marine life rescue and rehabilitation center located in Clearwater, Florida. Known for its inspiring conservation efforts and educational programs, the aquarium is home to a variety of rescued marine animals, including dolphins, sea turtles, otters, and more. Visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits, up-close animal encounters, and behind-the-scenes tours that highlight the aquarium’s mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and release marine life. The CMA gained international fame as the home of Winter the Dolphin, the star of the Dolphin Tale movies, making it a must-visit destination for families and animal lovers.

Things to Do at Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Meet the Dolphins
Clearwater Marine Aquarium is home to several rescued dolphins:
- Learn about Nicholas, Hope, and other dolphins who call the aquarium home.
- Watch training and feeding sessions where staff demonstrate their care routines and explain dolphin behavior.
- Discover how these animals thrive despite injuries or challenges that prevent them from returning to the wild.
Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center
Witness the aquarium’s efforts to save injured and stranded sea turtles:
- View the Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center, where turtles receive medical care and therapy.
- Learn about the threats facing sea turtles, including habitat loss and ocean pollution.
- Participate in educational programs to better understand the lifecycle and conservation needs of these incredible creatures.
Interactive Exhibits
Engage with hands-on exhibits designed for visitors of all ages:
- Explore the Touch Tank, where you can interact with starfish, sea urchins, and other marine creatures.
- Visit the Shark Pass, an exhibit featuring small sharks and rays in a habitat that mimics their natural environment.
- Walk through pelican habitats to learn about these fascinating coastal birds.
Learn About Winter’s Legacy
Winter, the famous dolphin with a prosthetic tail, left an enduring legacy at CMA:
- Discover her inspiring story of resilience and how it brought attention to marine life conservation.
- Visit the Winter Zone, which highlights her life, her role in the Dolphin Tale movies, and the advancements in animal prosthetics.
Go Behind the Scenes
Gain exclusive insights into the aquarium’s operations with a Behind-the-Scenes Tour:
- See how animal care specialists and veterinarians work to rehabilitate marine life.
- Explore the hospital facilities, including X-ray rooms, treatment areas, and rehabilitation pools.
- Learn about the aquarium’s rescue missions and success stories.

Additional Activities

Boat Tours
Join a narrated eco-tour or dolphin-watching boat trip:
- Discover local marine ecosystems while spotting dolphins, manatees, and seabirds.
- Learn about the coastal habitats of Clearwater Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
Educational Programs
Participate in educational programs and workshops designed for families, students, and aspiring marine biologists:
- Programs cover topics like marine conservation, wildlife rescue, and ocean health.
Animal Encounter Experiences
Get even closer to marine life with one of CMA’s exclusive animal encounters:
- Feed stingrays, interact with dolphins, or meet rehabilitated otters and turtles.

Amenities & Facilities

Visitor Center: Offers informational displays, ticketing, and helpful staff.
Gift Shop: Features a wide range of souvenirs, including books, toys, and apparel inspired by CMA and Dolphin Tale.
Café: On-site dining options with ocean views, offering snacks, beverages, and light meals.
Interactive Exhibits: Multiple indoor and outdoor exhibits catering to visitors of all ages.
Boat Docks: Departure points for eco-tours and dolphin-watching trips.
Parking: Ample parking is available, including spots for larger vehicles.

Accessibility

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is designed to be inclusive and accessible:

Elevators and Ramps: All exhibits and areas are wheelchair-accessible.
Parking: ADA-compliant parking spaces near the entrance.
Seating Areas: Rest spots are available throughout the facility for visitor comfort.

Tips for Visiting the Aquarium

Purchase Tickets in Advance: Book online to secure entry, especially during weekends and holidays.
Plan for Two to Three Hours: Allocate enough time to explore all exhibits and attend animal demonstrations.
Dress Comfortably: Wear lightweight clothing and sunscreen, as some exhibits are outdoors.
Check the Schedule: Look up feeding times, demonstrations, and tours to maximize your visit.
Support the Mission: Consider making a donation or purchasing souvenirs to contribute to the aquarium’s conservation efforts.

Vicinity of the Aquarium

Nearby Attractions

Clearwater Beach: One of Florida’s top-rated beaches, located just minutes away.
Pier 60: A hub of entertainment, dining, and fishing, perfect for families and sunset lovers.
Sand Key Park: A tranquil spot for picnics, swimming, and birdwatching.
Capitol Theatre: Enjoy live performances at this historic venue in nearby downtown Clearwater.

Why Visit Clearwater Marine Aquarium?

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium offers a unique and inspiring experience that combines education, conservation, and family-friendly fun. From meeting rescued dolphins and turtles to learning about marine conservation efforts, visitors of all ages will leave with a deeper appreciation for Florida’s marine ecosystems and the importance of protecting them. Whether you’re a fan of Dolphin Tale, a marine life enthusiast, or simply looking for a meaningful day out, Clearwater Marine Aquarium provides a memorable and impactful visit that celebrates the resilience and beauty of marine life.

For more information visit: https://www.cmaquarium.org