Explore The Clearwater Marine Aquarium
dolphin at clearwater marine aquarium
Interact With Dolphin
sea turtle at clearwater marine aquarium
Sea Turtle Rehabilitation
otter rehab at clearwater marine aquarium
See the Otter Oasis at The Clearwater Marine Aquarium
See Sharks at The Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Click Below For Other Areas To Explore

Explore the Wonders of The Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Welome to The Clearwater Marine Aquarium

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of sick and injured marine animals. Located in Clearwater, Florida, the facility offers an immersive experience where visitors can learn about marine life and our conservation efforts.

Their Mission

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is not your typical aquarium. They are a working marine hospital that provides a home to rescued animals that cannot be released back into the wild. Their mission is to educate, inspire, and take action to protect our marine environment and the animals that call it home.

Meet Their Residents

Hope the Dolphin

Hope was rescued five years and one day after Winter. She has also captured the hearts of many and continues to thrive at CMA. Together, Winter and Hope showcase the importance of marine animal rescue and rehabilitation.

Remember Winter the Dolphin

Winter, the famous dolphin with a prosthetic tail, is a symbol of hope and resilience. Her story inspired the hit movie “Dolphin Tale.” Visitors can learn about her incredible journey and see her memorial up close at CMA.

Other Marine Life

The aquarium is home to a variety of rescued animals, including sea turtles, otters, pelicans, sharks, and stingrays. Each resident has a unique story of survival and care.

Attractions and Exhibits

Dolphin Complex

This state-of-the-art Dolphin Complex features large habitats where our dolphins live and play. Watch training sessions, educational presentations, and see these amazing animals up close.

Sea Turtle Rehabilitation

Learn about the journey of sea turtles from rescue to rehabilitation and release. The Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center provides a behind-the-scenes look at the care and treatment of these incredible creatures.

Otter Oasis

Visit the playful river otters in their interactive habitat. Watch them swim, play, and learn about their behavior and natural habitats.

Shark Pass

Walk through the Shark Pass and get an up-close view of these fascinating predators. Learn about shark conservation and the vital role they play in marine ecosystems.

Interactive Experiences

Animal Care Experiences

Go behind the scenes with their Animal Care Team and participate in feeding sessions, animal enrichment activities, and learn about the day-to-day care of CMA’s residents.

Boat Tours

Join them for a scenic boat tour of Clearwater Bay. Discover the local marine life, including dolphins in their natural habitat, and learn about our conservation efforts.

Kayak and Paddleboard Tours

Explore the waters around CMA on a guided kayak or paddleboard tour. It’s a unique way to experience the beauty of the marine environment.

Educational Programs

Camps and Workshops

CMA offers a variety of educational programs for children and adults. From summer camps to specialized workshops, these programs aim to inspire and educate future generations about marine conservation.

School Field Trips

CMA is a fantastic destination for school field trips. Their educational tours are designed to align with curriculum standards and provide hands-on learning experiences.

Plan Your Visit

Hours and Admission

  • Regular Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Admission: Visit their website for ticket prices and special offers.

Location

  • Address: 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL 33767

Directions and Parking

Conveniently located in Clearwater, our facility offers ample parking and is easily accessible from major highways.

Accessibility

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is committed to providing a welcoming experience for all visitors. The facility is wheelchair accessible, and they offer special programs for guests with disabilities.

Contact Info

For more information or to plan your visit, please contact us:

  • Phone: (727) 441-1790
  • Email: info@cmaquarium.org

Follow them on social media for the latest updates and stories from Clearwater Marine Aquarium!

  • Facebook: /ClearwaterMarineAquarium
  • Instagram: @CMAquarium

Enjoy your visit to Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where every visit supports their mission to protect and preserve marine life!

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium was founded in 1972 with a mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and release marine animals. Initially established in an abandoned water treatment plant, the aquarium has grown significantly over the decades. Its most famous resident, Winter the dolphin, who was rescued in 2005 and fitted with a prosthetic tail, brought international recognition and inspired the 2011 film “Dolphin Tale.” The aquarium has expanded its facilities and programs, continuing to focus on marine animal care, public education, and conservation efforts. Today, it remains a leading institution for marine wildlife rehabilitation and environmental education.

Visitors to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium can expect an engaging experience centered around marine life rescue, rehabilitation, and release. The aquarium is home to various marine animals, including dolphins, sea turtles, otters, and pelicans, many of which have been rescued and are being cared for due to injuries or illnesses. Interactive exhibits, educational presentations, and behind-the-scenes tours provide insights into marine conservation efforts. Highlights include meeting the resident dolphins, exploring touch tanks, and learning about the inspiring stories of the aquarium’s animal residents. The facility also emphasizes environmental education and marine conservation, making it both a fun and informative destination for all ages.

Know Before You Go:

To make the most of your visit to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, it's essential to plan ahead. Start by checking the aquarium's website for hours of operation, ticket prices, and any special events or programs happening during your visit. Purchasing tickets online in advance can save time and ensure entry, especially during peak seasons.

Dress comfortably and wear sunscreen, as some exhibits and activities are outdoors. Bringing a camera or smartphone is a good idea to capture memorable moments with the marine animals.

Consider arriving early to participate in interactive exhibits and behind-the-scenes tours, which can fill up quickly.

Lastly, review the aquarium's guidelines on prohibited items and accessibility options to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Did you know?

 

Despite its fame, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium has some lesser-known aspects that add to its unique charm. For instance, the aquarium was initially run entirely by volunteers and has grown through community support and donations.

The facility operates a Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Program that has successfully released hundreds of rehabilitated turtles back into the wild.

Additionally, the aquarium houses a resident nurse shark named Thelma and offers a "Dolphin Yoga" experience, where visitors can practice yoga in front of the dolphin habitats.

Another interesting fact is that the aquarium's research team conducts studies on wild dolphin populations in the Gulf of Mexico, contributing valuable data to marine science.

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