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Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Immerse yourself in the world of marine life rescue at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA), a unique non-profit dedicated to the rehabilitation and release of sick and injured marine animals.

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About

Immerse yourself in the world of marine life rescue at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA), a unique non-profit dedicated to the rehabilitation and release of sick and injured marine animals. Unlike traditional aquariums, CMA operates as a working animal hospital, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into the daily efforts of marine conservationists. Here, you'll encounter rescued residents who, due to severe injuries or conditions, cannot be returned to the wild, serving as powerful ambassadors for their species. The visitor experience is both educational and inspiring, allowing you to connect with marine life on a deeper level. Witness the incredible resilience of creatures like the Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, including Hope, Nicholas, and Izzy, in the expansive Ruth & J.O. Stone Dolphin Complex, featuring impressive floor-to-ceiling underwater windows. Explore Mavis's Rescue Hideaway to observe various sea turtles, and be charmed by North American river otters like Walle and Boomer in Otter Oasis. Beyond observing the animals, you can delve into the aquarium's mission through interactive exhibits and presentations. Learn about the rehabilitation process in the working Marine Animal Hospital and see specialized areas like Shark Pass, home to nurse sharks Thelma and Bruce. The Tales of Winter the Dolphin Exhibit celebrates the inspiring story of the beloved dolphin who brought worldwide attention to CMA, featuring her prosthetic tails and movie props from the *Dolphin Tale* films. A visit to CMA is not just an outing; it's an opportunity to support vital rescue efforts and be inspired by stories of hope and recovery. Take the ultimate field guide with you: use the Snappit app to identify birds, plants, and animals on your trip.

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium began its journey in 1972 as the Clearwater Marine Science Center, founded by a group of passionate volunteers keen on marine education. In 1978, the city of Clearwater donated an abandoned water treatment plant, whose large pools and bayside location proved ideal for marine rehabilitation operations. The facility officially opened to the public with its first exhibit room in 1981. A significant milestone occurred in 1984 with the rescue of Sunset Sam, an Atlantic bottlenose dolphin who became Florida's first stranded dolphin to survive and reside permanently at the center. The 1990s saw the facility's name change to Clearwater Marine Aquarium, reflecting its growing community engagement. However, it was the 2005 rescue of Winter, a bottlenose dolphin fitted with a prosthetic tail after losing her fluke, and the subsequent *Dolphin Tale* movies (2011 and 2014) that catapulted CMA into international recognition, significantly expanding its reach and funding for its mission. The aquarium celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2022, continuing its dedication to rescue, rehabilitation, and release.

What to do here

Engage with the educational presentations and observe animal care sessions throughout the day. Consider adding on unique animal care experiences such as feeding stingrays, a shark care experience, or a VIP dolphin experience. Take a guided eco-boat tour to learn about local wild dolphins and the marine environment, or enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour. Don't forget to stop by the Stingray Beach where you can safely touch and interact with cownose stingrays.

Seasonal info

The aquarium hosts seasonal events, such as Father's Day Weekend specials and holiday celebrations like "Sea of Holiday Joy" in December, which might include unique activities like Santa underwater. If taking a boat tour during winter months, it can be cooler on the water, so dressing in layers is advisable.

Accessibility

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is committed to accessibility, offering manual wheelchair rentals on a first-come, first-served basis at Guest Services. They have partnered with KultureCity to enhance accessibility for guests with sensory issues, providing a social story for pre-visit preparation, sensory bags, and designated quiet zones within the attraction. The facility combines indoor and outdoor spaces.

Don't miss

Ruth & J.O. Stone Dolphin Complex with its 1.5-million-gallon pools and incredible underwater viewing windows, home to resident dolphins like Hope, Nicholas, Izzy, Rudolph, and Rosie

Mavis's Rescue Hideaway to see rescued sea turtles

Otter Oasis for North American river otters

Shark Pass for nurse sharks Thelma and Bruce

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Bottlenose Dolphin

Sea Turtle

North American River Otter

Nurse Shark

Cow

Domestic Cat

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Arrive Early

Beat the crowds and secure good parking by arriving shortly after the aquarium opens.

Check Daily Schedule

Upon arrival, check the daily schedule for presentation times, animal feeding sessions, and any special events to plan your visit efficiently.

Consider Add-on Experiences

For a more in-depth visit, explore options for boat tours, behind-the-scenes tours, or animal care experiences like feeding stingrays or the Shark Care Experience.

Dress in Layers for Boat Tours

If you plan to take a boat tour, remember that it can be cooler on the water, especially during winter months, so bring extra layers.

Bring Your Own Stroller/Wheelchair

While wheelchairs are available for rent, strollers are not. You are welcome to bring your own, and for those with sensory needs, inquire about sensory bags and quiet zones.

Utilize the Audio Guide

An audio guide, available in both adult and children's versions, is included with admission and provides engaging stories about the resident animals and CMA's mission.

Frequently asked questions

: The Clearwater Marine Aquarium's mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and release sick and injured marine animals, provide environmental education, and conduct research for marine conservation. Animals that cannot be returned to the wild due to their conditions become permanent residents and ambassadors for their species.
: While direct swimming with dolphins is not offered, visitors can enjoy excellent views of dolphins, otters, sea turtles, and pelicans. The aquarium offers various animal care experiences for an additional fee, such as stingray feeding, shark care experiences, and VIP dolphin experiences, which allow for closer interaction and learning alongside animal care specialists.
: Yes, on-site parking is available in the CMA Parking Garage, which is directly connected to the aquarium's entrance on the 3rd level. Parking costs can vary seasonally (expect around $15), and you can often pre-pay when purchasing tickets online. CMA Members typically receive discounted parking.