AquariumUS

South Carolina Aquarium

The South Carolina Aquarium offers an immersive journey through the state's diverse aquatic environments.

About

The South Carolina Aquarium offers an immersive journey through the state's diverse aquatic environments. Located on the historic Charleston Harbor, this captivating aquarium features over 10,000 animals, representing a wide range of species from the mountains to the sea. It stands as a beacon of conservation, connecting visitors with marine life and promoting environmental stewardship through engaging exhibits and critical rehabilitation efforts.

Journey through distinct ecosystems, from the cool streams of the Mountain Forest, where you can spot a rescued Bald Eagle named Liberty and playful River Otters like Charlie and Beau, to the bustling Piedmont and Coastal Plain exhibits housing American Alligators and endangered Gopher Tortoises. The two-story Great Ocean Tank, the deepest in North America, is a breathtaking centerpiece, home to majestic Sandtiger Sharks, rays, and the beloved 220-pound Loggerhead Sea Turtle, Caretta. Don't miss the interactive touch tanks, including The Shallows and the new Boneyard Beach, offering opportunities to gently connect with Cownose Rays, Atlantic Stingrays, horseshoe crabs, and sea stars.

A visit to the South Carolina Aquarium is an unforgettable experience, combining education with entertainment and inspiring a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Beyond the mesmerizing displays, the acclaimed Zucker Family Sea Turtle Recovery offers a unique chance to witness the rescue and rehabilitation of injured sea turtles firsthand, highlighting the aquarium's profound commitment to conservation. It's a place where every age can discover, learn, and be moved to protect South Carolina's precious aquatic heritage. Don't forget to bring the Snappit nature identification app along to scan local species.

The South Carolina Aquarium officially opened its doors on May 19, 2000, becoming a significant cultural and educational institution in Charleston. The vision for the aquarium began much earlier, in 1983, when former Mayor Joseph P. Riley Jr. was inspired by a visit to the Shedd Aquarium. Since its inception, the aquarium has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to conservation, education, and research.

What to do here

Engage with interactive exhibits, attend dive presentations at the Great Ocean Tank, participate in touch tank experiences, observe sea turtle rehabilitation, and consider the optional stingray feeding experience for an extra fee.

Seasonal info

The aquarium hosts special events like the "Aquarium Aglow" during the holiday season (November to December), transforming into a festive wonderland. Charleston's subtropical climate means hot, humid summers and mild winters, so consider visiting during cooler months if heat is a concern.

Accessibility

The South Carolina Aquarium is fully accessible and stroller-friendly. All exhibit paths accommodate wheelchairs and strollers, and elevators are available for moving between floors. Complimentary wheelchairs are available for rent with a picture ID on a first-come, first-served basis. The newly renovated Boneyard Beach touch tank is designed with enhanced accessibility, including lowered walls. Some exterior doors may not be automatic, which could present a minor inconvenience for some individuals.

Plan your visit

Suggested duration: Most guests spend between two to three hours exploring the aquarium. For a more in-depth experience, including dive shows, the Sea Turtle Recovery area, or extra time at touch tanks, allow up to four hours. At least 90 minutes is suggested to see all exhibits.
Best time to visit: Weekday mornings are generally recommended to avoid the largest crowds, especially if you wish to experience popular exhibits like the Great Ocean Tank or touch tanks more quietly. Visiting during the off-season (spring and fall) also offers pleasant weather and fewer visitors. If visiting in summer, arriving early or closer to the last entry time (3:30 PM) can help reduce crowds.
Location: US
Species in this guide: 12

Best for

Families With ChildrenMarine Life EnthusiastsConservation And Environmental EducationCouples And Curious Travelers

Official website Open in Maps

Don't miss

Great Ocean Tank

A massive, two-story tank, the deepest in North America, showcasing Sandtiger Sharks, rays, and Caretta, the loggerhead sea turtle. Don't miss the daily dive shows.

Zucker Family Sea Turtle Recovery

A working sea turtle hospital where you can observe injured sea turtles and learn about their rehabilitation.

Mountain Forest

Home to a rescued Bald Eagle, Liberty, and the popular River Otters, Charlie and Beau.

The Shallows / Boneyard Beach Touch Tanks

Interactive areas where you can touch Cownose Rays, Atlantic Stingrays, horseshoe crabs, and sea stars.

Wildlife you might spot

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

Brown Pelican

Anole

Eastern Gray Squirrel

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

Purchase Tickets Online in Advance

Secure your entry and preferred time slot, especially during peak seasons, as timed entry is required.

Visit on Weekday Mornings

To experience fewer crowds and a more peaceful visit, aim for a weekday morning, particularly during the off-season.

Plan for 2-3 Hours

Allocate sufficient time to enjoy all exhibits, catch a dive show, and experience the Sea Turtle Recovery Center without feeling rushed.

Don't Miss the Stingray Feeding

For a memorable interactive experience, pay the extra fee to feed the cownose rays at The Shallows touch tank.

Explore All Ecosystems

Take the time to journey through all the South Carolina ecosystem galleries, from the Mountain Forest to the Ocean, to appreciate the full diversity.

Utilize Digital Resources

Check the aquarium's website for a digital map and any daily schedules for presentations or feeding times.

Frequently asked questions

: The South Carolina Aquarium is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last ticketed entry allowed at 3:30 PM. It is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day, and closes at noon on Christmas Eve.
: Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the South Carolina Aquarium, though small snacks and personal water bottles are allowed. An on-site café, the Sea Turtle Café, is available for purchasing food and drinks.
: It is highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance online through the aquarium's official website. The aquarium operates with timed entry, meaning you must reserve a specific date and time slot for your visit to manage crowd flow.