One of the region’s most beloved attractions, Clearwater Marine Aquarium is more than just a typical aquarium—it’s a working marine animal hospital and rehabilitation center dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing sick and injured marine life. Made famous by the Dolphin Tale movies, CMA welcomes over a million visitors each year who come to meet rescued dolphins, sea turtles, otters, sharks, and more while learning about marine conservation.
Hours & Admission
Hours: Daily 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (extended hours until 8 p.m. on select summer dates)
General Admission:
- Adults: $41.95
- Seniors (60+): $39.95
- Children (3-11): $32.95
- Children 2 & under: Free
Florida residents receive discounted admission on most dates—bring your ID!
Free admission on your birthday!
Military & Teacher Appreciation: Active-duty military and K-12 teachers receive free admission Monday–Thursday or discounted admission Friday–Sunday with valid ID.
Tip: Visit close to opening time or after 3 p.m. for smaller crowds and shorter lines. Allow about 2-3 hours for a full visit.
Parking Information
On-site Parking Garage: Approximately $12-15 (seasonal rates apply)
- The garage connects directly to the aquarium entrance on the 3rd level
- Reserve your spot ahead through the ParkMobile app to save time
- Members receive discounted parking (free most dates, $5 during peak season)
What to See & Do
Ruth & J.O. Stone Dolphin Complex – The star attraction featuring rescued dolphins in five pools holding 1.5 million gallons of filtered bay water. The 16-foot tall, 40-foot wide “Window of Wonder” provides incredible underwater views of dolphins including rare rough-toothed dolphins rarely seen by humans.
Stingray Beach – Hand-feed cownose and southern stingrays in this interactive exhibit.
Sea Turtle Rehabilitation – Watch loggerhead, green, and Kemp’s ridley sea turtles (the rarest species in the world) receive care. CMA has rescued over 1,200 sea turtles and released more than 600 animals since 2010.
Otter Oasis – Meet playful North American river otters.
Marine Life Hospital – See the working animal hospital where injured animals receive treatment.
Shark Bites Café – Grab made-to-order cheeseburgers, flatbreads, salads, and more during your visit.
Dolphin Tale Theater – Watch short films about marine life and dinosaurs, included with admission.
Special Exhibits & Experiences
“Florida: Wild and Exotic” – Learn about native and invasive species through displays of small mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and arthropods.
“ArtSEA Conservation” – Artwork inspired by marine life conservation featuring illuminated paintings, sculptures, and aquariums.
Virtual Reality Experience – “Interact” with jellyfish, leatherback turtles, and whale sharks.
Night at the Aquarium – Special evening event for kids ages 5-10 featuring stories, crafts, games, and after-hours exploration (through March 2026).
Add-On Experiences
Dolphin & Wildlife Boat Tour – 60-minute eco-boat cruise through Clearwater Bay to spot local dolphins, birds, and seasonal wildlife. Tours start around $25 per person. Aquarium admission not required.
Sea Life Safari Tour – 90-minute adventure with a marine biologist who performs a net pull and passes around sea life before releasing them. Includes complimentary soft drinks, beer, and wine for adults.
Guided Kayak Tour – Paddle through the finger islands with a knowledgeable guide.
Behind the Scenes Tour – Access areas including the critical care facility and food prep area.
Animal Care Experiences – Get hands-on with feedings and interactions including shark encounters, stingray feeding, and dolphin encounters.
Where to Eat Nearby
Clearwater Beach offers fantastic dining just steps from the aquarium:
- Island Way Grill – Right next door to CMA with beautiful Intracoastal views, fresh-caught grouper, and an award-winning Sunday brunch
- Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill – Clearwater Beach institution with their own fishing boats bringing in fresh catches daily. Famous for grouper sandwiches.
- Clear Sky Café – Tried-and-true spot for breakfast through dinner, with crab hushpuppies, grouper, pasta, and a sushi bar
- Palm Pavilion – Classic beachfront seafood with everything from small plates to full entrees. Perfect for sunset.
- Bob Heilman’s Beachcomber – Sophisticated local favorite since 1948 for special occasions
- Crabby’s Dockside – Casual fried seafood and coastal favorites
- Three Daughters Brewing Clearwater Beach – Local craft brews with a great view
Combine with Pier 60
Just about a mile west of the aquarium, Pier 60 is one of Florida’s most popular attractions. After your aquarium visit, head over for the legendary Sunsets at Pier 60 celebration—a free nightly festival featuring artisans, street performers, musicians, and fire breathers, running from two hours before sunset until two hours after. The 1,080-foot fishing pier also offers great night fishing, a bait house, and one of the largest beach playgrounds on Florida’s west coast for kids.
Getting Around
Jolley Trolley – The North Beach route stops at Clearwater Marine Aquarium if you prefer not to drive.
Clearwater Ferry – Take the ferry from Coachman Park in Downtown Clearwater to Clearwater Beach Marina, then hop on the Jolley Trolley to CMA.
Good to Know
- Distance from Tampa International Airport: About 25 minutes
- Tip: Some exhibits are outdoors—dress for the weather and note that outdoor exhibits may close during inclement weather
- Accessibility: CMA partners with KultureCity for guests with sensory needs, offering sensory bags with fidget tools and noise-canceling headphones
- Strollers: The aquarium is stroller-accessible throughout
- Tampa Bay CityPASS: Bundle CMA with Busch Gardens, Florida Aquarium, ZooTampa, and more attractions to save up to 55%
Annual Events & Programs
CMA hosts special events throughout the year, including educational programs, holiday celebrations, and conservation-focused activities. Check their website for current offerings.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium offers something rare—a chance to connect with marine animals who have overcome incredible challenges while supporting vital conservation work. Whether you’re watching a rescued dolphin play, touching a stingray, or learning about turtle rehabilitation, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Florida’s marine life. Pair it with a sunset at Pier 60 for a perfect Clearwater Beach day.
Getting Here from Our Vacation Rental
From: 1731 Clearwater Dr, Largo, FL
To: Clearwater Marine Aquarium, 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater
Distance: Approximately 6 miles
Drive Time: 12-15 minutes
Directions:
- Head north on Clearwater Largo Rd
- Turn left onto Gulf to Bay Blvd (SR 60) heading west toward the beach
- Continue across the Clearwater Memorial Causeway bridge
- Turn right onto Island Way
- Turn left onto Windward Passage
- The aquarium parking garage will be on your left
