Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a rescue facility and educational park in Clearwater, Florida

Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) is a nonprofit marine park located at 249 Windward Passage in Clearwater, Florida. Unlike a traditional aquarium, it operates primarily as a rescue and rehabilitation center for injured, sick, and orphaned marine animals — mainly dolphins, sea turtles, and fish. The facility is open to the public and combines animal care with educational programs and exhibits.

The park is best known for Winter, a bottlenose dolphin who lost her tail flukes in a crab trap and was rehabilitated at the facility. Winter has become the centerpiece of the park's mission and appears in the "Dolphin Tale" film series. Visitors can watch marine animals in outdoor pools and learn about rescue operations, marine biology, and conservation efforts.

Key Takeaways

  • Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a working rescue center, not a traditional theme park, so the focus is on animal rehabilitation and education rather than entertainment rides or attractions.
  • Admission prices vary by age and season, and the park offers discounted rates for Florida residents and military personnel with valid identification.
  • The park is open year-round, but hours change seasonally, so you should check the official website before your visit to confirm operating times.
  • Parking is available on-site, and the facility is accessible for visitors with mobility needs, though some areas involve outdoor walking and stairs.
  • Food and beverages are available inside the park, but outside food and drinks are not permitted in most areas.

Hours, admission prices, and what to bring

Clearwater Marine Aquarium operates year-round, but hours vary by season. During peak season (typically summer and holidays), the park opens at 9 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m. or later. Off-season hours are usually 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. You should visit the official CMA website or call ahead to confirm the exact hours for your visit date, as schedules change.

Admission is charged per person and varies by age. General admission typically covers access to all outdoor exhibits and animal viewing areas. Children under 2 years old usually enter at no charge. The park offers discounted rates for Florida residents, military personnel (active duty and veterans), and seniors, so bring valid identification if you fall into any of these categories. Parking is included with admission and is located on-site.

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water — much of the park is outdoors and exposed to direct sun. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as the facility involves walking on concrete paths and some stairs. The park is stroller-friendly, and wheelchairs are available to rent on-site if needed. Cameras and phones are permitted for personal use.

What you will see and do at the park

The main draw is the marine animal exhibits. Winter the dolphin lives in a large outdoor pool where she performs natural behaviors and interacts with trainers during scheduled sessions. Visitors can watch these sessions from viewing areas around the pool. The park also houses other dolphins, sea turtles in rehabilitation, stingrays, fish, and other marine species in outdoor pools and tanks.

Educational presentations and talks run throughout the day. Staff members explain animal rescue operations, how injuries are treated, and what conservation work the facility does. These talks are included with admission and are designed for visitors of all ages. The park also offers interactive experiences like touch pools where you can handle starfish and other sea creatures under staff supervision.

The facility includes a gift shop and a café. Food options are limited but typically include sandwiches, salads, snacks, and beverages. Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted in the main park areas, though some outdoor seating areas may allow personal beverages. Prices for food and drinks are higher than typical restaurants, so budget accordingly.

Accessibility and facilities

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is accessible for visitors with mobility challenges. Paved pathways connect most exhibits, and wheelchair rentals are available at the entrance. However, some viewing areas require walking on uneven surfaces or climbing stairs, so not every part of the park is equally accessible. If you have specific mobility concerns, call the park ahead of time to discuss which areas you will be able to visit.

Restrooms are located throughout the facility. The park has shaded seating areas, but much of the experience involves standing in the sun, so plan breaks and bring water. There is no on-site hotel, but Clearwater has many hotels and vacation rentals within a short drive. The park is located near downtown Clearwater and is accessible by car or public transportation.

Best times to visit and what to expect in crowds

The park is busiest during summer vacation (June through August), spring break, and major holidays. If you prefer smaller crowds, visit on weekdays during the school year or during the off-season months (September through May, excluding holidays). Weekday mornings typically have fewer visitors than afternoons and weekends.

Even during busy times, the outdoor layout means crowds are spread across multiple pools and viewing areas, so it rarely feels as congested as an indoor aquarium. However, popular sessions with Winter the dolphin can draw large groups, so arrive early if seeing her is your priority. The park closes at sunset, so plan to arrive with enough time to see the exhibits you want before closing.

What the rescue mission means for your visit

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is fundamentally different from a traditional aquarium because it is a working rescue facility. This means the animals on display are there because they were injured or orphaned in the wild, not because they were bred for exhibition. The park's mission is to rehabilitate these animals and, when possible, return them to the ocean.

This affects what you see. Animals may not always be visible — some are in medical care or recovery areas not open to the public. Viewing times and behaviors are determined by the animals' health and needs, not by a fixed schedule. Educational talks emphasize the real dangers marine animals face, including fishing nets, boat strikes, and pollution. The park uses your admission fee to fund rescue operations and veterinary care, so your visit directly supports this work.

Planning your visit: timing and nearby attractions

Most visitors spend two to three hours at Clearwater Marine Aquarium. This is enough time to see all the main exhibits, watch one or two educational presentations, and explore the gift shop. If you want to attend multiple animal sessions or spend more time at touch pools, plan for three to four hours.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is located in downtown Clearwater near the waterfront. Nearby attractions include Clearwater Beach (about 10 minutes by car), the Clearwater Marine Science Center, and various restaurants and shops along the pier. If you are visiting with children, you may want to combine a morning at the aquarium with an afternoon at the beach or another local activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own food and drinks into the park?

Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted in the main park areas. The facility has a café with food and beverage options, though prices are higher than typical restaurants. Some outdoor seating areas may allow personal water bottles, so ask staff when you arrive.

Is there a gift shop, and what kinds of items does it sell?

Yes, there is a gift shop at the entrance. It sells souvenirs, educational books about marine animals, toys, clothing, and items related to Winter the dolphin and the "Dolphin Tale" films. Prices are typical for aquarium gift shops and are higher than retail stores.

Can I take photos and videos inside the park?

Yes, personal photography and video recording are permitted for your own use. Commercial photography and filming require permission from the park. If you plan to use images for business purposes, contact the park directly to request a media pass.

What should I do if I have questions about a specific animal or the rescue process?

Staff members are stationed throughout the park and are trained to answer questions. Educational presentations throughout the day cover rescue operations, animal care, and conservation. You can also ask staff to direct you to the best time and place to learn about a specific animal.

Is the park open year-round, and are there any days it closes?

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is open year-round, including most holidays. However, hours vary by season and the park may close for special events or severe weather. Check the official website or call ahead to confirm hours for your specific visit date.