Clearwater Marine Aquarium

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a marine rescue center in Clearwater, Florida, where injured animals receive medical treatment and are prepared for their return to the sea. The building includes several pools, treatment rooms, and areas where visitors can observe the animals up close.

The facility opened in 1972 in a former water treatment plant and evolved over the decades into a center specializing in the rescue of injured marine animals. Thousands of animals have been treated here since its founding, and many of them were released back into their natural environment.

The facility takes its name from the city where it stands, and many visitors know it through a dolphin that lives here and wears a prosthetic tail. Guests often see staff feeding the animals and therapy sessions taking place during their visit, offering a direct look at the daily work.

Florida residents and first responders receive discounted admission when they show valid identification at the ticket desk. The premises are wheelchair accessible, and there are several rest areas where you can pause between exhibits.

Staff members track sea turtle nests along the coast every year and have documented more than 2100 nests since 2010. This work helps protect the nesting sites and provides scientists with data on the animals' movements.

Location: Pinellas County

Inception: 1972

Address: Windward Passage

Opening Hours: Monday-Tuesday 10:00-17:00; Wednesday-Sunday 17:30-21:30

Phone: +17274411790

Website: http://seewinter.com

GPS coordinates: 27.97686,-82.81907

Latest update: December 17, 2025 10:15