Tampa Tickets Clearwater Marine Aquarium Opening Hours

Mum,And,Baby,Standing,Near,Aquarium,Display

When to Visit the Aquarium

Aquarium Timings

Knowing the current operating hours and seasonal schedules is the first step to planning a successful visit to Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Located just a short drive from Tampa, the facility runs on a consistent daily schedule to give guests ample time to explore the resident animal habitats, view real-time veterinary care, and attend educational presentations.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium Hours & Visitor Tips

Opening Hours

Daily Schedule: Open every day from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last admission allowed 30 minutes before closing.
Holiday Closures: The facility is closed all day on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Special Holiday Hours: On Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, the aquarium operates on a shortened schedule from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Best Times to Visit

Morning Opening (10:00 AM): Arrive right at opening to see the marine animals at their most active and participate in the first daily feedings and educational presentations.
Mid-Week Days (Tuesday – Thursday): Plan your visit during the middle of the week to experience lower attendance, shorter lines, and unobstructed views at the underwater windows.
Off-Peak Months: Visit during the shoulder seasons—specifically September through November or January through February—to avoid heavy summer and spring break crowds.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Highlights

Meet a Hollywood Star: Get up close with Hope, the famous resident dolphin and celebrity star of Dolphin Tale 2, right at her home where the movie was filmed.

Support Marine Conservation: Gain firsthand insight into the aquarium’s core mission of rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing injured marine wildlife.

Discover Diverse Marine Life: View a fascinating variety of rescued aquatic animals, including sharks, sea turtles, otters, rays, eels, and pelicans.

FAQs

What are the standard daily operating hours for the facility?

The aquarium is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry permitted at 4:30 PM.

Is the aquarium open on Thanksgiving Day or Christmas Day?

No, the facility is completely closed on both Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day to allow staff to focus on animal care.

Are there modified operating hours on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve?

Yes, the facility operates on a shortened schedule from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM on both Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve.

What is the latest time I can enter the facility before closing?

The final admission of the day is strictly cut off 30 minutes prior to the designated closing time.

Do daily presentation and animal feeding schedules vary?

Yes, specific times for educational talks and marine animal feedings fluctuate daily and are posted on-site each morning.

Are evening or after-hours events available for general ticket holders?

No, regular admission tickets only cover standard daytime operating hours, though separate tickets can be purchased for select seasonal evening events.