Nestled along the sun-kissed shores of Clearwater Beach, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) stands as a heartfelt tribute to Florida’s vibrant marine ecosystem and the resilient spirit of its ocean inhabitants. Just a short stroll from the powdery white sands of one of America’s top beaches, this nonprofit haven isn’t your typical aquarium—it’s a thriving animal hospital and rescue center where every visit fuels the fight to save sea life. Founded in 1971 as a modest marine study facility, CMA evolved into a 501(c)(3) powerhouse dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of injured marine animals, while providing lifelong sanctuary for those who can’t return to the wild. Their mission? To restore and preserve our marine environment through cutting-edge education, research, and conservation, inspiring visitors to become ocean advocates.
At the heart of CMA’s story is Winter the Dolphin, the bottlenose icon whose tale of triumph over a crushed tail—replaced by a groundbreaking prosthetic—captured global hearts in the films Dolphin Tale and Dolphin Tale 2. Though Winter sadly passed in 2021, her legacy endures in the immersive “Tales of Winter the Dolphin” exhibit, brimming with movie memorabilia, prosthetic prototypes, and interactive displays that highlight resilience and innovation. Today, the aquarium buzzes with new energy: Meet Doris, Kitana, Dagny, and Wren, four rare rough-toothed dolphins rescued from the Gulf and now calling the state-of-the-art Ruth & J.O. Stone Dolphin Complex home. These gentle giants, deemed non-releasable, offer mesmerizing views of their playful antics in a habitat mimicking their natural bay environment.
Wander through CMA’s 24,700 square feet of wonders, where outdoor pathways blend seamlessly with the salty breeze, showcasing sea turtles undergoing rehab, otters frolicking in enriched pools, stingrays gliding in touch tanks, and sharks patrolling massive viewing windows. The Atlantis Theater dives deep into Florida’s native and invasive species, while the interactive BayCare Kids Check-Up exhibit lets families role-play as veterinarians, drawing parallels between human and animal health. For an extra splash of adventure, hop aboard a covered eco-boat tour into Clearwater Bay, where guides net samples of seagrass and sand-flat critters to reveal the hidden biodiversity beneath the waves.
Educational programs abound, from behind-the-scenes animal encounters to conservation workshops that empower kids and adults alike. CMA’s vets and volunteers—over 1,000 strong—have rescued thousands of animals since inception, from entangled pelicans to stranded manatees, releasing over 90% back to freedom. As a leader in prosthetic tech and habitat research, they collaborate globally to protect wild populations threatened by pollution, boats, and climate change.
Tucked at 249 Windward Passage, CMA opens daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (extended to 8 p.m. in summer), welcoming families with general admission at $35.95 for adults and $26.95 for kids 3-12 (free for under 3; discounts for seniors and locals). It’s the perfect beach-day companion: educational, uplifting, and just minutes from Pier 60’s sunset celebrations. Whether you’re a dolphin devotee or a first-time eco-explorer, a day here weaves unforgettable memories with a profound call to safeguard our seas—proving that one visit can spark a lifetime of stewardship. Dive in, and let the Gulf’s guardians inspire your next wave of wonder.
Visitor Amenities and Accessibility
Clearwater Marine Aquarium prioritizes inclusive, family-friendly experiences with a range of amenities designed for comfort and convenience along Florida’s Gulf Coast. The 24,700-square-foot facility features mostly outdoor pathways with shaded walkways, benches, and misting stations to beat the Florida sun, plus indoor air-conditioned exhibits for respite. Wheelchair-accessible throughout, including ramps, wide aisles, and free manual wheelchair rentals (with a $50 refundable deposit), CMA also offers KultureCity sensory bags with noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, and weighted lap pads for neurodiverse guests, alongside designated quiet zones. Stroller-friendly with ample space, it includes nursing areas and family restrooms. Dining options feature the Dolphin View Café with fresh seafood, salads, and kid’s meals (average $10-15), plus a gift shop stocked with eco-merch and Winter-inspired souvenirs. Free parking is available in the adjacent lot, and the site is a quick 1-mile walk or shuttle from Clearwater Beach hotels. Combo tickets bundle with local attractions like Busch Gardens for up to 55% savings, while memberships ($99+ annually) grant unlimited visits and perks like priority entry. Open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily (to 8 p.m. summer; closed Thanksgiving/Christmas), it’s ADA-compliant and pet-free (service animals only), ensuring every beachgoer can access the magic of marine rescue without barriers.
