about the Aquarium

Rescue. Rehab. Release.

That’s why we exist. In an average year, CMA responds to many dolphin, whale, and otter strandings and hundreds of sea turtle strandings. Rescued animals are brought back to CMA for immediate treatment and rehabilitation with the hopes of returning them back to their natural environment. After the best care available, many animals are released. Some cannot be released and depend on CMA for their longevity. Their stories are touching, inspiring and remarkable.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is not a typical aquarium. It’s a 501(c)(3) working aquarium providing medical treatment for marine animals- an animal hospital that you can visit!

See! Touch! Learn!

• Rescued dolphin, otters and sea turtles
• Hourly animal care and training presentations
• Underwater viewing of native sharks and fish
• Informative exhibits on animal rescue, rehabilitation and release
• Silky stingrays in the fabulous "hands-on" exhibit Stingray Beach
• Starfish, sea urchins snails and other marine invertebrates.
• Huge sea turtle shells