NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores

NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores

We are a family of aquarium lovers! It’s no secret that dolphins are my favorite and my kids have definitely inherited my love of the ocean and marine life. If there is an aquarium nearby wherever we are chances are we’ll visit it.

Our favorite is Clearwater Marine Aquarium in Clearwater, FL which I have highlighted before. But today I wanted to highlight a smaller but just as fun one the: North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores in Pine Knoll Shores, NC.

Quick facts:

  • The NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is one of three public aquariums that is a part of the “North Carolina Aquariums” system.
  • Features dive shows, live animal encounters, and animal feedings.
  • Features two hands-on exhibits: The Tidal Touch Pool & Skate and Ray Encounters.
  • Located at: 1 Roosevelt Blvd, Pine Knoll Shores, NC 28512.
  • Parking is free.
  • There is a Dairy Queen on the grounds as you exit the aquarium.

We have visited this NC Aquarium multiple times and thoroughly enjoy it. Whether you love fish, turtles, crabs, or reptiles – there is something for everyone in the family. My daughter loves the otters, my son loves the turtles and alligators, and my personal favorite is the seahorses.

There are hands-on stingrays and crustaceans you can touch, daily demonstrations where you can see some of the animals up close (we’ve been able to pet a baby alligator and snakes), outside trails and playground, a gift shop, and an indoor kids playground with a Dory fish.

Aquarium water fountain
Son looking at fish
Son looking at fish
Kids looking at fish
Son on frog statue
Daughter on frog statue
Turtle and fish
Otters sleeping
Kids at otter tank
Daughter watching otter swimming
Daughter and otter sign
Kids on turtle statue
Turtles
Turtle
Owls
Alligator
Kids and aliigator
Son with alligator
Kids on alligator statue
Son in crab statue
Stingrays
Tidal touch pool
Salamander
Seahorses
Seahorses
Turtle
Turtle skeleton
Shells
Daughter looking at jellyfish
Fish
Fish
Shark
Fish
Fish
Son with bubbles
Son with Dory fish
Megalodon shark jaws
Kids in Megalodon shark jaws
Trail signs
Walking on the outside trails
Marsh trails
Marsh trails
Snake exhibit
Daughter looking at a snake
Outside playground
Outside playground

Note:

Make sure to check the aquariuam’s website for ticket and reservation informaiton. It currently requires advance tickets/reservations for entry.

This aquarium is located right by the beach so you can enjoy both on the same day or escape the heat during a vacation by making a stop at the aquarium. It’s definitely worth the trip! For more information on NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores check out their website here.

Sincerely, Stephanie logo