Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Clearwater

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is an older aquarium with beautiful marine mammals. It isn't in a pretty building but it offers some wonderful underwater views of dolphins and manatees- such sweet faces! Because it is located on an island in the intracoastal, there are lovely breezes off the water at the outdoor areas. 

The animals all look happy, with many activities to do. We loved seeing the manatees swimming underwater, making interesting moves in the water. Did you know their closest relatives are elephants? The dolphins were also a pure delight to see swimming around making arcs in the water. Funny, tall pelicans with little plumes on their heads make you laugh! Sea otters play around with ice. There are tanks with adorable seahorses. A sting ray pool is fun for kids. Shells from around the world are on display. There are also tanks with sharks, lobsters, and fish, and a touch tank where kids can feel sea urchins, horseshoe crabs, and starfish.
After, buy a picnic at Publix Supermarket at 200 Island Way. Their upstairs balcony is a nice place to sit in the breeze, beside the silver leaves of palm trees. I love the Caribbean architecture here.
Go for a long walk on the gorgeous boardwalk at Clearwater Beach, and then watch the sunset from Pier 60 or from the rock jetty at the inlet on the south end of the beach. Kids will love the playground in the huge park at the base of Pier 60.

Directions

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is located at 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL.
Open daily 10-5.

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