Nestled in the heart of North Carolina’s stunning coastline is a hidden gem that ocean enthusiasts and families should not miss. The Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium isn’t just an “aquarium near me”—it’s a portal to the deep blue, a place where the wonders of marine life inspire awe and a deeper appreciation for our underwater friends.
Today, let’s dive into this aquatic paradise at the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores and discover why it should top your list of must-visit destinations on the Crystal Coast.
About the aquarium
North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores Tips
- Hours: The aquarium is open 7 days a week, from 9 am to 5 pm
- Costs: Ticket average $11 to $14
- Aquarium hack: If you can show you homeschool, you get one free visit
- Things not to miss: Behind the scenes shark feeding and turtle viewing experience (costs extra)
- Membership: Consider an annual membership that gets you into all NC aquariums plus the Asheboro Zoo for a year (for some, this will be cheaper)
- Bring: Water, food, camera
- Duration: You can walk through in 1.5 to 2 hours (not including experiences)
- Don’t forget: Make sure you check out the shark tooth and fossil digging experience (included in ticket price). You can find real fossils and shark teeth. This hidden gem is often missed as it’s hard to locate. Upon exiting, take a sharp left behind the Dairy Queen and go down the steps. Fossil digging tools provided by aquarium.
Note: The behind-the-scenes tour that allows you to see aquarium fish and tons of sea turtles is worth it. Please book ahead of time since spaces are limited. A bucket list experience for anyone interested in marine science.
A North Carolina treasure
Walk along the marsh boardwalk, let the laughter and joy of the play area surround you, and bask in the salty air by the Atlantic Beach. The NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores opened its doors in 1976. It is a treasure along the Outer Banks and more than another stop on a trip to Emerald Isle.
NC aquarium with the most giant tank
At the Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium, you do not just pass through. Each visitor becomes part of an ongoing story where the crystal-clear waters of the 306,000 gallon tank reflect our commitment to caring for our blue planet.
For comparison, the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island is 285,000 gallons, and the Fort Fisher Aquarium is 235,000 gallons. The giant tank at the Atlanta Aquarium is an astounding 6.3 million gallons.
Exhibits at Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium
Imagine walking through a place that feels like a slice of the ocean has been brought onshore for you to explore. The North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores photos and exhibits offer an immersive and educational experience that takes you from the sandy shores to the mysterious depths of nature’s most exciting creatures.
Each exhibit is an oceanic storybook
Each exhibit is like turning a page in an oceanic storybook. You’ll meet the charming, slippery river otters, get face-to-face with the living shipwreck tenants, and feel Bogue Sound’s tranquility.
Families will love the hands-on activities, which are perfect for curious kids and adults alike. For those more into the nitty-gritty details, the Theodore Roosevelt Natural Area and Alice Hoffman Nature Trail provide a breathtaking backdrop to an already fascinating adventure.
Shipwreck Corner at the Pine Knoll Shoes Aquarium
At Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium, every exhibit is a different chapter in the grand oceanic saga. Stroll down to Shipwreck Corner and marvel at the colorful tapestry of marine life that has made a sunken vessel their vibrant playground.
This aquarium houses many fish, sharks, and sea turtles. Sandbar sharks, tiger sharks, nurse sharks, tarpon, sheepshead, jack crevalle, red drum, and American spadefish make up saltwater tanks at this Emerald Isle aquarium.
Jellyfish Gallery
Flip the script in Jellyfish Gallery, where the translucent ballet of these floating beauties will have you hypnotized.
Penguin plunge at the North Carolina Aquarium
Next, shuffle over to Penguin Plunge and chill with the most incredible birds around. Don’t forget to wave “Hi!” — they’re quite the social beaks! Then, plunge your curiosity into Stingray Bay and get that tingling sensation as you brush your fingers against their gracefully gliding wings during a hands-on animal encounter.
Otter oasis
Are you roaring for more? Otter Oasis is your next stop for whiskery winks and playful splashes, where our furry friends live their best lives!
Living shipwreck
And for the grand finale, the Living Shipwreck — a 65-foot underwater viewing window — places you in the front row to a breathtaking spectacle featuring a symphony of sharks, majestic sea turtles, and schools of fish that dance to the ocean’s rhythm.
Remember to look for shark teeth and other fossils.
Visitors have the opportunity to dig for fossils, including shark teeth. Just outside the facility is a pile of dirt with fossil hunting tools. These tools include sifters and shovels. This interactive experience is included with the ticket price and is a hidden gem.
Note: Most people miss the fossil hunting experience because they don’t see it. It’s tucked away to the left of the Dairy Queen upon exiting (if facing away from the building). Be sure to go; you’ll find fossils! The dirt is replenished each week with new shark teeth.
Behind-the-scenes Tour
Have you ever wondered what it takes to keep this Atlantic Beach aquarium ticking? The behind-the-scenes tour sheds light on just that. With the guidance of knowledgeable staff members, you’re taken to the heart of the operation.
Safety and education intersect here as you peek into the daily routines that ensure the Pine Knoll Shores residents are healthy and happy.
Behind-the-scenes tour at the aquarium
If you’re like me and always peeking behind curtains, you’ll flip for our behind-the-scenes tour. Imagine sneaking backstage at a concert, but instead of mic checks, you’re watching our marine gurus feed a family of seahorses.
Our tour guide and safety instructions
Picture your most excellent science teacher with better jokes and endless fishy facts. They’ll keep you safe by decking you out in non-slip shoes and giving you the lowdown on how to keep fins and fingers to yourselves—safety first.
Shark Feeding Experience
Now, let’s talk about a thrilling encounter that’ll have your heart racing—the shark-feeding experience. With rigorous safety measures, this encounter allows you to observe the powerful grace of various shark species, from the sleek sandbar shark to the bottom-dwelling nurse shark.
It’s raw nature in action, with powerful teaching moments about these misunderstood creatures’ role in the ocean’s ecosystem.
Going to the NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores last minute?
If you’re making a last minute trip to Pine Knoll Shores to the NC Aquarium, you should start planning now! Below are some booking recommendations.
Best accommodations close to the aquarium:
- Windjammer Inn: 103 Salter Path Rd, Pine Knoll Shores, NC 28512
- DoubleTree by Hilton: 2717 W Fort Macon Rd, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512
Best places to eat near the aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores:
- Captains Kitchen (food truck and local favorite): 1502 Salter Path Rd, Indian Beach, NC 28512
- Anchor Drafthouse: 136 Headen Ln, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512
Detailed description of the shark feeding experience
For a more educational experience, visitors are encouraged to attend the shark feeding presentations at Pine Knoll Shores. These events offer a rare glimpse into the natural feeding behaviors of sharks, allowing onlookers to observe their precision and agility in their native habitat.
Far from the exaggerated portrayals often seen in media, these feedings provide insight into the actual dynamics of marine predation, and the role sharks play in maintaining oceanic balance.
These feedings serve as a captivating spectacle and an informative session that dispels myths and fosters a deeper understanding of these misunderstood ocean dwellers.
Explanation of the safety measures taken during the experience
To ensure the safety of all involved, the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores employs a comprehensive set of safety measures for the shark feeding experiences. Expert handlers, trained in marine animal behavior, conduct the feedings using long poles to make sure all fish are fed. During the behind the scenes tour, visitors can feed the fish with frozen herring while maintaining a safe distance.
At the same time, an education team provides commentary and ensures the crowd stays clear of the designated feeding area. This aquarium at Emerald Isle also uses barrier systems to separate observers from the aquatic action, with strict protocols to prevent unauthorized tank access.
The health and well-being of both the sharks and guests are the top priority, with emergency procedures ready in case of any unexpected situations.
Information on the different shark species available at the aquarium
The Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium in NC is home to various shark species, each with unique characteristics and adaptations. With its imposing size and ragged teeth, the sand tiger shark is often a visitor’s first encounter. Despite its fearsome appearance, it is known for its relatively docile nature.
In contrast, the swift and sleek blacktip reef shark exhibits remarkable agility as it navigates the coral environments. The bonnethead shark, a smaller cousin of the hammerhead, can be observed using its distinctive head shape to aid in foraging along the sandy bottom.
Each species on display offers a chance to learn about the incredible biodiversity of shark populations and the intricate ecosystems they inhabit.
Turtle Care
It’s impossible to talk about Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium without gushing over the adorable and ancient sea turtles. Here, you’re not just observing—it’s an education on the importance of turtle conservation. The dedicated staff will walk you through their rehabilitation process, ensuring these shelled survivors thrive for generations.
Turtles may be slow on land, but they’re a quick reminder of the enduring spirit of nature and our responsibility to protect it.
Turtle species available at the aquarium
The Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium is home to a diverse collection of sea turtle species, each with unique characteristics and ecological significance. Notable among these are the loggerhead and green turtles, familiar to many due to their widespread recognition.
The aquarium also shelters the Kemp’s ridley turtle, renowned for being the smallest sea turtle species, a distinction that underscores the remarkable diversity within these marine creatures. Additionally, the exhibit features formidable leatherback turtles, the largest of their kind, capable of reaching lengths of up to 6 feet.
The presence of each species within the aquarium is a powerful reminder of the rich tapestry of life that inhabits our oceans and the importance of each creature in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems.
The turtle care process at Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium
The turtle exhibit is a captivating attraction and center for essential conservation efforts at the Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium. Visitors can observe diverse turtle species and learn about the intricate care they receive.
Each turtle has a diet tailored to its species’ needs, habitat maintenance designed to replicate their natural environment, and specialized veterinary care ensuring their well-being.
Importance of turtle conservation
These conservation practices have far-reaching implications. The aquarium protects turtle nesting sites, rescues and rehabilitates turtles affected by injuries or environmental threats, and provides vital public education on preserving marine life.
With the conservation of turtles, the aquarium contributes to maintaining the critical and delicate balance of marine ecosystems. Turtles play a critical role in the health of oceans, and protecting them is vital in the face of threats such as habitat destruction, climate change, and pollution.
By supporting these initiatives, visitors can directly contribute to safeguarding our oceans and the diverse life they sustain.
Quarantine Area at Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium
One of the most vital areas, and yet unknown to many, is the quarantine area. This haven serves as the critical first stop for the aquarium’s newcomers, ensuring health and harmony throughout the exhibits.
It’s also a healing place for those needing extra care. The quarantine zone highlights the aquarium’s deep commitment to the well-being of its residents before they make a splash in their new homes.
getting to the nc aquarium at pine knoll shores
Getting to Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium is a simple and scenic journey, no matter your starting point. Centrally located on the North Carolina coast, it’s accessible via Highway 70 or the more scenic NC Highway 58, which offers stunning coastal views.
For those traveling by air, the closest major airport is located in Raleigh, with the subsequent drive taking you through lush, picturesque landscapes characteristic of the Eastern Seaboard.
Address of Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium
1 Roosevelt Blvd., Pine Knoll Shores, NC 28512
Map of the aquarium
Admission to Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium
Prices
- Adults (ages 13-61): $12.95
- Seniors (ages 62 and older): $11.95
- Military: $11.95
- Children (ages 3-12): $10.95
- Ages 2 and younger: Free
- Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium Society: Free
Operating hours of the aquarium
- Open seven days a week
- 9 am to 5 pm
Contact information
- Phone: (252) 247-4003
- Email: pksmail@ncaquariums.com
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Visit Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium today!
So, here’s my invitation to you, fellow ocean adventurers and guardians of the deep—Support the mission for marine life conservation efforts with each ticket, each shared experience, and each moment of awe. Open its doors, and let the Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium open your eyes to the beauty beneath the waves.
Are you ready to meet face-to-fin with some of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures? Book your tickets to Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium today and transform how you see, think about, and connect with the marine world. It’s not just an aquarium; it’s an experience that ripples across lives, fostering a love for the sea in the hearts of all who enter. See you there!
