Here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions. If you can't find the answer to your question here, please contact us and we will be happy to address specific questions.

• Where are the rest rooms?
  A. There are restrooms outside the main entrance, near the ticket windows. Others are located inside, near the touch pool on the upper level, and near the gift shop on the lower level.

• What time is the next feeding?
  A. There are feedings at 3 p.m. daily. The location will be announced within 15 minutes of the feeding.

• How long does it take to tour?
  A. An hour or two is usually sufficient, but you can easily spend much more time if you take advantage of special programs. And remember, spending extra time at each exhibit can help you learn even more about our fascinating animals and their habitats.

• Where can we get something to eat?
  A. We have a snack bar on our lower level, facing the garden area. Available are: yogurt deserts, chips, hot-dogs, popcorn and other snacks.

   

• What time is the next ferry?
  A. We refer to a current ferry schedule to answer this question for our visitors. To find out ahead of time, call 1.800.ByFerry.

   

• Where is the closest ATM/ phone?
  A. Many of the banks and businesses in nearby Carolina Beach have ATM’s. We no longer have an ATM on-site.

   

• Do you have whales - dolphins - sharks?
  A. We have sharks – two species, at present, plus skates and rays – but not live whales or dolphins. Our Open Oceans Gallery features a very nice whale exhibit, which includes whale skeletons and scale models of a humpback whale and her calf. The Aquarium is active in bottlenose dolphin research, but we have no marine mammals on exhibit at present.

   

• Does your gift shop sell film?
  A. Yes, and we also sell “disposable” cameras.

   

• Do you have a place to picnic inside?
  A. Sorry, no food is allowed inside the building. However, a covered area outside the snack bar provides shade, shelter, and a nice view of the garden area.

   

• Can we bring our pet dog inside?
  A. Sorry, no pets are allowed inside. Only “working dogs,” also known as guide dogs, are permitted beyond the admission area.

   

• What else is there to do in this area?
  A. A wonderful variety of recreational, cultural and educational opportunities can be found in the lower Cape Fear area, and in the nearby Pleasure Island communities of Kure Beach and Carolina Beach. Beaches, shopping, museums, sightseeing – these are just a few examples. We recommend browsing through some of the brochures available just outside our gift-shop entrance, on the lower level. On the internet, visit www.cape-fear.nc.us/ for a comprehensive guide to our area.