Hours of admission
Open daily 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. year-round
*The Aquarium is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day
Admission
Adults (Ages 13-61): $9.95
Seniors (Ages 62 and older): $8.95
Military: $8.95
Children (Ages 3-12): $7.95
Ages 2 and younger and NC Aquarium Society Members: FREE
taxes not included
Beginning Nov. 4, 2019, the freshwater conservatory will be closed for major repairs, some animals will not be on the public viewing path.
Purchase Tickets Now Programs and Fees
Group Discounts: Group rates are available for school groups (out-of-state) and recognized civic organizations. These organizations, with 15 or more visiting, qualify for a 15% discount off normal admission when the group registers in advance and purchases all tickets with one payment. For more information contact our registrar at or call 910-772-0542.
School Groups: North Carolina school groups are admitted free if registered in advance. Click here for information on Home Schools.
900 Loggerhead Road, Kure Beach, NC 28449
The Aquarium is located in Kure Beach on US 421, about 20 miles south of Wilmington.
From Southport, take the Southport-Fort Fisher Ferry. See ferry schedule here.
Get Directions on Google Maps
Enjoy a variety of food and drinks at the SharkBites snack bar. SharkBites is open daily from March through September and on weekends during October and November.
Group Meal Plan
View SharkBites menu
March – September: Monday – Saturday 10-5, Sunday 11-5
October: Thursday – Saturday 10-5, Sunday 11-5
November: Saturday 10-5, Sunday 11-5
Closed December – February
Tips and insider information to make your visit to the Aquarium fin-tastic:
- Parking is free. Designated parking for individuals with disabilities is located near the Aquarium entrance.
- Most visitors tour the Aquarium in about two hours. Allow more time if you plan to take in the free daily programs, go on a tour or explore more.
- Planning your visit for April or May? You may share your experience with many young visitors. Large school groups generally visit the Aquarium from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. weekdays during the spring months.
- Areas of the aquarium may be closed and some animals may not be visible for a variety of reasons including regular or special care for the animals and their living space. Refunds or exchanges are not possible in cases of closed areas or unavailable animals. Please contact us if you have questions about specific animals or experiences.
- Trained service animals are welcome in the Aquarium. Please inform Visitor Services if a trained service animal will be assisting you.
- Animals, other than service animals, are not allowed in the Aquarium. New Hanover County ordinance prohibits owners from leaving dogs unattended in a vehicle or tied up. Leaving a pet inside a car can be harmful to the animal.