The North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is nested within the Theodore Roosevelt State Natural Area. Rated 9th in the nation among aquariums by USA Today voters, the 93,000 square …
The North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is nested within the Theodore Roosevelt State Natural Area. Rated 9th in the nation among aquariums by USA Today voters, the 93,000 square foot aquarium boasts a 50-foot waterfall, river otters, eagles and array of aquatic animals. Additionally, it has a beautiful 400,000-gallon habitat that showcases a three-quarter size replica U-352 German submarine, which was sunk by the Coast Guard off Cape Lookout in 1942. Certified by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores priorities the care of its animals, as well as leading the front in conservation research and citizen science projects. The aquarium staff and volunteers value our community and are honored to serve every visitor. Our mission is to inspire appreciation and conservation of our aquatic environments and animals.
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4.5/5 · 1,061 reviews
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Jan 18, 2025
Get ready for a one-of-a-kind, immersive experience, both on land and deep underwater, that begins way out in Western North Carolina in the highest peaks of the Appalachian Mountains and works east t…Full review by svredhead2008
Sep 19, 2024
Love the hands on section where you can touch the little creatures. Don't forget to visit the eagles, snakes, and turtles outside. If you are feeling adventurous, hike the trail. I recommend doing so…Full review by JENAV81
Aug 25, 2024
Buy tickets online ahead of time. Timed entrances since Covid. Good time for adults and kids. They have a snapping turtle where the aquarium in Fort Fisher has a sea turtle. They have a turtle sandca…Full review by warfster
I saw on your photos of your daily critter a snake, are there a ton of reptiles at this facility? If there are, is there a way to go around them? I have anxiety attacks around them. Thanks.
A:
There's not a ton of them, but the map they give you upon entering should help you avoid the reptiles that you don't wish to encounter. There's sooo many other things to enjoy while there.
Am traveling with 4 boys between 12 months and8 years..looking for reasonable beach area vacation spots with lots of activities and not high cost. Recommendations?
A:
If you like high rise condos and congestion, go to Myrtle Beach. I you are looking for a natural beach, with single home rentals, condos, or dulpexes, our favorite is Emerald Isle, NC. …
If you like high rise condos and congestion, go to Myrtle Beach. I you are looking for a natural beach, with single home rentals, condos, or dulpexes, our favorite is Emerald Isle, NC. There are tons of things to do for the entire family: Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium, dolphin cruises, beach fun (fishing, boogie boarding, body surfing, kites, sand castles, etc.); great seafood restaurants, etc. We have been vacationing there since the 70's. Hawaii is nice but we prefer the natural, quiet environment of Emerald Isle.