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Aquarium · Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
Aquarium and marine science center beside an arm of the sea, with tanks of turtles, sharks and seals, a swamp trail and boat outings to see dolphins and whales.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is located south of the Virginia Beach boardwalk, beside Owls Creek, an arm of the sea ringed by marshes. The aquarium is divided into two buildings, connected by a roughly 1 km trail through coastal vegetation.
The first building showcases the environments of Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic, with tanks of sharks, rays, sea turtles and a large shipwreck aquarium. There is also a seal area, a 3D theater and touch tanks.
The second building, the Marsh Pavilion, houses otters, birds, reptiles and exhibits about the salt marshes. The aquarium runs a rescue program for stranded marine animals along the coast.
In summer the aquarium organizes boat trips to see dolphins near the shore and, from December to March, outings to watch whales, whose appearance varies each year.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to four hours.
Best time
Any time of year; on rainy days the aquarium tends to be busier. Dolphin trips are more common in summer.
How to get there
It is on General Booth Boulevard, about 3 km south of the boardwalk, with parking. In summer the beachfront trolley comes nearby.
Tip
Book boat trips in advance; they have limited space and depend on the weather.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
What can you see at the Virginia Aquarium?
Shark tanks, sea turtles and seals, the swamp trail and the Marsh Pavilion with otters and birds.
Can you see dolphins in Virginia Beach?
In summer dolphins often come close to the shore, and the aquarium and other operators run boat trips to observe them.
How long does a visit to the Virginia Aquarium take?
Between two and four hours to see both buildings and the trail.