Ocean Sciences Centre Harp Seal Viewing
Coastal beauty with interactive marine exhibits and breathtaking ocean views, minus the seals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Touch tank access
Ocean Sciences Centre Harp Seal Viewing
Best Time
Touch tank access
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Coastal beauty with interactive marine exhibits and breathtaking ocean views, minus the seals.
"Great ocean views and a fun touch tank, but the seals are long gone."
👋 Seals Moved On
Don't expect to see harp seals; they were relocated years ago. Focus on the ocean views and exhibits!
⏰ Check Operating Hours
The center is often seasonal (closing end of Aug) and only open Wed-Sun. Verify before you go!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Ocean Views
Breathtaking coastal scenery perfect for photography and quiet contemplation. Don't miss the expansive ocean vistas.
Outdoor Touch Tank
Get hands-on with sea creatures! Enthusiastic students guide interactions, making it fun for all ages.
Bird Watching Hotspot
Observe diverse seabird species in their natural habitat. A treat for nature lovers and photographers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Seals Are Gone, But Views Remain
Outdoor Focus & Seasonal Hours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
3 days in St John’s
👋 Seals Moved On
Don't expect to see harp seals; they were relocated years ago. Focus on the ocean views and exhibits!
⏰ Check Operating Hours
The center is often seasonal (closing end of Aug) and only open Wed-Sun. Verify before you go!
Top must do things in St Johns in March. I’ll be there 4 days and have approx. 2.5-2 days to sightsee.
Best places st. John's to paradise to go "parking"?
👟 Outdoor Exhibits
Most attractions are outside, so dress for the weather. Great for a walk and enjoying the coast.
💰 Donations Welcome
While entry is free, consider donating to support the touch tank and exhibits.
Tips
from all over the internet
👋 Seals Moved On
Don't expect to see harp seals; they were relocated years ago. Focus on the ocean views and exhibits!
⏰ Check Operating Hours
The center is often seasonal (closing end of Aug) and only open Wed-Sun. Verify before you go!
👟 Outdoor Exhibits
Most attractions are outside, so dress for the weather. Great for a walk and enjoying the coast.
💰 Donations Welcome
While entry is free, consider donating to support the touch tank and exhibits.
🚶♀️ Nearby Hiking Trail
Combine your visit with a short hike for sunset views. Perfect for a quick exploration.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the beautiful ocean views, bird watching, and the interactive outdoor touch tank with helpful students. However, many are disappointed by the absence of harp seals and the limited, seasonal operating hours. The lack of indoor exhibits and clear signage about these limitations are also noted drawbacks.
"I’ll start off by saying there aren’t seals there any longer. Seals weren’t what we were there for, but we noted that some people visiting were disappointed so I thought it worth mentioning.
The Ocean Sciences Center had great ocean views, great bird watching, great architecture, a fun touch tank with enthusiastic and knowledgeable university students there to answer all your questions.
It’s attached to a university building that doesn’t give tours. The public attractions are all outdoors. This surprised me a bit and the touch and exhibits were smaller than I’d expected but what was there was fun and interesting. I wouldn’t make a long trek just to visit, but if you’re in the area it’s well worth the stop!"
Leanne Guenther
"There is a smaller outdoor touch tank that has sea creatures in it (make sure to check when it is open). You can touch/pick up the items and ask questions. It is a quicker stop but worth it, especially if you have kids. They don't charge but accept donations. There is also a public bathroom. Nearby there is a hiking trail and a nice area to look out."
Samantha F.
"The information for this place needs to be updated! The indoor area is not open to the public, and there is no signage saying that inside tours are not available. The only thing to see is the starfish outside in the aquarium. There are no seals — when I asked, I was told they were moved to New Brunswick two years ago. Also, it’s only open Wednesday to Sunday and only until the end of August."
Jana Vrastiakova
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ocean Sciences Centre is located near St. John's. While specific public transport details are scarce, driving is the most common method. Parking is usually available on-site. It's a good stop if you're already exploring the St. John's area.
Yes, parking is generally available at the Ocean Sciences Centre, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
It's a bit of a distance to walk from downtown St. John's. Driving or taking a taxi/rideshare is recommended for most visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the public attractions, including the outdoor touch tank, is typically free. However, donations are gratefully accepted to support their operations.
The centre often operates seasonally, usually closing at the end of August, and is typically open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM. It's crucial to verify current hours before your visit.
The indoor areas are generally not open to the public. The main attractions are the outdoor touch tank and viewing areas.
No, there is no direct admission fee for the outdoor touch tank. It's a free attraction, though donations are encouraged.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy spectacular ocean views, observe various seabirds, and interact with marine life at the outdoor touch tank. Knowledgeable university students are often on hand to answer questions.
Unfortunately, the harp seals that were once a draw have been moved to New Brunswick. Visitors should not expect to see them here.
The outdoor touch tank has specific operating hours, usually between 10 AM and 5 PM, but it's best to confirm these on the day of your visit.
Yes, the outdoor touch tank is particularly engaging for children, offering a hands-on experience with sea creatures.
Yes, public restrooms are available at the Ocean Sciences Centre for visitor convenience.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic ocean views offer fantastic opportunities for landscape photography. The coastline and birdlife also make for great shots.
Yes, you can take photos of the sea creatures in the touch tank, but be mindful of the students and other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the seals are no longer there, the engaging nature of the touch tank and the beautiful ocean views provide plenty of entertainment. Remember to check the operating hours, as the touch tank has specific times and the centre is seasonal. It's a relatively quick visit, making it perfect for younger attention spans.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers & Nature Enthusiasts
Combine your visit with the nearby hiking trail for a longer exploration. While not a full-day destination on its own, it's a perfect addition to a broader itinerary, offering a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with the marine environment, even without the seals.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Ocean Sciences Centre Experience
Beyond the touch tank, the centre boasts spectacular ocean views and is a prime location for bird watching. The architecture of the building itself is also noted as being quite appealing. While the indoor exhibits and tours are not generally available to the public, the accessible outdoor elements provide a worthwhile stop, especially if you are in the St. John's vicinity.
It's important to note that the centre often operates on a seasonal basis, typically closing its public attractions at the end of August, and is usually open only from Wednesday to Sunday. Always confirm the current operating schedule before planning your visit to avoid any disappointment.
Seasonal Operations and What to Expect
This seasonal and limited weekly schedule means planning is key. If you're visiting outside of these parameters, you might find the centre closed. The focus on outdoor exhibits means that weather can also play a role in your experience. It's always advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on operating days and times before making your trip.
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