South Carolina Aquarium
Discover South Carolina's aquatic wonders, from mountain streams to the Atlantic Ocean, with captivating exhibits and conservation efforts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
South Carolina Aquarium
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover South Carolina's aquatic wonders, from mountain streams to the Atlantic Ocean, with captivating exhibits and conservation efforts.
"Amazing aquarium! Beautiful tanks, informative talks, and tons of interactive exhibits."
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing your South Carolina Aquarium tickets in advance online.
🚗 Parking Costs
Be aware that parking can be expensive, so factor this into your budget for the day.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Ocean Tank
Ocean Realm
Immerse yourself in a massive tank teeming with marine life, offering a breathtaking underwater spectacle.
Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center
Sea Turtle Hospital
Witness the vital work of rehabilitating sea turtles and learn about conservation efforts.
Touch Tanks
Various Exhibits
Engage directly with marine creatures in interactive touch pools, a hit with all ages.
Bald Eagle Exhibit
Mountains to Midlands
See a majestic bald eagle up close and learn about its role in South Carolina's ecosystem.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Save
Parking & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing your South Carolina Aquarium tickets in advance online.
🚗 Parking Costs
Be aware that parking can be expensive, so factor this into your budget for the day.
🦦 Otter & Turtle Fanatics
Don't miss the adorable otters and the important sea turtle rehabilitation center!
👶 Toddlers Go Free
Children aged 0-2 get free admission, making it a great outing for young families.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing your South Carolina Aquarium tickets in advance online.
🚗 Parking Costs
Be aware that parking can be expensive, so factor this into your budget for the day.
🦦 Otter & Turtle Fanatics
Don't miss the adorable otters and the important sea turtle rehabilitation center!
👶 Toddlers Go Free
Children aged 0-2 get free admission, making it a great outing for young families.
✨ Evening Events
Check for 21+ evening events like 'Beer From Here' for a unique after-hours experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the South Carolina Aquarium for its engaging exhibits, particularly the impressive Great Ocean Tank and the vital Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center. The interactive touch tanks are a highlight for families, and the overall cleanliness and friendly staff contribute to a positive experience. Some find the admission and parking costs to be a bit high compared to other aquariums.
"We had a great time! So many things to look at and learn about. We loved how we could see the Sea turtles they are rehabilitating. My son loved all the touch tank experiences."
Ashley W.
"Went to this aquarium for the first time on a Tuesday morning around 10am, not very busy. Parking in the garage was easy and cheap. The design and layout of the building was great.
Animals all look well taken care of. My favorite was the turtle health area where we had fun with the interactive displays with xrays etc to look at.
Kid areas looked fun, though my kids are too old for that sort of thing. Bathrooms were clean. Staff was friendly. The outdoor areas of the aquarium were very nice. I like the sea turtles, otters and bald eagle the best. We also got to see an opossum running in a giant hamster wheel, which was fun to watch!
We purchased a stuffed otter in the gift shop, its love one of the sweatshirts but could not justify paying $75 for it. I thought it should have been cheaper then that.
It took me and my teens about 1 hour to go through the whole aquarium. Touch tanks were nice and large. I loved the hand wash stations (I included a picture of them), they were very unique, I've never seen them before and was impressed!
Worth a visit especially if you have younger kids."
Kristin
"The parking is expensive- like $30/day. The cost of entrance is exorbitant for how engaging each exhibit is if you're an out of town visitor compared to other aquariums like Ripley's or the Georgia Aquarium. Few large showcase exhibits. No sharks in showcase exhibits. Touch pools the best part hands down. Nice that it's on the water. Nice atmosphere for families and beautiful surroundings. Plan to have at least three major things to do on your hit list for Charleston in a trip with this as one of them and you'll have a great time."
Alicia Fader
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The South Carolina Aquarium is located at 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401. It's easily accessible by car, and many visitors find parking in the nearby garage. Public transportation options are also available within Charleston.
Yes, there is a parking garage adjacent to the aquarium. However, be prepared for parking fees, which can be around $30 per day according to some visitors.
Absolutely! The aquarium is designed with accessibility in mind, making it very stroller-friendly and easy to navigate with young children.
While specific routes may vary, Charleston does have public transportation options. It's best to check the local transit authority's schedule for routes that service the waterfront area near the aquarium.
If you're staying in downtown Charleston, the aquarium is within walking distance for many, or a short taxi/rideshare trip. The waterfront location makes it a pleasant destination to reach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but it's recommended to check the official South Carolina Aquarium website for the most current pricing. Some visitors have noted the cost can be considered high for out-of-town visitors compared to other aquariums.
Yes, you can typically purchase tickets at the door, but buying them online in advance is often recommended to save time and potentially secure better rates.
Look for potential discounts online or through membership programs. Some visitors mention that the cost can be a factor, so exploring all options is wise.
Yes, toddlers aged 0-2 years old typically receive free admission to the South Carolina Aquarium, making it a great value for families with very young children.
Operating hours can vary seasonally and for special events. It's always best to check the official South Carolina Aquarium website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the massive Great Ocean Tank, the Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center, interactive touch tanks, and the bald eagle exhibit. Many visitors also enjoy the otters and the unique hand-washing stations.
Yes, it's highly regarded as a kid-friendly venue, with interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and engaging displays that captivate younger visitors.
Most visitors, including those with teens, find that it takes about 1 to 2 hours to explore the entire aquarium. Families with younger children might spend a bit longer.
The aquarium boasts numerous interactive exhibits, most notably the touch tanks where you can feel starfish and other marine life. There are also educational displays and opportunities to learn from staff.
Yes, the aquarium hosts various special events throughout the year, including 'Aquarium Aglow' during the holidays and 21+ events like 'Beer From Here'. 
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe or dining area within the aquarium where you can purchase snacks and meals.
The offerings typically include standard cafe fare like sandwiches, snacks, and drinks. It's a convenient option for a quick bite during your visit.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the aquarium. It's best to consume them before entering or plan to purchase food on-site.
Being located on Charleston's waterfront, there are numerous restaurants and dining options in the surrounding area if you prefer to eat outside the aquarium.
Some visitors have noted that prices for food and gift shop items can be on the higher side, so keep that in mind when budgeting.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the South Carolina Aquarium for personal use. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the animals.
The Great Ocean Tank offers stunning photo opportunities, as do the sea turtle exhibits and the various marine life displays. The waterfront views outside are also picturesque.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to photograph the sea turtles in the rehabilitation center to raise awareness about conservation efforts.
While personal photography is fine, commercial photography or videography may require special permission. Always check with aquarium staff if you have specific plans.
A camera with good low-light performance is ideal for aquarium photography. Many visitors use their smartphones, which are great for capturing quick shots and videos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for the unique hand-washing stations – they're a fun and practical detail! The aquarium is well-equipped with clean restrooms, including a nursing room and quiet corner for those who need it. The layout is easy to navigate with strollers, and the staff are known for being engaging with children.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for any available online discounts or special offers before you go. While the gift shop and cafe can add to the cost, you can save by bringing your own snacks and drinks to enjoy outside the aquarium before or after your visit. Prioritize the exhibits that appeal most to you to maximize your experience.
couples
Even during regular hours, the stunning Great Ocean Tank provides a romantic backdrop for a stroll. The waterfront location also offers beautiful views, making it a pleasant outing. Exploring the diverse exhibits together and learning about marine life can be a fun and engaging shared activity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Exhibits
Beyond the main tank, the aquarium showcases various habitats. The Mountains to Midlands exhibit highlights freshwater ecosystems, while the Piedmont and Coastal zones delve into the unique creatures found in those regions. A particularly moving area is the Sea Turtle Hospital, where you can learn about the critical work being done to rescue, rehabilitate, and release injured sea turtles. Interactive displays here offer insights into turtle health and conservation.
Don't miss the touch tanks, which are a huge hit with visitors of all ages, allowing for hands-on encounters with creatures like starfish and sea urchins. The aquarium also features a resident bald eagle, offering a chance to see this magnificent bird up close. The overall layout is intuitive, making it easy to navigate and discover the wonders of South Carolina's aquatic life.
Special Events and Experiences
During the holiday season, the aquarium transforms into 'Aquarium Aglow,' a magical nighttime event featuring stunning light displays that illuminate the exhibits and grounds. This festive occasion often includes appearances by Scuba Claus, adding a unique holiday twist to the underwater world. It's a popular outing for families looking for a festive and memorable experience.
Beyond these larger events, the aquarium often has educator-led talks and creature features throughout the day. These informal sessions are a fantastic opportunity to learn fascinating facts about specific animals directly from the experts. Keep an eye on the aquarium's schedule upon arrival to catch these engaging presentations and deepen your understanding of marine life.
Conservation and Education Focus
The aquarium's exhibits are designed not only to entertain but also to inform. Through interactive displays, informative signage, and engaging staff, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the delicate ecosystems of South Carolina. The focus on native species helps connect visitors to their local environment and encourages a sense of stewardship.
Staff members are often highlighted for their friendliness and willingness to share knowledge. They play a crucial role in educating visitors, answering questions, and fostering a love for marine life and conservation. This educational component makes a visit to the aquarium a valuable learning experience for all ages.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit