Seaside Aquarium
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Seaside Aquarium

4.1
·6k reviews·Seaside, United States

Historic Seaside Aquarium, a charming spot since 1937, famous for its interactive seal feeding and dog-friendly policy.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daily Feeding Times

Catch the seals' active feeding

CrowdMedium
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Seaside Aquarium

Seaside Aquarium

Best Time

Daily Feeding Times

Catch the seals' active feeding

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic Seaside Aquarium, a charming spot since 1937, famous for its interactive seal feeding and dog-friendly policy.

4.1
(6k reviews)

"A small but fun aquarium with a highlight being the seal feeding!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Feed the Seals!

Don't miss the seal feeding! It's a highlight and worth the small cost for the fish.

🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun

Leashed dogs are welcome! Your furry friends can enjoy the aquarium too.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Seal Feeding Frenzy

Seal Feeding Frenzy

Central Enclosure

Watch and feed the charismatic seals! A crowd-pleasing activity that brings smiles to all ages.

TikTokInstagram
Interactive Touch Tank

Interactive Touch Tank

Designated Touch Pool

Get hands-on with marine life like starfish and anemones. Educational and fun for curious minds.

Reddit
Giant Pacific Octopus

Giant Pacific Octopus

Octopus Exhibit

Marvel at the intelligence and beauty of this magnificent cephalopod. Often a surprisingly active resident.

InstagramReddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Seal Feeding

The highlight for many is feeding the seals, but this popular activity has specific times. Check the schedule upon arrival to avoid disappointment and ensure you catch this interactive experience. It's a must-do for a memorable visit! TikTokInstagram

Manage Expectations for a Small Aquarium

While charming and historic, the Seaside Aquarium is compact. It's perfect for a quick, engaging visit, especially with kids, but don't expect the vast exhibits of larger institutions. Focus on the unique seal feeding and touch tank for the best experience. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Daily Feeding Times
Why
Catch the seals' active feeding
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Feeding the animals!!!#Aquarium #BlueCrab#AmericanCrocodile #BottlenoseDolphin #Viral #Seaside⚡️🐳 
@seaside_aquarium
48.5K likes • 391.2K views

🎯 Feed the Seals!

Don't miss the seal feeding! It's a highlight and worth the small cost for the fish. TikTokInstagram

🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun

Leashed dogs are welcome! Your furry friends can enjoy the aquarium too. Instagram

I definitely recommend! It’s the was super affordable and a great place for the little ones to explore!🦑 #3rdbirthday #seaside #oregon #oregonadventures #aquarium #kidsoftiktok #fypシ #fyp #like
@amaiyachavez5
13.5K likes • 171K views
SEASIDE STAY & PLAY GIVEAWAY! 🐚 🦀 🌊 We're giving away a 2-night stay in an ocean view room + two tickets to The Seaside Aquarium for the ultimate Seaside getaway! How to Enter: Follow @bestwesternocean Like this post & tag a friend in the comments who would love a Seaside getaway; the more people you tag, the more entries you receive! Giveaway closes at 11:59 PM, Sunday 10/1. The winner will be ...
bestwesternocean
403 likes • 7.9K views

🎟️ Affordable Admission

Great value for the experience, especially for families. TikTokReddit

📍 Promenade Location

Easily accessible on the Seaside promenade, perfect for a stroll. Instagram

You can find the Seaside Aquarium if you walk North on the promenade that runs along the beach☀️🏝️ This aquarium is a far cry from the Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport but it has something that the aquarium doesn’t have: a hilarious group of seals that you can feed and interact with! #oregoncoast #seasideoregon #feedtheseals #oregoncoastexplored #sealsofinstagram #funnyanimalvideos #sealsarecute...
angie.eats.oregon
105 likes • 931 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Feed the Seals!

Don't miss the seal feeding! It's a highlight and worth the small cost for the fish. TikTokInstagram

🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun

Leashed dogs are welcome! Your furry friends can enjoy the aquarium too. Instagram

🎟️ Affordable Admission

Great value for the experience, especially for families. TikTokReddit

📍 Promenade Location

Easily accessible on the Seaside promenade, perfect for a stroll. Instagram

🐙 Active Octopus

Look for the Giant Pacific Octopus; it's often surprisingly active and mesmerizing. InstagramReddit

What Travellers Say

4.1
(6k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors often praise the Seaside Aquarium for its affordable admission and the unique, interactive seal feeding experience, which is a hit with families and kids. The dog-friendly policy is also a significant plus. However, some reviewers note that the aquarium is small, with compact enclosures that can feel dark and dated, raising questions about animal welfare for some. TikTokInstagramReddit

"We just stumbled upon this aquarium while on our visit to the Oregon coast. If you’re looking for a conservation type aquarium and want to see happy animals, this is not it. It is dark and depressing inside.

The tanks for the animals are small/crowded. The touch tank is small with a lot of starfish which was fun for probably 20 seconds.

There is an open tank/enclosure in the center of the room that has small sharks that look dead.

The seal enclosure has way too many seals and is very small. The aquarium hands you a pamphlet upon entry explaining the conditions for the seals. It says that the seals have a large dry space in the back but choose to be in the public viewing area. It also says that the seals are not released into the wild because studies show that after 1 year in captivity the seals would be less likely to survive in the wild. However, they explain that they have bred all their seals in captivity for years. Meaning these seals have never been outside, some being over 20 years old."

cora m

"Small but super fun aquarium right in the middle of downtown Seaside. Very reasonable price for admission and for the fish to feed the seals. The little octopus was very active when we were visiting, which was really awesome. Feeding the seals was also really cool. Definitely worth a visit."

Robbie D

"During our recent visit to the Seaside Aquarium, I had mixed feelings about the experience. On one hand, I appreciated the opportunity for our family to learn about a variety of marine life. It’s always good to have a place where children can be exposed to ocean species up close and gain a better understanding of the coastal ecosystem. That being said, there were some noticeable drawbacks that were hard to ignore. The biggest issue I observed was the seal enclosure, which felt far too small for the number of seals housed there. It seemed crowded, and I couldn’t help but wonder about the quality of life for the animals in such a confined space.

Additionally, the overall condition of the aquarium left something to be desired. One of the tanks appeared to be leaking, and there were several areas that looked worn down or in need of repair. The facility gave off the impression of being somewhat dated and in need of refurbishment. However, there were still some positives to our visit. I particularly enjoyed the story of Victor the Lobster, which added a fun and memorable element to the experience. Overall, while educational, the aquarium clearly could benefit from some upgrades."

Bryan “Dad of 4”

What People Like

Seal feeding interaction
Affordable admission
Dog-friendly policy

What People Dislike

Small, dark enclosures
Dated facilities
Animal welfare concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Seaside Aquarium is conveniently located in downtown Seaside, Oregon, right on the promenade. If you're driving, there's street parking available nearby. Many visitors find it easily accessible by walking along the beach promenade. Instagram

Yes, there is street parking available in the downtown Seaside area. During peak times, it can be competitive, so arriving earlier in the day or on a weekday might be beneficial. TikTok

If you're staying in Seaside, especially near the promenade, walking to the aquarium is a great option. It's a pleasant stroll along the beach. Instagram

Look for it along the main promenade that runs parallel to the beach in Seaside, Oregon. It's a central and easily identifiable landmark. Instagram

While direct public transport to the aquarium itself might be limited, Seaside is a walkable town. If arriving from further afield, consider local shuttle services or regional bus lines that stop in Seaside. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices are generally very reasonable, making it an affordable outing. Check their official website or call ahead for the most current pricing for adults and children. TikTokReddit

There's a small fee to purchase fish for feeding the seals, typically around $2 for a portion of fish. It's a popular and worthwhile experience. Reddit

While some larger aquariums offer online booking, the Seaside Aquarium is a smaller, historic venue. It's best to purchase tickets upon arrival. Instagram

Hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check their official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date opening and closing times, especially for specific feeding schedules. TikTok

Keep an eye out for potential package deals or local promotions. Sometimes hotels or visitor centers offer discounts. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can see a variety of marine life, including seals, sharks, octopuses, starfish, and various fish species. The seal enclosure is a major draw. TikTokInstagramReddit

Absolutely! Kids love the interactive touch tank and, especially, feeding the seals. It's a great educational and fun experience for younger visitors. TikTokReddit

Yes, the Seaside Aquarium is dog-friendly! Leashed dogs are welcome to join you during your visit, which is a big plus for pet owners. Instagram

The touch tank allows visitors to gently interact with creatures like starfish and anemones. Staff are usually present to guide the experience. Reddit

A visit typically takes about 1-2 hours, depending on how long you spend at each exhibit and if you participate in the seal feeding. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The aquarium itself is small and primarily focused on exhibits. There isn't a full-service restaurant inside, but there are often snacks available. Reddit

Downtown Seaside has numerous restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops offering a variety of cuisines. You'll find plenty of options within walking distance. TikTok

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the aquarium itself, but you can usually enjoy them in nearby public areas or parks. TikTok

Seaside offers classic beach town fare like seafood, burgers, and casual dining. Many places have ocean views. TikTok

Yes, there is a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs, toys, and other memorabilia related to the aquarium and marine life. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the aquarium. However, be mindful of flash photography, as it can disturb the animals. Instagram

The seal feeding, the Giant Pacific Octopus, and the touch tank offer great photo opportunities. Capturing the interactions is key. TikTokInstagram+1

Some visitors note that the aquarium can be a bit dark, which might require adjusting your camera settings or using a phone with good low-light capabilities. Reddit

Absolutely! The seals are a prime subject. Try to capture them interacting or during their feeding times for dynamic shots. TikTokInstagram

A smartphone with good low-light performance or a mirrorless camera with a versatile lens would work well. Avoid bulky equipment that might obstruct others. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Seaside Aquarium is a fantastic spot for families! Kids will be thrilled by the seal feeding and the interactive touch tank, where they can gently touch marine creatures. TikTokReddit The manageable size means little legs won't get too tired, and the central location on the promenade makes it easy to access. It's an affordable way to introduce children to ocean life and create lasting memories. TikTok

Pro-tip: Check the seal feeding schedule as soon as you arrive to plan your visit around this exciting event. The aquarium's historic charm and engaging exhibits make it a perfect, quick stop for a fun family outing on the Oregon coast. TikTokInstagram

🐶 Pet-Friendly Explorers

For travelers with canine companions, the Seaside Aquarium is a dream come true! It's one of the few aquariums that warmly welcomes leashed dogs to join the fun. Instagram This means your furry best friend can experience the wonders of marine life right alongside you. Instagram

Combine your aquarium visit with a stroll along the dog-friendly Seaside promenade and beach for a complete pet-inclusive day. It’s a great way to ensure everyone in the family, including the four-legged members, gets to enjoy the Seaside experience. TikTokInstagram

💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers

The Seaside Aquarium offers excellent value for money. With affordable admission prices and a small fee for the popular seal feeding, it's an economical choice for a memorable experience. TikTokReddit You can easily spend an hour or two here without breaking the bank, making it ideal for travelers looking to maximize their budget. TikTok

Pair your visit with a picnic lunch from a local market and enjoy the ocean views nearby. The aquarium provides a significant amount of engagement and fun for a modest cost, making it a smart addition to any budget-friendly itinerary. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Seal Feeding Experience

The seal feeding is arguably the most famous and beloved activity at the Seaside Aquarium. Visitors can purchase small buckets of fish for a nominal fee to toss to the seals. This interactive experience is a highlight for both children and adults, offering a chance to get up close and personal with these intelligent marine mammals. TikTokInstagram The seals are known to be quite enthusiastic and engaging during feeding times, often performing tricks or eagerly awaiting their next treat. It's a moment of pure joy and a fantastic photo opportunity. Reddit

It's important to note that feeding times are scheduled, so checking the aquarium's daily schedule upon arrival is crucial to ensure you don't miss out. The enthusiasm of the seals and the direct interaction make this a memorable part of any visit. Many reviews highlight this as a must-do, emphasizing the fun and unique nature of the experience. TikTokInstagramReddit

Understanding the Aquarium's History and Ethics

Opened in 1937, the Seaside Aquarium is one of the oldest aquariums on the West Coast. This long history contributes to its unique, classic charm, though some visitors note that certain areas might feel dated or in need of refurbishment. Reddit The aquarium has faced discussions regarding animal welfare, particularly concerning its seals. The facility provides information explaining that their seals are bred in captivity and have adapted to this life, with studies suggesting they would struggle to survive in the wild. Reddit

While the compact enclosures have drawn some criticism, the aquarium emphasizes the care provided to its long-term residents. Visitors often find the Giant Pacific Octopus and the touch tank to be fascinating, offering educational insights into marine life. InstagramReddit The aquarium's focus is on providing an accessible and engaging experience for visitors, particularly families, with its historic setting and interactive elements like the seal feeding and touch tank. TikTokReddit

Navigating Seaside with Pets

A significant perk for many visitors is that the Seaside Aquarium is dog-friendly. This means you don't have to leave your furry companions behind when exploring this coastal attraction. Leashed dogs are welcome to accompany their owners throughout the aquarium, making it a convenient stop for travelers with pets. Instagram

This policy extends the appeal of Seaside as a destination for pet owners. Many other areas in Seaside, including the beach and promenade, are also dog-friendly, allowing for a comprehensive pet-inclusive vacation experience. TikTokInstagram It's always a good idea to keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of other visitors and the animals within the aquarium. Instagram

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