If you find yourself pondering the wonders of the ocean and what lies beneath the waves of the Atlantic, then you should spend a day at the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island! Familiarize yourself with various species of sea creatures from moray eels and sea turtles to stingrays and sharks. Admire vibrant schools as they swim around their coral reef environment. It’s the perfect place to spend a rainy day during your vacation on the Outer Banks. The kids love the interactive exhibits and petting tanks. You won’t regret adding a visit to the aquarium to your OBX itinerary. You can find more suggestions for things to see and do during your stay in our complimentary Vacation Guide!
All About the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island
Engaging Exhibits
Give yourself approximately two hours to navigate your way through the Aquarium and all the amazing exhibits it has to offer. Wind your way through seascapes. Then, continue your tour of wetland environments, river habitats, and more! You’ll encounter an array of aquatic and semi-aquatic species. Maybe you’d like to become more familiar with the amphibians, snakes, and alligators that make their home in the Albemarle. Perhaps you enjoy the ethereal appearance of translucent sea jellies as they bounce around their tanks. Some of the exhibits you may encounter during your visit include:
- Seven Rivers – Discover the animals that inhabit the Albemarle
- Wild Wetlands – See playful otters, stealthy alligators, and even some turtles
- Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation – STAR is the top sea turtle conservation center on the OBX
- Sea Treasures – Explore the secrets of a sunken ship and the marine life who find shelter there
- Delicate Drifters – Jellyfish galore!
- Sea Senses – Stingrays and ocean invertebrates swim in a shallow pool perfect for close up observation
- Ironclad Sanctuary – Learn the history of the U.S.S. Monitor
- Graveyard of the Atlantic – Watch as sharks and various fish maneuver the Graveyard, then head to the Gulf Stream exhibit
- Pollinator Habitat Garden – an outdoor exhibit where you’ll learn about the native wildlife as you explore more than 200 species of plants, plus bees, birds, and butterflies!
Behind-the-Scenes Tours
For an extra special experience, reserve a behind-the-scenes tour! During this tour, visitors can see the exhibits and what the staff does to maintain everything. You’ll also have access to areas of the aquarium that are usually reserved for staff-only.
Outdoor Excursions
Take your experience even further and enjoy the great outdoors. Register ahead of time for an outdoor excursion offered by the staff at the Aquarium! Some of the seasonal outdoor activities include:
- What’s the Catch? Fishing lessons at the Soundside Pier.
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding 101
- Paddling Around Roanoke Island Kayaking
- Let’s Go Crabbing at the Soundside Pier
- Tromp through the salt marshes and sound waters on the Wetlands Walk
Swim with Sharks
Thrill seekers with their Open Water Scuba Diver certification can dive with the sharks at the aquarium! During the dive, you’ll encounter sand tiger, nurse, and sandbar sharks. You’ll also see other reef fish that make their home in the 285,000-gallon habitat. It’s an experience you’ll remember for the rest of your life!
Special Events
In addition to its daily programs and exhibits, the aquarium hosts a variety of special events throughout the year. In 2025, check these two out:
Stomp and Splash – A 21+, BYOB night of Line Dancing from 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM for just $20 per ticket.
Sound Bath Under the Sea – Back by popular demand, and held Wednesday nights from May to August, this event is great for people ages 13 and up who want to experience the immense relaxation of hypnotizing sounds in the tranquil Graveyard of the Atlantic shark exhibit. Tickets are $30, and the event is from 6 PM to 6:45 PM.
Know Before You Go
Hours
9 am- 5 pm daily (closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day)
Ticket Cost
Adults ages 13-61: $12.95
Seniors ages 62 and up: $11.95
Military (both active duty and veterans): $11.95
Children ages 3-12: $10.95
Ages 2 and younger: Free
NC Aquarium Society Members: Free
The aquarium can sell out, so advanced ticket purchase is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons like summer. The last reservation for each day is 4 PM, and the last entry is at 4:30 PM.
Have the Vacation of a Lifetime and Stay in a Paramount Destinations Vacation Home
When you come to the Outer Banks, be sure to stay near all the best beaches and attractions like the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island. Our vacation rentals in Corolla are conveniently located near excellent restaurants and exciting things to do! Our Cat Nap Cottage, located in the esteemed Currituck Club, boasts stunning ocean views and easy access to the Currituck Club Golf Course! After one stay in this property, you’ll never want to leave! What are you waiting for? The ocean is beckoning!
