The Gulfarium: A Must-Visit Destination for Families on the Emerald Coast

If you’re staying in Destin, Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, or along 30A, and looking for a fun, family-friendly activity that blends adventure and marine wildlife, then The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park should be at the top of your list. Located just a short drive from Destin in Fort Walton Beach, The Gulfarium offers exciting marine encounters, educational shows, and unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re interested in petting a stingray, swimming with dolphins, or enjoying an up-close encounter with sea turtles, The Gulfarium has something for everyone.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to visiting The Gulfarium, including all the must-do activities, visitor information, and tips for making the most of your day at this Emerald Coast treasure.

Visitor Information

• Website: The Gulfarium
• Location: 1010 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
• Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
• Cost:
  • General Admission: $26.95 for adults, $17.95 for children (3-12), children under 2 are free
  • Special experiences like swimming with dolphins, animal encounters, and behind-the-scenes tours have additional fees.
  • Parking is free, and the park is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.

The Gulfarium is conveniently located just 20 minutes from Destin and Miramar Beach and about 40 minutes from Santa Rosa Beach and 30A, making it a great day-trip destination for visitors staying along the Emerald Coast. Whether you’re looking for a fun family outing or a break from the beach, The Gulfarium provides an engaging and educational experience.

Activities and Animal Encounters

The Gulfarium offers a wide range of interactive programs and marine animal encounters that are sure to create lifelong memories. From swimming with dolphins to feeding sea lions, here’s a rundown of the best activities at the park.

1. Dolphin Encounters and Swim with Dolphins

The Gulfarium is known for its Dolphin Encounters, where guests can get up close and personal with these intelligent and playful creatures. Choose from experiences like the Discover Dolphins program, where participants get to interact with dolphins from the platform, or the more immersive Swim with Dolphins, where you’ll get to swim and play with them in the water.

• Duration: 30 to 45 minutes
• Cost: Starting at $179 per person for the Swim with Dolphins experience
• Group Tip: Advanced reservations are recommended, especially for large groups, as these programs fill up quickly.

2. Stingray Bay: Touch and Feed Stingrays

A favorite for kids and adults alike, the Stingray Bay experience allows you to pet and feed gentle stingrays in a shallow pool. You’ll learn about their unique biology while getting the rare opportunity to interact with these fascinating creatures.

• Duration: Open throughout the day
• Cost: Free with admission (feeding available for an additional $5)
• Group Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially if you’re visiting with a large group.

3. Animal Encounters: Sea Lions, Penguins, and Sea Turtles

For those interested in even more marine life encounters, The Gulfarium offers several hands-on experiences with animals like sea lions, penguins, and sea turtles. The Sea Lion Meet & Greet lets you get up close and personal with one of the park’s friendly sea lions, while the Penguin Encounter offers a unique look at these charismatic birds. For a more relaxed experience, the Turtle Encounters provide insight into the world of sea turtles and conservation efforts.

• Duration: 20-30 minutes
• Cost: Starting at $35 per person for each encounter
• Group Tip: These encounters are ideal for family photo opportunities and small groups.

4. Aquarium Shows and Exhibits

In addition to the interactive experiences, The Gulfarium offers several educational and entertaining shows throughout the day, featuring dolphins, sea lions, and other marine animals. The Dolphin Show and Sea Lion Show are park favorites, where you’ll see these amazing animals showcase their talents while learning more about their behaviors and conservation efforts.

• Duration: 20 minutes per show
• Cost: Free with admission
• Group Tip: Check the daily schedule upon arrival to plan your day around the shows. These are great for group viewing and provide plenty of seating.

Plan Your Visit with Legacy Beach Homes

At Legacy Beach Homes, we understand that your vacation should be filled with fun, family-friendly activities. After spending the day exploring marine life at The Gulfarium, return to one of our spacious vacation rentals in Destin, Miramar Beach, or along 30A.

Legacy Beach Homes offers the Emerald Coast’s largest collection of newly-built, large vacation rentals, perfect for multi-family vacations and large group gatherings. Our 8-bedroom beach homes can comfortably sleep 20+ guests, and for even larger groups, we offer side-by-side homes that can accommodate 50 or more guests. With easy beach access, private pools, and amenities like free golf carts and paddleboards, your group will have everything needed for a luxurious and comfortable stay.

After a fun-filled day at The Gulfarium, you can relax in your designer vacation home, enjoy a dip in the pool, or take a stroll to the beach just steps away. Visit Legacy Beach Homes today to book your stay and ensure your group has the perfect home base for your Emerald Coast adventures.

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