Traveling with kids can be a hassle. While the sand, sun, and surf is enough entertainment for most of us, it might be wise to have a backup plan during your Emerald Isle vacation. Luckily, there are a number of great attractions nearby. One of the best is the Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium. It combines education with entertainment and is a great item to put on your vacation itinerary. Whether you’re looking for the perfect rainy-day activity or you want to learn about the local wildlife, this is worth a visit!
Are you looking for more great things to do near Emerald Isle, like the Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium? Browse Our Things to Do List! We’ve listed our picks for the best-of-the-best in terms of fun along the Crystal Coast. From restaurants to parks, we’ve covered it all. Our list is a must for anybody planning their family vacation. Check it out today!
Visit Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium
There’s so much do to and see at the Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium! This awesome attraction is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission for adults (ages 13 to 61) is $10.95. Children (ages 12 to two) are just $8.95 and any children under the age of two are free. Seniors (ages 62 or older) are $9.95. Admission includes many of the fantastic educational programs offered at the aquarium, though there are a few special programs which cost a little extra. If you have a future marine biologist on your hands, though, you may find that it’s worth it!
Tour the Exhibits
Aside from the many animals on display, the aquarium also features exhibits that will fascinate kids of all ages as well as the parents! You’ll learn about the animals native to North Carolina, like the loggerhead turtle or local birds. There are also play areas for the “little minnows,” which combine education with imagination!
Attend a Special Events
Throughout the year, the Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium hosts a number of great special events to attend. In the summer, make plans to attend the Birds Eye View: Free Flight Bird Show. Get up close and personal with impressive birds like owls, pelicans, vultures, and other species. When fall comes, Trick or Treat Under the Sea is a great way to celebrate Halloween. You can bring in the holiday spirit with Santa by the Sea during the winter season.
Unique Tours and Adventures
In addition to seasonal events, the aquarium hosts unique tours throughout the year. One great activity is the behind the scenes tour. This tour is a good way to learn about how the aquarium operates. In the spring, summer, and fall, you can also take part in a number of outdoor activities. When the weather is good, you can go kayaking, paddle boarding, surf fishing, or crab and clam harvesting!
Free Programs
At the Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium, you won’t just tour the facility and look at wildlife in tanks. Instead, the area hosts unique, free programs daily to enjoy. These programs occur all day long and offer you and your kids the chance to ask questions and interact with the aquarium staff. Most days, you’ll find Caretta’s Cover Digital Puppetry, diving demonstrations, an animal feeding demonstration, and more.
Visit the Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium and Stay With Us!
After your visit to the Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium, return to Emerald Isle and stay in a home from Spinnaker’s Reach! We have the best selection of properties in town, all in one stunning neighborhood. No matter which home you choose, you’ll be just steps from the gorgeous shoreline.
Consider booking A Poseidon’s Adventure, a quaint three-bedroom, two-bathroom home that is perfect for any traveling with their immediate family. You’ll love the use of the private pool and golf cart, as well as the fully-equipped kitchen, sunroom, and beautiful furnishings. Best of all, this home is pet-friendly!
Take a look at all of our wonderful properties and book your home today! We look forward to having you.