Beside Discovery Pier in Campbell River, Discovery Passage Aquarium introduces you to marine life from the surrounding waters through small exhibits and hands-on touch tanks. Look for sea cucumbers, sea urchins and starfish, and spend time watching the octopus. Staff can explain what you’re seeing, so ask questions as you go. The aquarium is seasonal and compact, making it an easy stop for families or anyone curious about local sea life. Animals are returned to the ocean at the end of the season.
Local marine life up close
Discovery Passage Aquarium sits beside Campbell River’s Discovery Pier, near the Maritime Heritage Museum. Its exhibits focus on marine life from the local waters, with opportunities to see animals such as sea cucumbers, sea urchins and starfish in the touch tank.
The aquarium is small, so you can take a close look at each display without needing a long visit. The octopus is a particular draw. Give yourself time to watch it, and ask staff about the animals and the area’s marine life.
A seasonal, hands-on aquarium
The aquarium follows a seasonal catch-and-release approach. Marine animals are collected locally at the start of the season and returned to the ocean when the season ends. A public release event takes place at the end of the season.
Hands-on exhibits make the visit suitable for children as well as adults. The aquarium also has an Explorer Lab with a classroom and wet lab used for student and camper learning. Its operating season and hours are limited, so check current details before you go.
Häufige Fragen
How long do you need at Discovery Passage Aquarium?
About 10 to 15 minutes is enough to see the tanks. Allow longer if you want to watch the octopus or talk with staff.
When is Discovery Passage Aquarium open?
It operates seasonally, with limited hours. Check its current schedule before visiting.
What can you see at the aquarium?
The exhibits focus on local marine life, including animals in the touch tank, and an octopus.
Are the animals returned to the ocean?
Yes. The aquarium returns the animals to the ocean at the end of the season, with a public release event.
