On Sidney’s waterfront, the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea is a non-profit aquarium focused on the marine life and ecological variety of the Salish Sea. Its exhibits include more than 3,500 animals across 160 species, a rare orca skeleton and Coast Salish art. Look for the octopus and other sea creatures, then visit the touch pool, where you can encounter animals such as urchins and anemones. Feeding times, talks and workshops add ways to learn about the region’s marine ecosystem.
Marine life from the Salish Sea
The aquarium is home to more than 3,500 animals representing 160 species from the Salish Sea. Its displays introduce the area’s marine life, with the octopus among the animals visitors come to see. Feeding times give you a chance to watch the animals during a scheduled part of their care; check what is happening during your visit.
The exhibits also include a rare orca skeleton and marine mammal artifacts. Together with the living displays, they offer a closer look at the wildlife of the Salish Sea.
Hands-on exhibits and Coast Salish art
At the touch pool, you can encounter sea creatures including urchins and anemones. The aquarium also displays Coast Salish art, bringing local Indigenous art into a visit focused on the surrounding marine ecosystem.
The centre runs activities for children as well as lectures and workshops about the Salish Sea. Its gift shop carries work by local artists. The aquarium is a non-profit dedicated to the ecological diversity of the Salish Sea.
FAQ
Where is the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea?
It is at 9811 Seaport Place on the waterfront in Sidney, British Columbia.
How long does a visit take?
Allow about 45 to 60 minutes to see the exhibits and touch pool.
Can you touch sea creatures at the aquarium?
Yes. The centre has a touch pool with animals such as urchins and anemones.
When is the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea closed?
It is closed on Wednesdays.
