At Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters in Marathon, you can see local marine life and get closer than you would at a glass-only aquarium. Touch tanks let you meet animals such as starfish and stingrays, while feeding activities bring fish and other species within reach. There are viewing areas, exhibits and encounters in and around the water, including options to snorkel or dive in a coral reef tank. Staff share information about marine life and conservation. It’s a hands-on stop for families, though the more immersive encounters are separate activities.
A hands-on aquarium in Marathon
Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters is at 11710 Overseas Hwy in Marathon. Its exhibits and animal encounters bring you close to marine life found in the Florida Keys. You can watch fish and sharks in viewing areas, explore touch tanks and take part in feeding activities. The open-air setting includes shaded areas and walkways through mangroves.
The experience suits a range of ages. Children can see animals from accessible viewing areas and try hands-on activities, while adults can spend longer at the exhibits or choose an in-water encounter. Staff also share information about the animals and the marine environment.
Touch tanks and feeding activities
Touch tanks include animals such as starfish, sea urchins, horseshoe crabs and hermit crabs. Stingrays are another draw, with opportunities to get close to them from outside the water. Feeding activities add a different perspective: fish gather around the food, and some encounters involve feeding rays or sharks. The aquarium also has turtles, alligators, moray eels and tropical fish among its exhibits.
You can explore the viewing areas and exhibits at your own pace. Staff-led feedings and tours provide more context about the animals, so check what is happening during your visit if you want to include one. There are also guided options for groups.
Snorkelling and diving in the reef tank
For a more immersive visit, choose a snorkel or dive encounter in the coral reef tank. The aquarium’s experiences include swimming among tropical fish and feeding marine life in the water. A dive option is available to people who are not certified divers, according to the activity details supplied, so ask about the requirements and arrangements when planning.
These encounters are separate from simply walking around the aquarium. Decide in advance whether you want a dry visit or an activity in the water, then leave enough time for the experience as well as the exhibits. The aquarium recommends spending at least two to three hours to make room for the different encounters.
Planning your visit
The aquarium is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Parking is on site, but it can become busy later in the day. An early weekday arrival can give you more room to park and explore. The site has a café, gift shop and playground, along with accessible parking, an accessible entrance and accessible restrooms.
Ticket details and activity costs are not included here, and some encounters are additional activities. Check the aquarium’s website for current admission and encounter information before you go. Bring a card or mobile payment option, since cash-only is also listed among the payment details.
Perguntas frequentes
How long should you spend at Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters?
Allow two to three hours to explore the exhibits and take part in encounters.
Can you snorkel or dive at the aquarium?
Yes. The aquarium has snorkel and dive encounters in a coral reef tank. A dive option is available to people without certification; check the activity requirements when planning.
What marine animals can you see?
Exhibits and touch tanks include fish, sharks, stingrays, starfish, sea urchins, turtles, alligators and moray eels.
When is a good time to visit?
Arrive early on a weekday. Parking can fill later in the day.
