Exploring Ripley’s Aquarium Of Myrtle Beach: A Family-Friendly Adventure

Visiting Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach feels like stepping into a whole new world. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this spot is a must-see for anyone who loves marine life, underwater wonders, and fun activities for the whole family. It’s not just a place to look at fish—it’s an experience that educates, entertains, and excites, all in one neat little package.

For folks planning a trip to the Myrtle Beach area, especially those traveling with kids or looking for a cool indoor activity on a hot summer day, Ripley’s Aquarium makes for a perfect stop. It’s packed with interactive exhibits, touch pools, and behind-the-scenes looks at how aquariums care for their sea creatures. If you’re wondering what makes this place stand out from the rest, or how it compares to other aquariums around the country, you’ve come to the right spot.

This post walks you through what you can expect when you visit Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach. From ticket prices and opening hours to must-see exhibits and nearby attractions, we’ve got all the info you’ll need to plan your visit. So, let’s dive in and explore what makes this aquarium such a popular destination along the Grand Strand.

• Longo Lexus El Monte

Table of Contents

• What Is Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach?
• Top Exhibits You Can’t Miss
• Plan Your Visit
• Why Families Love It
• FAQs (People Also Ask)

What Is Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach?

Located right on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, Ripley’s Aquarium is part of the larger Ripley’s Believe It or Not! family of attractions. It’s one of the more kid-friendly spots in the area, offering a blend of education and entertainment that’s hard to beat. Opened back in 2010, the aquarium has become a go-to destination for families, school groups, and even solo travelers who enjoy marine life and conservation efforts.

The aquarium spans over 90,000 square feet and houses more than 10,000 sea creatures across a range of exhibits. From sharks and stingrays to jellyfish and seahorses, there’s always something new to see. It’s not just about looking through glass tanks, either—there are interactive elements, daily dive shows, and even a chance to touch certain sea animals in the Shelly Beach touch pool.

If you’re familiar with other Ripley’s attractions, you’ll notice the same quirky charm here. It’s a little different from your typical aquarium, with a focus on fun and engagement just as much as education. That’s why so many people who visit Myrtle Beach say it’s one of the highlights of their trip.

• Mh Wilds Akuma Build

Top Exhibits You Can’t Miss

While every part of Ripley’s Aquarium is worth exploring, there are a few exhibits that really stand out. If you only have a few hours to spend, here’s where you should focus your attention:

• Shark Riff: This underwater tunnel lets you walk right through a tank filled with sharks, stingrays, and other large marine animals. It’s one of the most popular spots and definitely a must-see.
• Planet Jellies: If you’ve never seen jellyfish up close, this exhibit is mesmerizing. It’s beautifully lit and gives you a chance to see how these creatures move and glow.
• Discovery Centre: This area is perfect for kids, with hands-on learning stations, touch tanks, and opportunities to get up close with crabs, sea stars, and small sharks.
• Ray Bay: This open-air pool lets you gently touch and feed stingrays. It’s a fun, interactive experience that’s both safe and memorable.

There’s also the Dive Show, where you can watch divers interact with the sea life in the big tank. These shows happen regularly throughout the day and are a great way to learn more about how aquariums care for their animals.

Each exhibit is designed to offer something different. Whether you’re into the thrill of seeing sharks or the calm beauty of jellyfish, there’s a little bit of everything to enjoy. And if you’re visiting with kids, they’ll probably have a hard time choosing a favorite!

Plan Your Visit

Before you head over to Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, it’s a good idea to check a few things to make sure your visit goes smoothly. Here’s a quick rundown of what to know before you go:

Ticket Prices

Prices can vary depending on the season and whether you’re buying online or at the door. Generally, adult tickets are around $30–$35, while children’s tickets (ages 3–12) are a bit cheaper. Seniors and military personnel often get discounts too.

If you’re planning to visit more than one attraction in the area, you might want to look into combo tickets or Myrtle Beach packages that include Ripley’s Aquarium. These can help you save a little money if you’re hitting up a few different spots.

Hours of Operation

Ripley’s Aquarium is open 365 days a year, which is great if you’re visiting during holidays or off-season. Regular hours are usually from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., but they can change slightly depending on the time of year. It’s best to check the official website or give them a quick call before heading over.

Getting There

The aquarium is right on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, so it’s super easy to find. If you’re staying in Myrtle Beach or nearby, it’s a short drive or even a nice walk if the weather is nice. There’s a parking garage nearby, but keep in mind that parking can get a bit crowded during peak season.

How Long to Stay

Most people spend between 1.5 to 2.5 hours exploring the aquarium. If you want to catch a dive show or spend extra time in the touch pools, you might want to plan for a bit longer.

Why Families Love It

One of the biggest reasons families love Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach is because it’s not just a place to look at fish—it’s a place to learn, touch, play, and explore. Kids get really into the hands-on stuff, like feeding stingrays or touching a shark. That kind of experience really sticks with them, and it’s a great way to make learning fun.

Parents appreciate how clean and well-maintained the facility is. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and it’s easy to tell they care about the animals. The layout is pretty straightforward too, so you don’t have to worry about getting lost or missing key exhibits.

It’s also a great indoor activity on a rainy day or when it’s too hot to be outside for long. The air conditioning feels amazing after walking along the boardwalk, and there are plenty of shaded areas and benches to rest if you need a break.

If you’re traveling with little ones, you’ll find stroller rentals and baby-changing stations available. There’s also a gift shop at the end where you can pick up souvenirs, plush toys, books, and other fun stuff. It’s the perfect way to wrap up the visit with a little something to remember the day by.

So, if you’re looking for something fun, educational, and just a little magical, Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach is definitely worth a stop. It’s a place where kids can imagine, explore, and connect with the ocean in a way that’s both safe and exciting.

FAQs (People Also Ask)

1. Can you touch the animals at Ripley’s Aquarium in Myrtle Beach?
   Yes, there are several touch pools where you can gently interact with stingrays, sea stars, and small sharks. The Discovery Centre is a great place for hands-on experiences.
2. Are there dive shows at Ripley’s Aquarium?
   Absolutely! The aquarium offers daily dive shows where trained divers interact with marine life in the main tank. These shows are informative and fun for all ages.
3. Is Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach worth the price?
   For most visitors, yes. The mix of interactive exhibits, marine life, and family-friendly activities makes it a highlight of any trip to Myrtle Beach. If you love sea creatures or have kids who do, it’s definitely worth the cost.

For more details, you can check out the official Ripley’s Aquarium website here or reach out directly to the aquarium for the latest updates and special offers.