North Carolina has three aquarium locations, each in a different part of the state
North Carolina runs three separate aquariums, not one central facility. The North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores sits on the Crystal Coast near Atlantic Beach. The North Carolina Aquarium at Roanoke Island is in Manteo on the Outer Banks. The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is near Wilmington in the southeastern part of the state. Each one focuses on different ecosystems and marine life native to North Carolina waters.
All three are operated by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and charge admission. Hours and admission prices vary by location and season, so check the specific aquarium's website before you visit. Each location is open year-round, though hours are shorter in winter months.
Key Takeaways
- North Carolina has three aquariums: one near Wilmington, one on the Outer Banks near Manteo, and one on the Crystal Coast near Atlantic Beach.
- Pine Knoll Shores focuses on coastal ecosystems, Roanoke Island highlights the sounds and estuaries, and Fort Fisher features ocean habitats and a touch tank.
- All three charge admission and are open year-round, though winter hours are reduced.
- Each location has its own parking, and none requires advance reservations to enter during normal operating hours.
North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
This aquarium sits at 500 Pine Knoll Shore Road in Atlantic Beach, about 150 miles southeast of Raleigh. It focuses on the habitats and animals of North Carolina's Crystal Coast and barrier islands. The facility features exhibits on sea turtles, stingrays, and fish species found in the Atlantic Ocean and coastal waters.
The building includes an outdoor boardwalk where you can see live animals in naturalized settings. There is a gift shop and a small café on-site. Parking is free and located directly at the facility. The aquarium is about a 20-minute drive from the town of Beaufort if you want to combine your visit with other attractions in the area.
North Carolina Aquarium at Roanoke Island
Located at 374 Museum Drive in Manteo, this aquarium is on the Outer Banks and focuses on the sounds, estuaries, and marshes that surround the barrier islands. The exhibits feature fish, crustaceans, and other animals that live in brackish water environments. You will see exhibits on local history and the relationship between the Outer Banks ecosystem and the people who live there.
This location is the closest to the town of Manteo, which has restaurants and shops. The aquarium is about 45 minutes north of Wilmington and about 3.5 hours from Raleigh. Free parking is available on-site. The facility includes a nature trail outside where you can walk through maritime forest habitat.
North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
This aquarium is at 900 Loggerhead Road in Kure Beach, about 20 minutes south of Wilmington. It sits near the Fort Fisher State Historic Site and focuses on the open ocean and deep-sea habitats. The exhibits feature large fish, sharks, and other animals found in deeper Atlantic waters. This location has the largest touch tank of the three aquariums, where visitors can handle horseshoe crabs and starfish.
The facility is close to Kure Beach and Carolina Beach, both of which have restaurants and accommodations. Parking is free. The aquarium is about 2 hours from Raleigh and about 1.5 hours from Charlotte. The nearby Fort Fisher State Historic Site offers additional outdoor activities if you want to spend more time in the area.
Admission costs and hours by location
| Location | Address | Distance from Raleigh | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pine Knoll Shores | 500 Pine Knoll Shore Road, Atlantic Beach | ~150 miles southeast | Coastal ecosystems and sea turtles |
| Roanoke Island | 374 Museum Drive, Manteo | ~200 miles east | Sounds, estuaries, and local history |
| Fort Fisher | 900 Loggerhead Road, Kure Beach | ~120 miles southeast | Open ocean habitats and touch tank |
Admission prices are the same across all three locations, though prices change seasonally. Each aquarium offers discounts for children, seniors, and military members. Many local hotels and visitor centers offer discount coupons. Check the North Carolina Aquarium website for current prices and any special promotions.
Summer hours (typically June through August) are longer, often opening at 9 a.m. and closing at 5 p.m. Winter hours are shorter, usually 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Spring and fall hours fall somewhere in between. Hours may shift on holidays, so verify before you travel.
How to reach each aquarium by car
To reach Pine Knoll Shores from Raleigh, take I-40 east toward Wilmington, then follow signs to Atlantic Beach. The drive takes about 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic. Once you reach Atlantic Beach, follow local signs to Pine Knoll Shores.
To reach Roanoke Island from Raleigh, take I-40 east, then US-64 east toward the Outer Banks. The drive takes about 3.5 to 4 hours. Once you cross the bridge onto Roanoke Island, follow signs to Manteo and the aquarium.
To reach Fort Fisher from Raleigh, take I-40 east toward Wilmington, then follow US-17 south toward Kure Beach. The drive takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. The aquarium is clearly marked from the main road.
What to bring and what to expect
All three aquariums are indoor facilities with climate control, so they are comfortable year-round. Wear comfortable walking shoes because you will spend 1.5 to 2 hours moving between exhibits. Bring sunscreen and a hat if you plan to use the outdoor areas or nature trails.
Each aquarium allows photography for personal use, but no flash photography near the tanks. Food and drinks are not permitted in the exhibit areas, though you can eat in designated areas or the on-site café. Strollers are permitted, and wheelchairs are available at each location. Service animals are welcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
No. You can purchase tickets at the door during operating hours. However, if you are visiting during a busy season or holiday weekend, arriving early in the day will mean shorter lines. Check the aquarium's website for current wait times if you are concerned.
Which aquarium is closest to Wilmington?
Fort Fisher is the closest, about 20 minutes south of downtown Wilmington. Roanoke Island is about 1.5 hours north. Pine Knoll Shores is about 1 hour west.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Outside food and drinks are not permitted in the exhibit areas, but each aquarium has a designated eating area or café where you can bring your own items or purchase food on-site. Prices at the cafés are typical for tourist attractions.
Are the aquariums accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes. All three locations are wheelchair accessible, with elevators and accessible restrooms. Wheelchairs are available to borrow at each facility at no charge, though availability is limited. Call ahead if you need a wheelchair reserved.
What is the best time of year to visit?
Spring and fall have milder weather and smaller crowds than summer. Winter is the quietest season but has shorter hours. Summer is busiest but offers the longest operating hours. All three aquariums are open year-round, so the best time depends on your schedule and preference for crowds.