South Carolina Aquarium

Located in Charleston, the South Carolina Aquarium offers an exploration of aquatic environments ranging from the state's rivers and marshes to the depths of the Atlantic Ocean. Since its opening in 2000, it has been a cornerstone for marine education and conservation in the region. Its exhibits beautifully capture the diverse habitats found in South Carolina.

Upon entering the aquarium, visitors are greeted with various exhibits that take them on a journey from the mountain streams to the open ocean. The two-story Great Ocean Tank, containing a replica of a sunken ship, is one of the standout features and houses hundreds of animals, including sharks and a 220-pound loggerhead sea turtle. The aquarium also provides interactive exhibits like the Touch Tank, where guests can feel horseshoe crabs, stingrays, and other marine species. Daily animal encounters and dive shows further enhance the immersive experience.

Conservation is at the heart of the South Carolina Aquarium's mission. Their Sea Turtle Care Center™ rehabilitates injured sea turtles to return them to the wild. The aquarium also runs various conservation programs addressing single-use plastics, wildlife rescue, and habitat restoration. The facility seeks to inspire its visitors to respect and protect the natural world through its educational initiatives.