North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
Dive into the wonders of the sea at the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores, home to thousands of marine animals and one of the largest saltwater aquariums in North Carolina. Journey from the mountains to the sea as you explore exhibits that showcase river otters, freshwater streams, salt marshes, and the vast ocean.
Stand face-to-face with sharks, rays, and sea turtles in the awe-inspiring Living Shipwreck exhibit, featuring a 60-foot viewing window and a replica of the historic German U-352 submarine. Playful river otters, colorful reef habitats, and educational displays bring North Carolina’s aquatic environments to life, keeping kids and adults equally engaged.
Unique to this location, the aquarium also celebrates local maritime history with nods to infamous shipwrecks and legends like Blackbeard’s Queen Anne’s Revenge. The surrounding 300-acre Roosevelt Maritime Forest provides a natural backdrop, enhancing the immersive experience.
The aquarium also doubles as a stunning event venue, perfect for weddings, receptions, meetings, or even a surprise proposal. Daytime and evening rentals are available for groups of varying sizes, offering a truly memorable setting among the wonders of the sea.
