Ripleys Aquarium Of Myrtle Beach Reviews And Guide

Myrtle Beach, a popular vacation destination known for its stunning beaches, golf courses, and family-friendly attractions. Among the many exciting places to visit in Myrtle Beach is Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, a unique and fascinating destination that promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. In this article, we will delve into the world of Ripley's Aquarium, exploring its features, exhibits, and reviews to help you plan your visit.

Located at Broadway at the Beach, a popular entertainment complex in Myrtle Beach, Ripley's Aquarium is a 85,000-square-foot attraction that showcases an incredible array of marine life from around the world. With over 10,000 aquatic animals representing 350 species, the aquarium is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in marine life.

Exhibits and Features

Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach features a variety of exhibits and interactive displays that cater to different ages and interests. Some of the highlights include:

• Shark Tunnel: A 340-foot underwater tunnel that offers a thrilling experience, allowing visitors to walk through a shark-infested waters, surrounded by sand tiger sharks, nurse sharks, and bonnethead sharks.
• Ray Bay: An interactive exhibit where visitors can touch and feed cownose rays and southern stingrays in a shallow pool.
• Sea Turtle Display: A large exhibit featuring green sea turtles, loggerhead sea turtles, and Kemp's ridley sea turtles, offering insights into the life cycle and conservation of these incredible creatures.
• Jellyfish Gallery: A stunning display of jellyfish from around the world, showcasing their unique characteristics and beauty.
• Kelp Forest: A recreation of a kelp forest ecosystem, featuring a variety of fish, invertebrates, and algae.

Special Exhibits and Events

Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach also hosts special exhibits and events throughout the year, including:

• Mermaid Shows: Live mermaid performances that delight visitors of all ages.
• Shark Feeding Demonstrations: Educational demonstrations that showcase the feeding habits of sharks.
• Animal Encounters: Opportunities to interact with aquarium staff and learn about specific animals, such as sea turtles, stingrays, and sharks.

Reviews and Ratings

Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from visitors and critics alike. Here are some ratings and reviews from popular sources:

• TripAdvisor: 4.5/5 (based on 13,116 reviews)
• Google Reviews: 4.4/5 (based on 5,616 reviews)
• Yelp: 4/5 (based on 1,013 reviews)

Visitors have praised the aquarium's unique exhibits, interactive displays, and knowledgeable staff. Many have also appreciated the variety of marine life on display and the opportunity to learn about conservation efforts.

Visitor Tips and Insights

To make the most of your visit to Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, here are some tips and insights:

• Plan Your Visit: Check the aquarium's website for operating hours, special exhibits, and events to plan your visit accordingly.
• Arrive Early: Beat the crowds by arriving early in the day or later in the evening.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The aquarium is a large facility, so wear comfortable shoes to ensure a comfortable visit.
• Bring a Camera: With so many incredible exhibits and animals on display, don't forget to bring a camera to capture memories.

Getting There and Around

Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach is located at Broadway at the Beach, a popular entertainment complex in Myrtle Beach. Here are some directions and transportation options:

• By Car: The aquarium is accessible by car, with parking available on site.
• By Public Transportation: The aquarium is also accessible by public transportation, including buses and taxis.
• On Foot: Visitors can also walk to the aquarium from nearby hotels and attractions.

Accommodations and Dining

Myrtle Beach offers a wide range of accommodations and dining options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some recommendations:

• Hotels: Consider staying at hotels like the Marina Inn at Grande Dunes, the Myrtle Beach Marriott Resort & Spa, or the Ocean Reef Myrtle Beach.
• Restaurants: Try some of the local seafood restaurants like the Sea Captain's House, the Wicked Tuna, or the Dead Dog Saloon.

Conclusion

Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach is a unique and fascinating destination that promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. With its incredible exhibits, interactive displays, and knowledgeable staff, the aquarium is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in marine life. Whether you're a local or just visiting Myrtle Beach, Ripley's Aquarium is a great place to learn, explore, and have fun.

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive guide to Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below.