Join us at Clearwater Marine Aquarium for a Sea of Holiday Joy on weekends and select dates through Dec. 31 with festive fun for the whole family! See Santa underwater and meet him in person for a memorable holiday photo opportunity, enjoy lights and decorations celebrating the season throughout the aquarium, and participate in fun holiday crafts and activities surrounded by marine life.
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Holiday Activities
Meet Santa Under the Sea: Have your cameras ready as Santa Claus himself makes a special appearance amidst our marine animals. Get your holiday wishes ready and take a memorable photo with Santa in our unique aquatic setting. Appearances on select dates.
- Dec. 26 – Dec. 29 –10:15am
“Tropical Santa” and his festive friends will be seen underwater in the Stone Dolphin Complex after Christmas.
Snow Machines – Dec. 16-31: Enjoy snow machines by the Window of Wonder, daily, at 11:30am and 4:30pm, Dec. 16-23 & Dec. 26-31!
Amazing Animals at CMA – Dec. 16-31: Have the opportunity to meet and learn about a range of wild species, including sloths, hedgehogs, tortoises, bearded dragons, snakes and other reptiles surrounded by festive decorations in the Atlantis Theater.
Interactive Marine Presentations: Learn about our marine residents with entertaining and educational presentations full of holiday spirit. Discover fascinating facts about our dolphins, turtles, and other aquatic friends.
Holiday Crafts and Activities: Kids can unleash their creativity with holiday-themed arts and crafts. Dive into the world of marine-inspired holiday fun.
Aquatic-Themed Decor: Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland adorned with festive marine-themed decorations, twinkling lights, and holiday cheer around every corner.
Santa Meet & Greet Schedule:
- Dec. 16-23 –11am-5pm
Tree lighting Ceremony – Dec. 16-24: Help us light the tree in the Visitor Center at10am!
All activities and schedules subject to change. Some activities may not be available on all dates.
Holiday Hours Info:
- Sunday Dec.10 – CMA will close at 4pm and re-open at 6:30pm for Marine Masterpieces.
- CMA will be open with extended hours from 9am–6pm, Dec. 16 through Dec. 30.
- CMA will close early on Christmas Eve with hours from 9am-2pm and will be closed on Christmas Day. CMA will close early on New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31, with hours from 9am-4pm.
Enjoy More Programs During the Holidays
Marine Science Family Mini-Camps
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Family Fun With Hands-On Activities
Embark on an exciting school break adventure with Clearwater Marine Aquarium at our Marine Science Family Mini-Camps! Immerse your family in a fin-tastic experience, exploring the wonders of CMA together. Each day brings a new and exciting marine science topic to explore. Choose a single session or dive into the complete adventure by participating in all three sessions per break! This is the perfect gift for a budding marine scientist!
Single Day or Multi-Day Camps Available Dec. 27-29
Sloth Meet & Greet
During the Sloth Meet & Greet, you’ll have the chance to make lasting memories, meeting Lima, a charming two-toed sloth, and learn about these fascinating creatures in a private setting designed for a small group. The sloth experts will guide you through a 20-minute educational session, providing insights into the sloth’s habitat, behavior, and conservation efforts. Discover the unique adaptations that make sloths such incredible animals.
Sloth programs are available at 11am, 11:30am and 4pm on select dates March. 9-24. Times are subject to change.
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Sunset Celebration Cruise
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Take In Sunset Views
Let your loved ones sail into the new year with the gift of a Sunset Celebration Cruise. Guests will go on a 60-minute boat tour around beautiful Clearwater Bay where they will be able to raise a toast to the future, enjoy a refreshing beverage and take in the breathtaking sunset. Adults 21+ can enjoy a beer or wine, and everyone, including kids and adults, can sip on a soft drink. Limit 1 beverage per person.
Available Dec. 26-30, 2023, and Jan. 1-6, 2024