Discover dolphins, harbor seals, reptiles, penguins, sea lions, turtles, gators and more at the Gulfarium!
Snorkel with stingrays
Ages 5 and up can swim with cownose rays, southern stingrays, small sharks and other vibrant fish in Stingray Bay!
The Gulfarium will supply your family with all the gear you need to snorkel with these amazing animals and all you have to bring is a little bit of courage. With more than 10 unique animal encounters, your family can get up-close and personal with fascinating sea life throughout the park. Make an online reservation ahead of time to to experience a trainer-led encounter that is safe, fun and definitely a little wild. No need to be nervous, the barbs are removed from the sting rays at the Gulfarium, so it’s safe for you to be in the water with these graceful animals.
Local Scout Tip
If you see an employee, make sure to ask questions. They are super friendly and helpful. Chances are you’ll be talking to someone who feeds and cares for the animals!
What kids are saying
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Discover Penguins will give your family the opportunity to feed and touch an African penguin! Learn from trainers who take care of these loveable birds.
Discover Turtles will teach your family about some of our favorite marine animals while introducing you to freshwater turtles and African spurred tortoises.
Your family will all become VIP Trainers and get the behind-the-scenes Gulfarium experience with incredible resident marine animals.
Try hands-on exhibits with science kits, futuristic robots, technology and you can even meet sugar gliders, snakes or a hedgehog!
Try the up-close and personal animal encounters with giraffes, sloths, bears, kangaroos, alligators and more!
Fun, educational and hands-on animal encounters brought to you!
Where to Stay
The Island Resort at Fort Walton Beach
The Island Resort offers family activities like a poolside mermaid. Located directly on the Gulf on Okaloosa Island, they offer two large pools and kid activities.
Hilton Garden Inn Fort Walton Beach is a family-friendly hotel located directly on the Gulf with lazy river and kids activities.
Directly on the Gulf on Okaloosa Island, enjoy a lazy river, daytime pool DJ and DIVE-in movies. They even offer a Kid’s Club for families.
Food + Drink
Al's Beach Club is a beachfront restaurant with Gulf views. Families love the frozen custard shakes, splash pad, cornhole and life-size games.
Rockin' Tacos offers beachfront dining (next to the Island Pier) with mexican-inspired favorites and a playground area for kids while you wait for your meal.
With incredible beach views, a picky-eater-approved menu and beach playground, the Crab Trap Destin is the perfect stop for families after a day on the water.
What’s Nearby
Destin-Fort Walton Beach Welcome + Adventure Center
Take a break from the heat and pick up a turtle-friendly flashlight, kid color-changing sunglasses, and sea animal stickers. Chat with our visitor information specialists, local experts of the destination who can give recommendations!
