Ripley's Aquarium

Ripley's Aquarium is a marine wonderland, showcasing thousands of sea creatures in a variety of breathtaking themed displays and shows. Its fun, interactive and educational exhibits are what make it the number one attraction in South Carolina.Head to the Ray Bay to experience the thrill of petting a stingray. Watch as the giant rays glide below the surface in the tank's shallow end, and get one of the expert guides to show you how to touch their silky backs. Or check out one of the spectacular dive shows that take place at scheduled times throughout the day, where you'll see stingrays and other fish being fed by their trainers. If you're lucky you might even spot an elusive mermaid...The Dangerous Reef is the aquarium's best-loved exhibit and a must-see. Step onto the moving walkway and enter a vast underwater tunnel to experience what life is like in the ocean depths. You'll see some of nature's fiercest predators, including huge moray eels and the voracious tarpon. The stars of the show, however, are the sand tiger sharks, which can grow up to four metres long.The aquarium's interactive multimedia Discovery Centre is a great place to learn more about the marine creatures you've just encountered. Don't miss the chance to hold a horseshoe-crab in your hand. Older children and adults should check out the programme of fascinating lectures and workshops held throughout the year. The aquarium also carries out a great deal of conservation work keep an eye out for some of the rare species housed here, such as the endangered sea turtle.Ripley's Aquarium is located in the Broadway on the Beach Complex, a 10-minute drive east from downtown Myrtle Beach, and has free parking. Alternatively, you can take the Myrtle Beach Connector bus, which stops at a number of other downtown attractions. The aquarium is open all year, seven days a week, and all special lectures and events are included in the admission price.