Maui Ocean Center The Aquarium Of Hawaii Wailuku Hi
Introduction
Maui Ocean Center is a state-of-the-art aquarium located in Wailuku, HI. It is the largest and most popular aquarium in Hawaii, featuring over 60 exhibits and thousands of marine animals from the Pacific Ocean.
Exhibits
One of the main attractions of Maui Ocean Center is its exhibits. The aquarium is home to a wide variety of marine animals, including sharks, stingrays, turtles, and tropical fish. Some of the most popular exhibits include:
- The Open Ocean exhibit, which features a 750,000-gallon tank with a 240-degree view of the ocean.
- The Turtle Lagoon, where visitors can see green sea turtles up close.
- The Hammerhead Harbor, which is home to several species of sharks.
- The Living Reef exhibit, which showcases a diverse array of coral and reef fish.
Conservation
Maui Ocean Center is not just a place for visitors to see marine animals – it is also dedicated to conservation efforts. The aquarium works closely with local organizations to protect and preserve Hawaii's marine ecosystem. It also participates in research and educational programs to increase awareness about marine conservation.
Activities and Programs
In addition to its exhibits, Maui Ocean Center also offers a variety of activities and programs for visitors of all ages. Some of these include:
- The Behind-the-Scenes Tour, which gives visitors a look at the aquarium's operations and animal care.
- The Shark Dive, where visitors can dive with sharks in a 750,000-gallon tank.
- The Marine Naturalist Program, which provides guided tours and educational programs about marine life.
- The Ocean Quest program, which is a summer camp for children ages 5-12.
Location and Hours
Maui Ocean Center is located at 192 Ma'alaea Rd., Wailuku, HI 96793. It is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission is $34.95 for adults and $24.95 for children (ages 3-12).
Conclusion
Maui Ocean Center is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in marine life and conservation. Its exhibits, programs, and dedication to conservation make it a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages.