Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

"From its humble beginnings in a backyard shed in 1955, Mote has evolved into a world-renowned marine research center and interactive aquarium dedicated to conservation, education, and discovery."

Recommended For

Families & kids
Hands-on touch pools, playful otters, and fossil digs keep young minds inspired

Animal lovers
Meet rescued sea turtles, manatees, sharks, and rare marine life up close

Science & conservation advocates
Explore real research, restoration projects, and marine biology breakthroughs

Exhibits & Highlights

Otters & Their Waters: Meet Huck, Pippi, and Jane—rescued river otters who charm visitors daily
Shark Zone: Explore a 135,000-gallon shark habitat featuring hammerheads, stingrays, and goliath grouper
Coral Reefs & Colorful Fish: Discover reef ecosystems and Mote’s coral restoration efforts
Resident Sea Turtles: Get to know Hang Tough, Shelley, Montego, and Bellatrix in the Sea Turtle Hospital
Manatees Buffett & Hugh: These sea cows are research participants and crowd favorites
Fossil Creek: Sift through sand to uncover real marine fossils and treasures (extra fee applies)

Education & Programs

Youth Education: Summer camps, Mommy & Me, after-school clubs, and high school programs
College & Adult Programs: Internships, marine science lectures, and professional development courses
School Groups: Field trips, homeschool days, Sea Snooze overnights, and badge workshops
Digital Learning: Online programs covering everything from sharks to sea turtles

Conservation & Research

Shark Research: Mote's original focus, including studies on shark immunity and cancer resistance
Sea Turtle Rehabilitation: Hospital for injured and sick turtles, with release programs and education
Marine Ecosystem Studies: Includes coral reef restoration, ocean health monitoring, and pollution impact research

Visitor Info

Accreditation: Proudly accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)

Accessibility: Fully accessible with family-friendly facilities and ongoing upgrades

Plan Your Visit

Address: 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, Florida 34236
Phone: 941-388-4441
Website: mote.org