University of Georgia Marine Education Center and Aquarium

"The University of Georgia Marine Education Center and Aquarium is Georgia’s first saltwater aquarium and a leading marine education facility located on scenic Skidaway Island. "

Recommended For

Families & Kids: Explore touch tanks, marine animal exhibits, and interactive outdoor activities for all ages.
Nature & Wildlife Fans: Walk ADA-accessible trails and enjoy birdwatching and wildlife sightings near the Skidaway River.
Science Learners: Dive into marine science with summer camps, Estuary Trawls, and behind-the-scenes aquarium tours.

Highlights

Aquarium Exhibits: View 50+ species of native marine life and fossils of whales, mammoths, and sharks.
Outdoor Boardwalk: Wander through salt marshes and maritime forests on a scenic, wheelchair-accessible path.
Skidaway Learning Garden: Enjoy hands-on discovery of local plant life and birdwatching opportunities.
Jay Wolf Nature Trail: Take a geocache adventure and explore nature kiosks maintained by local Scouts.

Visitor Tips

Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience and a chance to see the facility in full operation.
Check the calendar for public programs like Dolphin Observation, Marine Debris Surveys, and Garden Challenges.
Pack a picnic—tables along the bluff offer peaceful riverside lunch spots with amazing views.

Local Vibe

Hidden on tranquil Skidaway Island, the UGA Marine Education Center and Aquarium blends science, sustainability, and Southern hospitality. It’s a fun, inspiring, and educational destination where visitors can engage directly with Georgia’s unique coastal ecosystems—and leave with a deeper respect for the ocean and its creatures.

Contact