Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach Entry Ticket

If you’re planning a trip to Myrtle Beach and looking for a family-friendly activity that’s both fun and educational, Ripley’s Aquarium is a solid option. It’s a place that promises to “see” the ocean differently — through a multi-level spectacle filled with thousands of sea creatures, interactive experiences, and engaging shows. Whether you’re a marine life enthusiast or just looking for a captivating indoor activity, this aquarium aims to deliver.

What really draws us in about Ripley’s Aquarium is its massive size — sprawling across 85,000 square feet — and the stunning views you get from walking through the glass tunnel that takes you right into the Sharks’ world. We also appreciate the hands-on touch tanks and behind-the-scenes glimpses that make it more than just looking at fish in tanks. However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention limited access to other Ripley’s attractions if you buy just the basic ticket, so planning ahead is key if you want to maximize your visit.

One potential downside? It’s a one-day experience, so if you’re expecting a full day of exploration across multiple venues, the basic ticket might feel a little limited. Also, some ticket options, like the combo, require planning if you want to visit other attractions like the Haunted House or the Odditorium, since tickets are valid only for one-time use within a year. Still, for the price, it offers good value, especially if you love marine life and interactive exhibits.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy family outings, marine enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates a fun, indoor escape that’s both entertaining and educational. It’s an especially good choice if you want to beat the heat or the rain, and it appeals to those who like engaging, visually stunning environments.

Key Points

• Impressive size and scope: Spanning 85,000 sq ft, it offers plenty to explore.
• Iconic tunnel: The underwater tunnel through Dangerous Reef is a highlight.
• Interactive exhibits: Touch tanks, behind-the-scenes views, and live dive shows add to the experience.
• Value with combo options: Save by adding access to other Ripley’s attractions.
• One-time entry: Tickets are valid for one entrance, so plan your visit carefully.
• Family-friendly: Great for kids and adults alike, especially if they love marine life.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at Ripley’s Aquarium Myrtle Beach

Location and Accessibility

Located at 29th Ave N. within Broadway at the Beach, Ripley’s Aquarium is conveniently positioned for travelers staying near Myrtle Beach’s main tourist areas. It’s accessible and open year-round, making it a reliable indoor activity regardless of the weather.

What You Can Expect Inside

Once inside, you’ll be greeted by an underwater world that seems to stretch endlessly. The aquarium is divided into multiple exhibits, each showcasing different ecosystems and creatures. The main attraction is undoubtedly the glide through the tunnel in the Dangerous Reef exhibit, where enormous sharks, including some “deadly” ones, swim overhead and alongside you. It’s genuinely the kind of view that makes you pause — you feel small in the presence of these giants.

Beyond sharks, you’ll see thousands of sea creatures: barracudas, jellies, eels, rays, sea turtles, and more. The vibrant colors and diverse species create an environment that’s as beautiful as it is educational. We loved the way the tanks are thoughtfully designed for immersive viewing, and the lighting helps highlight the colors and movements of the marine life.

Hands-On and Educational Experiences

One of the best parts of this visit is the interactive touch tanks, where you can gently feel rays and other sea creatures. Kids and adults alike often find these moments memorable since they get to connect physically with the animals. The aquarium also hosts live dive shows daily, which are both fun and informative, giving insight into the animals’ behaviors and conservation efforts.

The addition of Sloth Valley and the Discovery Center adds variety, especially for those traveling with curious kids. Coming face-to-face with two-toed sloths, and walking the plank in the play structure, give the experience a playful edge. It’s a nice mix of marine and terrestrial creatures, broadening the appeal beyond just fish.

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Penguin Encounters and Other Delights

Another highlight is the Penguin Playhouse habitat — with African Penguins that are surprisingly playful and charismatic. It’s a favorite for many visitors, offering a chance to see these charming birds up close. The environment looks modern and well-maintained, making it a pleasant spot to observe the penguins’ antics.

Practical Details and Ticketing

The standard ticket priced at $43 per person offers access to the entire aquarium, including touch tanks and live shows. If you opt for the combo ticket, you get access to other attractions like Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, the 5D Moving Theater, or Haunted Adventure — which can make for a full day of entertainment.

One of the reviews mentioned the ease of using the online app, which is helpful for quick entry. You simply redeem your barcode voucher at guest services and skip the lines, making the process smooth. Keep in mind, tickets are valid for a single, one-time entry within a year, so planning your day accordingly is important.

The Experience: What We Loved

We appreciated how well the aquarium is designed for all ages. The walk-through tunnel in the Dangerous Reef is clearly the star of the show — a mesmerizing experience that feels like walking inside the ocean. The vibrant colors of the fish and the thrill of seeing sharks swim overhead create a sense of wonder.

The interactive elements like touch tanks are not just filler; they’re genuinely engaging and add value. The live dive shows are also a bonus, offering insight into the animals and the aquarium’s conservation efforts. Comments from visitors echo this, with some describing the “fine” experience and praising the ease of use.

Potential Drawbacks

A couple of reviews highlight some limitations. One pointed out that a ticket bought for multiple Ripley’s attractions only granted access to the aquarium, which might be disappointing if you expected more. Also, since tickets are for one-time use, it’s best to plan your visit around a specific time window.

Another consideration is that some visitors found the experience to be relatively straightforward without many surprises, but that’s typical for an aquarium. If you’re expecting a highly interactive or large-scale adventure, it might feel somewhat limited.

Who Is It Best For?

This tour is ideal for families with children, marine life enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a comfortable indoor activity that combines education with entertainment. If you’re traveling with young kids, they’ll love the playful exhibits, the penguins, and the opportunity to see sharks up close. Adults who enjoy aquatic environments will find plenty to marvel at and photograph.

It’s also suited for visitors who prefer not to spend all day outdoors or want a break from the beach. The one-day visit is perfect for making the most of your trip without overcommitting.

Final Thoughts

Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach offers a vivid, engaging glimpse into ocean life that’s both fun and educational. The massive size and immersive tunnel make it a memorable highlight, especially if you love marine creatures and stunning aquatic displays. The interactive touch tanks and live dive shows elevate the experience beyond just looking at fish, bringing a sense of connection and wonder.

While it might be a bit limited if you’re hoping for a full multi-attraction experience without purchasing a combo ticket, the value is clear when you consider the price. It’s a reliable choice for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a well-rounded, entertaining indoor activity.

If ocean creatures fascinate you and you’re in Myrtle Beach, this aquarium is a solid pick. Just remember to plan your visit to avoid the busiest hours if you want a more relaxed experience.

FAQ

Is Ripley’s Aquarium suitable for kids? Yes, especially with the touch tanks, penguin habitat, and play structures. Kids generally have a great time here.

How long does a typical visit take? Most visitors spend around 2-3 hours exploring everything, but you can spend longer if you enjoy the shows and interactive stations.

Can I buy tickets at the door? Yes, but buying in advance online ensures you skip lines and might save some money, especially with combo options.

Are the tickets valid for multiple visits? No, tickets are good for a single entry within a year from the purchase date.

Are there any age restrictions? No age restrictions, but unaccompanied minors are not allowed, and some exhibits may be more engaging for children.

Is the aquarium wheelchair accessible? Yes, the facility is wheelchair accessible, making it easy for all visitors to enjoy.

What is included in the basic ticket? Access to the aquarium, interactive touch tanks, and live dive shows.

Can I visit other Ripley’s attractions with the same ticket? Only if you purchase the combo ticket, which allows access to additional venues like Ripley’s Believe It or Not! and more.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, a camera, and perhaps a small towel if you plan to touch the animals. Food and drinks are available for purchase onsite.

Is the experience good year-round? Yes, the aquarium is open 365 days a year, making it a reliable option no matter when you visit.

In the end, Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach is a well-curated, visually stunning experience that offers plenty for those curious about sea life, especially if you’re visiting with family. It’s not a sprawling adventure park, but within its scope, it does a great job of making the ocean’s wonders accessible and fun.

You can check availability for your dates here: