This 2023 event has passed.
Join us at Clearwater Marine Aquarium for a Sea of Holiday Joy on weekends and select dates through Dec. 31 with festive fun for the whole family! See Santa underwater and meet him in person for a memorable holiday photo opportunity, enjoy lights and decorations celebrating the season throughout the aquarium, and participate in fun holiday crafts and activities surrounded by marine life.
Holiday Activities
Meet Santa Under the Sea: Have your cameras ready as Santa Claus himself makes a special appearance amidst our marine animals. Get your holiday wishes ready and take a memorable photo with Santa in our unique aquatic setting. Appearances on select dates.
- Dec. 26 – Dec. 29 –10:15am
“Tropical Santa” and his festive friends will be seen underwater in the Stone Dolphin Complex after Christmas.
Snow Machines – Dec. 16-31: Enjoy snow machines by the Window of Wonder, daily, at 11:30am and 4:30pm, Dec. 16-23 & Dec. 26-31!
Amazing Animals at CMA – Dec. 16-31: Have the opportunity to meet and learn about a range of wild species, including sloths, hedgehogs, tortoises, bearded dragons, snakes and other reptiles surrounded by festive decorations in the Atlantis Theater.
Interactive Marine Presentations: Learn about our marine residents with entertaining and educational presentations full of holiday spirit. Discover fascinating facts about our dolphins, turtles, and other aquatic friends.
Holiday Crafts and Activities: Kids can unleash their creativity with holiday-themed arts and crafts. Dive into the world of marine-inspired holiday fun.
Aquatic-Themed Decor: Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland adorned with festive marine-themed decorations, twinkling lights, and holiday cheer around every corner.
Santa Meet & Greet Schedule:
- Dec. 16-23 –11am-5pm
Tree lighting Ceremony – Dec. 16-24: Help us light the tree in the Visitor Center at10am!
All activities and schedules subject to change. Some activities may not be available on all dates.
Holiday Hours Info:
- Sunday Dec.10 – CMA will close at 4pm and re-open at 6:30pm for Marine Masterpieces.
- CMA will be open with extended hours from 9am–6pm, Dec. 16 through Dec. 30.
- CMA will close early on Christmas Eve with hours from 9am-2pm and will be closed on Christmas Day. CMA will close early on New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31, with hours from 9am-4pm.
Enjoy More Programs During the Holidays
Marine Science Family Mini-Camps
Family Fun With Hands-On Activities
Embark on an exciting school break adventure with Clearwater Marine Aquarium at our Marine Science Family Mini-Camps! Immerse your family in a fin-tastic experience, exploring the wonders of CMA together. Each day brings a new and exciting marine science topic to explore. Choose a single session or dive into the complete adventure by participating in all three sessions per break! This is the perfect gift for a budding marine scientist!
Single Day or Multi-Day Camps Available Dec. 27-29
Sloth Meet & Greet
During the Sloth Meet & Greet, you’ll have the chance to make lasting memories, meeting Lima, a charming two-toed sloth, and learn about these fascinating creatures in a private setting designed for a small group. The sloth experts will guide you through a 20-minute educational session, providing insights into the sloth’s habitat, behavior, and conservation efforts. Discover the unique adaptations that make sloths such incredible animals.
Sloth programs are available at 11am, 11:30am and 4pm on select dates March. 9-24. Times are subject to change.
Sunset Celebration Cruise
Take In Sunset Views
Let your loved ones sail into the new year with the gift of a Sunset Celebration Cruise. Guests will go on a 60-minute boat tour around beautiful Clearwater Bay where they will be able to raise a toast to the future, enjoy a refreshing beverage and take in the breathtaking sunset. Adults 21+ can enjoy a beer or wine, and everyone, including kids and adults, can sip on a soft drink. Limit 1 beverage per person.
Available Dec. 26-30, 2023, and Jan. 1-6, 2024