Ripley's Aquarium

Oh my goodness, you guys! If you're planning a trip to Myrtle Beach, you absolutely have to add Ripley's Aquarium to your itinerary. My family and I just had the most incredible time there, and I wanted to share all the highlights and a few tips to make your visit even better! First off, the jellyfish exhibit is just out of this world. Seriously, I could have spent hours there! The way they light up the tanks makes the glowing pink jellyfish look like something from another planet. My two young boys were completely mesmerized, just watching them gracefully float. It's such a peaceful and beautiful part of the aquarium, and definitely a must-see for some amazing photos. Don't rush through it; take your time to appreciate the different species and how they pulse. It's truly a display of nature's artistry. Next up, the stingray touch tank! This was a huge hit, especially for the kids. I was a little nervous at first, but the staff are fantastic and explain exactly how to gently interact with them. Feeling the smooth skin of those large, dark brown stingrays as they glide by is such a unique and memorable experience. It's a shallow tank, making it accessible for everyone, and it's incredible how curious and gentle these creatures are. My boys couldn't stop talking about it afterwards! And of course, no visit to Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach is complete without walking through the famous underwater tunnel. This was probably my favorite part! You're surrounded by blue water, with all sorts of fish swimming above and around you, including some really impressive sharks! It feels like you're actually walking on the ocean floor. The moving walkway makes it easy to take it all in, and it's fantastic for spotting different marine life from every angle. Keep an eye out for sea turtles and giant groupers too! It’s truly an immersive experience that everyone, from kids to adults, will love. It's definitely one of the best aquariums in Myrtle Beach for this kind of experience. A little tip: we found it helpful to go earlier in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds, especially if you want good views of the tanks and the opportunity to spend more time at the touch tank. There's even a fantastic photo opportunity outside with a huge, oversized blue and green chair where our family of four got a super cute picture! It makes for a great souvenir from your trip. Parking is pretty easy as well, and there are plenty of dining options nearby if you plan to make a whole day of it. Overall, Ripley's Aquarium is an absolute gem in Myrtle Beach. It's not just an aquarium; it's an adventure that's educational, interactive, and incredibly fun for the whole family. If you're looking for things to do in Myrtle Beach, make sure this is on your list!