Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach Entry Ticket

If you’re heading to Myrtle Beach and looking for an engaging, family-friendly activity that offers a splash of wonder and education, Ripley’s Aquarium is worth considering. This popular attraction promises an immersive experience with thousands of marine creatures, interactive exhibits, and some truly memorable sights. While we haven’t personally walked through its tunnels, reviews and descriptions paint a lively picture of what you can expect—a true highlight for kids and adults alike.

What we really like about this experience is its stunning underwater tunnel—gliding beneath massive sharks is an instant thrill—and the hands-on touch tanks that bring visitors closer to the sea life than you might expect. Plus, the option of a combo ticket that includes other Ripley’s attractions makes it a versatile choice for a full day of fun. On the flip side, some visitors have noted that the pass doesn’t include access to certain venues like Ripley’s Believe It or Not or the Haunted Adventure, which can be a little confusing if you’re expecting to do everything on one ticket.

This attraction is a perfect fit for families, curious groups, or anyone eager to see ocean creatures up close without getting wet. If you’re after a lively, educational, and visually stunning experience in Myrtle Beach, Ripley’s Aquarium might be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Stunning Tunnel: Walk through a glass tunnel surrounded by sharks and tropical fish for an unforgettable view.
• Interactive Experiences: Touch tanks and behind-the-scenes encounters engage visitors of all ages.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for children and adults, especially with the new Sloth Valley and Play Center.
• Flexible Tickets: Combo options can save money and include access to other Ripley’s attractions.
• Crowd Management: Best visited before 11 am or after 3 pm to avoid busy times.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair friendly, with straightforward entry and ticketing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

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

Location and Accessibility

Situated at 29th Ave N. within Broadway at the Beach, Ripley’s Aquarium enjoys a central spot in Myrtle Beach, making it easy to pair with other local attractions or a day of shopping and dining. The ticket redemption process is straightforward—just show your barcoded voucher at Guest Services and skip the line, which is a real time-saver during busy periods. The aquarium is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.

What You’ll See and Do Inside

Once inside, the first thing that catches your eye is the massive, multi-level layout. Covering 85,000 square feet, the aquarium is designed to impress with its variety of marine life and immersive exhibits.

The underwater tunnel is a highlight, where you’ll walk through thick glass as sharks, rays, and sea turtles glide overhead—an experience that really sticks with visitors. Kristin, a recent reviewer, loved this part: “Walk through tunnel.” It’s the kind of view that makes you feel like you’re swimming alongside these creatures.

Beyond that, the Dangerous Reef exhibit displays large sharks and barracudas in a setting that feels both thrilling and educational. Watching the huge, deadly-looking predators swim calmly past is a reminder of the ocean’s raw power and beauty.

Interactive and Educational Activities

One of the features that sets Ripley’s apart is the focus on hands-on experiences. Visitors can try their hand at the touch tanks, which are perfect for kids eager to feel starfish or sea urchins. The daily live dive shows offer a chance to see divers interact with the creatures, providing insights into marine life and conservation efforts.

Further, the aquarium has recently introduced Sloth Valley, where you can get up close with two-toed sloths—something a little different from the usual fish-focused exhibits. This addition shows Ripley’s commitment to variety and engaging different types of animals.

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Special Encounters and Unique Attractions

One of the most praised features, based on reviews, is the ease of use and the stunning views. The reviewer from April 22 noted, “The ease of using this app,” highlighting how straightforward the ticketing process can be.

The aquarium also boasts a Penguin Playhouse where playful African Penguins frolic in a state-of-the-art habitat. Watching these charming birds is often a highlight for visitors.

Additional Ripley’s Attractions and Value

If you’re craving more than just the aquarium, the combo ticket option really enhances the value of your visit. It includes access to attractions like Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium, the 5D Moving Theater, Haunted Adventure, or Marvelous Mirror Maze. This flexibility allows you to customize your day—whether you’re interested in oddities, illusions, or spooky fun—and makes for an excellent way to extend the entertainment.

Some reviews imply a slight disappointment that the combo ticket does not cover every venue (e.g., the Believe It or Not! is not automatically included), but overall, it provides a good deal if you’re aiming for multiple experiences.

Practical Tips for Visitors

To make the most of your visit, consider arriving before 11 am or after 3 pm to avoid the major crowds. The aquarium is open 365 days, so timing is flexible. Children under 2 attend free when accompanied by an adult, making it a budget-friendly activity for families.

Food options are available onsite, but not included in the ticket price. If you plan to stay all day, bringing snacks or planning a meal at Broadway at the Beach might be wise.

What the Reviews Say

While most visitors praise the visuals and interactive features, a few have pointed out that their tickets did not grant access to all venues they expected. Cathleen, for example, was disappointed that her combo ticket didn’t include River’s Believe It or Not! or Haunted House—something to double-check when purchasing.

In terms of value, the $43 per person fee is competitive considering the size and variety of exhibits. It’s a solid option for an engaging day out, especially if combined with other Ripley’s attractions.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This visit is perfect for families with children, as the exhibits are designed to entertain and educate. The shark tunnel and touch tanks provide sensory delights that kids and adults will remember. Animal lovers will enjoy the chance to see sloths, penguins, and a variety of fish, while those interested in quirky attractions might appreciate the other Ripley’s venues nearby.

It’s also suitable for couples or groups looking for a fun, no-pressure activity that offers a break from the beach or outdoor sightseeing. The accessibility and straightforward ticketing process make it a practical choice for travelers who prefer a hassle-free experience.

Final Thoughts

Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach offers a well-rounded, engaging look at sea life with enough interactive elements to keep visitors of all ages captivated. The stunning tunnel and diverse exhibits create a visual feast, while the option of a combo ticket adds flexibility and value to your day.

While some visitors might wish the ticket included more attractions, the overall experience remains a solid choice for families, animal enthusiasts, or anyone curious about the ocean’s mysteries. The timing tips and location within Broadway at the Beach make it easy to combine with other activities, turning a simple visit into a full day of fun.

If you seek a family-friendly adventure that’s both entertaining and educational, Ripley’s Aquarium will unlikely disappoint. It’s a place where you can learn a little, marvel a lot, and walk away with memories of underwater worlds that are both beautiful and awe-inspiring.

FAQ

Is the ticket valid for multiple days?
No, the ticket is only good for a one-time entry within 1 year of purchase, making it perfect for a single, full-day visit.

Can children under 2 go free?
Yes, children under 2 are free when accompanied by a paying adult, which is great for families with toddlers.

Do I need to purchase a combo ticket to access other Ripley’s attractions?
No, the combo ticket includes access to other attractions like the Believe It or Not! Odditorium, Haunted Adventure, and more, but it’s a one-time use and must be used within a year.

Is the aquarium wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair friendly, ensuring all visitors can enjoy the exhibits comfortably.

Are there food options available onsite?
Yes, food and drinks are available for purchase at the onsite cafe, but they are not included in the ticket price.

When is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?
It’s recommended to arrive before 11 am or after 3 pm for a less crowded experience, especially during peak tourist season.

In essence, Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach offers a fun, engaging dive into ocean life that appeals across age groups. Its stunning visuals, interactive features, and convenient location make it a valuable addition to any Myrtle Beach itinerary—especially if you’re eager to add a splash of education and excitement to your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: