You’re invited to get up close with some of the more familiar creatures found in our ocean.

With staff and trained volunteer assistance, gently touch sea stars, urchins, anemones, conchs, horseshoe crabs, and hermit crabs; watch trained volunteers feed the animals; and learn more about the sea creatures that call the Museum home. In the wild, these animals live in a variety of habitats and have developed many ways to survive the waves and predators. Volunteers are on hand to assist and teach you about these incredible animals.

Did you know, when a sea urchin “hugs” your finger if you gently touch its spines, it’s actually checking you out: Are you food or predator? If you’re neither, the animal will just gradually release you. Experience this and more!