Discover the Waters of the Outer Banks at North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island

Explore Coastal Habitats and Marine Life

Set out on an aquatic adventure through the waters surrounding the Outer Banks. Guests move through exhibits representing coastal freshwater environments, where they can encounter river otters, turtles, and American alligators.

The Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation (STAR) Center offers an up-close view of conservation work. Visitors can also explore a sunken treasure ship surrounded by marine animals, touch a stingray, see sea jellies, and learn about maritime history. In the 285,000-gallon Graveyard of the Atlantic habitat, sharks swim past overhead.

Free daily programs, fee-based tours, and outdoor adventures take place throughout the year.

Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation (STAR) Center

The STAR Center occupies a 3,000-square-foot space in which Aquarium staff care medically for sick and injured sea turtles. Since 2015, the STAR Center has admitted over 1,000 sea turtles and continues treating patients year-round.

Tickets and Admission

Advance ticket reservations are strongly recommended because admission is timed and sell-outs can happen. The quickest way to enter the Aquarium is to reserve tickets ahead of time at:

https://www.ncaquariums.com/tickets-roanoke

An online reservation allows visitors to select an ideal time and enter the Aquarium more quickly upon arrival.

Visitor Information

• Location: 374 Airport Road Manteo, NC 27954
• Email: rimail@ncaquariums.com
• Phone: (252) 475-2300
• Amenities: Kid Friendly

Visitor Reviews

Reviews on the source page come from Jennifer W. (06/29/2026), Ellen M. (08/01/2026), and Michael K. (07/05/2026). Their feedback describes the aquarium as a reasonably priced, family-friendly attraction with otters, a touch tank, appealing design, and activities that can make an off-season or hot-weather outing enjoyable. Reviewers characterize the facility as relatively small, with visits taking about 60-90 min or approximately 1.5 hours; one review notes $15 admission, free entry for children under 2, limited parking, and a gift shop.