Gulf Specimen Aquarium — Attraction in Florida

Had an awesome time today here at Gulf Specimen Lab! Was shocked by how much there was to look at here, and my expectations were blown away. If you’re local to the surrounding areas, I recommend getting a members pass because they hold events here, and different activities for the Family to enjoy! Me and my grandmother had such a fun time learning about all the different little critters that live right next-door to us in our lovely ocean❤️ along with all the fun activities, we learned that this is a rehabilitation center. Most of these animals are unable to return to the wild due to health problems, and this staff does an amazing job at making sure All their needs are met! I love the “kill two birds with one stone” idea, Rehabilitating these lovely animals while also teaching the public about ocean life!!! If you Happen to be in the area, it is well worth the drive to check this...

A Hidden Gem with a Huge Heart!

The Gulf Specimen Marine Lab in Panacea, FL is an absolute treasure! 🐠💙 This small, charming aquarium is perfect for all ages. It has interactive touch tanks where you can get hands-on with sea stars, horseshoe crabs, and other fascinating marine life. Every exhibit is up close and personal — you truly feel connected to the ocean world here!

What makes this place extra special is the incredible rescue and rehab work they do. Last year, they saved a massive sea turtle with punctured lungs — the kind of injury that would’ve been fatal in the wild. Thanks to the skilled care and surgery from the team here, that turtle got a second chance. 🐢👏

You can really tell this place runs on love, passion, and a mission to protect marine life. Highly recommend stopping by if you’re in the area — it’s educational, inspiring, and absolutely...

We found a brochure for this place at The Pearl and decided to check it out. It is definitely a hidden gem. There were several open tanks that the kids were encouraged to touch and handle the Marine life. Most of them were set up like various beach environments we've seen here in the state. There were some preserved specimens as well, which my son really liked looking at. There are also many "looking" tanks where the animals could bite, but they are still open to allow visitors to get a close look. The sting ray seemed to enjoy splashing us. There were three sea turtles who were unable to be re-released due to injury in "looking" tanks. It was amazing to get that close to these giants. There were several college aged young people working there and they seemed connected with the animals and were quite friendly with guests. I am really glad we...