Open 11 am - 4 pm
Tide Pool
Tide Pool Touch Exhibit - Explore the Wonders of the Pacific Coast — Right Here in Citrus County
At Mertailor’s Mermaid Aquarium Encounter, our Tide Pool Touch Tank brings the rugged beauty of the Pacific, California, and Oregon coastlines to life. Discover the incredible diversity of invertebrates that thrive in the shallow tide pools where land and ocean meet. This fully interactive exhibit is designed for curious minds of all ages — a chance to see, touch, and learn about the small but mighty creatures that keep our oceans healthy.
A Hands-On Learning Experience
Before stepping up to the exhibit, visitors will be asked to wash their hands to protect our animals. Then, under the guidance of our staff and mermaids, you’ll have the chance to:
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Gently touch sea stars, urchins, and other tide pool residents
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Learn about their unique defenses, feeding strategies, and adaptations
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Ask questions and get fun facts from our knowledgeable team
Meet the Residents of the Tide Pool
- Sea Stars – From brightly colored species to camouflaged masters of the rocks.
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Sea Urchins – Spiny but fascinating, these grazers help maintain balance in the ocean’s ecosystems.
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Anemones – Delicate, flower-like animals that reveal their hidden beauty when touched gently.
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Other Invertebrates – A rotating mix of snails, crabs, and other fascinating tide pool life.
Each species in our Tide Pool has an important story to tell about adaptation, survival, and the delicate balance of the marine environment.
Conservation Connection
Tide pools may be small, but they are vital ecosystems. They’re nurseries for young marine life, feeding grounds for shorebirds, and crucial habitats for countless invertebrates. By meeting these animals up close, we hope our guests walk away with a deeper appreciation for their role in the wild.
We remind all visitors: while it’s safe and educational to touch animals here at the Aquarium, in the wild tide pool creatures should be left undisturbed. Protecting their natural homes ensures these amazing animals continue to thrive.
Dive Deeper: Plan Your Visit
Experience the thrill of our Tide Pool at Mertailor’s Mermaid Aquarium Encounter. Our exhibits offer a unique opportunity to learn about these magnificent animals up close. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning guest, there's always something new to discover.
Don’t Miss It!
The Tide Pool Touch Tank is a favorite for families and kids of all ages. It’s a perfect place to slow down, roll up your sleeves, and discover the wonders of the ocean with your own hands.
Stay Connected
Keep the adventure going! Join our community on social media to stay updated on upcoming events, conservation efforts, and more. Share your Tide Pool encounters with us using #MertailorTidePool.
Plan Your Visit
Ready to meet our Tide Pool residents? Check out our Visit Us page for hours, ticket information, and directions. We look forward to welcoming you soon!