Visit the non-profit Institute for Marine Mammal Studies, a great place to be educated about marine animals, knowing that their rescue and rehabilitation is the team’s top priority. Learn about the varied species and engage in a first-hand encounter.
Adventures with marine animals are the highlights of many visits to the institute. Feed and touch bottlenose dolphins from the side of the pool or get into the water for an interactive encounter. Stand in waist-deep water with stingrays or snorkel next to them. Work with staff to feed and touch California sea lions and receive a kiss on the cheek from these highly trained animals.
The general Ocean Adventures Admission provides access to demonstrations of trainers interacting with dolphins and sea lions. Watch the animals through underwater viewing area windows. See a separate show of macaws and parrots and walk through the aviary to feed parakeets. Other spots for extra fun include a playground, picnic area, tour train, museum, aquariums and a touch pool.
You may meet veterinary students and other researchers engaged in a wide variety of subjects focused on the health of dolphins and other species and the environmental issues that relate to their wellbeing.
Attend an educational presentation in the Auditorium to learn about marine animal genetics, microbiology, endocrinology and biomagnetism or the amazing study of underwater acoustics and animal communication capabilities.
Purchase general admission tickets, requesting discounts for children and seniors. The institute is open daily from mid morning to mid afternoon. Spaces for special experiences are limited, so make arrangements for these activities in advance. Consider purchasing a gift certificate for friends and family.
Have a meal or snacks in the themed Turtle Café and visit the gift shop. Check the daily park schedule as soon as you arrive to be sure you don’t miss any shows.
The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies is near the Bayou Bernard and Big Lake, which connects to the Gulf of Mexico. Travel here by car in 15 minutes from the center of Gulfport. Bring fishing gear to troll along the banks of the bayou for bass, catfish, trout and flounder.