Last week my family found ourselves on a beach vacation during Tropical Storm Elsa. Luckily, all Elsa had in store for us was a bit of rain and some windy conditions. We knew Thursday would not be a good beach day, so we planned ahead and purchased tickets to North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores. We were glad we purchased them early in the week because by Thursday they were sold out.

Alligator – photo Kayla Gladfelter
We have been to many aquariums, some large, like the National Aquarium in Baltimore, and others tiny. This one is somewhere in the middle.
What I liked about this aquarium was it was set up by the different areas of North Carolina, showcasing wildlife indigenous to the mountains, the marshes and the coastal areas.

Saltwater marsh – photo Alli Cullen
We enjoyed seeing huge tanks with large fish and sharks and small tanks with jellyfish. Kids young and old enjoyed the touch tank with stingrays.
Elsa did stop bringing us rain long enough to let us explore the walking paths outside through the saltwater marsh. There we saw big white egrets and tiny frogs smaller than a dime hopping on the ground.
My favorite was a Lionfish that appeared to be posing for my picture.
I would definitely recommend a visit if you’re ever in the Atlantic Beach or Emerald Isle area of North Carolina.
— Tracey Cullen, art director

Fish closeup! – photo Kayla Gladfelter

Eastern Diamondback – photo Tracey Cullen

Seahorse – Tracey Cullen

Turtle – photo Alli Cullen

Spiny lobster – photo Alli Cullen

Lion fish photo- Tracey Cullen

Julie, Brayson, Kayla and Matt Gladfelter at the touch tank with stingrays – photo Tracey Cullen

Jellyfish – photo Kayla Gladfelter

Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
May 8, 20255 Destinations for a Fourth of July Getaway
Get a jumpstart on Fourth of July travel plans and book a trip to one of these patriotic destinations.
Sponsored Content
Seoul: Your Next MICE Destination
Seoul has rapidly become a leading global MICE hub, known for its rich culture, advanced technology and strong economy. As the capital of South Korea, it offers a strategic location in East Asia and a booming cultural influence through K-pop, K-movies, Korean cuisine and K-dramas. With its vibrant atmosphere and business-friendly environment, Seoul is increasingly the top choice for MICE organizers and corporate travelers seeking connection and collaboration.
Daily
May 8, 2025New Taipei City Art Museum Opens
After years of preparation, New Taipei City’s first public art museum, New Taipei City Art Museum, opened at the end of April. Positioned as a public art museum, NTCAM aims to become more than just a cultural landmark by seeking to actively engage with citizens, international visitors, artists and the broader community in Taiwan through dialogue and collaborative projects.
Daily
May 8, 2025Fort Lauderdale Hosts Third Annual Sports Fishing Competition: The Catch
The third edition of Sports Fishing Competition’s The Catch, powered by Verizon, returned to Fort Lauderdale’s scenic marina this past April, bringing current and former professional football players together to compete in an offshore fishing pro-am against 16 professional SFC angling clubs and competitors.
Sponsored Content
Sail Unique with Explora Journeys
SAIL UNIQUE: A New Chapter in Luxury Ocean Travel Imagine a place where modern European elegance meets the rhythm of the sea — where time slows down, and every detail is crafted to inspire connection and quiet indulgence. This is Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean brand from MSC Group created to redefine how we explore the world.
Daily
May 7, 2025Welcome Spring with The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park’s Picnic in the Park
There’s a lovely alchemy that takes place when you mix sunshine and a leafy park. Add a picnic basket full of goodies and you’re on your way to a memorable outdoor escape. At The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park, guests can embrace springtime in the city with a gourmet picnic-to-go lunch in Central Park, featuring fresh fare thoughtfully curated by Executive Chef Andrew Burriesci.
ZURiTO Review
eFlyer Reviews
May 7, 2025eFlyer Deals
May 7, 2025Book This New Girls Getaway Offer from Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort
This summer, take a girls’ trip to Hawai’i, save big and experience unforgettable moments. Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort debuted a new Girls Just Want to Have Fun promotion.
Sponsored Content
Royal Air Maroc Introduces Groundbreaking Safety Video: A Captivating Invitation to Discover Moroccan Heritage
Royal Air Maroc continues to elevate the passenger experience with the launch of its new in-flight safety video — a cinematic journey that seamlessly blends essential safety instructions with a celebration of Moroccan cultural heritage.
eFlyer Deals
May 7, 2025Mexico Grand Hotels Extends Cinco de Mayo with Limited-Time Promotion
Cinco de Mayo may be over, but that doesn’t mean the celebrations have ended. Mexico Grand Hotels extends the festivities of the Mexican holiday with its 5 de Mayo sale.
ShareThis