Ocean in Motion
Exhibit opening November 7, 2026
The ocean moves us
The ocean is always moving—and at Ocean in Motion / La Danza del Mar, so are you! Our newest exhibit invites everyone to play, move, and connect with ocean animals. Created especially with littles ages two to six in mind, it offers something for visitors of all ages.
Hop from rock to rock like a leaping blenny. Hold on to towering seagrass like a big-belly seahorse. See a bluespotted ribbontail ray glide through a 20-foot living coral reef while waves ripple through the water. And at the heart of the exhibit, waddle alongside a colony of African penguins while discovering what it will take to protect this critically endangered species.
Ocean in Motion / La Danza del Mar invites the young and young at heart to see the ocean from the animals' point of view and leave with a deeper commitment to protecting it.
Guess who's on the move in our new exhibit?
Waddle
Waddle
Don't let their waddle fool you—African penguins transform from awkward beach-goers into sleek underwater speedsters in seconds. They are perfectly built for the sea, swimming up to 12 miles per hour while hunting.
Nestle
Nestle
Clownfish often nestle among the stinging tentacles of sea anemones. A protective mucus coating keeps the clownfish safe from the anemone's stings, providing it a safe haven from predators.
Sway
Sway
Spotted garden eels sway like underwater grass! They emerge from sandy burrows, dancing with the current to catch drifting plankton. When danger approaches, they quickly retreat into the sand.
Flutter
Flutter
Flamboyant cuttlefish flutter their arms and fins to move across the seafloor. At the same time, flashes of yellow, purple, and white ripple across their body. This hypnotic display may help them communicate.
Get a sneak peak at member and donor preview events!
As a special thank you, members and donors are invited to preview days for Ocean in Motion / La Danza del Mar.
- After entering the Aquarium through the Main Entrance, you will be able to access Ocean in Motion / La Danza del Mar by presenting your member cards and photo ID at the entry.
- Guest cards will be honored.
Packards' Circle Morning reception and preview
Oct. 24 (Sat.)
8–10 a.m.
Donor previews
Oct. 30 (Fri.)
10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Oct. 31 (Sat.)
8 a.m.–12 p.m.
Adults-only (18+) Member preview
Nov. 1 (Sun.)
8–10 a.m.
Member previews
Oct. 31 (Sat.)
12–5 p.m.
Nov. 1–3 (Sun.–Tues.)
10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Become a member
Join us to support ocean conservation and gain access to exclusive events like sneak peek previews, member nights, and unlimited admission all year.
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