Explore the ocean, marine mammals and more with CMA’s summer camps
(CLEARWATER, FL – Jan 20, 2026) – Clearwater Marine Aquarium has launched registration for its Marine Science Summer Camp 2026. Starting June 1 and running through Aug. 7, the CMA Summer Camps will immerse campers in an engaging educational experience, allowing them to see rescued dolphins, sea turtles and river otters as they discover CMA’s core mission of rescue, rehabilitation and release.
“Through snorkeling, kayaking, and other outdoor-based adventures, campers will be immersed in the environment, with both half-day and full-day camp options available.”
“At CMA, learning, conservation and adventure come together in unforgettable camp experiences,” said Kelly McAdams, CMA’s vice president of conservation education. “These experiences foster a deeper appreciation for marine life and the importance of conservation, which we know will empower campers to make a positive impact on our oceans,” said McAdams.
Camps are divided by age this year:
- Marine Science Summer Camps: Ages 5–11
- Marine Academy Summer Camps: Ages 12–18
Each program spans five days, from Monday to Friday, with morning sessions from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and afternoon sessions from 1 to 4 p.m. There are several full-day camp experiences available for middle and high school students this year as well, such as the Advanced Marine Biology camp, which runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. CMA Members receive a discounted rate on summer camps.
Scholarships Offered
This year, Clearwater Marine Aquarium will award 53 Ron Jon & Surfing’s Evolution and Preservation, Inc. scholarships to students in grades 4–8. These scholarships provide access to two exclusive, full-day camps available only to scholarship recipients: Eco Explorers for 4th–5th grade students and Eco Leaders for 6th–8th grade students. Both camp experiences are brand new for 2026. Each scholarship covers one week of camp tuition for either the Eco Explorers or Eco Leaders camp and includes a catered lunch, a camp T-shirt, and a camp gear pack, ensuring recipients are fully prepared for their camp experience. Interested students may apply online or by mail by completing the scholarship application and submitting proof of financial need to qualify.
Also this year, CMA will now offer the Ashley Nielsen Scholarship, which will be awarded annually to one high school student in memory of a former CMA camper. Ashley (“Ash”) was a cherished member of the CMA camp community who exemplified the aquarium’s mission through his passion for marine life and environmental stewardship. CMA is honored to celebrate his legacy by providing a student the opportunity to continue that spirit of conservation and advocacy. The scholarship covers one week of camp tuition (up to $500) and includes a catered lunch, a camp T-shirt, and a camp gear pack to ensure recipients are fully prepared for their camp experience.
Students may apply online or by mail by completing the scholarship application and submitting a short essay describing their passion for the environment or marine life, how attending Clearwater Marine Aquarium camp would impact them, why they are an ideal candidate for the scholarship, and how they plan to make a positive difference in their community or the environment after attending camp.
CMA’s boating and snorkeling activities are led by Coast Guard-certified captains, along with experienced staff and college interns. Campers will also have access to shallow waters during snorkeling, making it an ideal experience for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike.
New Camp Offerings
Also new this year are two new camp offerings: The Animal Encounter camp for ages 12–14 provides the most hands-on animal interactions available for that age group, including a poolside session with CMA’s resident dolphins. Additionally, Superheroes of the Sea, a new camp designed for 8–9-year-olds, focuses on conservation, teamwork and ocean advocacy through themed activities.
Weekly camp fees start at $250 for half-day camps ($230 for members) and $450 for full-day camps ($405 for members). Families also have the option to combine two half-day camps within the same week to create a full-day experience.
Registration must be completed online. No phone, email, or in-person registrations are permitted. Registration Site: https://visit.cmaquarium.org/#/Education
Camp FAQs and the full camp brochure are available on the registration site and include schedules, age ranges, and program details. Camp Brochure, Camp Family Handbook, &
FAQs: https://www.cmaquarium.org/experience/educational-kids-camps/.
Guest Contact Information:
• Camp questions (email): camps@cmaquarium.org
• Camp questions (phone): 727-441-1790 ext. 2270
• Membership questions: membership@cmaquarium.org or 727-441-1790 ext. 0
To learn more about Clearwater Marine Aquarium and its mission, visit www.cmaquarium.org.
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Media Contact: Marsha Strickhouser | mstrickhouser@CMAquarium.org | (727) 242-0770
- About Clearwater Marine Aquarium
- Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit working marine rescue center dedicated to inspiring the human spirit through leadership in education, research, rescue, rehabilitation and release. With a mission to preserve the environment and its marine life, CMA is home to rescued dolphins, sea turtles, river otters, stingrays, a nurse shark and more. Through Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute, CMA conducts important global research focused on protecting manatees, North Atlantic right whales and sea turtles. Major motion picture Dolphin Tale (2011) and its sequel Dolphin Tale 2 (2014) features the true stories of rescued resident dolphins Winter and Hope, inspiring millions around the world. The mission and potential to change people’s lives differentiates Clearwater Marine Aquarium from any other aquarium in the world.
© 2025 Clearwater Marine Aquarium | 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL 33767 | 727-441-1790 | mission.cmaquarium.org | cmaquarium.org
We believe in preserving our environment while inspiring the human spirit through leadership in the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine life; environmental education; research; and conservation.
A Florida non-profit 501(c)(3) organization