(CLEARWATER, FL – JUNE 25, 2026) – Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) invites guests to be among the first to meet its newest residents, California sea lions Tuna and Wahoo, during Summer Sips & Sea Lions, a special after-hours event on Saturday, July 11, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The event celebrates the recent opening of Pinniped Pier, CMA’s new habitat for California sea lions and harbor seals. Guests will enjoy sunset views, after-hours access to the aquarium, animal care presentations, and opportunities to learn about the unique behaviors and conservation stories of these charismatic marine mammals. In addition to all things seals, dueling piano performers MarkedChords, will entertain guests with their high-energy, sing-along, and all-request dueling piano experiences.
“Summer Sips & Sea Lions gives guests a chance to experience the aquarium in a whole new way while connecting with our newest animal residents,” said Joe Handy, CEO of Clearwater Marine Aquarium. “We’re excited to introduce Tuna and Wahoo and share how these animals help inspire greater awareness of marine conservation.”
Guests can explore the aquarium after hours, attend sea lion talks led by CMA’s animal care team, enjoy a dolphin presentation, and learn more about the care and enrichment that support the wellbeing of animals at CMA. Adult admission includes one complimentary beer, wine, CMA signature cocktail, or nonalcoholic beverage.
Event Highlights:
- After-hours access to Clearwater Marine Aquarium
- Meet CMA’s newest California sea lions at Pinniped Pier
- Sea lion talks with CMA’s animal care team
- MarkedChords Dueling Pianos entertain in ballroom
- Dolphin presentation at the Stone Dolphin Complex
- Sunset views overlooking Clearwater Bay
- One complimentary alcoholic or nonalcoholic beverage with adult admission
- Food and additional beverages available for purchase
Time: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
CMA Members receive early entry beginning at 5:30 p.m.
Admission:
Adults: $45 ($20 for CMA Members)
Children ages 3-11: $35 ($15 for CMA Members)
Children 2 and under: Free
Proceeds from Summer Sips & Sea Lions support Clearwater Marine Aquarium’s mission of marine life rescue, rehabilitation and release.
For tickets and additional information, visit Clearwater Marine Aquarium Summer Sips & Sea Lions at https://www.cmaquarium.org/event/summer-sips-sea-lions/
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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) non profit 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, harbor seals, sea turtles, river otters, stingrays and more. In 2024, CMA opened the Dr. James “Buddy” Powell Manatee Rehabilitation Center, and now treats manatee patients in coordination with the Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP). Through Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute (CMARI), CMA conducts important global research focused on protecting manatees, North Atlantic right whales and sea turtles. The 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. CMAquarium.org.
© 2026 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