Get Up Close and Personal at Gulf World Marine Park
Looking for something to do away from the beach? Hoping to find something that will keep the whole family happy and entertained? Gulf World Marine Park should be top of your list. This first-class marine park is one of Panama City Beach’s top attractions, and promises to deliver a fun-filled day of animal antics and discovery. First time visitors will be thrilled at the variety of species that call Gulf World home, and if you’ve been before, you’ll have the opportunity to once again see your favorite marine friends in action. Located on the west end of Front Beach Road, Gulf World Marine Park is a must for any Panama City Beach itinerary.
Dolphins
The dolphins are a huge part of what makes Gulf World so special. You will instantly fall in love with these beautiful and friendly creatures and be amazed by their flips, twists and leaps. Trainers work side by side with the dolphins to produce an action-packed show you won’t ever forget. There are plenty of opportunities for guest interaction too, both in the show, and as part of the ‘Swim with a Dolphin’ program. Guests participating in this program will firstly get to learn all about dolphin conservation, and then enjoy a dorsal fin pull around the dolphin habitat, a dolphin kiss, a dolphin handshake and much more!
California Sea Lions
The California sea lions will keep the crowd entertained from start to finish. There are non-stop laughs all the way as these incredible creatures interact with their audience, mimic their trainers and show off their many talents. You’ll love their cheeky antics and hilarious facial expressions, and one lucky guest will even have the opportunity to get a kiss from the star of the show!
Other Cool Exhibits
The dolphins and sea lions may steal the show, but there are many other exciting animals to check out and enjoy. The stingray pool offers visitors the opportunity to pet these fascinating creatures, plus there’s penguins, sea turtles, iguanas, flamingos, and even sharks, all waiting to say hello. Ever seen a cockatoo on roller skates? The parrot show in the Tropical Garden Theater will blow you away as you see stunts such as a parrot on a bicycle and a macaw that plays basketball. These lively feathered friends will put on a show the likes of which you’ve never seen! The reptile show consists of snakes, alligators, and lizards, tarantulas and toads all of which have a starring role in this production. A reptile expert will take you on an educational journey around the exhibit, with plenty of opportunities for guest interaction. Snake around the neck, anyone?
The Park Itself
Gulf World Marine Park provides visitors with a full day of family fun and education. During the summer season, there’s even a breathtaking show by the All American High Dive team plus ‘The Magic of Noah Wells’ magic show, both included in the price of your admission. Once you have purchased your ticket, your Gulf World experience is up to you! All shows have several performances throughout the day, so go at your own pace and make your own itinerary. Hungry? Choose from pizza, burgers, grilled chicken, hot dogs, ice-cream, candy and more at the Gulf World Grille and the Snack Bar. In the evening, there’s even a Tiki Bar where you can grab a drink and recollect the adventures of the day. A large gift shop provides a really cool collection of gifts and souvenirs at reasonable prices.
General admission tickets are $24.00 for adults, $15.00 for children ages 5 to 1 years old, and free for children under 4 years old. Swim with a Dolphin and Trainer for a Day programs are available at an additional cost. Gulf World Marine Park opens at 9:00 am and closes at 7:30 pm during peak season (end of May – early September) ad 5:30 pm on Sundays through peak season, and throughout the off-season.
Gulf World Marine Park is located at 15412 Front Beach Road, Panama City Beach. For more details call (850) 234 5271.
