In the heart of Hampton Beach, you can learn about the ocean and take action to protect marine life.
Our Blue Ocean Discovery Center has two large touch tanks where you can learn about different species and how to safely handle them. Our knowledgeable educators will share fun facts about the species and lead you in hands-on activities and investigations!
New this year: Watch your drawing come to life at our Draw Alive exhibit. Color a fish, sea turtle or ray and watch it swim on the screen in front of you! Also check out our new humpback whale mural!
Blue Ocean Discovery Center Hours:
Tuesday through Sunday, 10:30 AM-5:30 PM
Check our Facebook page for updates
We are also open by appointment for small groups during the summer and throughout the year.
Our exhibits include:
- Draw Alive activity
- Atlantic white-sided dolphin skeleton
- Giant fin whale vertebra
- Two touch tanks with sea stars, crabs, and other marine life (selection varies!)
- A 100-gallon observation tank
- Lobster trap demonstration
- SmartScope showing magnification of marine animals
- Marine debris exhibit and opportunity to join beach cleanups
- Whale exhibit
Our knowledgeable educators will be on hand to answer your questions. You can also help the ocean during your visit by completing a beach cleanup! Ask us for more information.
Support the Blue Ocean Discovery Center
We greatly appreciate your donations at the Center or online. It costs approximately $30,000 per year to operate the Center, which includes license fees and other fees paid to the State of New Hampshire, staffing, tank maintenance and updating our displays each year.
Major Sponsors
New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation
Hampton Area Lions Club
