About
For most people, watching a shark glide past in open water would be frightening. But at the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, you can safely watch these predators in the 400,000-gallon Gulf habitat. Toss in the rays, manatees, and the aquarium's other sensory areas, and you’ll experience an out-of-this-world adventure.
Mote began in 1955 as the Cape Haze Marine Laboratory in Placida, Florida. Over time, the lab was renamed to honor William R. Mote, a major benefactor whose family helped grow both its size and scientific reputation.
Today, Mote's main research campus sits on City Island in Sarasota, joined by the brand-new Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA) at Nathan Benderson Park.
Its proximity to Sarasota and Siesta Key makes it easy to plan a multifaceted sightseeing adventure. For example, visit the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens early in the day, then explore the Mote Aquarium in the afternoon for an air-conditioned adventure. Afterwards, you’re never far from a delicious meal at hotspots like Casa Masa Siesta Key, Daiquiri Deck, and The Cottage.
As a nonprofit with 38 research programs, Mote Marine Laboratory turns real ocean science into a fun-filled experience the whole family can enjoy.
Mote Marine Laboratory: Fun Facts & Cool Features
Sharks are the stars here, and you'll watch them cruise overhead in the Gulf Coast Gallery. It's a view that leaves kids and adults equally wide-eyed.
Head to the Indo-Pacific Gallery and you'll meet a colony of Humboldt penguins, plus rescued Florida manatees that call Mote home. These gentle giants are always a crowd favorite.
What sets Mote apart is that the science happens right in front of you. The STEM Teaching Labs and Workforce Development Labs let you watch scientists at work, including coral reef restoration efforts that help protect Florida's fragile reefs.
Curious what happens beyond the exhibits? Mote runs a marine animal rescue and rehabilitation program that treats sick and injured sea turtles, dolphins, and other creatures before returning them to the wild. In fact, you’ll see many of these animals rescued through this effort, which means your visit helps support their care.
For an even closer look, book a Behind the Science tour and step into working labs where researchers tackle real ocean challenges every day.
A trip to Mote pairs perfectly with a Siesta Key vacation. You get world-class marine life, hands-on learning, and a chance to see conservation up close, all just a short drive from your Casago rental.
Local Tips
- To get the best rates, book your tickets 60 days in advance.
- The timed entry often sells out quickly; plan accordingly.
- Plan for your visit to take 1.5 to 3 hours to explore at a relaxed pace.
- Parking is free in the lots on the west side of the property.
