Jenkinson's Aquarium
Discover marine wonders at Jenkinson's Aquarium, featuring penguins, seals, sharks, and exotic sea life, all part of the lively Jenkinson's Boardwalk.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Jenkinson's Aquarium
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover marine wonders at Jenkinson's Aquarium, featuring penguins, seals, sharks, and exotic sea life, all part of the lively Jenkinson's Boardwalk.
"This aquarium truly surpassed our expectations and stands out as one of the finest we've ever visited."
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing your Jenkinson's Aquarium tickets in advance online.
🐧 Penguin Feeding Times
Check the schedule for penguin feeding sessions for an engaging and educational experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Penguin Encounters
Penguin Exhibit
Meet and learn about adorable penguins, with opportunities for special encounters and feeding sessions.
Shark & Marine Life Exhibits
Main Aquarium Halls
Marvel at diverse marine life, including sharks, jellyfish, and vibrant tropical fish in well-maintained tanks.
Seal Encounters
Seal Exhibit
Experience up-close interactions with seals, including feeding opportunities and learning about their unique personalities.
Exotic Creatures
Various Exhibits
Discover surprising inhabitants like small monkeys and a variety of exotic fish, adding to the aquarium's charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Save
Combine with Boardwalk Fun
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing your Jenkinson's Aquarium tickets in advance online.
🐧 Penguin Feeding Times
Check the schedule for penguin feeding sessions for an engaging and educational experience.
🤝 Friendly & Knowledgeable Staff
Engage with the staff; they are eager to share fascinating facts about the marine life.
🚶♀️ Easy to Navigate
The aquarium is compact, making it easy to explore without feeling overwhelmed.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing your Jenkinson's Aquarium tickets in advance online.
🐧 Penguin Feeding Times
Check the schedule for penguin feeding sessions for an engaging and educational experience.
🤝 Friendly & Knowledgeable Staff
Engage with the staff; they are eager to share fascinating facts about the marine life.
🚶♀️ Easy to Navigate
The aquarium is compact, making it easy to explore without feeling overwhelmed.
🏖️ Boardwalk Combo
Pair your aquarium visit with rides, games, and beach time on Jenkinson's Boardwalk.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Jenkinson's Aquarium for its engaging exhibits, particularly the penguins and seals, and its friendly, knowledgeable staff. Its manageable size makes it ideal for families and those seeking a focused experience. While some note it's smaller than other aquariums, its location on the vibrant Jenkinson's Boardwalk adds significant value to the overall visit.
"We had such a great time visiting Jenkinson’s Aquarium! It’s the perfect spot for families, couples, or anyone looking to enjoy a relaxing and educational experience by the beach. The exhibits are thoughtfully arranged and easy to navigate, with a great mix of marine life — from seals and penguins to sharks and tropical fish.
The staff were friendly and informative, and we loved the up-close views of the animals. Watching the penguins being fed and the seals playing was definitely a highlight! The aquarium isn’t too big, which makes it ideal if you’re looking for a fun activity without spending the whole day — and it’s located right on the boardwalk, so it's easy to pair with other fun things to do nearby."
Cheryl R
"Took a day trip to the beach with my husband and our 15 year old daughter, decided to stop in here while we were on the boardwalk. It is a smaller aquarium compared to a lot of the ones we’ve been to but it was still really nice. Sheridan gave us a ton of interesting information about penguins, including introducing us to their 39 year old penguin Shadow. The little monkeys were such a nice surprise and the sharks were so beautiful. I definitely recommend stopping here if you’re in the area."
Kait Darling
"I go to this aquarium at least twice a year. I love to sit and watch all the giant, big and small fish... its very relaxing, call ahead to make sure there are no school trips if it's fall and winter. Very less crowded."
Donna Casciano DelPriore
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jenkinson's Aquarium is located on the Jenkinson's Boardwalk in Point Pleasant Beach, NJ. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options may also be available depending on your starting location.
Yes, there are parking lots available near Jenkinson's Boardwalk. During peak season, parking can fill up quickly, so arriving early is recommended.
Check local transit schedules for bus routes that service Point Pleasant Beach. The aquarium's boardwalk location makes it a convenient stop if you're already in the area.
From NYC, you can drive or take a train to a nearby station and then a taxi or local bus. Many visitors opt for a day trip by car for flexibility.
The aquarium is generally stroller-friendly, and its location on the boardwalk also allows for easy navigation with young children.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase Jenkinson's Aquarium tickets at the entrance or online through their official website. Buying online can sometimes offer discounts or skip-the-line benefits.
Admission prices can vary, and it's best to check the official Jenkinson's Aquarium website for the most current pricing. Look out for potential discounts or package deals.
Discounts may be available through online promotions, group rates, or special events. Checking their website or social media pages is recommended.
Operating hours can change seasonally. It's advisable to check the Jenkinson's Aquarium website or call ahead for the most up-to-date hours of operation.
Refund policies typically depend on the terms and conditions of your ticket purchase. It's best to review the specific policy when buying your tickets online.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the penguins, seals, sharks, and the diverse collection of exotic fish and marine life. Special encounters are also highly recommended. +1
Absolutely! Kids love the interactive exhibits, the chance to see penguins and seals up close, and the educational aspects of marine life.
The aquarium is relatively compact, so a visit typically takes 1-2 hours, making it perfect for a shorter outing or to combine with other boardwalk activities.
Yes, Jenkinson's Aquarium often has feeding demonstrations, particularly for penguins and seals. Check their schedule upon arrival for times.
The aquarium is part of Jenkinson's Boardwalk, which features rides, arcades, mini-golf, restaurants, and the beach.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the aquarium itself might have limited concessions, the surrounding Jenkinson's Boardwalk offers a wide array of dining options, from casual snacks to full meals.
You'll find classic boardwalk fare like pizza, hot dogs, ice cream, and seafood, as well as various restaurants and cafes.
Typically, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the aquarium. It's best to check their specific policy or enjoy your own snacks on the boardwalk.
Yes, the boardwalk and surrounding Point Pleasant Beach area have many family-friendly dining establishments catering to all tastes.
The boardwalk provides numerous seating areas, and many of the food vendors offer outdoor seating.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Jenkinson's Aquarium for personal use. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the animals.
The penguin exhibit, seal encounters, and the vibrant coral reef tanks offer excellent photo opportunities.
Yes, feeding times are popular for photos, but be mindful of any staff instructions regarding flash or proximity.
Drone photography is typically not permitted within the aquarium or on the boardwalk premises for safety and privacy reasons.
Visitors often share photos of the penguins, seals, sharks, colorful fish, and the overall lively atmosphere of the boardwalk.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The opportunity to see sharks and colorful fish up close provides a thrilling educational experience. Combine your aquarium visit with the rides and arcades on Jenkinson's Boardwalk for a full day of family fun. Many parents appreciate that the aquarium isn't overwhelmingly large, allowing for a focused and enjoyable outing without the stress of navigating a massive complex.
+1couples
Watching the playful seals or the graceful sharks can be a unique and memorable shared activity. After your aquarium visit, take a stroll along the boardwalk, enjoy some seafood, or catch a sunset over the ocean. It’s a perfect way to spend a few hours together, offering both educational discovery and classic seaside enjoyment.
Budget Travelers
To maximize your budget, consider packing your own snacks or planning your meal at one of the more affordable boardwalk eateries. The combination of the aquarium and a walk along the boardwalk offers a full day of entertainment without necessarily breaking the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Marine Life
Beyond the typical ocean dwellers, the aquarium is also home to some unique residents. The small monkeys are a delightful surprise, offering a different kind of animal encounter. The penguin exhibits are a major draw, with opportunities to learn about their behaviors and even witness feeding sessions.
+2Many visitors highlight the seal encounters as a particularly memorable experience. The staff's dedication to animal welfare and their eagerness to share knowledge about each species contribute to a truly educational and engaging visit.
The Jenkinson's Boardwalk Experience
For those who enjoy a bit of friendly competition, the arcades are packed with games, offering the chance to win prizes. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, mini-golf provides a fun challenge. The boardwalk also boasts a beautiful beach, perfect for a stroll or some sunbathing.
+1When hunger strikes, the boardwalk is a culinary hub. You'll find everything from classic boardwalk treats like pizza and ice cream to more substantial meals at various restaurants and cafes. This seamless integration of the aquarium with other attractions makes Jenkinson's a comprehensive entertainment package.
Conservation and Education
Field trips from local schools frequently visit, highlighting the aquarium's role in educating the next generation about marine life and conservation efforts. These educational programs aim to foster a deeper appreciation for the ocean and its inhabitants.
Visitors often praise the aquarium for its dedication to these principles, noting that the facility, though perhaps not the largest, is packed with valuable information and a genuine commitment to its mission. This focus on education enhances the visitor experience beyond just viewing the animals.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit